Castro Urdiales

Travel Guide

A coastal cityscape with a prominent cathedral, a pier, and a rocky peninsula.
A harbor with numerous boats docked, historic buildings, and a prominent castle-like structure in the background.
Photo by ElBute (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0)
A historic stone building with a red-tiled roof, a white building with a sign, and several boats docked at a harbor.
Photo by Carlos Bouza (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
A historic waterfront with a prominent church and fortress.
Photo by ElBute (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0)
A harbor with boats docked, a red fishing boat, and historic buildings including a castle-like structure.

Experience the blend of historic architecture, relaxing beaches, and outdoor adventures in the captivating surroundings of Castro Urdiales.

Castro Urdiales is an ideal destination for beach and outdoor travelers. You can visit the Santa Maria Church, a notable religious site, and relax at the Cala de Cotolino and Cala de Dícido beaches. For activities, consider a body treatment at Spa Agua Viva, or explore nearby options like Meaztegi Golf and Bodega Casona Micaela. The natural features near the city include the scenic Bilbao Bay, perfect for beach tourism, and the Cantabrian Mountains, known for outdoor adventures.

You can also explore Castro Urdiales's diverse neighborhoods. Nearby, Miono and Samano are known for beach and outdoor experiences, featuring sites like Ensenada de Tejilla, Ensenada de La Turbia, and Playa de La Turbia. Another nearby area is Lusa, which offers additional opportunities for outdoor activities and local exploration.

The best time to visit Castro Urdiales is from June to September, when the weather is mild and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 64 to 68°F. During these months, the city can be a little busier, particularly from July to September, while it tends to be quieter in November to January. This balance allows you to enjoy the area's attractions with fewer crowds during the quieter months.

Where to stay in Castro Urdiales

Find the best Castro Urdiales areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Castro Urdiales
Learn more about Castro Urdiales
A coastal landscape with a grassy hill, cliffs, and a view of the sea.
Photo by Ignacio Pérez Anguio
Open Photo by Ignacio Pérez Anguio

Ontón

If you're spending some time in Ontón, Bay of Biscay and Ensenada de Berrón are top sights worth seeing.

Brazomar

Get to know Brazomar by checking out its waterfront views, beaches, and coffeehouses. Consider a visit to nearby sights like Brazomar Beach or Ostende Beach during your time in the area.

B&B Hotel Castro Urdiales

B&B Hotel Castro Urdiales

3 out of 5
Barrio Brazomar Castro Urdiales
$47 nightly
The price is $51 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$51 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Castro Urdiales. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Spa Agua Viva and Brazomar Beach ...
B&B Hotel Castro Urdiales
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

5 out of 5
Alameda de Mazarredo, 61 Bilbao Vizcaya
$138 nightly
The price is $152 total per night from Dec 13 to Dec 14
$152 total
Dec 13 - Dec 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Bilbao. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (1,001 reviews)
"Fantastic location staff amazing nothing too much trouble. Rooftop bar and restaurant was great with incredible views of the Guggenheim! Highly recommended A++"

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

The Artist Grand Hotel of Art
Barceló Bilbao Nervión

Barceló Bilbao Nervión

4 out of 5
Paseo Campo Volantin 11 Bilbao Vizcaya
$108 nightly
The price is $119 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$119 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Bilbao. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
Barceló Bilbao Nervión
See all 1,151 properties in Castro Urdiales
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Charming apartment in Castro

Charming apartment in Castro

Castro-Urdiales Cantabria
Stay at this apartment in Castro Urdiales. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Pedregal Seña Santiago and Centro ...
Charming apartment in Castro
Apartment Rico by Interhome

Apartment Rico by Interhome

Castro-Urdiales Cantabria
Stay at this apartment in Castro Urdiales. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and tennis courts. Popular attractions Ostende Beach and Pedregal Seña Santiago ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (14 reviews)
Castrourdiales
"Apartamento muy bonito, increíbles vistas y mucha amabilidad en el trato. Recomendable 100%."

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2022

Apartment Rico by Interhome
Nature Getaway with Parking – 10 Mins to Castro-Urdiales, Near Beaches and Hiking Trails

Nature Getaway with Parking – 10 Mins to Castro-Urdiales, Near Beaches and Hiking Trails

Otañes
Stay at this apartment in Castro Urdiales. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Ensenada de Millo and Ensenada ...
Nature Getaway with Parking – 10 Mins to Castro-Urdiales, Near Beaches and Hiking Trails
See all properties in Castro Urdiales
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Castro Urdiales attractions

Orinon Beach

9.0/10 (14 reviews)
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Orinon Beach during your travels in Castro Urdiales? While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
See properties

Things to do

Vizcaya Bridge, Gaztelugatxe and wine tasting from Bilbao

Vizcaya Bridge, Gaztelugatxe and wine tasting from Bilbao

$84
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Vizcaya Bridge, Gaztelugatxe and wine tasting from Bilbao
Tour of the Santoña marinera and its fishing port with tasting

Tour of the Santoña marinera and its fishing port with tasting

$11
per adult
Tour of the Santoña marinera and its fishing port with tasting
Getxo Coastal Bike & Pintxos Experience

Getxo Coastal Bike & Pintxos Experience (Scenic Bilbao Seaside)

$67
per adult
Getxo Coastal Bike & Pintxos Experience (Scenic Bilbao Seaside)
Anchovy filleting

Tour to the Anchovies Factory and Santoña Marshes with Tasting

$15
per adult
Tour to the Anchovies Factory and Santoña Marshes with Tasting
Santoña anchovy route by tourist train

Santoña Anchovy Route by tourist train

$13
per adult
Santoña Anchovy Route by tourist train
Laredo: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of its Seaside and Old Town

Laredo: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of its Seaside and Old Town

$20
per adult
Laredo: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of its Seaside and Old Town
See all activities in Castro Urdiales

Frequently asked questions

Is Castro Urdiales worth visiting?
Castro Urdiales is worth visiting for its notable attractions, such as the historic Santa Maria Church, offering a glimpse into the past, and the relaxing Spa Agua Viva for rejuvenation. Travelers will also find local grocers available for convenient self-catering during their trip.
When is the best time to visit Castro Urdiales?
The best time to visit Castro Urdiales is from July through September, when the destination is most popular. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through January offer a more relaxed experience.
What is Castro Urdiales known for?
Castro Urdiales is known for its historic Santa Maria Church, the relaxing Spa Agua Viva, and the scenic Cala de Cotolino. This coastal city on the Cantabrian Sea offers travelers a blend of cultural landmarks and natural beauty.
What is a good itinerary length for Castro Urdiales?
A good itinerary length for Castro Urdiales is two to three days to explore highlights like Santa Maria Church, Spa Agua Viva, and Cala de Cotolino. For an extended stay of four to five days, you can enjoy a private tour of the town or take a day trip to Santander and Faro de Ajo, offering a deeper experience of the region. See Castro Urdiales Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Castro Urdiales?
Castro Urdiales offers historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and opportunities to explore its natural coastal areas.

  • Take a private tour of Castro Urdiales with a face-to-face guide.
  • Visit Santa Maria Church, a prominent local landmark.
  • Relax at Cala de Cotolino, a scenic beach and natural area.
  • Stroll along Playa de Arenillas, another beautiful beach.
  • Explore Punta Lamie, a natural coastal point of interest.

How do I plan a trip to Castro Urdiales?
To plan your trip to Castro Urdiales, search Expedia for hotels and book flights and rental cars in advance. Explore attractions like Santa Maria Church, Spa Agua Viva, or Cala de Cotolino. Consider a Private Tour of Castro Urdiales or a tour from Bilbao. Remember to plan indoor backups for your outdoor activities for weather flexibility.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Castro Urdiales?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Castro Urdiales by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Castro Urdiales with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Castro Urdiales trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Castro Urdiales?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Castro Urdiales can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Castro Urdiales trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Castro Urdiales trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Castro Urdiales trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Castro Urdiales trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Castro Urdiales?
If it's your first trip to Castro Urdiales, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Castro Urdiales hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Castro Urdiales hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Castro Urdiales

An aerial view of a coastal area with rocky formations, clear waters, and a small boat anchored near the shore.

Islares

A modern architectural structure with reflective surfaces and a unique design, set against a twilight sky.

Bilbao

An aerial view of a coastal area with a sandy beach, rocky cliffs, and a small town with houses and greenery.

Liendo

A sandy beach with a wooden building and a lifeguard tower.

Muskiz

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