Here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do in Santander, the elegant coastal capital of Spain’s Cantabria region.
1. Explore the Magdalena Peninsula
The Peninsula de la Magdalena is one of Santander’s top attractions. It is a beautiful parkland area surrounded by the sea and offers a mixture of nature, history, and scenic views. The highlight is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a royal summer residence built in 1912, where guided tours allow visitors to enjoy its architecture and panoramic outlook. The area also features small enclosures with seals and penguins, several beaches, and grassy spaces for walking or picnicking.
2. Relax on Santander’s Beaches
Santander is famous for its clean, scenic beaches.
- Playa del Sardinero, divided into Primera and Segunda, is the most popular, offering space for swimming, surfing, or simply sunbathing.
- Playa de Mataleñas is a more secluded beach surrounded by cliffs, perfect for those seeking a quieter atmosphere.
- Playa de Los Peligros and La Magdalena are close to the city center and ideal for families, with calm, shallow waters.
3. Visit Santander’s Cultural and Historical Attractions
The city has an impressive mix of modern and traditional culture.
- The Centro Botín is a modern art and cultural center designed by Renzo Piano, known for its striking architecture and excellent exhibitions.
- The Cathedral of Santander, officially called Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, is a Gothic-style church with a Romanesque crypt known as El Cristo.
- The Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico showcases Cantabria’s maritime heritage, displaying fishing boats, historical artifacts, and marine exhibits.
4. Walk Along the Bay of Santander
The Paseo Marítimo, or waterfront promenade, offers one of the most beautiful walks in northern Spain. It stretches along the bay and connects several important sites, such as the Palacio de Festivales de Cantabria and the Puerto Chico area. Puerto Chico was once a fishing port and is now a lively place filled with cafes, seafood restaurants, and bars.
5. Take a Hike or Scenic Drive
For nature lovers, Santander offers beautiful viewpoints and green spaces.
- Mataleñas Park provides clifftop trails with views of the Cantabrian Sea.
- Cabo Mayor Lighthouse stands at the city’s northern tip and offers sweeping ocean views as well as a small museum.
- The Piquío Gardens, located between the Sardinero beaches, are ideal for a peaceful stroll among flowers and viewpoints.
6. Enjoy Cantabrian Cuisine
Santander’s gastronomy is a highlight for visitors.
Typical dishes include rabas (fried squid rings), anchovies from Santoña, and marmita (a tuna and potato stew).
The Mercado de la Esperanza is a great local market to sample fresh seafood and regional produce.
For fine dining, El Serbal and Cenador de Amós (located nearby in Villaverde de Pontones) are highly regarded options, the latter holding a Michelin star.
7. Take a Boat Trip Across the Bay
Boat tours are a great way to appreciate Santander’s natural setting. Ferries and sightseeing boats depart from the main port and travel across the bay to destinations such as Somó and Pedreña. These short trips provide excellent views of the coastline, the city, and the surrounding mountains.
8. Discover Nearby Day Trips
Santander serves as an excellent base for exploring Cantabria.
- Santillana del Mar is a well-preserved medieval village about 30 kilometers away.
- The Altamira Caves, near Santillana, feature replicas of prehistoric cave paintings and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Picos de Europa National Park offers mountain trails, gorges, and picturesque villages for those interested in outdoor adventure.
9. Experience Santander’s Nightlife
Evenings in Santander are lively but relaxed.
The Cañadío Square and Calle Peña Herbosa areas are popular spots for tapas and drinks. There are also modern bars and cocktail venues along the waterfront, where visitors can enjoy views of the bay.
10. Stay in Style
Santander offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to charming local guesthouses.
The Hotel Real is one of the most famous, known for its elegant design and royal history. There are also many smaller boutique hotels near the city center and along the coast for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
