The best plans to do in Santander, Spain

Santander, capital of the Cantabria region, is a city that perfectly combines the natural beauty of its surroundings with a rich cultural and gastronomic offering. Located on the northern coast of Spain, this port city is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy beaches, history and unique experiences. Below, we present a list of the best things to do in Santander, which will make your visit an unforgettable experience.

1. Enjoy the beaches of Santander

Santander is famous for its beautiful beaches. Among the most notable are:

• Sardinero Beach : Divided into First and Second Sardinero Beach, this is one of the most iconic beaches in the city. Its extensive sandy beach and gentle waves make it an ideal place for both relaxing and practicing water sports.

• Magdalena Beach : Located near the Magdalena Palace, this beach is perfect for families thanks to its calm waters.

• Mataleñas Beach : Surrounded by cliffs and vegetation, it is a quieter and more picturesque option.

Whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming or strolling along the shore, Santander's beaches offer a perfect setting to enjoy the sea.

2. Visit the Magdalena Palace

This imposing building is one of the icons of Santander. Built between 1909 and 1911, the Palacio de la Magdalena was the summer residence of the Spanish royal family. Today, it hosts cultural events and tourist visits.

The complex also has a spectacular park offering panoramic views of the bay and Mouro Island. Don't miss the mini marine zoo with seals and penguins, an attraction that delights both children and adults.

3. Walk through the Botín Center

The Botín Centre is a symbol of modernity in Santander. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this cultural centre is located in a privileged location facing the sea. It offers contemporary art exhibitions, cultural activities and workshops.

Its innovative architecture and its integration with the surroundings make it an ideal place for art and photography lovers. In addition, from its terrace you can enjoy spectacular views of the Bay of Santander.

4. Explore Cabárceno Park

Just a few kilometres from Santander is the Cabárceno Nature Park, a unique space where animals live in semi-freedom. This park, which occupies an old iron mine, is home to species from all five continents, such as elephants, giraffes, tigers and bears.

Visiting it is an unforgettable experience, whether by car or walking along its trails. In addition, the park offers activities such as bird of prey shows and sea lion demonstrations.

5. Getting lost in the historic center

The centre of Santander is ideal for strolling and discovering its history. Some essential places to visit are:

• Santander Cathedral : This Gothic building, rebuilt after the fire of 1941, houses the crypt of Christ, an architectural gem.

• The Porticada Plaza : A nerve center of the city and a venue for cultural events.

• El Mercado del Este : A perfect place to taste local products and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Strolling through the historic centre allows you to discover charming corners and try the local cuisine in its numerous taverns and restaurants.

6. Taste the local cuisine

Santander's cuisine is a true delight for the palate. Some of the typical dishes and products that you cannot miss are:

• Rabas : Traditional fried squid rings, ideal as an appetizer.

• Sobaos and quesadas : Typical sweets from Cantabria that will win you over.

• Seafood and fish : The freshness of the Cantabrian Sea is reflected in its culinary offering, with tuna, anchovies and clams being particularly noteworthy.

Don't forget to accompany your meal with a good white wine or local cider.

7. Hiking in the Liencres Dunes Natural Park

For nature lovers, this natural park is a must-see. Located about 20 minutes by car from Santander, it offers spectacular landscapes of dunes, beaches and pine forests. It is an ideal place for hiking, bird watching and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of the city.

8. Sailing through the Bay of Santander

One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Santander is from the water. There are several options for touring its bay by boat, either on tourist excursions or by renting a private boat. From the sea, you can enjoy unique views of the city, beaches and cliffs.

9. Visit the Cantabrian Maritime Museum

This museum is a tribute to the sea and Santander's relationship with it. It houses exhibitions on marine fauna, the history of navigation and fishing in the region. It also has aquariums where you can observe species from the Cantabrian Sea.

10. Discover the surroundings of Santander

Cantabria is a region full of charms, and from Santander it is easy to explore its surroundings. Some recommended excursions are:

• Santillana del Mar : A picturesque medieval town known as "the town of three lies."

• Altamira Caves : A World Heritage Site, these caves are home to some of the oldest cave paintings in the world.

• Comillas : Home of Gaudí's famous modernist building El Capricho.

11. Attend local events and festivals

Santander is a vibrant city with a very active cultural agenda. Some of the highlights include:

• Santander International Festival (FIS) : Held in summer, it includes music, theatre and dance.

• Semana Grande : Popular festivals with activities for all audiences, concerts and fairs.

Participating in these festivities will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

12. Relax in the Piquío gardens

These gardens, located in Sardinero, are the perfect place to relax while enjoying sea views. Their benches, fountains and vegetation offer a peaceful setting ideal for resting after a day of exploring.

Santander is a city that has something for everyone: paradisiacal beaches, history, nature, gastronomy and culture. With this list of plans, you will be prepared to make the most of your visit and discover why Santander is one of the most charming destinations in Spain.