The Ultimate 5-Day Budget Adventure in Santander

Discover the charm of Santander without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

A trip to Santander on a limited budget is the perfect way to explore this charming seaside city. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and stunning architecture while staying in affordable accommodations. Savor the local cuisine and explore the city's cultural landmarks without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into Hotel Art Santander, a budget-friendly hotel in the city center
  • Grab a quick bite at Bocados, a cozy tapas bar near the hotel
  • Walk to Pereda Gardens for a scenic stroll and people watching
  • Visit the Centro Botín for contemporary art exhibitions and stunning architecture
  • End the day with a view of the city from the El Faro lighthouse
Day 2

Beach Day and Local Cuisine

  • Take a morning bus to Somo Beach, a natural oasis perfect for surfing and sunbathing
  • Grab some fresh seafood at El Machi or La Maruca, two famous local restaurants
  • Visit the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast
  • Check out the impressive Gothic architecture at Santander Cathedral
  • Relax at the Plaza Porticada with a glass of local wine and people watching
Day 3

History and Nature

  • Explore the prehistoric caves of Altamira and the Archaeological Museum
  • Take a scenic drive to the national park of Dunas de Liencres for hiking and bird watching
  • Learn about the region's maritime history at the Cantabria Maritime Museum
  • Have a traditional lunch at La Bombi, a rustic restaurant with authentic local specialties
  • Take a sunset stroll along the picturesque bay of Puerto Chico
Day 4

Local Markets and Hidden Gems

  • Visit the Mercado de la Esperanza for fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood
  • Take a short ferry ride to the charming village of Pedreña for local crafts and souvenirs
  • Discover the hidden gem of Plazuela de los Banqueros, a quiet square with historic architecture
  • Have a light lunch at Cañadío, a trendy cocktail bar with delicious tapas
  • Stroll the streets of the Barrio Pesquero, a lively fishing district with street art and cozy bars
Day 5

Departure and Farewell

  • Enjoy a farewell breakfast at Café de Levante, a historic café with stunning views of the bay
  • Visit the Centro Botín for a final look at the exhibitions and architecture
  • Grab some souvenirs at the popular El Corte Inglés department store
  • Take a taxi to the airport or bus station for departure
  • Adiós Santander, until we meet again!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Santander

Get ready to have your bank account confused with your vacation destination as we explore Santander, the city that always keeps your finances on their toes.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Spend quality family time in the picturesque city of Santander, Spain, known for its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes. Explore the city's rich history and culture by visiting the Palacio de la Magdalena, a grand palace offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Santander. Let the kids have a blast at the Cantabria Maritime Museum, which boasts interactive exhibits and a replica of the famous Spanish galleon, the "Nuestra Señora de Santander."

5 Days of Romance and Adventure in Santander

A romantic trip to Santander, Spain allows couples to discover charming beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious culinary experiences. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Paseo de Pereda, explore the Gothic-style cathedral, and indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling Mercado del Este market. With its breathtaking natural landscapes and romantic atmosphere, Santander is an idyllic destination for a couple seeking a memorable getaway.