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Get InspiredEuropeSpainCantabriaSantander

Santander

Cantabria, Spain
City·Historic, Coastal, Lively
Santander
Photo by Jorge Gustavo Ferreyra from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Imran Minhas from Google Places
Santander
Photo by stef ofwood from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Mustafa Akçelik from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Mirtha Linares from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Jorge Gustavo Ferreyra from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Imran Minhas from Google Places
Santander
Photo by stef ofwood from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Mustafa Akçelik from Google Places
Santander
Photo by Mirtha Linares from Google Places

Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a charming port city on Spain's northern coast. With a history dating back to ancient times, the city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. Visitors can explore remnants of the old town, enjoy the scenic beaches, and experience the local seafood cuisine. The city also houses the headquarters of Banco Santander, reflecting its economic importance. With a mild climate and active port, Santander is a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.

Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a charming port city on Spain's northern coast. With a history dating back to ancient times, the city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. Visitors can explore remnants of the old town, enjoy the scenic beaches, and experience the local seafood cuisine. The city also houses the headquarters of Banco Santander, reflecting its economic importance. With a mild climate and active port, Santander is a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Active port with ferry services to the UK.

  • Rich history with origins dating back to ancient times.

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal views.

  • Headquarters of Banco Santander.

  • Mild climate with stable temperatures.

Before you go: Santander essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.

  • Active port with international ferry connections.

Getting Around

Santander has a reliable public transport system including buses and taxis.

Local Cuisine

Seafood is a must-try in Santander, with many restaurants offering fresh local catches.

Best For

Exploring historical sites and enjoying coastal views.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$80-$150 p/day

Languages Spoken

Spanish, English

Weather

The city has a mild climate, so pack layers to adjust to changing temperatures.

Ferry Services

Regular ferries operate between Santander and the UK, offering a scenic travel option.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Lovers, Beach Goers, Business Travelers

Best time to visit Santander

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers mild weather and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the city.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is popular for beach activities, but expect more crowds.

Best Season

Fall

Fall provides a quieter experience with pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are mild, ideal for enjoying indoor attractions and local cuisine.

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Location

Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Open in Maps

Where to stay in Santander

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Place

Bahia Hotel

4.4(4,3 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Modern, Comfortable, Welcoming
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Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio de Pombo

4.2(638)
Santander, Cantabria
Charming, Historic, Welcoming
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Hotel Vincci Puertochico

4.3(1,4 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Relaxed, Comfortable, Scenic
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Las Carolinas Garden

4.3(254)
Santander, Cantabria
Informal, Charming, Vintage
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El Balcón de la Bahía Suites by Sercotel

4.4(646)
Santander, Cantabria
Stylish, Relaxed, Friendly
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Place

Hotel Alda Don Carlos

4.3(696)
Santander, Cantabria
Relaxed, Family Friendly, Beachside
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Suite Home Pinares

4.7(593)
Santander, Cantabria
Cozy, Quiet, Welcoming
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Hotel Palacio del Mar

4.1(1,4 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Laid Back, Spacious, Modern

Food & drink in Santander

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Restaurante La Casa del Indiano

4.1(2,9 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Warm, Cozy, Rustic
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Restaurante Gele

4.6(1,3 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Cozy, Traditional, Welcoming
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Casa Lita

4.3(7,9 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Lively, Buzzing, Social
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La Malinche Santander

4.4(2,1 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Lively, Stylish, Relaxed
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Parrilla Brasas

4.4(1,3 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Lively, Traditional, Bustling
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Bodega Fuente Dé

4.5(4,5 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Warm, Genuine, Friendly
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Bodega La Conveniente

4.4(772)
Santander, Cantabria
Historic, Lively, Atmospheric
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Restaurante Cañadío Santander

4.3(7 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Chic, Elegant, Bustling

Things to do in Santander

Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour from Santander-small groups
From $100

Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour from Santander-small groups

4.7(115)
Duration: 9h
Santander
Private Santander Highlights Tour with Guide and Transport
From $543

Private Santander Highlights Tour with Guide and Transport

Duration: 3h
Santander
El Castillo Caves and Paleotithic Art- small groups
From $118

El Castillo Caves and Paleotithic Art- small groups

4.8(36)
Duration: 5h
Santander
Private visit to Santander
From $218

Private visit to Santander

5.0(1)
Duration: 2h 15min
Santander
Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour from Santander
From $260

Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour from Santander

4.9(13)
Duration: 9h
Santander
Bilbao and Castro Urdiales Day Tour from Santander
From $95

Bilbao and Castro Urdiales Day Tour from Santander

5.0(2)
Duration: 9h 30min
Santander
City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Train
From $31

City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Train

3.3(109)
Duration: 1h 5min
Santander
Santander Private Arrival Transfer
From $43

Santander Private Arrival Transfer

Duration: 1h
Santander
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Santander

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Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria

4.7(3,2 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Interactive, Educational, Engaging
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Plaza Porticada o de Velarde

4.4(6,8 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Bustling, Cultural, Historic
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Palacio de la Magdalena

4.6(33,7 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Historical, Scenic, Relaxing
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Parque Atlántico de Las Llamas

4.5(5,4 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Peaceful, Natural, Family Friendly
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Parque de Mataleñas

4.7(3,9 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Serene, Scenic, Family Friendly
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Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor (FCM)

4.6(6,7 K)
Santander, Cantabria
Scenic, Windy, Expansive, Relaxed
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Mirador del faro de Cabo Mayor

4.7(232)
Santander, Cantabria
Dramatic, Windy, Natural

Natural & historic sites near Santander

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Picos de Europa National Park

4.8(17,7 K)
Oviedo, Asturias
National Park · Rugged, Majestic, Tranquil, Expansive