Do you know the Cantabrian region and its capital? Don’t hesitate to discover the must-sees in Santander.
For a weekend or more, Santander is full of nooks and crannies. If the city isn’t the best place to wander around with your nose in the air – the fault of the 1941 fire that ravaged part of the historic center – its charm lies more in its museums, beaches and specific buildings that are as beautiful as they are curious.
Of course, Santander’s wealth extends far beyond the city walls. The region of which it is the capital, Cantabria, is home to an absolutely magnetic natural and cultural heritage.
Here’s our selection of the 16 must-do things to do in Santander. This seaside gem, historical landmark and avant-garde city is sure to surprise you.
1. Santander Cathedral
Photo credit: Shutterstock – lorenzobovi
This imposing religious edifice, looking like an unshakeable guardian from the top of its gentle hill, boasts atypical and grandiose architecture.
Tried and tested by time and natural disasters, the cathedral today boasts a variety of styles. Each era has its own trademark! However, the Gothic style dominates, and you’ll quickly become captivated by the detail on every column, pointed arch, statue and cross vault.
2. Royal Palace and Magdalena Park
Photo credit: Shutterstock – saiko3p
Magdalena is a peninsula adjacent to Santander that no traveller should miss. Not only are the views of the bay breathtaking, but it’s also home to the admirable Royal Palace.
There’s something absolutely bewitching about this historic building dating from the early 20th century. Its motley mix of French, English and Spanish architecture is incredibly photogenic and endearing. Surrounded by lush parkland and sandy stretches, it’s an ideal place to spend the day.
3. Faro de Cabo Mayor
Photo credit: Shutterstock – saiko3p
Santander’s capes, named Mayor and Menor, will delight lovers of seaside strolls. The semi-dramatic, chaotic landscapes create a unique atmosphere, almost reminiscent ofIreland or our beloved Brittany.
The green expanses rise above the restless sea. Waves crash against the rocks. The wind blows through the tall grass. Take a deep breath! The walk along the headlands finally leads to a majestic lighthouse: Faro de Cabo Mayor. The scenery is breathtaking.
Here, there’s nothing but the roar of the waves, walls of rock tumbling towards the sea and the allure of the end of the world. Nevertheless, beware of strong winds.
4. Center Botín
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jordi C
This is Santander’s star attraction. Missing the Centre Botín is like missing the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration… But it just goes to show the importance of this curious building with its futuristic architecture, suspended over the ocean.
The Centre Botín is a contemporary art center that hosts a number of exhibitions, both temporary and permanent. While it houses rare, high-quality works, it’s something else that makes it so famous: its glass footbridges offering breathtaking views over Santander Bay (one of the most beautiful in Europe).
5. El Sardinero Beach
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Radomir Rezny
The Atlantic coast, with its jagged brown rock scenery and fine sandy beaches flanked by lush green countryside, is the epitome of beauty. So it’s impossible to visit Santander without visiting its beaches.
The most pleasant and famous of these is El Sardinero. Accessible on foot from the town center, it attracts swimmers, surfers and walkers alike, who enjoy the sandy promenade.
6. Mercados de la Esperanza et del Este
Photo credit: Shutterstock – tottoto
Markets are the perfect place to take the pulse of a city. Real living scenes, reflecting traditions and an art of living, you absolutely must enter these large squares and lose yourself alongside the locals.
Santander boasts two major markets, both of which are a must-see. Their structure is clearly reminiscent of typical Cantabrian markets.
First of all, there’s the Mercado de la Esperanza. Open every day, nestled in a stone, glass and iron building, it’s the very essence of the city. Inside, it’s teeming with stalls, smells and colors that enliven and excite the senses. It’s the ideal place to stock up on gourmet treats to pack in your suitcase.
As for the Mercado del Este, it’s a lively place for a quick lunch or dinner. In the heart of the old town, lined with tempting stalls, it’s the place to try the famous pintxos we’ll talk about below.
7. Cabárceno Natural Park
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Stas Moroz
If you’re lucky enough to visit Santander over several days, take a trip to Cabárceno Nature Park. The karst landscape is a geological enigma, very pleasing to the eye.
What a surprise, too, when you come across European bison, white rhinoceros and jaguars! Rest assured, this immense 750-hectare area can be visited by car or, even better, on a highly instructive guided tour.
8. Puertochico district
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Botond Horvath
Adjacent to Santander’s city center, this colorful district is the oldest in the capital. Once a fishing port, today it’s a hive of restaurants and tapas bars, where evenings are a pleasure.
A few buildings and facades in soft colors withstood the flames, much to the delight of lovers of urban landscapes.
9. Regional Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria
Photo credit: Wikimedia – Valdavie
There’s nothing incompatible about visiting Santander if you love history. The city is even home to one of Spain’s richest and most fascinating museums. The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria, as it is actually called, houses some impressive archaeological treasures and relics. These objects, dating back several millennia, are generally very well preserved and have nothing to envy from other great collections.
10. Altamira caves
Photo credit: Shutterstock – acongar
Some of Santander’s highlights are less well known than others. Yet they are not to be missed. Such is the case of the seventeen Altamira caves. These are true symbols of Paleolithic cave art and human history.
These deep galleries, protected from all external aggression, are exemplarily well preserved. They jealously guard paintings and ornaments dating from 35,000 to 11,000 BC.
11. Seafood at Barrio Pesquero
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Arturo Limon
The quintessential fishermen’s quarter, as picturesque as it is lively, Barrio Pesquero is a must on your Santander to-do list. It’s the place to go for fresh fish, shrimp and seafood, but more than that, it’s the place to live to the rhythm of maritime traditions.
12. Boats in Santander Bay
Photo credit: Shutterstock – saiko3p
There are many possibilities for boat excursions in the Bay of Santander, along the splendid Cantabrian coastline. The Bay of Santander, one of the most beautiful in the world, has plenty to offer.
Most companies are based on the Paseo de Pereda and the Santander marina. For half a day or more, it’s up to you. But be sure to include it in your program.
13. Tour des places
Photo credit: Shutterstock – trabantos
Like many city centers on the Old Continent, Santander’s is brimming with pretty squares. So why not visit Santander at the pace of these key meeting points?
First of all, there’s the Plaza Porticada, which boasts one of the most elegant streets in the area. With its beautiful arches, gleaming facades pierced by long windows, and white flagstones on the ground, it’s reminiscent of the « pin-drawn » style of northern European cities.
Then there’s the Plaza Ayuntamiento. Although it’s simply the town hall, it’s an ideal gathering point before a night on the town. Here, young people gather before heading off into the adjacent alleyways, dotted with tapas bars and restaurants.
In fact, if there’s one thing you can do in Santander after dark, it’s put on your night owl costume and take the pulse of the city in the evening.
Then there’s Plaza Pombo. The atmosphere is rather calm, with its crown of small shops, cafés and discreet restaurants under the arcades. Its kiosk has a romantic feel, particularly appreciated at sunset.
Finally, there’s the Plaza Cañadío. Looking to party? This is your HQ. The square is teeming with relaxed, festive and lively bars and restaurants.
14. Mirador Rio de la Pila
Photo credit: Shutterstock – trabantos
One of the essential things to do in Santander, and in any city anywhere in the world, is to get some height. Climb to the Mirador Rio de la Pila. The view over the rooftops and the bay, even as far as the Picos de Europa peaks, is breathtaking.
The most courageous will walk to the viewpoint, but others won’t be deprived. There are escalators and a free funicular to the top, and take a look at the « Conjuring Death » fresco: whether you like it or not, it’s well known here.
15. Paseo Maritimo and Pereda
Photo credit: Shutterstock – DiegoCityExplorer
You can’t visit Santander without taking a stroll along the seafront, along the mythical Paseo Maritimo. The walk starts at Centro Botín and leads you out of the city to the superb sandy beaches.
The walk is punctuated by dazzling views of the marina and coastline. You’ll also pass some superb middle-class villas, testifying to the infatuation of the wealthy with this glittering bay.
Another must-do walk in Santander is the Paseo de Pereda. It starts in the Puertochico district, runs along the ocean for almost a kilometer and ends at the cathedral.
Along the way, you’ll be tempted by a few shots of 19th-century architecture, a boat trip, a drink on the terrace or a green break in the beautiful Pereda gardens. Fountains, flowerbeds and children’s rides provide an enchanting backdrop.
16. Culinary specialities
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Alexandre Rotenberg
Santander is an ocean-facing regional capital. Unsurprisingly, its culinary specialities include seafood and fresh fish, which can be enjoyed in a small tavern or a Michelin-starred restaurant. However, there are many other gourmet discoveries to be made.
For example, don’t miss a good paella del cantàbrico. This well-known popular dish, prepared in the pure Spanish tradition, has nothing in common with the paella we already love in France. It’s even better!
Then there are the famous pintxos we mentioned earlier. These tapas, typical of Spain and the Basque Country, come in a wide variety of preparations. The base, a slice of bread, can be topped with all kinds of cold meats, small fish, cheeses and vegetables. All topped with jam, honey or nuts.
Enjoy them at the bar, with a glass of red wine or a pint of beer. In short, epicureans won’t have enough time to visit Santander and Cantabria!
How do I get to Santander?
Ready to pack your bags and visit Santander? Here are the best options for getting there.
By plane
From France, the quickest way to visit Santander is by plane. In fact, the city’s airport is the only one in Cantabria. Served by a number of airlines, including Vueling, Iberia and Ryanair, it offers several direct, low-cost connections.
Another plus? It’s very close to the city center. However, nothing beats a search on a specialized site such as Skyscanner to check flight availability and compare options.
By car
Spain’s proximity to France makes it easily accessible by car for many French travelers. This could even be your chance to embark on a fantastic road trip along the French coast! Once you’ve crossed the Spanish border (around San Sebastian), Santander is only a 2h15-minute drive away.
Where to stay in Santander
If you choose to visit Santander, you’ll have no trouble finding accommodation that meets all your criteria. Both the city center and the outlying districts offer a very wide choice of accommodation. Small hotels, guest houses, Airbnb, luxury complexes… On a tight or unlimited budget, with a view of the sea or the city’s rooftops: it’s all possible.
To find the best prices for your dates, don’t hesitate to use an online hotel comparator.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Spain