Young people gazing at the sea in San Sebastián, Basque Country.

Coastal cities in Spain where you can really disconnect

none

Looking forward to packing your suitcase again? Spain boasts around 8,000 kilometres of coastline, where you’ll find cities perfect for a short getaway, so you can enjoy the best of both urban life and the sea. But if you don't know where to go, below is a list of cities in the north and south of the country. You choose the one that best suits your trip. Get ready!

Save favourite

Remove favourite

Go to my favourites

View of the port and town of Ribadeo, Galicia

Ribadeo

Known for its famous beach of As Catedrais, Ribadeo (Lugo) is an icon on the Galician coast. Its estuary borders Asturias and it is common to see boats and people practising water sports. Once you've soaked up the seascape, including the harbour, you can wander around the old town. While you're there, make sure to visit the modernist tower by the Moreno brothers, head up to the Chapel of the Trinity for panoramic views of the estuary, and marvel at the colourful houses, where clear Indiano influences can be seen.
The Botín Centre in Santander, Cantabria

Santander

A city bathed by the Cantabrian Sea, in the north of Spain, popularly known as “the bride of the sea”. Its history is a blend of aristocracy and fishing tradition. And you will feel how these two worlds come together as you stroll through the city centre. Some of Santander’s unmistakable highlights include the Sardinero area, where elegant mansions like the Palacio de la Magdalena transport you back to the days when it was a summer retreat for the monarchy. You can also visit the Iglesia Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción or soak up modern and contemporary art at the Centro Botín. Any time of year is a good time to visit Santander and fall in love with the city and the sea.
View of the old town of San Sebastián, Basque Country

Donostia-San Sebastián

Continuing along the same northern coast, you will come across San Sebastian, in the Basque Country. A place where you can immerse yourself in film and cuisine, with views of the sea. Its bay is nestled between the Igeldo and Urgull mountains. Whether you come in winter or summer, a stroll along the shore of the La Concha Beach is wonderfully pleasant. This place was also a summer residence for monarchs and aristocrats in the 19th century. Even so, the city maintains that Belle Époque style combined with modernity, as reflected in buildings such as the Kursaal. You can't miss another symbol of the city: the Wind Comb, a sculptural ensemble by . And when you get hungry, all you have to do is wander through the streets of the Parte Vieja, where you'll find bars full of pintxos.
Aerial view of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Andalusia

Sanlúcar de Barrameda

Southern Spain is a very charming place. On the Atlantic coast, you will find Sanlúcar de Barrameda (Cadiz). It meets Doñana National Park, at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River. A town known for its white houses – like most of the Andalusian coastline. One of the most curious sights is the famous horse races held on the beach every August, coinciding with the local patron saint festival. If you wander into town, you can visit monuments such as the Castle of Santiago or the Palace of the Infantes de Orleans y Borbón, and end the day strolling along the vast beach. The sunsets are spectacular!