A work from the period when Albéniz lived in Paris, deepening his interactions with D'Indy, Dukas, Chausson, Fauré, and others, while exploring new compositional and harmonic methods.

While Cantos de España still exhibits characteristics of his middle period, it simultaneously conveys a gradual deepening towards his mature style.

The collection comprises five pieces: "Preludio", "Oriental", "Bajo la palmera", "Córdoba", and "Seguidillas". The fourth and fifth pieces incorporate memories of short trips to the ancient cities of Córdoba and Seville in Andalusia, Southern Spain. As seen in the titles, the works are strongly Spanish in character, conveying a sense of nostalgia for his homeland.

The first and fifth pieces were subsequently adapted as "Asturias" and "Castilla" respectively in Suite Española. They are also widely popular in arrangements for guitar.

1. Preludio ("Asturias")

A work adapted as "Asturias" in Suite Española. Asturias is a region in northern Spain, blessed with mountains, forests, valleys, and pastures. Guitaristic techniques are expressed on the piano, imparting a unique sense of color. It is in A-B-A (with coda) form. The rhythmic theme gradually builds, leading to a mystical middle section. The two-octave unison played here was a device favored by Albéniz. The first section returns, leading to the coda. The guitar arrangement is also famous and widely popular.

2. Oriental

Compared to the first, fourth, and fifth pieces, it is less frequently performed. A piece with a subdued atmosphere.

3. Bajo la palmera

A flowing and open piece, redolent of the tropics.

Widely popular in guitar arrangements and other versions.

4. Córdoba ("Nocturne")

The ancient city of Córdoba is located in western Andalusia and was formerly the capital of Islamic Spain. It is famous for its mosque (Mezquita), bullfighting, and flamenco. In this piece, the image of Córdoba seems to be depicted from multiple angles and dramatically. A melancholic melody is sung over a rhythmic accompaniment.

5. Seguidillas ("Castilla")

A work adapted as "Castilla" in Suite Española. The region of Castilla historically occupied the central part of Spain and was home to a kingdom. Seguidillas is a triple-meter folk dance that originated there, known for its use in Bizet's Carmen. Rhythmic melodies are skillfully combined to form the piece. Albéniz's sensibility shines through in elements such as the castanet and guitar accompaniment, modulations, and altered harmonies.