It’s funny how the first word that comes to a Spaniard’s mind when thinking of Santander is often “señorial”—elegant, noble, and a bit sophisticated. Some might even throw in “pija” (a little posh) just to complete the picture. But don’t let that fool you. Once you start exploring all the things to do in Santander, you’ll quickly discover a city that’s much more laid-back and down-to-earth than its polished reputation suggests.
After savoring a few crispy “rabas” (squid rings) and wandering through some of its lesser-known corners, you’ll see that Santander isn’t all about refined façades—it’s a place with a personality that’s refreshingly unpretentious.
Curious about our 7 unmissable experiences in Santander? Read on!
Things to Do in Santander: Our Top 7 Picks
1. La Península de la Magdalena
Let’s kick things off with one of the most breathtaking spots in Santander: the Peninsula de la Magdalena.
At the heart of this beautiful area stands the Palacio de la Magdalena, built in 1913 as a gift to King Alfonso XIII (yeah, we didn’t get any palaces for our birthdays), the area gives off an air of history and grandeur. Remember “señorial”? This is where it all probably started.
What makes this place a must-see is not just the stunning views but the Palace itself. Now, you can wander around the outside and enjoy the gardens for free, which is always a win. However, to visit the interior of the palace, you’ll need to book a guided tour. While the inside is interesting, the outside is even more beautiful, so take your time exploring the grounds and soaking in the views.
2. El Sardinero
Ah, the Sardinero. It’s hard to beat this beautiful stretch of beach, one of the best urban beaches in all of Spain.
In fact, the Sardinero isn’t just a single beach—it’s actually a collection of beaches, and they’re all lined up along a beautiful promenade.
The two main beaches, Primera and Segunda, are perfect for a day of sunbathing or just people-watching. The other two, El Camello Beach y La Concha Beach, are significantly smaller but equally beautiful.
As you stroll along the promenade, don’t miss the chance to admire the iconic buildings that give this area its charm, like the Grand Casino del Sardinero and the elegant Gran Hotel Sardinero.
Make sure to stop by the Jardines de Piquío, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the beaches and the bay—a perfect spot to relax and soak it all in. But don’t get too distracted by the stunning architecture and gardens—you’ve got a beach to enjoy!
3. El Faro de Cabo Mayor
If you’re up for a little adventure and a brisk walk, head to the Faro de Cabo Mayor, one of the most iconic lighthouses in the region. We recommend walking there because the journey is as enjoyable as the destination, with jaw-dropping views along the way. We get it, though—you may not be in the mood for a hike, so a taxi will get you there for less than 10€, unless you’re taking it from Bilbao.
Before you reach the lighthouse, make a pitstop at Playa de Mataleñas, one of Santander’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you’re up for a swim or simply want to take in the breathtaking views from above, it’s definitely worth a stop. The walk is around two miles with a slight incline, but trust us, this is one of the best things to do in Santander.
🌊 Explore the best beaches in Cantabria, including our top pick.
4. Old Town Santander
When you’re ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Santander, take a stroll through its historic center. The Old Town in Santander, unfortunately, isn’t that old. After being devastated by a fire in 1941, the city was beautifully rebuilt, blending old charm with a modern vibe.
The Cathedral of Santander, although not the most stunning cathedral in the world, is still a lovely stop. You can explore its lower church, ‘El Cristo,’ and the cloisters. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, climb the bell tower for just 2€ (free on Sundays!).
Be sure to stop by Plaza del Ayuntamiento and Plaza Porticada to experience local life. For a livelier atmosphere or nightlife, head over to Plaza de Cañadío or Calle del Medio. These spots are always buzzing, especially on weekends.
5. Santander Markets
I must confess, we love markets—but not just any market. We’re into local, authentic spots, not tourist traps, and luckily, you won’t find those in Santander. These markets are perfect for sampling fresh produce and regional delicacies—and they’re also an ideal escape when the rain inevitably shows up. Here are two must-visit markets in the heart of the city:
Mercado de la Esperanza
This market, dating back to 1904, is a traditional delight. It’s bustling with over 80 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to meats, cheeses, and fruits. You’ll also find several stalls offering regional specialties.
Mercado del Este
A complete contrast to Mercado de la Esperanza, this market has a more modern, trendy vibe. It’s a great place to try pinchos in Santander—something we’ll dive into a bit further down.
6. The Bay of Santander
One of the most beautiful bays in the world, some say. Hold your horses, others argue. Either way, strolling along the bay is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Santander. Start at Playa de los Bikinis (yes, that’s really its name), stop at Playa de los Peligros, and head to Centro Botín— or do it the other way around. Walk as far as your legs will take you—honestly, the journey itself is the destination here. A long walk? Brilliant. A short stroll? You’ll love it just the same.
While walking along the bay, be sure to check out the Grúa de Piedra, a historic crane from 1900 that’s now one of the city’s quirky symbols. You’ll also come across the iconic Raqueros statues, which depict children, often orphans with no home, diving into the water to collect coins tossed by passersby and fishermen. A different time, indeed.
7. El Centro Botín
The Centro Botín is Santander’s modern art hub, located right across from the beautiful Jardines de Pereda.
The center features an impressive collection of contemporary art, along with temporary exhibitions showcasing renowned artists like Miró, Matisse, and Bacon.
While the building itself might be a bit too modern for some tastes, the views from its rooftop terrace are definitely worth the visit. If you’re an art lover exploring Northern Spain, you can’t miss the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
The Botín family
Behind the Centro Botín in Santander is one of Spain’s wealthiest families, the Botíns. With a legacy rooted in finance through Banco Santander, they’ve also left a profound cultural impact on the city. Their vision for this center was to make contemporary art more accessible, turning it into a cultural landmark in Northern Spain.
More Things to Do in Santander
Playa de El Puntal
Playa de El Puntal offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of Santander. A quick 10-minute boat ride from the Paseo Pereda dock will get you to this 2-kilometer stretch of sand, ideal for those who enjoy a quieter spot. With boats running every 30 minutes during the summer, it’s an easy getaway. Relax and soak in the beauty of the city from a whole new perspective.
Los Reginas is the company that operates the boat trips. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the dock.
Funicular del Río de la Pila
Take a ride on the Funicular del Río de la Pila, a charming cable car that takes you up the hillside for panoramic views of Santander—completely free of charge. This short but fun ride offers an excellent opportunity to snap some great photos of the city and the bay. It’s the perfect way to get a fresh perspective on the area without spending a penny.
Museum of the Cantabrian Sea
Set along the waterfront in the heart of Santander, the Maritime Museum immerses you in the city’s rich nautical history. Explore the region’s fishing heritage, the evolution of shipbuilding, and the adventures of maritime exploration. With interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages, it’s the perfect spot for anyone curious about the deep connection between Santander and the sea.
Day Trips from Santander
Santander is ideally located for exploring some of the most beautiful spots in Northern Spain. Here are a few day trips that should be on your radar:
- Picos de Europa, Santo Toribio & Potes: A day of adventure through stunning peaks, a historic monastery, and the charming mountain village of Potes.
- Comillas, modernist architecture & Gaudi: A must-visit for stunning modernist architecture with Gaudí’s unique touch.
- Capricho Gaudí, Santillana & Redwood Forest: Art, history, and nature in one trip—Gaudí’s Capricho, medieval Santillana del Mar, and the sequoias of Monte Cabezón.
- Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour: Spend a day in Santillana del Mar and be amazed by the Altamira Cave: The Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic Art.
- Cabarceno Natural Park Half-Day Trip: A former mine turned wildlife haven, home to nearly 150 species in vast open spaces.
Where to Stay in Santander
Here are three fantastic hotels to consider during your stay in Santander, each offering a unique experience and perfect for different types of travelers:
- Citrea Santander: A chic hotel in the city center, blending comfort and modern amenities, all at an unbeatable price for the quality you get.
- Le Petit Boutique Hotel: A charming, adults-only retreat near Sardinero Beach, featuring modern amenities, a daily breakfast, and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Gran Hotel Sardinero: A luxurious stay with stunning beach views, offering modern comfort and elegance. If your budget allows, opt for a room with views of Sardinero.
Where to Eat in Santander
Santander has plenty of great places to eat, but if you’re looking for something seriously good, here are our top three picks.
- ⭐Restaurante Cañadio (Our Favorite): A go-to for top-quality local seafood and traditional flavors.
- Bodega del Riojano: A charming spot to enjoy local wines in a cozy, authentic setting.
- Restaurante El Serbal: Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning sea views and the best Cantabrian seafood.
Ir de Pinchos: A Bites Tasting Experience
When in Santander, don’t miss the local tradition of ‘ir de pinchos,’ or in other words, let’s go to the bar to eat and drink, Spanish style.
This is a fun and casual Spanish custom, especially popular in the north, where you hop from bar to bar, sampling small dishes called “pinchos.” It’s the perfect way to enjoy a drink and savor a variety of local flavors in a social setting.
While pintxos in San Sebastian often take the spotlight, Santander offers equally delicious and affordable pinchos that will satisfy your cravings.
💡Pinchos Vs Pintxos
There is actually no real difference. Pinchos is the general term used in Northern Spain, while pintxos is the Basque version and spelling of the same small snack.
Here are three must-visit spots to enjoy a pincho experience in the Santander:
- El Diluvio: A local favorite for its simple yet delicious tortilla española, perfect with a cold beer.
- Rampalay: A classic Spanish bodega with sangria and a variety of tasty pinchos in a lively, authentic atmosphere.
- ⭐Casa Lita (Our Favorite): A cozy, bustling bar by the seafront, offering substantial pinchos and great wine at excellent prices.
Where to try Rabas
“First of all, what are “rabas” and why don’t they sound appealing to me? Rabas in Santander are a must-try!
They’re crispy fried squid rings, typically served as a tasty snack or appetizer. You’ll find them all over the city, especially in the seaside bars. The batter is light and crunchy, while the squid inside stays tender and flavorful. It’s a classic dish in Santander to enjoy with a cold beer.
Now that you’re craving rabas, try any of these three:
- Bar Tívoli: A true Santander classic, where rabas come in generous portions—perfectly golden and served in the unbeatable atmosphere of a traditional local bar.
- Taberna La Radio: Here, you can order rabas as usual or try them with crispy battered onion, a rare find in Santander’s bars.
- ⭐Restaurante La Bombi (Our Favorite): Light, tender, and never greasy—these rabas are a masterclass in perfect frying. Made from fresh squid with a delicate coating, they’re a must-try in Santander.
Map of Things to Do in Santander
Here’s a handy map to guide you to all the best things to do in Santander.
After seeing all the amazing things to do in Santander, it’s no surprise that it’s one of our must-visit cities in Northern Spain, right?