Map of Santander, Spain

🏖️ What to do in Santander

Santander offers a plethora of activities for every type of traveler, from exploring stunning beaches to delving into its rich cultural heritage. Whether you're on a budget or seeking luxury experiences, there's something for everyone in this charming city by the sea.

• Best Budget Activity in Santander:

  Free Walking Tour of Santander: Join a local guide to discover the city's hidden gems, historical sites, and local insights without breaking the bank.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Santander:

  Visiting the Palacio de la Magdalena: Explore the stunning royal palace overlooking the Bay of Santander, surrounded by lush gardens and offering panoramic views of the coast.

• Best Luxury Activity in Santander:

  Sailing Excursion along the Cantabrian Coast: Embark on a luxurious sailing experience to witness the beauty of the Cantabrian Sea, enjoying the serenity and stunning coastal landscapes.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Santander

Santander is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a delightful blend of fresh seafood, traditional Spanish tapas, and unique local flavors. Don't miss out on trying the famous Cantabrian anchovies and the mouthwatering Rabas (calamari).

• Best Budget Restaurant in Santander:

  Bar El Riojano•$:

  Authentic Spanish tapas

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Santander:

  Bodega del Riojano•$$:

  Fresh seafood dishes

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Santander:

  El Serbal•$$$:

  Fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Santander:

  Bar del Puerto•$:

  Vermouth and local cheeses

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Santander:

  El Machi•$$:

  Craft beers and pintxos

• Best Luxury Bar in Santander:

  Casino de Santander•$$$:

  Premium cocktails and gourmet snacks

🏰 What to see in Santander

Santander is a city brimming with history, beauty, and architectural wonders waiting to be explored. From majestic palaces to scenic viewpoints, Santander's landmarks offer a glimpse into its cultural richness and natural splendor.

• Palacio de la Magdalena:

  This iconic royal palace, set amidst stunning gardens overlooking the bay, is a must-visit for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance.

• Catedral de Santander (Santander Cathedra:

  A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the cathedral boasts impressive details and houses treasures worth admiring, making it a cultural gem in the city.

• Palacio de la Prensa (Palace of the Pres:

  A striking building that once housed a newspaper, now transformed into a cultural center hosting exhibitions and events, blending history with contemporary arts.

• Parque de Las Llamas (Las Llamas Par:

  A green oasis in the city, this park offers tranquility, lush landscapes, and recreational activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy.

• Paseo de Pereda (Pereda Promenad:

  Stroll along this picturesque promenade lined with elegant buildings, fountains, and sculptures, providing a perfect blend of history and modern-day charm in Santander.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Santander

Discover a shopper's paradise in Santander, offering a mix of charming boutiques, local markets, and upscale shopping centers. From budget-friendly finds to luxurious indulgences, Santander's shopping scene caters to every taste and style.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Santander:

  Mercado del Este: Dive into the bustling Mercado del Este, a vibrant indoor market filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique artisanal products at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Santander:

  Calle Juan de Herrera: Explore Calle Juan de Herrera, a charming street lined with boutique shops and stylish stores offering a mix of trendy fashion, accessories, and home decor.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Santander:

  Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander: Indulge in a luxury shopping experience at Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander, home to upscale brands, designer boutiques, and elegant boutiques for high-end fashion and exquisite gifts.

🚍 Getting Around Santander

• Public Transport

  Santander offers a convenient public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and a metro line. The bus network, operated by TUS, covers the city and nearby areas with frequent services. A single bus ticket costs around €1.30, with discounted rates for multiple journeys. The train services connect Santander to other major cities in Spain, with the Renfe station located in the city center. The metro line, known as Metro de Santander, provides easy access to various parts of the city.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Train Station: Santander's main train station is Estación de Santander, located in the heart of the city. It serves as a hub for RENFE trains connecting Santander to Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities. - Bus Terminal: The main bus terminal in Santander is the Estación de Autobuses de Santander, offering regional and national bus services to different destinations. - Airport: Santander Airport, officially Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport, is located around 5 km from the city center and operates both domestic and international flights.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate in Santander. Prices start at around €25 per day, with options for various vehicle types. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: BiciSantander is a popular bike-sharing service in the city, with rental stations located throughout Santander. Users can rent bikes for a minimum of €1 for 30 minutes, making it a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city.