Santander's Coastal Charms: A Fun-Filled Family Getaway

Discover the endless wonders of Santander, Spain – where unforgettable family adventures await!

19 July 2023

Santander, Spain is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. With its picturesque beaches, charming parks, and exciting cultural attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll along El Sardinero beach, explore the peaceful Parque de la Magdalena, and visit the fascinating Maritime Museum for a memorable and enriching experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Santander's Coastal Charms

  • Stay at Hotel Bahía, a family-friendly haven with stunning sea views and a delicious breakfast buffet to kick-start your day.
  • Start at the stunning Playa del Sardinero, where golden sands and rolling waves tempt even the most reluctant beach-goers.
  • Stroll along the Paseo de Pereda, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with palm trees and charming cafés.
  • Visit the striking Palacio de la Magdalena, a grand palace overlooking the sea that once served as a summer residence for Spanish royalty.
  • Dive into maritime history at the Cantabrian Maritime Museum, boasting an impressive collection of seafaring artifacts.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious seafood feast at Restaurante El Muelle, delighting your taste buds with the freshest catch of the day.
Day 2

Immersing in Santander's Cultural Delights

  • Treat your family to a delightful stay at Hotel Las Carolinas, a charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Santander's cultural district.
  • Begin with a visit to the Centro Botín, a contemporary art center with its distinctive sail-like design, housing a plethora of world-class art exhibitions.
  • Wander through the vibrant Mercado de la Esperanza, where locals gather to shop for the freshest produce and gastronomic delights.
  • Delve into Santander's history at the Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria, showcasing ancient artifacts and cave art.
  • Explore the charming Old Town (Casco Viejo), with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and tempting pintxo bars.
  • End the day with a taste of culinary excellence at Restaurante Deluz, savoring innovative dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Santander, Spain by plane is to fly directly to Santander Airport (SDR) from major European cities such as London, Paris or Frankfurt. Airlines that fly to Santander include Ryanair and Vueling.

Car

The best way to get to Santander by car is to take the A-8 highway from Bilbao or the N-623 highway from Burgos. The journey from Bilbao takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, while the journey from Burgos takes around 2 hours.

Train

While there is no direct train that goes to Santander, you can take the train to Bilbao or Madrid and then transfer to a regional train or bus to Santander. The train station in Bilbao is called Bilbao-Abando and the train station in Madrid is called Madrid Chamartin.

Boat

While there are no direct boats that go to Santander, you can take a ferry from the UK to Santander with Brittany Ferries. The ferry departs from Portsmouth and Plymouth and the journey takes around 24 hours.

Bus

The best way to get to Santander by bus is to take a direct bus from major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, or Bilbao. Companies that offer bus services to Santander include ALSA and Eurolines.

More travel plans

Sizzling Santander: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip!

Santander, a coastal city in northern Spain, has plenty to offer for travelers on a limited budget. With budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels and homestays, you can explore the city's beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and local cuisine without breaking the bank. From strolling through the Pereda Gardens to sampling the famous sobaos pasiegos pastries, Santander is an affordable and enjoyable destination for budget-minded travelers.

Experience Santander's Charm in a Day

As a tourist in Santander, Spain, you can expect to be mesmerized by the picturesque beauty of the city. Take a stroll along the Paseo de Pereda and admire the historic buildings, including the Palacio de la Magdalena. Don't miss out on the culinary delights, such as fresh seafood and regional specialties like Cocido Montañés.

Santander in 3 Days: Beaches, Culture & Fun

Discover the charming coastal city of Santander without breaking the bank. Enjoy walks along the promenade and beaches, visit the famous Palacio de la Magdalena and explore the stunning Magdalena Peninsula. Dine on delicious tapas and local specialities at affordable prices in the city's many bars and restaurants.

Santander, Spain: 4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun

A trip to Santander, Spain on a limited budget can still be incredible. Visitors can explore the picturesque coastline, with its stunning beaches, cliffs and coves, for free. The city also has free attractions, like the Botanical Gardens and the Cathedral, as well as budget-friendly activities, such as cycling along the River Saja or visiting the Maritime Museum.