24 Fairytale Villages You Can Actually Stay in Overnight

24. Santillana del Mar, Spain – A Timeless Medieval Village

Santillana del Mar, located in northern Spain’s Cantabria region, is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Europe. With its cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses, and flower-covered balconies, the town feels like it belongs in another century. The village is home to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a magnificent Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can stay in historic mansions-turned-hotels, wander through old-world markets, and enjoy regional delicacies in traditional taverns. With its medieval magic and timeless beauty, Santillana del Mar is a perfect stop for those looking to experience Spain’s fairy-tale past.