Santander - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Santander

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santander, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santander and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santander, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Santander for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santander

Santander is a coastal city located in the north of Spain, specifically in the autonomous community of Cantabria. It is known for its beautiful beaches, green landscapes, and stunning architecture. Santander has a rich history and culture, with landmarks and museums worth visiting, such as the Palacio de la Magdalena, the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, and the Cathedral of Santander. The city is also famous for its cuisine, particularly seafood and dairy products. Santander has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries, making it easy to explore the city and nearby attractions.

What to visit in Santander

Santander is a beautiful coastal city in northern Spain that is famous for its pristine beaches, stunning scenery, and rich history. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santander along with some information about each: 1. El Sardinero Beach - This is one of the most popular beaches in Santander, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and lively atmosphere. It is a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, or enjoying a drink at one of the many beachside bars.
2. Palacio de la Magdalena - This is a grand palace that was built in 1908 as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family. It is located on a hill overlooking the bay of Santander and has beautiful gardens and grounds where visitors can have a picnic or take a leisurely stroll.
3. Paseo de Pereda - This is a popular promenade in the center of Santander that runs along the waterfront. It is lined with majestic buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
4. Jardines de Piquío - These are stunning gardens located on a peninsula that overlooks the bay of Santander. They are a perfect place for a walk, picnic, or just relaxing and enjoying the views.
5. Centro Botín - This is a modern art museum that opened in 2017 and features works by some of the world's most famous artists. It is located in a unique, wave-like building that is a work of art in its own right.
6. Catedral de Santander - This is a beautiful cathedral located in the heart of the city, known for its Gothic and Romanesque architecture and impressive stained glass windows. It is a must-see for anyone interested in religious architecture.
7. Senda Costera - This is a scenic coastal trail that runs along the bay of Santander, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. It is ideal for hiking or cycling and is a great way to see the natural beauty of the region.
8. Playa del Camello - This is a quiet, secluded beach located just outside the city center. It is a perfect spot for a peaceful swim or a relaxing picnic in the sun.
These are just a few of the many amazing tourist attractions that Santander has to offer. Visitors to the city are sure to find something to love about this beautiful part of Spain.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santander.

When to go on holiday to Santander

The best time to visit Santander, Spain is from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). This is also the peak season for tourism, so you can expect higher prices for accommodation and longer lines at popular attractions. If you prefer a more peaceful and less crowded vacation, you can consider visiting in May or October, when the weather is still mild and pleasant, but there are fewer tourists around. Keep in mind that during the winter months (November to April) it can get quite cold and rainy in Santander.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santander

There are different transportation options to get to Santander, Spain.
By plane: Santander Airport (SDR) is located around 12 km from the city center and receives domestic and international flights. Some airlines that fly to Santander are Ryanair, Iberia, and Vueling.
By train: There are several options to arrive by train to Santander, either from other cities in Spain or from other European countries through high-speed trains. It is also possible to take a regional train from Bilbao, which takes around 1h and 15 min.
By bus: Santander has a good bus network that connects it with different cities in Spain and other countries. Some of the main bus companies that operate in Santander are Alsa, Eurolines, and FlixBus.
By car: Santander is well connected by road with other cities and regions in Spain. The main highways that connect Santander with other important cities are the A-67, A-8, and AP-68. Additionally, Santander has several parking lots located in different areas of the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santander, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santander

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Santander, along with a brief description: 1. Rabas - These are deep-fried squid rings that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are often served as a tapa or appetizer.
2. Cocido montañés - This is a hearty stew made with white beans, pork, and greens such as cabbage or kale. It's a popular dish in the mountainous region of Cantabria, of which Santander is the capital.
3. Quesada pasiega - This is a type of cheesecake that originates from the Pas Valley, just south of Santander. It's made with creamy, unripened cheese, sugar, and eggs and has a light, fluffy texture.
4. Orujo - This is a spirit made from the fermented skins and seeds of grapes, similar to Italian grappa. It's often served as a digestif after a meal.
5. Sobaos pasiegos - These are buttery, sponge-like cakes that are also from the Pas Valley. They are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, and are often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
6. Anchoas de Santoña - These are anchovies that are salted and cured in barrels. They are a delicacy in Santander and are often served as part of a tapa or as a sandwich filling.
7. Marmita de bonito - This is a fish stew that typically includes potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and bonito, a type of tuna that is common in the Bay of Biscay. It's a popular dish along the northern coast of Spain, including in Santander.
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Santander an expensive destination for tourists?

Santander can be considered a slightly expensive destination for tourists, especially compared to some other cities in Spain. However, it is still possible to find budget-friendly options for accommodation, transportation, and dining. Some of the main expenses in Santander may be accommodation, entrance fees to certain attractions, and dining in high-end restaurants. On the other hand, there are also plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in the city such as visiting the beaches, walking around the historic city center, or hiking in the nearby mountains. As with any destination, careful planning and budgeting can help to minimize expenses and maximize enjoyment of the trip.

Where to find accomodation in Santander

The best areas to find accommodation in Santander would depend on your preferences and interests, but some popular areas include: - El Sardinero: This area offers upscale beachfront hotels, restaurants, and a casino. It's a great choice if you want to be close to the beach and enjoy a more luxurious atmosphere.
- Puertochico: This area is close to the city center and the port, and it has a great nightlife with lots of bars and restaurants. It's a good option if you want to be in the heart of the city and experience its nightlife.
- Centro: This is the historical and cultural center of the city, with many attractions and landmarks such as the Cathedral, Plaza Porticada, and the Town Hall. It's a great choice if you want to explore the city's history and culture.
- La Magdalena: This area is located on a peninsula and has a large park, beautiful beaches, and historic buildings such as the Magdalena Palace. It's a good option if you want a more peaceful and natural environment, away from the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Santander here:
Booking.com

Is Santander a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santander, Spain is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate, and visitors can feel comfortable walking around the city during the day and engaging in tourist activities. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. This could include taking care of your belongings, using caution in unfamiliar areas, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Overall, Santander is a beautiful and safe destination for travelers to enjoy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santander.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santander the most?

Santander (Spain) is an incredible destination that can cater to different types of travelers. Couples can have a great romantic getaway and enjoy the city's beautiful beaches, seafront promenade, and picturesque sunsets. A stroll around the historic center of the town with its colonial buildings, quaint alleyways, and charming plazas will undoubtedly set the mood for romantic escapades.
Young people looking for an exciting holiday will find plenty of activities in Santander. The city is well known for its vibrant nightlife, offering lively bars, clubs, and an extensive range of restaurants. It also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, ranging from music festivals to cultural experiences that will provide for a thrilling experience.
Families with children will also find Santander to be a very appealing destination. The city's natural surroundings are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and swimming. A trip to the city's famous Magdalena Peninsula, where a mini zoo, a beautiful park, and stunning views of the sea can be enjoyed, is a highlight for many visitors with kids, too. All in all, Santander has something for everyone, making it an ideal vacation destination regardless of age or preferred interests.

How to get around Santander

Santander has several transportation options to move around the city. The most common ones are buses, taxis, and bicycles. There are also rental car services available if you prefer exploring the city on your own.

What to see around Santander

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Santander: 1. Comillas: This picturesque town is famed for its stunning architecture, including the whimsical Gaudí-designed El Capricho mansion.
2. Santillana del Mar: Known as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Santillana del Mar is a medieval town that is perfect for a day trip.
3. Bilbao: The largest city in the Basque region, Bilbao is renowned for its impressive Guggenheim Museum and charming Old Town.
4. Potes: Set amid the stunning Picos de Europa mountain range, Potes is a medieval town known for its impressive architecture and views.
5. Cabárceno Nature Park: This park is a great option for families. The park is home to many species of animals. You can also take a cable car or a safari tour to get a closer look at the animals.
6. Castro Urdiales: A picturesque coastal town with a long history, Castro Urdiales is a great option for those looking for some seaside relaxation.
I hope these suggestions help, and let me know if you need any further assistance!
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