Santander in 3 Days: Beaches, Culture & Fun

Experience the hidden gems of Santander without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Wander Through the City

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast of churros y chocolate from Casa del Chocolate.
  • Visit the Catedral de Santander, a beautiful Gothic-style cathedral.
  • Explore the Paseo Pereda, a picturesque promenade alongside the bay.
  • Head towards the Jardines de Piquio, a lovely park with stunning views of the sea.
  • Dress up for a flamenco show at Tablao Los Amigos.
  • Stay at Hotel Santemar, a comfortable and affordable hotel with great service.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Spend the day at El Sardinero, one of the most beautiful beaches in Santander.
  • Grab a juicy burger and fries from La Taberna del Hombre Pez.
  • Rent a boat and enjoy some water sports at the Puerto Deportivo Marina.
  • Visit the Museo Maritimo del Cantabrico to learn about the marine history of the region.
  • Take a relaxing walk by the Faro de Cabo Mayor, a lighthouse with breath-taking views of the bay.
Day 3

Hiking and Culture

  • Hike up the Magdalena Peninsula, known for its beautiful views and stunning scenery.
  • Enjoy a hearty lunch with banoffee pie for dessert at Bodegon del Riojano.
  • Visit the Palacio de la Magdalena, a magnificent palace that was once the summer residence of the Spanish royal family.
  • Learn about the Cantabria region's culture at the Centro de Interpretacion de la Peninsula de la Magdalena.
  • End the day with a glass of wine and some tapas at El Machichaco Jose.

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

Spend a Perfect Long Weekend in Santander, Spain

Santander is a charming city in northern Spain, located on the coast of the Bay of Biscay. It's known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant food scene. As a tourist, you can visit landmarks like the Palacio de la Magdalena and the Cathedral of Santander, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and indulge in the local cuisine of seafood, pintxos, and cider.

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

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.

Santander in a Weekend: Beaches, Art, and Tapas

As a tourist, Santander offers an ideal getaway experience with breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. A walk along the seafront promenade is a must-do, followed by a visit to Jardines de Piquio, a stunning garden with sweeping views of the coast. Don't miss out on savoring the local delicacies, such as rabas, anchovies, and cocido montañés, for a true gastronomical delight.

Romance and Adventure in 4-day Santander, Spain

Discover the charm of a romantic getaway in Santander, Spain where you can enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Biscay while walking hand in hand with your loved one. Visit the well-maintained gardens of the Magdalena Palace or take a stroll along the picturesque Paseo Pereda. Indulge in Spanish cuisine in one of the many restaurants serving fresh seafood and local wines and end your day watching a beautiful sunset over the sea.