Home

Cities

La Magdalena Peninsula | Click by Karen Bryan from Flick

Santander is the capital of the Cantabria region and is located on the north coast of Spain not far from Bilbao and a bit further from San Sebastián. Santander is a great place to spend a long weekend at the beach, and it's especially close to the stunning La Magdalena Peninsula, which is noted for its craggy landscape. Mornings and evenings are cool due to the wind, but afternoons are pleasant enough to spend basking in the sun on the beach. It has a coastline full of beaches and historical sites that are worth visiting.

Landscape, Santander | Click by santiago lopez-pastor from Flickr

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CITY

Santander has fairly erratic average temperatures. Humidity-wise, the weather is pleasant for the most part of the year, with the exception of a few chilly weeks in winter, and there is a risk of precipitation (both rain and snow) for the vast majority of the year. In terms of favorable weather, the location ranks in the 47th percentile of all tourist hotspots globally. The hottest months to visit Santander are August, July, and September. Early August is often the hottest period of the year, with highs around 74.1°F (23.4°C) and lows rarely dipping below 63.6°F (17.6°C).

Santander, Spain sees the most visitors in the months of July and August, followed by the month of March. These months have the highest hotel rates and travel costs, but if you book in advance you can save money. In November, Santander sees very few tourists. If you're flexible with your travel dates, this is probably the cheapest month to visit.

Click by Karen Bryan from Flickr

Magdalena Peninsula

This rugged peninsula teeming with vegetation and is bordered by the crashing waves of the ocean, making it an ideal spot for a day of hiking and taking in the sights of the sea.The Magdalena Peninsula is a renowned tourist site in Santander due to its 69 acres of lush vegetation and the old Palacio de la Magdalena at its peak. The peninsula features a small zoo, two beaches, and a lighthouse, and is designated as a cultural heritage monument. Peninsular trekking is highly recommended due to its proximity to Santander Bay's entry. The slope itself isn't very steep, so take your time, go where you like, and explore the woods if you like. Walk around and take in the beautiful palace and the (somewhat neglected) penguin cage. While taking in the breathtaking ocean vista, we relaxed on the grass.

Click by Juan__ from Flickr

Playa Del Camello Beach

Playa del Camello is a secluded sandy beach that can be found in the arch of the coast between Santander and the Magdalena Peninsula. There is a Statue of Neptune (or Poseidon), the god of freshwater and the sea, whose trident is prominently displayed at the very top of the main slab of rock that gives the beach its distinctive charm. What can be said other than that it rocks?

Click by juantiagues from Flickr

Faro de Cabo Mayor

Do you love to chase the sunset? You can choose to follow the colours of the sunset by heading upward towards a lighthouse in Parque de Cabo Mayor. The lighthouse itself was built in 1839 within a park, which is a popular site in Santander for sunset views and walks along the cliffs and beaches. There is plenty of parking and lots of opportunity for a cheeky photo opp. You can bring a picnic or bottle along and enjoy!

Click by Bradley Howard from Flickr

Cabarceno National Safari Park

Cabárceno National Park is a natural 600-acre protected forest land reserve teeming with wildlife and animals. Windy and rainy, but good for driving around and exploring via the park's cable car network, it is a great option! You will love to enjoy the unique safari experience.

Click by Albert Torelló from Flickr

El Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno

It is situated in a protected former mining region of more than 750 ha. About a half-journey hour south of Santander will bring you there. Bears, rhinoceroses, leopards, elephants, and lynx, among other semi-wild species, are either freely roaming the park or living in massive cages here. Park features include peaceful lakes, rugged rock formations, playgrounds, cafes, and breathtaking lookouts.

Click by Raúl AB from Flickr

Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a lovely medieval town located about an hour's drive west along the coast. All the roads are cobblestone, and cars are not permitted, so coming here is like going back in time. The town's historical and artistic significance is recognized across the country. Before visiting the Altamira Caves, known as the Sistine Chapel of Ancient Rock Painting and dating back over 14,000 years, you should visit the College Chapel of Santa Juliana, one of the most notable specimens of Romanesque architecture in Cantabria.

Click by Guillén Pérez from Flickr

Castro-Urdiales

Medieval seaport Castro-Urdailes can be found midway between the Spanish cities of Santander and Bilbao. Backing up to its vibrant harbor is a labyrinth of winding alleyways where you can find preserved ancient homes with their original wooden balconies. The castle-turned-lighthouse and the Medieval Church of Santa Maria are two of the most popular attractions. The town's three beaches make it an attractive summer day trip destination.

Click by David Pirmann from Flickr

Laredo

Laredo is located about 40 minutes east of Santander and is one of the most popular beach resort towns on the Cantabrian coast. One of the nicest beaches in the area, the expansive five-kilometer crescent of sandy La Salvé, is located here, making this day trip ideal for sunbathers. It also features a charming medieval old town that is enclosed by remnants of the city wall and is brimming with stately mansions dating back to the 16th through the 18th centuries.

Click by keskyle70 from Flickr

Santoña

Santona is a must-see for fish and seafood enthusiasts and is located 45 minutes east of Santander among limestone mountains, beaches, and natural parks. In reality, Santoña was one of the first ports in the Bay of Biscay to begin canning fish, and the city is now well-known for its bonito and tinned anchovies. Along with enjoying the local cuisine, visitors can explore the town's rich history at the Baroque 13th-century Monastery of Santa Maria del Puerto, which houses Flemish altarpiece paintings from the 15th century, and the numerous forts and batteries that once protected the town from military invasions.