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KELLY'S 5 STAR REVIEW: Ken planned us an amazing honeymoon! Every tour guide and driver he set us up with was amazing, and each place we visited was beautiful. Every detail was very thoughtfully planned out, which made for a very mem...

Kelly Baumgartner, IL, USA
2024-07-25

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The first thing you notice when you arrive in Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is the sea. The city is located on a peninsula and boasts a magnificent bay around which are some of the best urban soft sandy beaches in Spain. Add in the backdrop of a few fantastic mountain ranges, and you have a wonderfully dramatic landscape. Now you know why the Spanish Royal Family built their summer palace in Santander over one hundred years ago. Today, the city is home to 175,000 proud residents and quite a few Spanish holidaymakers in the peak months of July and August. We’ve never been able to quite understand how it’s stayed off the international radar.

One of the city's highlights is the Mercado de la Esperanza, the municipal food market directly behind the Town Hall. You’ll be amazed at the color, character, and variety of local produce on offer. Enjoy the architecture and the wonderful cheeses and hams. Visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santander and the crypt below, which is popular with Camino de Santiago pilgrims seeking passport stamps, as well as fans of the writer Marcelino Menendez Pelayo who is buried here.

Explore the Pereda Gardens and check out the brand-new Botín Centre, commissioned by the cultural foundation behind the Banco Santander. The Italian architect responsible, Renzo Piano, is known for his work on The Shard in London and the George Pompidou Centre in Paris. Enjoy a coffee from El Muelle café underneath the Centre while soaking up gorgeous views of the bay, where sailing is still a popular pastime for many.

Stroll along the waterside known as the Paseo Maritimo and look out for the beautifully sculpted Raqueros figures by Jose Cobo Calderon, honoring the children who once dived into the bay to collect coins tossed by tourists. The Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology stands as a testament to Santander's commitment to preserving and celebrating its heritage. On display are archaeological wonders, including intricately carved cave art and meticulously crafted tools, inviting contemplation and curiosity. Cantabria's remarkable caves, Altamira being one of the most famous, have UNESCO World Heritage status.

Discover the Magdalena Palace and the ‘Playa de los Bikinis’ or Bikinis Beach, which offers breathtaking views. Be sure to say hello to the sea lions at the mini-zoo—it's free. Admire the magnificent Sardinero beach, known as La Primera, and the splendid Gran Casino across the road. There is so much to discover and enjoy in Santander, a beautiful, relaxed northern Spanish city.

Santander’s culinary scene is another highlight. Seafood lovers will be in paradise with the city's fresh catches, such as rabas (fried squid), marmita (a traditional Cantabrian tuna stew), and the famous anchovies from Santoña. Pair your meal with a local wine or cider for a truly authentic experience. The city's tapas bars and restaurants offer a range of delicious options that showcase the best of Cantabrian cuisine.

The city's vibrant cultural calendar includes numerous festivals and events. The Santander International Festival, held every summer, features performances by renowned artists in music, dance, and theater. The Semana Grande (Big Week) in July is another highlight, offering parades, concerts, and fireworks that bring the city to life.

For those interested in outdoor activities, Santander provides numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports. The nearby Picos de Europa National Park offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The bay itself is perfect for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Santander is also a great base for exploring the wider region of Cantabria. Take a day trip to the picturesque village of Santillana del Mar, known for its medieval architecture and the nearby Altamira Cave. Another worthwhile excursion is to the coastal town of Comillas, home to the stunning modernist architecture of El Capricho, designed by Antoni Gaudí.

Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or enjoying its natural beauty, Santander offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let us plan your visit to this enchanting city and discover its many treasures.