Santander holidays

How to reach Santander

• Flight time: There are direct flights to Santander from London Stansted and indirect flights from other major UK airports, which take around 1 hour 45 minutes.

• Transfer time: Taxis are available at the airport and take around 10 minutes to get to Santander city centre. A bus runs from the airport to the city centre every 30 minutes and the journey takes about 15 minutes.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs roughly €20–€25, while the airport bus is more economical at just €3.20 one-way.

Best time to visit Santander

The best time to visit Santander will depend on what you have planned, the amount of sightseeing you want to get done and your personal preference for the weather.

• March to May is a fairly mild period, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C, making it perfect for sightseeing without the summer tourists to slow you down. There is a chance of some rain, so bring a light raincoat.

• June to August marks the high season, with temperatures hovering around 18°C to 25°C. There will be plenty of sunshine making it ideal for beachgoers, and the city’s nightlife hots up, too.

• September to November is a nice time to visit for a more relaxed holiday since there are less tourists around. The temperature is pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 20°C, but there is a modest increase in rainfall.

• December to February is much quieter and milder, with typical temperatures from 8°C to 14°C. Rainfall increases, especially in December and January, but the sun will still make a regular appearance.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: While Spanish is the official language, many people in tourist areas speak English; learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be appreciated by locals.

• Local habits and customs: The Spanish enjoy a relaxed way of life. It’s normal to take a siesta from 2 pm to 5 pm, when many shops close. Dinner is generally taken late, around 9 pm.

• Currency: The Euro is the currency used in Spain. The majority of businesses accept credit and debit cards, and ATMs can be found all over the city.

• Getting around: Taxis are reasonably priced, with a typical fare within the city centre around €8. A single bus ticket costs about €1.30. Car hire is a good option for exploring further afield.

• Electricity and plug types: Travellers from the UK will require an adaptor; Spain uses a 230-volt supply of electricity and standard European plugs with circular pins.

• Time zone: Spain is an hour ahead of UK time and runs on Central European Time.

Best things to do in Santander

With its blend of cultural attractions, delicious food, sandy beaches and amazing art and architecture, the city of Santander is an enthralling destination to spend a holiday.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador de la Magdalena: Tourists swarm to this vantage point to take in the incredible vistas of the Magdalena Peninsula and to get some amazing pictures.

• Cabo Mayor Lighthouse: Perched over the sea in the most northeastern part of Santander, this lighthouse offers breathtaking vistas of the rugged shoreline.

The best districts

• El Sardinero: Known for its excellent beaches, this upscale district has elegant architecture and a lively promenade where you can soak up the beach vibes.

• Centro: In addition to shopping and dining at some of Santander's best restaurants, the city centre offers a number of fascinating landmarks and museums that provide insight into Santander's long and illustrious past.

Parks and gardens

• Magdalena Park: Magdalena Palace, beautiful gardens and a small zoo are a few of the attractions to see within this extensive park.

• Pereda Gardens: Standing on the waterfront, these peaceful gardens feature fountains, sculptures and plenty of green space to relax away from the city noise.

Historical monuments

• Magdalena Palace: Open to the public, Magdalena Palace was built in the early 20th century and once served as a summer residence for Spanish royalty.

• Santander Cathedral: An impressive city landmark, the cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, with stunning stained-glass windows.

Day trips in the area

• Altamira Caves: These caves, a short drive from Santander, are world famous for their prehistoric paintings. The Altamira Museum nearby gives more information on the significance of the caves.

• Picos de Europa National Park: A little further away but well worth the journey, this national park affords spectacular mountain scenery, and is ideal for hiking and observing wildlife.

• Santillana del Mar: A short day trip from Santander, this delightful medieval village is notable for its cobblestone alleys, charming houses and historic landmarks.

Activities for families in Santander

Holidays to Santander offer up lots for families to do, including educational attractions, outdoor activities and beaches that will keep everyone entertained.

• Beaches: Both Playa del Sardinero and Playa de la Magdalena offer clean sands, safe swimming areas and plenty of amenities, perfect for youngsters to build sandcastles and paddle in the sea.

• Interactive museums: Kids enthuse at the interactive displays in the Maritime Museum, which has fascinating exhibits on marine life, shipbuilding and Santander’s maritime history.

• Zoos: Cabarceno Natural Park, just outside Santander, is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes and lions, and offers safari tours. There is also a small zoo at Magdalena Park, where children can play in the playground and ride on the miniature train.

• Boat trips: Kids always enjoy a boat trip, and the trips around the Bay of Santander are a terrific way to view the city from the water.

Free things to do in Santander

Due to the abundance of free activities on offer, visitors may enjoy Santander without overspending, making the city a suitable holiday spot for budget-conscious travellers.

• Free events: Santander has a full calendar of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Semana Grande held in July, which entertains with complimentary fireworks, concerts and parades.

• Free museums: Sunday afternoons are free admission days for some museums in Santander. One such museum is the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, which provides historical context for the area.

• Free guided tours: Various organisations provide complimentary guided walking tours around Santander, which operate on a tips-only basis. These tours mainly focus on the city’s history, architecture and local legends.

Nature and outdoor activities in Santander

• National parks: For those who love the outdoors, the Picos de Europa National Park is not far away. It has many trails, a wide variety of wildlife, and spectacular scenery.

• Water sports: Santander's surrounding calm waters are idyllic for a range of water sports to suit all skill levels. Take a shot at surfing, sailing or kayaking.

• Cycling and hiking: Popular with cyclists and hikers, Santander's coastline paths offer breathtaking views of the ocean, while inland routes wind through lush forests and picturesque villages.

• Adventure activities: For thrill-seekers, paragliding is a unique way to gain an aerial view of the coastline, or if you prefer to stay closer to the ground join a jeep safari to explore the rugged terrain. Rock climbing and caving are also popular activities to get that adrenaline rush.

Discover the best beaches in Santander

Santander, located on Spain's northern coast, is renowned for its beautiful beaches that offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for family-friendly spots, secluded coves, or places to enjoy water sports, Santander has it all. Here’s a guide to the best beaches to visit during your Santander holidays:

Family-friendly beaches

• Playa del Sardinero: This is one of Santander's most famous beaches, split into two sections: Primera Playa and Segunda Playa. Both offer soft golden sand, calm waters, and excellent facilities including restaurants, showers, and lifeguards, making them perfect for families.

• Playa de la Magdalena: Located near the Magdalena Peninsula, this beach is ideal for families due to its sheltered bay, which ensures calm waters for swimming. It also has nearby attractions such as the Magdalena Palace and a small zoo.

Secluded beaches

• Playa de Mataleñas: For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Playa de Mataleñas is a beautiful, less crowded beach surrounded by cliffs. It’s accessible via a scenic walk and offers stunning views, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

• Playa de los Peligros: Despite its name, which translates to "Beach of Dangers," Playa de los Peligros is actually a calm and serene spot, popular among locals. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Santander.

Nudist beaches

• Playa de Covachos: Located a bit outside Santander, Playa de Covachos is a small, secluded beach known for its nudist-friendly environment. The beach features unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters, offering a more private and natural beach experience.

• Playa de Somocuevas: Another nudist-friendly beach near Santander, Playa de Somocuevas is characterized by its stunning natural surroundings and relative seclusion. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a day in the sun away from the crowds.

Beaches for water sports

• Playa de la Maruca: This beach is popular for various water sports, including surfing and windsurfing, due to its strong waves and favourable wind conditions. It’s a great spot for adventure enthusiasts looking to catch some waves.

• Playa de Bikinis: Named after the bikinis worn by foreign students who popularized it in the 1960s, this beach is excellent for kayaking and paddleboarding. Its calm waters and scenic views make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and water activities.

These beaches provide a diverse range of experiences, ensuring that your holidays to Santander are filled with memorable moments. Enjoy the best of Santander's coastal beauty, from bustling family beaches to secluded naturist spots and exciting water sports destinations.

Local dishes in Santander

One of the great delights of Santander holidays is indulging in all the culinary delicacies that make it one of Spain’s best foodie destinations.

Some typical dishes

• Cocido Montañés: A traditional dish perfect for warming up on cooler days, this hearty stew is made with beans, pork and vegetables.

• Sobao Pasiego: A delicious buttery sponge cake from the Cantabria region that’s often enjoyed as a breakfast treat or dessert.

Tapas dishes

• Rabas: A popular tapa in Santander, these fried squid rings are crispy and delicious, and typically served with a squeeze of lemon.

• Anchoas: Nearby Santoña is the source of salt-cured anchovies, which are typically eaten with bread and a drizzle of olive oil.

Meat dishes

• Lechazo Asado: Roast lamb is a dish that is normally consumed on special occasions, cooked slowly to ensure it’s tender and flavourful.

• Chuletón de Buey: Meat lovers will adore this large, juicy beef rib steak, grilled to perfection.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Merluza a la Cazuela: To create this simple yet flavourful dish, hake is cooked in a clay pot with vegetables, garlic and white wine.

• Bonito del Norte: This light and fresh dish, which is basically white tuna served grilled or in salads, is perfect for a summer meal.

• Sardinas Asadas: Grilled sardines are a summertime favourite in Santander, usually seasoned with olive oil, garlic and parsley.

Sweets and desserts

• Corbatas de Unquera: Light, crispy and utterly delightful, these puff pastry strips are glazed with sugar and sometimes chocolate.

• Pantortilla: Perfect with a cup of coffee, this dense and sweet cake from Reinosa is made with almonds, sugar and eggs.

• Quesada Pasiega: Rich and creamy, this dessert made from fresh cheese, eggs, butter and sugar is a local favourite.

Local drinks

• Sidra: Refreshing and slightly tart, this traditional cider from northern Spain is often poured from a height to aerate it.

• Orujo: A strong spirit made from grape pomace, orujo is similar to grappa and often enjoyed as a digestif.