10 Things to Do in Santander, Spain 🇪🇸: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Helguera Palacio Boutique & Antique
• ✨ 5-Star: Eurostars Hotel Real
• 🏨 4-Star: Santemar
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Suite Home Pinares
• 💸 Cheap: Alojamientos Cantíber
• 🏢 Apartment: LOFT CENTRE SANTANDER
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel Bahía
• 🏩 For Couples: Le Petit Boutique Hotel

I’ve spent countless hours exploring every corner of this coastal gem, from its stunning Magdalena Peninsula to its buzzing tapas bars, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots with you. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in Santander – from must-see attractions to hidden local secrets that most visitors miss.

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Santander: 1-Hour City Cruise Around the Bay from €15 (⭐4.8/5)
• Cantabria: El Castillo Caves & Paleolithic Art from €95 (⭐4.9/5)
• Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour from €75 (⭐4.8/5)
• Obregón: Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno Entry Ticket from €35 (⭐4.7/5)

Top Things to Do in Santander

1. Palacio de la Magdalena & Other Historical Landmarks

Royal Grandeur. The Palacio de la Magdalena stands majestically on its own peninsula, and I still remember my first glimpse of this architectural marvel. This honey-colored stone palace, built between 1908 and 1912, served as King Alfonso XIII’s summer residence – though today it’s one of Santander’s most visited attractions.

Insider Access. During my guided tour (€3 for adults, €1 for children), I discovered the palace’s most fascinating spaces. The royal family’s private chambers remain exactly as they were, with original furniture and decorations intact. My favorite spot? The stunning wood-paneled library where the king once worked, overlooking the Cantabrian Sea.

Ocean Views. The palace grounds offer what I consider the best vantage points in Santander. Walking along the clifftop paths, I spotted seals lounging in the mini-zoo and captured perfect photos of the Bay of Santander. Pro tip: Visit just before sunset when the golden light bathes the peninsula in magical hues.

Gothic Wonder. Just a 15-minute walk from the palace, Santander Cathedral surprised me with its unique blend of Gothic and Romanesque elements. The lower church, dating back to the 13th century, survived the great fire of 1941. I found the ancient crypt particularly atmospheric, with its impressive collection of medieval artifacts.

Practical Tips:

• Palace tours run every 30 minutes from 10:00 to 17:00
• Book palace tickets online to skip summer queues
• Cathedral entry is free, but donations are appreciated
• Best photos of the cathedral’s exterior at morning light
• Combine both visits with a walk along Playa de los Peligros

Hidden Gem. Don’t miss the cathedral’s cloisters – they’re often overlooked but offer a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. The intricate stone carvings here tell fascinating stories of medieval life in Cantabria.

2. Paseo de Pereda & Cabo Mayor Lighthouse

Bay Side Magic. The Paseo de Pereda became my favorite morning ritual in Santander. This elegant waterfront promenade, stretching for 2.5 kilometers along the bay, showcases the city’s maritime soul. The Belle Époque buildings on one side and the sparkling Cantabrian Sea on the other create a perfect balance of urban elegance and natural beauty.

Local Life. Walking here at sunset, I discovered why locals call this their favorite meeting spot. Street musicians fill the air with Spanish guitar, while families enjoy traditional ice cream from the historic Regma parlor. Pro tip: Join the evening paseo (traditional Spanish stroll) between 6-8 PM when the whole city seems to come alive.

Lighthouse Views. The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse perches dramatically on 30-meter cliffs, offering what I consider the most spectacular views in northern Spain. Built in 1839, this still-functioning lighthouse houses an art gallery in its keeper’s quarters. The €5 entry fee includes both the gallery and access to the viewing platform.

3. Iconic Museums

Cultural Gems. The Centro Botín literally floats above the bay on pillars, its metallic curves reflecting the water below. I spent a fascinating afternoon exploring its contemporary art exhibitions (€8 entry). The rooftop “sky walk” provides a unique perspective of the bay – go around sunset for incredible photos.

Maritime Heritage. At the Maritime Museum (€6), I discovered Santander’s seafaring history through interactive displays. The aquarium section featuring local marine life was particularly engaging. My highlight? The traditional fishing boat exhibition showing how local fishermen have worked these waters for centuries.

Practical Tips:

• Centro Botín is free on Sundays after 2 PM
• Maritime Museum offers guided tours in English at 11 AM
• Download the free audio guide app for Paseo de Pereda
• Visit museums during lunch (2-4 PM) to avoid crowds

⭐ Best activities

Ticket: Centro Botín Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets – Explore this stunning modern art museum designed by Renzo Piano, featuring works by Matisse, Bacon, and other masters. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-21:00.

Beaches in Santander

1. Playa de El Sardinero

Beach Paradise. El Sardinero isn’t just Santander’s most famous beach – it’s a 1.3-kilometer stretch of golden perfection. During my visits, I’ve found the first beach (Primera Playa) tends to attract a younger crowd, while the second beach (Segunda Playa) is more family-oriented.

Surf Scene. The consistent waves here make it northern Spain’s surfing hotspot. I took a beginner’s lesson (€35 for 2 hours) and discovered why surf culture thrives here. The beach’s northern exposure creates perfect conditions for both novices and experienced surfers.

Seasonal Tips. Summer temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F), ideal for swimming. My secret? Visit during September when crowds thin but the water remains warm at 20°C (68°F).

2. Playa de la Magdalena

Royal Connection. Nestled beneath the Magdalena Palace, this sheltered cove offers calmer waters than its Sardinero cousin. I love how the beach curves around the peninsula, creating natural swimming pools at low tide.

Family Haven. What makes this beach special is its gentle slope and protected position. During my visits, I’ve watched families with small children enjoy the shallow waters while paddle boarders glide past the small islands offshore.

Nature Watch. The beach’s unique position near the peninsula’s mini-zoo means you might spot seals sunbathing on nearby rocks. Pro tip: Bring water shoes as the beach has some rocky patches at low tide.

Practical Tips:

• Free showers and footbaths available at both beaches
• Rent umbrellas (€5) and chairs (€4) at local stands
• Best coffee spot: Café Balneario at El Sardinero
• Take bus #1 or #2 from city center (€1.30)
• Download local tide tables – crucial for Magdalena

Local Secret. Between these two beaches lies a hidden gem – the small Playa de Bikinis, named after being the first beach where swimsuits were allowed in conservative times. It’s my go-to spot for avoiding summer crowds.

Free Things to Do in Santander

1. Funicular del Río de la Pila

Modern Marvel. The Río de la Pila Funicular, inaugurated in July 2008, connects Río de la Pila Street with Paseo General Dávila through a 78-meter journey. This free-to-use elevator can accommodate 20 people and operates from 6 AM to midnight daily.

Engineering Feat. The funicular climbs an impressive 38-meter elevation with a 32-degree incline, making four stops along its route: Rio de la Pila, San Sebastian street, Prado San Roque, and General Davila.

Panoramic Views. From the top viewing platform, visitors can enjoy spectacular vistas of Santander’s bay, the mainland across the water, and the mountain ranges beyond. The area features well-landscaped viewing areas and comfortable access via escalators.

2. Street Art Tour

Urban Canvas. Santander’s street art scene has transformed various neighborhoods into open-air galleries. Recent initiatives have brought new life to previously overlooked areas, with impressive murals like “Alejar a la Muerte” adding color to the cityscape.

Artistic Evolution. The city’s commitment to urban art has created a dynamic blend of traditional architecture and contemporary expression, making it an emerging destination for street art enthusiasts.

3. Free Museums

Cultural Treasures. Several museums in Santander offer free admission:

Art Access. The Centro Botín offers free entry on Sundays after 2 PM, while the Museum of Fine Arts (MAS) houses works by Goya and Miró that can be viewed without charge.

Practical Tips:

• Visit museums during lunch hours (2-4 PM) to avoid crowds
• Download free audio guides where available
• Check individual museum websites for special free admission days
• Many museums offer guided tours in English
• Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a more relaxed experience

Food and Markets in Santander

1. Best Seafood Spots in Barrio Pesquero

Local Favorites. The Barrio Pesquero district offers some of Santander’s finest seafood restaurants. El Muelle stands out with its fresh catches and outdoor seating, serving exceptional seafood dishes in the €20-40 range. Their specialties include grilled fish and paella made with local seafood.

Traditional Gems. Los Peñucas, run by the father of footballer Iván de la Peña, is a beloved institution serving fresh fish and shellfish. The restaurant features large dining rooms and a terrace, offering daily set menus at reasonable prices (€20-30).

Hidden Treasures. La Nueva Gaviota offers authentic Cantabrian seafood in a casual atmosphere. Known for their grilled fish and excellent service, they maintain the traditional fishing quarter’s charm.

2. Tapas Bars Near Plaza Porticada

Award-Winners. Casa Lita, near Plaza Porticada, offers over 300 varieties of pinchos (tapas), created by their Michelin-starred chef. Most pinchos are priced under €2, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Local Haunts. Bodega Fuente De, one of the oldest tapas bars in Santander, is famous for:

• Fresh-cut jamón ibérico
• House-made croquetas
• Pimientos de Padrón

3. Mercado de la Esperanza

Market Highlights. This 19th-century covered market, built in 1904, features ground floor dedicated to fresh seafood and upper level housing meat, cheese, and produce vendors. Traditional products including local honey and artisanal foods.

Local Specialties. The market is renowned for:

• Fresh fish from Santander’s fishing fleet
• Regional cheeses from Cantabria
• Seasonal produce from local farms
• Traditional preserves and condiments

Shopping Tips:

• Best fish selection Tuesday through Saturday
• Free home delivery for purchases over €30
• Vendors can vacuum-pack items for travel

Day Trips from Santander

1. Nature Escapes

Wildlife Paradise. Cabárceno Natural Park spans an impressive 750 hectares of former mining land, now transformed into a conservation haven. The park houses over 150 species from five continents living in semi-freedom, including bears, wolves, elephants, and gorillas in vast natural enclosures.

Conservation Focus. The park actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe animals in settings that closely resemble their natural habitats. A cable car system provides spectacular aerial views across the park’s karst landscape.

Prehistoric Wonder. The Altamira Museum, located near Santillana del Mar, houses the renowned Neocave – a meticulous reproduction of the original cave’s Polychrome Hall. The 15,000-year-old paintings showcase remarkable bison artwork created using ochre and black pigments.

⭐ Best activities

• Ticket: Cabárceno Nature Park Entry Ticket – Visit one of Europe’s largest wildlife parks set in a former mining landscape.
• Tour: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour – Discover medieval architecture and prehistoric cave art on this cultural day trip.
• Tour: Western Coast Villages of Cantabria Tour – Explore charming coastal villages and stunning landscapes of northern Spain.

2. Coastal Adventures

Bay Exploration. Santander Bay offers stunning boat excursions lasting approximately one hour. Tours depart from the city center, passing key landmarks including:

• Magdalena Palace
• El Sardinero beaches
• Centro Botín
• Mouro Island

Practical Tips:

• Best time for boat trips: April to October
• Adult tickets from €13
• Children under 5 travel free
• Multiple daily departures between 12:45 PM and 7:45 PM
• Evening sunset cruises available in summer months

Local Secret. For the best photography opportunities, book the late afternoon cruise when the golden light illuminates the bay’s limestone cliffs and historic buildings.

⭐ Best activities

Tour: Santander Bay 1-Hour Cruise – Experience the city’s beautiful coastline and landmarks from the water.

Practical Tips for Visiting Santander

Getting Around Santander

Public Transport. The city’s TUS (Transportes Urbanos de Santander) bus network provides extensive coverage. Buses run every 15 minutes, with routes 1, 4, 7, 9, 13, and 14 connecting the city hall to El Sardinero beaches. Single tickets can be purchased directly from the driver, but getting a TUS card from any “Estanco” offers better value.

Urban Solutions. Santander features funicular railways, ramps, and escalators to help navigate the steeper streets. The Río de la Pila Funicular offers free rides with stunning city views.

Cycling Option. The TUeBICI bike-sharing system provides an eco-friendly way to explore, with dedicated bike paths connecting major tourist attractions along the coast.

Essential Transport Tips:

• Buy a TUS card for multiple journeys and savings
• Download the TUS app for real-time bus tracking
• Consider bike rental for coastal exploration
• Use funiculars to avoid steep climbs

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season. July and August offer the most favorable conditions with temperatures of 22-23°C, longest daylight hours, warmest sea temperatures (21°C in August), and minimal rainfall (43mm in July).

Shoulder Season. September provides an excellent alternative with pleasant 22°C temperatures, fewer crowds, warm sea temperatures, and extended beach season.

Weather Considerations. November is the wettest month with 154mm of rainfall and 18 rainy days. Winter months (December-February) see temperatures between 13-15°C.

Seasonal Highlights:

• Summer: Beach activities, festivals, outdoor dining
• Autumn: Cultural events, mild temperatures, lower prices
• Winter: Christmas markets, indoor attractions
• Spring: Blooming gardens, comfortable sightseeing weather

Local Insight. The best combination of good weather and fewer tourists occurs during the first two weeks of September, when you can enjoy summer-like conditions without the peak season crowds.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to Santander from Madrid or Barcelona?

Direct flights operate daily from both cities to Santander Airport, taking about 1 hour from Madrid and 1.5 hours from Barcelona. Alternatively, ALSA buses and RENFE trains connect these major cities to Santander, with the journey taking 5-6 hours from Madrid and 8-9 hours from Barcelona.

What are the best beaches in Santander for families?

El Sardinero Beach offers golden sand, gentle slopes, and excellent facilities including showers, restaurants, and lifeguards. Magdalena Beach, located near the palace, provides calmer waters and natural swimming pools at low tide, making it perfect for children.

Is Magdalena Peninsula worth visiting?

The Magdalena Peninsula combines history, nature, and stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea, making it one of the best places in Santander. The peninsula houses the magnificent Magdalena Palace, mini-zoo, and three beaches, all well worth a visit for a half-day excursion.

What are the top 10 things to see in the city centre?

Centro Botín by architect Renzo Piano and Jardines de Pereda offer spectacular bay views and cultural experiences, while the Mercado del Este and Santander Cathedral showcase the heart of the city. The Town Hall, Plaza Porticada, Maritime Museum, and Centro Cultural Doctor Madrazo round out the essential sights, along with the vibrant shopping street Calle Burgos and the historic Plaza de Cañadío.

When is the best time to explore Santander?

July and September offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for enjoying the coastal city’s attractions. The shoulder season of May-June and September-October provides a excellent balance of good weather and fewer tourists.

What are the best day trips near Santander?

The medieval town of Santillana del Mar and the prehistoric Altamira Caves lie just 30 minutes away by car or bus. The Cabárceno Natural Park, located in the outskirts of Santander, offers an extraordinary wildlife experience across 750 hectares of former mining landscape.

How many days should I spend in Santander?

A minimum of three days allows visitors to experience the best places in Santander, including the peninsula, beaches, and cultural attractions. To fully explore Santander and include day trips to nearby locations, plan for 4-5 days.

Where can I find the best local markets?

The Mercado de la Esperanza, located in the heart of the city, offers fresh local produce, seafood, and Cantabrian specialties. The Mercado del Este, housed in a restored 19th-century building, combines traditional market stalls with modern gastro bars and shops.

Is Santander expensive for tourists?

Compared to other Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, Santander offers reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and activities. A daily budget of €70-100 covers comfortable accommodation, meals at local restaurants, and entrance fees to main attractions.

How walkable is the city center?

Santander’s main attractions are well connected by pedestrian paths and the beautiful waterfront promenade. The city center is quite compact, though some areas have hills, but public transport and funiculars make it easy to explore all locations in the city.