Things to do & places to visit in Santander, Cantabria, Spain

In Santander, enjoy the beautiful beaches of Playa de la Magdalena and El Sardinero, a historic city center, and an epic planetarium, all while breathing in glorious coastal air. Of course, there are plenty of gorgeous Gothic cathedrals that will impress and inspire.

Santander city in , Cantabria, Spain. Timezone: Europe/Madrid, current date and time: Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 4:36.

Santander Weather Statistics view more »

Top things to do (25)

• Gardens
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Ferries
• Art Museums
• Game & Entertainment Centers
• Marinas
• Piers & Boardwalks
• Escape Games
• National Parks
• Architectural Buildings
• Geologic Formations
• History Museums
• Speciality Museums
• Historic Sites
• Castles
• Parks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Children's Museums
• Religious Sites
• Beaches
• Lighthouses
• Casinos
• Rides & Activities
• Monuments & Statues
• Flea & Street Markets

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

1. 5.0 Logicamente Santander (867 reviews)
   - Best escape room!
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games • Rides & Activities • Game & Entertainment Centers
   
   
   It was so fun! The theme, decorations, and storyline were great. Very cool and immersive experience with some hard puzzles! See more..
   
2. 4.5 Peninsula of Magdalena (3.825 reviews)
   - Large Park & Walking Area
   National Parks
   
   
   This 28 hectare of woodlands and gardens is a popular recreational destination for both tourists and locals. As you can imagine, the grounds are extensive, although sticking to just the walking path would probably be a 2 hour event, but equally you could spend all day walking the paths, enjoy the beaches and admire the former royal palace. For those who find walking too old school, there’s even a tourist train. Probably the best place to see in Santander. The park also contains several statues honouring natives of Santander and Cantabria. Worth a visit if you have more than a few days in the city. See more..
   
3. 4.5 Palacio Real de La Magdalena (2.622 reviews)
   - Cute Building
   Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Castles
   
   
   The former summer residence of King Alfonso XIII until the end of his reign, and now owned by the city of Santander. The exterior of the building is built in a bizarre mix of different styles, especially the south-east facing side which looked like it could’ve been several houses joined together. There’s Neo-Gothic, Neo Renaissance, Flemish and Catabrian influences everywhere. See more..
   
4. 4.5 Playa Primera de El Sardinero (1.384 reviews)
   - Cantabrian Delight
   Beaches
   
   
   Beautiful beach and in the lovely October weather it was easy to dream about going for a swim in the clean, clear waters. Can't wait to come back in the summer. See more..
   
5. 4.5 Parque de Cabo Mayor (705 reviews)
   - Lighthouse and Arts Centre
   Lighthouses • Parks • Geologic Formations
   
   
   This arts centre is still a functioning lighthouse guiding ships over the entrance to the Bay of Santander. The lighthouse has been here since 1839 and after the lighthouse operations were automated, the formerly living areas were converted into an arts centre where there’s plenty of nautical themed exhibits. Even from outside of the lighthouse, the views of the bay are awesome. Worth visiting when in Santander. See more..
   
6. 4.5 Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor (705 reviews)
   - Lighthouse and Arts Centre
   Lighthouses • Parks • Geologic Formations
   
   
   This arts centre is still a functioning lighthouse guiding ships over the entrance to the Bay of Santander. The lighthouse has been here since 1839 and after the lighthouse operations were automated, the formerly living areas were converted into an arts centre where there’s plenty of nautical themed exhibits. Even from outside of the lighthouse, the views of the bay are awesome. Worth visiting when in Santander. See more..
   
7. 4.5 Playa de El Puntal (638 reviews)
   - City Sailboats
   Beaches
   
   
   Few cities in the world allow you to have it all in the summer. However, Playa de El Puntal in Santander gets you pretty close. With sweeping views of the city and the sea and surrounded by tiny sail boats this gem of a beach is well worth a day of your travel itinerary. If, you're not one of the many lucky souls in who the city their own water vessel, then you can jump on the public ferry for a scenic ride across the Bahia for the low low price of 4,10€. The terminal stop is pretty understated and is located off the main water front promenade; Jardines de Pereda. Once on the island, the water is super calm and clear, and you can often spot fish swimming between you and anchored boats. I'd suggest you head to the right of the island's bustling restaurant; Chiringuito El Puntal Tricio. To the right, the dunes are a bit more isolated, but you'll still be within ear shot of them calling your table number, lol. Prepare for the best tan ever. See more..
   
8. 4.5 Prehistory and Archaeology Museum of Cantabria (416 reviews)
   - Guided Visit
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Children's Museums • History Museums
   
   
   This is a great museum in Santander. It took me a while to find it because it is located in a hidden street. I highly recommend the guided visit. The guy that showed us the museum was very knowledgeable about the Prehistoric period and the different artifacts. The visit started at 5.15 p.m. and lasted two hours. See more..
   
9. 4.5 Jardines de Piquío (395 reviews)
   - Beautiful view
   Gardens
   
   
   Beautiful view of the Sardinero beaches, very nice shadow of the trees, and nice windy ventilation to enjoy a little cool on a warm day. See more..
   
10. 4.5 Puerto Chico (343 reviews)
    - Really nice place to stroll around the waterfront
    Marinas • Piers & Boardwalks
    
    
    Puerto Chico (Little Harbor) is the very core of Santander, from earlier times when it was the home of the city's fishing fleet. Pleasure craft moor here today and it offers splendid views of the bay and access to the Palacio de Festivales de Cantabria. See more..
    
11. 4.5 Playa del Camello (284 reviews)
    - Camino2
    Beaches
    
    
    Awesome beach, just one of many in this area santander is blessed with so many brilliant beaches, early may bloody freezing but looks excellent for snorkelling water clear. See more..
    
12. 4.5 Playa de Mataleñas (278 reviews)
    - Best beach in Santander
    Beaches
    
    
    The best beach in Santander. It’s really quaint little alcove beach. Worth the many steps down. The water is shallow, clear and soft sandy bottoms. We got the bus linea 1 or 2 from city centre. Short walk from the last stop. You also pass by this beach on your way to Cabo mayor. There was a bit of a queue today around 12 noon but wait wasn’t too long. They have an electric sign to say how busy the beach is. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Ermita de la Virgen del Mar (215 reviews)
    - Impressive!
    Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites
    
    
    The hermitage, which only opens for mass and for the annual celebrations, is a very simple building that was constructed in the 17th century to house the statue of Nuestra Señora del Mar (Our Lady of the Sea), Santander's much-loved patron saint. See more..
    
14. 4.5 Refugio Antiaéreo (160 reviews)
    - Interesting bomb shelter frommt he Spanish Civil War
    Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    This air raid shelter is one of the 114 built in Santander during the Spanish Civil War. It was "buried" during the Santander fire of 1941, then re-discovered during the last decade. It is located in Plaza del Principe and entrance costs $2 per person, but you can get 3 sites visits for $4 (the air raid shelter, the old Santander wall, located nearby, and the cathedral tower). The tours are by appointment. The tour guide explanations were only in Spanish. There is a re-enactment of an air raid, with sound effects trying to replicate what people inside the shelter felt while the bombs dropped. Inside the shelter there is also a 240 kilogram bomb displayed, as well as a mannequin dressed as a German air pilot and a cenotaph in memory of two dead German airmen from the Condor Legion. A highly recommended visit. See more..
    
15. 4.5 Parque de las Llamas (148 reviews)
    - A great place to walk, do sports and relax...!
    Parks
    
    
    Ever since I live in the city, Las Llamas Park has been one of those places I usually go when I want to walk or roller-skate, or simply relax on a terrace over a beer or to have an ice-cream from the truck. From the architectural point of view, it's a great urban park, designed as a natural reservoir for an interesting variety of birds, mainly ducks, nesting in the swamp-like enviroment. Kids love to go feed them. It holds a nice venue, Escenario Santander, where there is a "vintage" flee market the first or second sunday every month, as well as concerts thruout the year, especially during the summer. There is a playground at one of the ends of the park that's really neat. Also, since it's just next to the Universidad de Cantabria, you might even get some free Wi-Fi from the University in the area, but keep it hush-hush..! All in all, a great place to visit and spend some time in under almost any weather condition. See more..
    
16. 4.5 Playa de Bikini (146 reviews)
    - Bikini Beach
    Beaches
    
    
    To be clear, a lot of reviewers confuse this beach with that of adjoining Playa de la Magdalena which is much larger (see my pics for clarity) - Bikini Beach is a very small area on the far side of the breakwater leading towards the offshore island of La Horadada. Being so small and enclosed by breakwater to one side and rocky headland on the other it’s secluded and more private. The name originates from the early 70s when female foreign students attending university summer courses took advantage of their breaks to head for this beach wearing bikinis - considered very daring back in the day when Franco was in power! See more..
    
17. 4.5 Mercado de la Esperanza (132 reviews)
    - A true taste of Santander
    Spent 1-2 hours Flea & Street Markets
    
    
    Absorb the flavors of Santander with a stroll around the Mercado de la Esperanza. The sights and smells of the local produce will get your taste buds going as you peruse around 80 different stalls contained in this historic building. You will find it hard not to buy some of the delicious food on offer. There is also an outdoor market on certain days. The local tourist offices will be able to help you find it. They are very helpful and have a good map of Santander that you can take with you. See more..
    
18. 4.5 Parque de Mataleñas (123 reviews)
    - Beautiful Roses!
    Parks
    
    
    The park is situated on the hillside next to the Matalenas coastal path. When we visited in early May the rose garden was in full bloom and the fragrance was amazing! See more..
    
19. 4.5 Parroquia Santisimo Cristo (83 reviews)
    - The Happy Sharing Company Exploring Spain
    Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    Excellent Stop for the Mass and warm welcome on the Camino Santiago at the Sacristia. Beautiful Cathedral with wonderful sound of voices and choirs due to its voutes. Happy Sharing Happy Outside See more..
    
20. 4.0 Museo Maritimo del Cantabrico (609 reviews)
    - Wonderful trip
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums
    
    
    This was a great visit. There were very few people visiting so the venue felt very safe. Clear instructions from the staff on which areas to visit and in which order. The upstairs was a wonderful journey of the history and very educational. The aquarium was brilliant, as there was a member staff in the tank itself feeding the fish which we captured on video. A really pleasant trip and great value at 8 euros for an adult. See more..
    
21. 4.0 Centro Botín (497 reviews)
    - Amazing building. Nice art museum. Must save you from top.
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums
    
    
    Centro Botín is an art centre designed to generate social development and wealth, making the most of the potential of the arts to awaken our creativity. See more..
    
22. 4.0 Monumento a Los Raqueros (428 reviews)
    - Joyful Scenes, But Sad Past
    Monuments & Statues
    
    
    This cute sculptural ensemble seemingly celebrates the joys of youth, but sadly hides a sad part of Santander. There was a time when beachcombers such as the poor and orphaned children, who frequented the docks of Santander Bay, survived through petty theft. Sometimes coins would be thrown into the sea from passengers of passing boats. The children would dive into the sea to find the coins as depicted in the sculptures. See more..
    
23. 4.0 Mercado del Este (427 reviews)
    - Fabulous tapas!
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    This is where locals go for tapas ... it is authentic, busy and has a great atmosphere. Highly recommended! See more..
    
24. 4.0 Gran Casino Sardinero (313 reviews)
    - ~New Year’s Eve dinner in the Casino of Santander~
    Casinos
    
    
    We had our New Year’s Eve dinner in this monumental building overlooking the Sardinero beach in a privileged are in Santander city. Needless to say that the treatment given by their staff is excellence in capital letters. The menu was prepared with top quality ingredients and the atmosphere was one where every detail was so taken care of that you could literally leave your design handbag and go to the dance floor not worrying about it and dance such a special night away in a place that exudes richness and etiquette in every corner. A minus for me are the bathrooms which I found a bit outdated. Overall great experience in an impressive building where once you entere you’ll be admiring the beautiful stained glass. If we are in Spain this 2020 NYE we’ll have dinner there again. See more..
    
25. 4.0 Edificio del Banco Santander (310 reviews)
    - Historic icon of Santander's commercial greatness
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    An extraordinary and distinctive fin-de-siecle building - actually two, joined by a huge arch - that was the original head office of what has gone on to become one of the most important banks in the world. Immense, and easily recognised from its arch, it may be best viewed from the Pereda Gardens (Jardines de Pereda) behind the sea-front near the raqueros monument. See more..
    
26. 4.0 Funicular del Río de la Pila (242 reviews)
    - Incredible Views From The Top
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    A funicular train that takes passengers up to Prado San Roque. The whole area is residential building, the hill is steep and I imagine many locals are thankful for the ride. There's also a nice viewing point overlooking Santander at the last stop. Not amazing fun, but fun and the views from the top are incredible. See more..
    
27. 4.0 Plaza Porticada (201 reviews)
    - Square Surrounded by Beautiful Buildings
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    A lovely square, almost like a quadrangle but for the opening on the side facing the sea. It’s not really a traditional Spanish plaza with shops and cafes etc, mostly civic buildings, banking offices and a few high end looking shops. At the moment, the square and city is gearing up for Christmas, so much of the square is covered for celebrations. See more..
    
28. 4.0 Jardines de Pereda (177 reviews)
    - The Happy Sharing exploring Spain&Santander
    Gardens
    
    
    The Pereda Jardines offers a Monument that presents a wonderful set of bronze sculptures. The Saint family and others along the gardens there is the carrousel and 80-100 years Old Palm Trees to make it special before reaching the Botin Center or the Gallion. Pleasant Garden walk and fresh due to the trees Happy Sharing Happy Outside See more..
    
29. 3.5 Catedral de Santander (602 reviews)
    - The Cathedral that Providence didn`t keep. For 1 Euro.
    Historic Sites • Religious Sites • Monuments & Statues
    
    
    Divine Providence did not preserve this Cathedral of the XII-XIV centuries. After surviving the middle ages, the Cathedral was severely damaged by the explosion of the steamship Cabo Machichaco on the roadstead. in 1893. There was enough dynamite to reach the Cathedral. Oddly enough, the Cathedral survived the civil war of 1936-1939, although Santander was stubbornly defended by the Republicans. However, 2 years later, Santander burned down in a fire in 1941. The restored Cathedral has an unusual structure. It consists of two churches and a cloister monastery. The lower Church, also called the Crypt earlier -XII century. The upper one was built in the 13th century in the Gothic style, as was the lower Church of Christ. A fire in 1941 destroyed most of the decor, except for the walls and columns. I liked the cloister best. It is very cozy. You can't visit the Cathedral for free. Only for 1 Euro. See more..
    
30. 3.5 Brittany Ferries (184 reviews)
    - The Salad Bar
    Ferries
    
    
    Brittany Ferries is your route to an extraordinary time in France and Spain. With sailings from Plymouth, Portsmouth and Poole to ports on the beautiful west coast of Europe, you'll be ideally placed to begin your self-drive break in some of the most stunning landscapes the continent has to offer. Offering the widest choice of cross-Channel ferry routes to France and northern Spain, we have a fleet of spacious and comfortable cruise ferries and also operate a high-speed ferry service to France during the summer months. With elegant surroundings, stylish bars and superb restaurants, not to mention our award-winning service and excellent onboard facilities, you can just sit back, unwind and enjoy the experience. See more..