San Vicente de la Barquera One of Spain’s Most Picturesque Coastal Towns
One of the best coastal towns in Spain may be San Vicente de la Barquera. Located in the autonomous region of Cantabria, this medieval village has a hilltop castle and church, beautiful beaches with a spectacular estuary, and deep connections to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
The coastal village is blessed to be included in Green Spain and sits on the Bay of Biscay in Northern Spain. Find the Basque region to the east and Asturias to the west. On a clear day, see some of Spain’s most picturesque mountains in the backdrop, the Picos de Europa.
Although quite small, there are plenty of things to do in San Vicente de la Barquera, making it an ideal spot to stop on a northern Spain road trip.
This ultimate travel guide to San Vicente de la Barquera includes: how to get to the village, the best things to do in San Vicente de la Barquera, and more tips for visiting.
Here’s why you should visit the medieval and coastal gem that is San Vicente de la Barquera.
Table of Contents
- How to Get to San Vicente de la Barquera
- Best Things to Do in San Vicente de la Barquera Cantabria
- Where to Eat in San Vicente de la Barquera
- Where to Sleep in San Vicente de la Barquera Spain
- Overview | How to Make the Most of a Visit to San Vicente de la Barquera
How to Get to San Vicente de la Barquera
San Vicente de la Barquera is a small village with around 4,000 residents, which includes some of the nearby towns.
The closest airport to San Vicente de la Barquera is the capital city of Cantabria Spain: Santander. From Santander, it’s easy to rent a car or hop on a bus to visit San Vicente de la Barquera.
San Vicente de la Barquera is also well connected via bus by popular Spain destinations like Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, and the foodie city of San Sebastian.
By Car
Santander is an ideal place to rent a car to explore northern Spain. If picking up a car, San Vicente de la Barquera is less than a 40-minute drive from Santander. Oviedo is about an hour and a half from San Vicente de la Barquera, while Bilbao in the Basque region is about an hour and 45 minutes.
By Public Transportation
San Vicente de la Barquera is connected with many large cities in northern Spain. In the summer months, the village is also connected to the mountain town of Potes in the Picos de Europa Spain. Always verify the bus tables at the bus station.
The San Vicente de la Barquera bus station has all the most current timetables and a small ticket office with limited hours. On-site is a small cafe. With ALSA, it’s best to purchase tickets online. If the bus has open seats, purchase tickets on the bus via the driver.
🚌 San Vicente de la Barquera Bus Station | Find it here
ALSA Bus
ALSA is one of Spain’s most frequent and utilized bus companies. They have multiple daily departures to San Vicente de la Barquera from Bilbao, Oviedo, Santander, and one seasonal bus to Madrid.
➜ Check the current ALSA bus schedules here
La Cantabria Bus
There is also a frequent bus company, La Cantabria, that runs between Santander to San Vicente de la Barquera. The buses change depending on the season, but here’s the most up-to-date schedule.
By Foot
San Vicente de la Barquera is part of the famous Camino de Santiago – Camino Norte pilgrimage route. The Camino Norte starts from Irun and continues into the popular Basque city of San Sebastian. San Vicente de la Barquera is just under halfway from the starting point in Irun to Santiago de Compostela.
The Camino de Santiago is one of the most incredible walking routes in Spain to experience and there are tons of different Camino routes to choose from.
☛ Interested in walking the Camino? Check out these Game-Changing Camino de Santiago Tips for First Time Pilgrims
How Much Time to Spend in San Vicente de la Barquera
If walking the Camino de Santiago, the highlights of San Vicente de la Barquera can be seen in 2 – 3 hours. However, there are plenty of things to do from wandering the cobblestone streets to eating some of the freshest seafood.
The history of the village has always been first and foremost a fishing port.
Additionally, if it’s a sunny summer day, it could be easy to spend the day lounging around at one of the sandy beaches or rent a surfboard.
Depending on what you are looking for, San Vicente de la Barquera could be a few-hour day trip, a weekend getaway, or a place to rest for a few days. It all depends on what you want to see or do!
11 of the Best Things to Do in San Vicente de la Barquera
Here are some of the best things to do in San Vicente de la Barquera, one of the best coastal towns in Spain.
1 | Take a Stroll Along the Paseo Maritime
The main promenade in San Vicente de la Barquera runs along the estuary from the Maza bridge to the small marina close to the smaller bridge of Puente de La Barquera.
The popular walkway also opens into a park with green space and a water fountain. Here, catch some of the best views of the towering castle.
A popular photo op is of the San Vicente de la Barquera signboard. The viewpoint is near a small fishing ramp and offers stellar views of the medieval stone bridge of Puente de La Maza and the San Vicente estuary.
2 | Visit the Castillo del Rey
The old hilltop castle boasts some of the best views of the village and the estuaries that surround the village. Castillo del Rey was built during the 13th century and is considered to be one of the most well-preserved coastal castles in all of Cantabria.
The interior is now home to a local museum with historical artifacts, and a detailed 3D model of what the medieval village looked like in its glory. All the information plaques are currently only in Spanish. As it doubles as a cultural space, some local artists have displayed their work.
One of the best parts of visiting the Castillo del Rey is wandering along the old walls and savoring the 360° views of the village. From here, it’s possible to see the ocean and the estuary of Ria de San Vicente. The wetland marshes of Rubin and Pombo are also interesting to see.
Castillo del Rey | Find it Here: Av. Antonio Garelly, 1 | General Admission: €2 | Hours: Change with the Season / July & August, Daily: 10:30 – 14:00 / 16:30 – 20:30
3 | Appreciate the Historic Buildings of Torre del Preboste, Palacio de la Familia Corro, & Hospital de la Concepción
After visiting the castle, wander in the direction of the main church of Santa Maria de Los Angeles. If following along Calle Padre Antonio these three points of interest are close to each other and easy to visit.
Torre del Preboste
A tower that connects to the standing city wall. The building was said to once house the town tax collector. Later, it was used as a prison.
Palacio de la Familia Corro
A Renaissance palace that was built in the 16th century and is now the City Hall.
Hospital de la Concepción
San Vicente de la Barquera has deep connections to the Camino de Santiago, and the Hospital de la Concepcion is proof of this. There is only a small section of the old hospital remaining.
The hospital was said to be built between the 14th – 16th century. Hospitals were important points of refuge along the Camino de Santiago.
4 | Stop by the Church of Santa Maria de Los Angeles
The Church of Santa Maria de Los Angeles is unique as it contains different architectural styles. However, the most prevalent style that can be observed is Gothic. The church was believed to be built between the 13th to 16th centuries and possibly on top of an ancient church.
One of Spain’s most famously sculpted tombs is found inside, the tomb of Antonio del Corro.
If the sky is clear, the Picos de Europa mountains jet in the sky behind the church in the backdrop.
Iglesia de Santa Maria de los Ángeles | Find it Here | General Admission: €2 | Visiting Hours: 10:00 – 13:00 / 16:30 – 18:30
5 | See the Old City Walls and Savor the Views from the Mirador
One of the most scenic places in San Vicente de la Barquera is found just past the church. The standing castle walls are truly magnificent and almost transport visitors back to when this was a bustling medieval village.
There are plenty of viewpoints of the estuary and the wetlands. The best time to visit is at sunset to watch the sky change colors with the mountains standing tall on the horizon.
Of course, the Old City walls can be seen and recognized near the castle throughout the village, and down to the old port.
6 | Cross Over the Puente de La Maza
The medieval stone bridge of Puente de La Maza is an iconic landmark in San Vicente de la Barquera. It was built by the Catholic Monarchs during the 15th century. At its prime, it was one of the longest bridges.
Today, it has 28 stone arches and allows passage over the estuary. The bridge now leads to some of the popular beaches of Oyambre Natural Park.
7 | Explore the Hiking Trails & Beaches of Parque Natural de Oyambre
Across the bridge, find the protected area of Oyambre Natural Park. This stunning area is home to sandy beaches, sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and forests.
The most visited beach is Playa de Merón. The beach is popular with sunbathers, families, photographers, and surfers. The large beach is over 4 Km long, so it’s divided into smaller sections, which is why you may see other names for the sprawling beach.
Not only is the beach a desirable spot for swimming, but adventurous visitors can also enjoy the trails that take hikers along the shores and up along the cliffs. The Ruta Pajaró Amarillo is a loop trail that follows the beach to Oyambre Beach. Hikers can witness and experience the flora, fauna, and breathtaking beauty of the beaches and coastal landscapes.
🥾 Ruta Pajaró Amarillo | Loop Trail from San Vicente de la Barquera | Distance: 9.6 Miles (15.5 KM) | Duration: +/- 5 Hours | Official Route & Map
8 | Rent a Surfboard
Gazing out to the sea, it’s easy to see that the beaches of the north coast of Spain are ideal for surfers. In fact, there are plenty of places near Merón Beach that offer surfboard rentals and lessons.
Surf Schools Near the Beach
- Surf School Buenaonda
- North Coast Surf School
- Escuela De Surf Surfadictos – San Vicente de la Barquera
- Planet Surfcamp Spanien
9 | Plan to Walk the Camino Lebaniego
San Vicente de la Barquera is a favorite village of pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago North Way. However, it’s also the starting point of the alternative detour of the Camino Lebaniego.
This mountainous route takes pilgrims through the Picos de Europa National Park to Potes and the adorned site of the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liebana. Monks were said to call this region home as far back as the 6th century. During the 8th century, it was believed that a relic of the original wood True Cross (Lignum Crucis) arrived onsite.
Pilgrims have been walking the way of Lebaniego for over 500 years to gaze upon the remains of a section of the wooden cross. The relic can be seen during the noon pilgrim mass.
The Camino Lebaniego is strenuous and includes tough ascents through the mountains. This Camino route is not suitable for those not used to hiking in the mountains. The Camino Lebaniego is marked with red arrows and a red cross to represent the relic of the cross.
Look for the 0 KM marker to begin the Camino Lebaniego at the observation deck through the City Walls behind the Church.
🥾 Camino Lebaniego | San Vicente de la Barquera – Monastery Santo Toribio de Liebana | Distance: 44.7 Miles (71.9 KM) | Duration: 3 – 5 Days | Difficulty: Challenging with mountainous terrain
What Camino Route Can You Walk After Camino Leganiego?
After the Camino Lebaniego, pilgrims can follow the Vadiniense Route to rejoin the Camino Frances. The Camino Vadiniense is named after the people (tribe) who inhabited this region before the Romans.
The Camino Vadiniense is a high-altitude mountain hike and may not be accessible in the winter months due to high levels of snow. This route is better suited for experienced hikers who feel comfortable trekking on remote trails and can read an offline map.
All roads lead pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia Spain.
🥾 Camino Vadiniense | Potes to Mansilla de las Mulas | Distance: 154.7 Km (96 miles) | Duration: 7 – 9 Days
Camino de Santiago Blogs
10 | Day Trip to Comillas
San Vicente de la Barquera is less than a 30-minute drive to another beloved Spanish seaside village, Comillas. Comillas is most famous for the Gaudi masterpiece, El Capricho. The Palace is one of his earlier works and was designed for Máximo Díaz de Quijano, a man who had made his fortune in the Americas and was looking to build a summer home in Cantabria.
While El Capricho is by far the most visited site in Comillas, there are more things to see like the equally impressive Sobrellano Palace, Universidad Pontificia, and the old cemetery.
Comillas has beaches, plazas, gardens, and is a nice place to visit near San Vicente de la Barquera. Most guided tours of Comillas depart from Santander.
11 | Road Trip to the Picos de Europa National Park
The beauty of the mountains of the Picos de Europa behind the village may call to you. This National Park is one of Spain’s most incredible destinations with awesome hiking trails, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.
The Picos de Europa National Park spans across the three autonomous regions of Castille & Leon, Asturias, and Cantabria.
One of the most trotted hiking trails in the Picos de Europa is the stunning Cares Gorge. Visit secluded villages like Bulnes that can only be reached via a hike or a funicular ride. Some of the best mountainous villages of the Picos de Europa in Asturias can be visited in a full-day hike.
Additionally, the Picos de Europa are dotted with alpine lakes, boast limestone mountains, are home to remarkable monasteries, and more.
Don’t miss a cheese tour in Las Arenas de Cabrales or the Rio Casano route next to a river lined with chestnut trees.
During the peak season, it’s possible to explore the Picos de Europa via public transportation, however, for freedom and ease, renting a car is best.
Picos de Europa National Park Blogs
Where to Eat in San Vicente de la Barquera
San Vicente de la Barquera has a fantastic food scene. Located along the sea and close to the mountains, the food options here are exquisite. Since San Vicente de la Barquera is a fishing port at heart, there are plenty of seafood restaurants.
Bar Pejín was my go-to spot in San Vicente de la Barquera. They offer nice coffees, an excellent menu del dia, and a good racion selection. The outdoor patio is superb and the servers are all friendly.
La Folía is an excellent restaurant with a menu focused on fresh seafood. Large portions, friendly servers, and an outdoor patio.
There are a handful of restaurants on the main street of Av. Los Soportales that serves seafood paella (for two) and fresh seafood. The street also has quite a few tapas bars. Many of these eateries are found under the archways of the old city walls.
Sunset is the perfect place to enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail that overlooks Maza Beach. The ideal way to end the day in San Vicente de la Barquera.
La Ostrería San Vicente is the seaside dining restaurant in San Vicente de la Barquera. Find fresh oysters, seafood, and local provisions from the mountains.
☛ Psst… Love fishing villages? Why not visit Getaria near San Sebastian in the Basque region or Muxia in the spectacular Galicia region at the End of the World? There’s also the Galician seaside gem of Combarro.
Sleep in San Vicente de la Barquera Spain
San Vicente de la Barquera is a fantastic little village to relax and spend a few days, so you may opt to sleep here. The village is popular with day trippers, so sleeping here offers the chance to have the magic of this place almost to yourself.
San Vicente de la Barquera has a wide range of sleeping options, with budget hostels, pensions, and affordable hotels.
➜ Nómada Hostel is a brand new hostel that opened in 2023 and offers 38 beds spread across two rooms. This is one of the more budget-friendly options to sleep at in San Vicente de la Barquera and is conveniently located next to the city hall near the church.
➜ Pensión Arenal has nice and big private rooms with kind hosts and is located right near the center of town.
➜ Pensión Liebana is a lovely small pension located on a cobblestone road that offers big rooms, friendly hosts, and a basic breakfast.
➜ Hotel Luzon offers basic rooms in a beautiful building located right in the center of the village
➜ Hotel Boga Boga is located steps away from some of the best restaurants and has clean and simple rooms for more than a fair price.
Looking to sleep closer to the beaches? Try Hotel Playa de Meron
➜ Browse the Best Places to Stay in San Vicente de la Barquera Spain
Overview | How to Make the Most of a Visit to San Vicente de la Barquera
In short, this is a quick overview of the picturesque village of San Vicente de la Barquera in the Cantabria region of Spain. The delightful town is a worthwhile place to visit if walking the Camino de Santiago, road-tripping the north coast of Spain, or a place to start an adventure in the Picos de Europa.
This medieval village has a castle, well-preserved city walls, and a rich history connected to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
The location of San Vicente de la Barquera is straight out of a fairy tale, with its location next to the Sea and sitting below the incredible limestone peaks of the Pico de Europa. The estuary and marsh landscapes only add to the beauty and provide a spectacular place to appreciate different flora and fauna.
This quick guide includes how to get to San Vicente de la Barquera, the best things to do, where to sleep and eat, and nearby places to discover.
Whether walking the Camino de Santiago Norte or visiting northern Spain, don’t skip over San Vicente de la Barquera Spain.
Have you visited San Vicente de la Barquera Spain? What did you think of this incredible coastal town? Let me know in the comments below!
Pack This Post for Later! Pin It!
Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.
