The Regional government of Cantabria published a guide for people wishing to take part in the travel programme of the Instituto de Mayores y Servicios Sociales (Imserso). The guidance from the Gobierno de Cantabria is aimed at older people, relatives, booking agencies and municipalities. It brings together the documents needed to verify eligibility, procedures for specific health needs, information on accessible services and the correct booking channels. Its aim is to simplify applications and improve coordination between authorities, providers and travellers.
The guide confirms the status of the ongoing 2026/2027 season: national sales began on 14 September 2026 Imserso opened bookings in phases; in Cantabria and other autonomous communities, priority user groups were able to book from 16 September 2026 with other eligible people able to book from 17 September 2026. For the 2026/2027 season, Imserso has put nearly 880,000 places on sale nationwide. Allocation by destination category and quotas for each province are matters for the national authorities and are unaffected by regional information.
The legally binding rules, concession arrangements and priorities continue to be governed exclusively by the relevant state regulations and Imserso’s seasonal provisions. The Cantabrian guide does not change these or create new entitlements. It identifies authorised sales channels, explains the required documents and outlines procedures, for example in the event of lost accreditation or when documenting medical needs, so that these can be taken into account when booking.
The regional government says it published the guide in response to recurring queries about formalities and deadlines. It is intended to help prevent incorrect submissions, reduce duplication in communications and improve access to the relevant offices. However, the Imserso’s checks remain decisive for eligibility and the allocation of places; regional offices mainly provide information and coordination.
For participants, the key point is that bookings should be made only through channels authorised by the Imserso. The dates of the national booking period and the time slots assigned to each eligibility group apply. Those needing support can find in the guide a list of standard documents, advice on evidence of accessibility needs and contact points in Cantabria. The regional government recommends checking all documents before booking and declaring any specific needs early to avoid delays in allocation.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).