Sizzling Santander: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip!

Discover the beauty and charm of Santander without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Surf and turf in Santander

  • Start the day with breakfast at Gran Madrid, a traditional Spanish café
  • Head to Playa del Sardinero for a morning of surfing or sunbathing
  • Visit the Magdalena Palace, a summer residence for Spanish royalty, and stroll through its gardens
  • Have lunch at El Machi, a seafood restaurant with great views of the bay
  • Walk through the charming streets of Santander’s historic center
  • Finish with drinks and tapas at Cañadío, a local favorite with a laidback atmosphere.

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

Escape for a Romantic Long Weekend in Santander

Santander is a charming city located in the north of Spain, perfect for a romantic getaway. Couples can enjoy walks along the beautiful beaches and explore the historic city center filled with picturesque streets, cafes and shops. The city's culinary scene offers an array of tantalizing seafood dishes, making it an ideal destination for food-loving couples.

The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Santander, Spain

Santander, located on the northern coast of Spain, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and historic landmarks. A trip to Santander would be incomplete without a visit to the Playa del Sardinero, where visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery and take part in water sports. Additionally, tourists can explore the famed Palacio de la Magdalena, a breathtaking palace overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, and enjoy the delicious local cuisine in one of the many bustling restaurants.

Santander: 2 Days of Beaches, Bites, and Culture

A trip to Santander, Spain on a limited budget can still provide a wonderful experience. The city offers beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and delicious seafood cuisine. Taking advantage of free activities such as hiking to the lighthouse or exploring the Cabarceno Natural Park can help save money while still enjoying all that Santander has to offer.

Santander in 5: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure

Santander, Spain offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its blend of stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Discover the picturesque Santander Bay, where you can enjoy long walks along the promenade, build sandcastles on the golden sands, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Explore the city's grandeur by visiting the Palacio de la Magdalena, a fairytale-like palace surrounded by beautiful gardens, or engage in interactive exhibits at the Cantabria Maritime Museum.