Santander Spain
Santander is a beautiful city located in the north of Spain within the beautiful region of Cantabria.
It is an area that is less known to foreign visitors but is full of amazing landscapes, first-class gastronomy, quaint tapas bars, important cultural and historic sites and beautiful beaches.
The city is bordered by beaches and harbours on the northern side and the old city centre on the southern side.
It was once a renowned tourist resort for Spanish politicians, aristocrats, and the upper class. The city still retains its beautiful palaces and promenades, with white buildings, old cafes, and its famous casino.
In addition to its appeal as a holiday destination, Santander has also become an important centre for trade fairs and congresses.
The whole region of Cantabria also has plenty of activities and opportunities to explore its stunning natural surroundings and cultural sites, including mountains, prehistoric sites, ski resorts, beautiful villages, and world heritage sites.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing Spanish beach holiday or an adventure in nature, Santander has something for everyone.
Recommended Guided Tours in Santander
Things To Do In Santander Spain
Visit the Botin Centre
The Botín Centre is a cultural and arts hub that has become an architectural icon in Northern Spain.
Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this contemporary masterpiece stands on the city's waterfront, overlooking the Bay of Santander.
Its distinctive design features a series of interlocking, curvilinear forms clad in white ceramic tiles, creating a visually stunning contrast to the historic architecture of Santander.
Inside the Botín Centre, you'll discover a range of cultural offerings, including art exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and workshops.
It's also home to the first international outpost of the Reina Sofia Museum, showcasing contemporary art and providing a platform for emerging artists.
The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the city and the bay, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
The Botín Centre not only enriches Santander's cultural scene but also serves as a symbol of the city's commitment to the arts and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.
Visit Santander Cathedral
Santander Cathedral is a must-place to visit. It's a complex of Gothic structures that span centuries of history and culture. The lower church is the oldest, and recent excavations have revealed artefacts from an ancient Roman settlement that can be seen through the glass floor.
You'll be amazed by the silver heads on one side of the cathedral, which is said to be the real heads of the martyr's San Emeterio and Celedonio. The upper church is much grander and is supported by Gothic arches. It houses two different bell towers and several chapels, and the cloister is a sight to behold with its austere beauty.
If you're looking for an educational and awe-inspiring experience, Santander Cathedral is a great place to visit.
Explore Amazing Beaches
Santander, Spain is a beautiful destination for beach lovers, with an abundance of beaches around the city.
After exploring the gardens, why not head to the beaches of Sardinero to the north of the city. This area is divided into two parts separated by the gardens of Piquio, with the first beach stretching for 330 metres and the second for 1000 metres.
El Sardinero is a popular area of the city and is renowned for being one of the most elegant beach resorts in Spain. The neighbourhood was developed in the 19th century to become a new tourist hub for the city.
The beach of Peligros is a great place to start, as it is conveniently located near the Reina Victoria avenue and has calm waters.
Other nearby beaches include the Peninsula of Magdalena, Bikinis, Magdalena and the beaches of Sardinero.
Further away from the city centre, you'll find Molinucos and Mataleñas close to the lighthouse of Cabo Mayor.
All of these beaches have stunning views and are great for fishing.
See the Magdalena Palace
The Magdalena Palace, or Palacio de la Magdalena, is an architectural gem perched atop a scenic peninsula in Santander..
This stunning palace, built in the early 20th century, blends various architectural styles, including eclectic, neo-Gothic, and English Tudor influences. It served as a royal residence and, later, a summer home for King Alfonso XIII.
Set against the backdrop of the Cantabrian Sea, the Magdalena Palace boasts a majestic presence, with its turrets, towers, and intricate detailing.
The palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Today, the Magdalena Palace has been repurposed as a cultural and educational centre. It hosts conferences, exhibitions, and various cultural events.
Here, you can explore its opulent interiors, which are open to the public, and learn about its history as a royal retreat.
The palace and its stunning surroundings make it a must-visit attraction in Santander, combining historical significance, architectural beauty, and coastal splendour in one captivating destination.
The Plaza Porticada
The Plaza Porticada Santander is a small but lively square located in the heart of the old city. It's officially called the Plaza Velarde and is the center of life for the locals.
Every August, the square transforms into a lively venue for the Santander International Festival of Music and Dance. The festival brings together local and international acts, creating a unique atmosphere of music, art and culture.
Visitors to the square can also find several restaurants, cafes and shops, making it a great spot to explore, grab a bite to eat, and soak up the local culture.
Stroll Around The Perede Gardens
The Pereda Gardens, or Jardines de Pereda, are a picturesque urban oasis nestled in the heart of Santander.
Named after the famous local writer Jose María de Pereda, these gardens are a tranquil retreat amid the bustling city.
As you enter, you're greeted by lush greenery, towering palm trees, and vibrant flowerbeds that create a serene atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the Pereda Gardens is the iconic glass palace, known as the Palacete del Embarcadero, which adds an elegant touch to the landscape. The palace often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a hub of artistic activity.
Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the garden's paths, enjoying the shade of centuries-old trees and the soothing sound of the nearby Paseo de Pereda waterfront.
It's a perfect spot to relax, read a book, or simply soak up the natural beauty and historical charm that define this enchanting green space in Santander.
The Gastornomy Of Santander Spain
Santander is known for its delicious Spanish cuisine and unique gastronomy. The city offers a wide variety of traditional dishes, from the classic "Cocido Montañés" stew to the "Arroz a la Cubana" rice dish. Seafood is also popular, with traditional dishes such as "Sardinas a la plancha" and "Tortilla de bacalao" (cod omelette).
When it comes to eating out, there are plenty of great restaurants and tapas bars to choose from. Some of the top restaurants in Santander are Querida Margarita, Agua Salada, Cenador de Amos and El Serbal.
For some of the best tapas bars, you can't go wrong with Casa Lita, El Rincón de la Cerveza, La Terraza de la Casa de Cultura, and La Bodeguita del Tapeo.
Enjoy exploring all the delicious flavours of Santander!
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Santander
The best time to visit Santander, Spain is during the summer months of July and August. During these months, temperatures are generally warm, with highs around 23°C and lows of 17°C. The area also tends to be drier during this time of year, with the lowest chance of precipitation in July, September, and June.
Additionally, Santander is a great destination to explore during the summer, with plenty of sightseeing, activities, and festivals to enjoy.
The busiest months for tourism in Santander are March, July and August. During these months the flights tend to be a little more, though you can usually find some good flight deals if you book well in advance.
If you prefer to visit during the quieter months then February and November are generally a lot less busy and you are more likely to find the lowest prices for travel and accommodation.
Santander Airport
Santander Airport is a great hub for travelers in the North of Spain. It is located 5 km away from the City Centre and is easily accessible by bus.
The airport was recently renovated and modernized and it now offers all the latest WIFI technology and access points.
There are only a handful of gates and airlines that fly out from this airport, but it has everything you need from an airport, including connections to the City Centre, car rental desks, shops, and places to eat.
Santander Airport is perfect for travelling to many cities in Northern Spain cities including Bilbao, Gijon, Oviedo, and Burgos.
Santander Ferry Port
Santander Ferry Port is the ideal starting point for your Spanish adventure! Located in the heart of the city, it's within easy walking distance of great shops, attractions, and the gateway to the Picos de Europa.
The port is the main entry point for many people visiting Spain by car or motorhome and is a great place to begin your journey.
There are plenty of services available at the port, including ticketing, boarding, and disembarking. The staff at the port are friendly and knowledgeable and will be more than happy to help you with any queries you may have.
So come and explore Santander the easy way - through Santander Ferry Port!
Where To Stay In Santander
If you're looking for the best places to stay in Santander, Spain, you can't go wrong with either the city center or Playa de El Sardinero. Both offer plenty of accommodation options, so you can easily find something to fit your needs.
In the city center, you can find a variety of hotels, hostels, and apartments to choose from, while Playa de El Sardinero is great for those looking for a beach holiday.
No matter which area you choose, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea, as well as a variety of attractions and activities.
Santander is a great place to visit and is often overlooked by international tourists, so don't miss out on all that it has to offer!
Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly, there are plenty of great places to stay in this vibrant city!
Here is our pick of the top 10 places to stay in Santander
- Hotel Eurostars Real – This luxury hotel offers stunning bay views and plush rooms with modern amenities.
- Hotel Bahia – This hotel is located steps from the beach and offers great value for money.
- Hotel Boutique Las Brisas – This lovely hotel is located right in the city centre and offers spectacular views of the bay.