Comillas is a refined coastal municipality in Cantabria, northern Spain, historically favored by the Spanish royal family and nobility for summer retreats. The town is renowned for its architectural heritage, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Domènech i Montaner, such as the Palacete de Sobrellano. Once the capital of Spain for a single day in 1881 and the first town in Spain to install Edison's electric light bulbs, Comillas retains an atmosphere of 'decadent and discreet aristocracy.' While southern Spain and the islands have gained popularity among the wealthy, Comillas remains a serene haven for those seeking cultural depth, historic elegance, and a quiet escape from mass tourism. Its compact size makes it ideal for travelers who prefer walking tours through medieval streets and baroque landmarks over bustling nightlife.
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Stay in the town center or near the coast to easily walk to Gaudí’s Palacete de Sobrellano, the old Pontifical University buildings, and medieval sites. The compact nature of Comillas means most key attractions are within walking distance, making a single hotel base highly efficient for exploring the town's architectural gems without needing to relocate.
Comillas does not have its own airport. The nearest major airports are Santander (SDR) and Bilbao (BIO), requiring a road transfer via bus or taxi. Once in town, the layout is pedestrian-friendly. Most historical sites, including the castle overlooking the town and the university buildings, are clustered closely together, allowing guests to explore the entire municipality on foot comfortably.
Summer months offer pleasant weather and allow visitors to experience the town's traditional role as a summer retreat for the aristocracy, though it remains less crowded than southern Spanish destinations. Spring and autumn provide quieter conditions ideal for appreciating architectural details without the peak-season bustle. The town maintains its exclusive charm year-round, appealing to travelers seeking discretion and historical ambiance over beach-centric activities.
A restaurant that has definitely left his mark. Surrounded by green spaces, El Remedio stands out for its almost picture-postcard setting next to a 19C church and just a few metres from the cliff. The priority of chef Samuel Fernández is to offer his guests healthy, traditionally based cuisine that is centred around the freshest ingredients – for this reason, the menu is explained out loud to guests based on availability that day. One delightful and delicious dish that impressed us was the flan made with Villada morcilla (black pudding), Tiernin cheese from the Tresgallo cheese company, and pi
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