Tabacalera Biblioteca Central de Cantabria
A vibrant cultural hub in Santander, offering quiet study spaces, diverse art exhibitions, and live music performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch live music & art
Tabacalera Biblioteca Central de Cantabria
Best Time
Catch live music & art

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural hub in Santander, offering quiet study spaces, diverse art exhibitions, and live music performances.
"Great library, really quiet with a lot of space to work and clean tables."
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules
Always verify current exhibitions and events online before visiting.
⏰ Arrive Early for Events
Free entry events fill up fast; arrive early to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amparo Rivelles Exhibition
Main Exhibition Hall
A tribute to the immense talent of Amparo Rivelles, showcasing her career and memories.

LAMAZARES VS LEIRO
Exhibition Space
A significant exhibition commemorating the 40th anniversary of Galería Siboney, a replica of its 1985 inaugural show.

Live Music Performances
Plaza del Edificio Los Arenales
Experience elegant jazz fusion, energetic performances, and honest, fresh music from various artists.
Agustín de Celis Homage
Exhibition Space
An exhibition honoring the master painter Agustín de Celis, showcasing his acclaimed work.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Exhibition Schedules
Arrive Early for Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules
Always verify current exhibitions and events online before visiting.
⏰ Arrive Early for Events
Free entry events fill up fast; arrive early to secure a spot.
🤫 Enjoy the Quiet Atmosphere
Ideal for focused work or study, the library offers a peaceful environment.
🤝 Helpful Staff
The library staff are known for being very helpful and accommodating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules
Always verify current exhibitions and events online before visiting.
⏰ Arrive Early for Events
Free entry events fill up fast; arrive early to secure a spot.
🤫 Enjoy the Quiet Atmosphere
Ideal for focused work or study, the library offers a peaceful environment.
🤝 Helpful Staff
The library staff are known for being very helpful and accommodating.
📶 WiFi Limitations
While available, the WiFi connection might not be the fastest and can block certain websites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Biblioteca Central de Cantabria as a great, quiet library with ample space for work and study, and appreciate the helpful staff and diverse art exhibitions. However, some have experienced issues with inconsistent opening hours and a less-than-fast WiFi connection.
"Great library. It’s really quiet and there is a lot of space to work. Tables and spaces are clean. WiFi connection is not the fastest though and block some websites."
Veronika B
"Probably a decent library but they have their hours posted as opening at 9 on a Thursday but when I arrived they were rude and ignored me as long as possible until finally they told me it opened at 11. It says 9am on the door!"
alyssa t
"There is always some type of art exposición relate to the community and what it is happening"
Carolina Vera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The library is located in Santander. Public transportation options within Santander are generally good, with buses serving most areas. While specific routes aren't detailed in the provided content, exploring local bus maps or using a navigation app upon arrival is recommended.
Information regarding parking availability is not explicitly mentioned in the provided content. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider public transport if driving.
Hours can vary, and there have been instances of posted hours differing from actual opening times. It's best to confirm the exact opening hours on the day of your visit through their official channels or by calling ahead.
While not explicitly stated, most modern public libraries aim for accessibility. It's recommended to contact the library directly for specific accessibility information.
Yes, the library is described as a great place to work, offering quiet spaces and tables. The WiFi is available, though it may not be the fastest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the library is typically free. However, special exhibitions or ticketed events might have associated costs or require advance booking.
Many art exhibitions hosted at the library are free to attend. However, it's always wise to check the specific event details for any admission fees.
For events like concerts, entry is often free but limited by capacity. It's advised to arrive early to ensure you get a spot, as 'plazas vuelan' (spots fly).
While some events might allow advance booking, many free entry events operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is the best strategy.
Exhibition hours usually align with the library's general operating hours, but it's best to confirm specific exhibition times on the library's official schedule.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The library hosts a variety of exhibitions, including tributes to artists like Amparo Rivelles and Agustín de Celis, as well as art dialogues like LAMAZARES VS LEIRO.
Yes, the library frequently features live music, ranging from elegant jazz fusion to energetic performances, often held in the Plaza del Edificio Los Arenales.
Absolutely. Visitors describe it as a great library that is really quiet with a lot of space to work, making it ideal for focused study or work.
The atmosphere is generally quiet and conducive to work or study. It's also a vibrant space for cultural events and art exhibitions.
The WiFi connection is available but is noted as not being the fastest and may block certain websites.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary for exhibitions. It's best to look for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially without flash, to avoid disturbing others or damaging artwork.
The architecture of the library itself, along with the diverse art exhibitions and lively event spaces, can offer unique photographic opportunities.
Weekday mornings, when the library is quieter, might be ideal for capturing the architectural details without crowds. During events, the energy can provide dynamic photo subjects.
Photography during live music events is usually allowed, but often with restrictions on flash use. Check with event organizers or look for guidelines.
The exhibition halls showcasing the art and the Plaza del Edificio Los Arenales during events are likely the most visually interesting spots for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Students and Researchers
🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cultural Hub: Exhibitions and Art
These exhibitions are often free to enter, making them accessible to everyone. The library's commitment to showcasing art enriches the cultural landscape of Santander and provides a valuable platform for artists. Visitors often praise the quality and relevance of the art on display, noting that there is 'always some type of art exposición relate to the community and what it is happening'. The variety ensures there's something to pique the interest of different art enthusiasts.
Live Music and Performances
Entry to these musical events is typically free, but with limited capacity, attendees are strongly advised to arrive early. The phrase '¡así que les recomendamos llegar con tiempo!' (so we recommend arriving with time!) is a common reminder. This makes the library a fantastic spot for spontaneous cultural enjoyment, blending the intellectual ambiance of a library with the lively spirit of live performance. The community often highlights the 'química sobre el escenario' (chemistry on stage) and the 'conexión musical profunda' (deep musical connection) observed during these shows.
A Haven for Study and Work
However, it's worth noting that the WiFi connection, while present, is described as 'not the fastest' and may block certain websites. Despite this minor limitation, the overall environment is highly regarded. The helpfulness of the staff also contributes to a positive experience, making it a welcoming place for extended stays.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit