This coastal city in northern Spain balances urban life with natural beauty. Its old town, seaside promenade, and lively port create a charming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
Santander, the capital of Spain's Cantabria region, sits on the Bay of Biscay. This coastal city has golden beaches, grand 19th-century buildings, and active food markets. You can explore the Magdalena Palace, see art at the Centro BotÃn, or relax on El Sardinero beach.
Exploring Santander's Beaches
Santander's coastline has several beaches for different preferences. El Sardinero, the city's main beach, extends for two kilometers along the coast. You can sunbathe on its golden sands, swim in the Cantabrian Sea, or try surfing. For a quieter experience, visit Playa de Mataleñas, a small cove surrounded by cliffs with views of the coastline.
Centro BotÃn: A Modern Cultural Hub
Architect Renzo Piano designed the Centro BotÃn, a contemporary art center in Santander. The building has a reflective exterior that appears to float above the waterfront. Inside, you'll find rotating exhibitions of international and Spanish art, as well as spaces for workshops and performances.
Historical Landmarks
The city's history is visible in its architecture. The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is a Gothic church from the 13th century. It contains the tomb of Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo, an important Spanish scholar. Another key landmark is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal summer residence. You can tour the palace's ornate rooms and see panoramic views of the bay from its grounds.
Culinary Delights
Santander's cuisine is rooted in its maritime heritage. Visit the Mercado de la Esperanza to experience the city's culinary scene firsthand. This active market, in an iron and glass structure from 1904, sells fresh seafood, local cheeses, and regional specialties. Try local dishes like rabas (fried squid) or cocido montañés (a hearty stew) at one of the traditional restaurants in the old town.
Parks and Green Spaces
For a break from the city, go to the Parque de la Vaguada de las Llamas. This large park covers 11 hectares and has walking trails, wetlands, and various plants and animals. It's a good spot for a walk or a picnic. The Jardines de PiquÃo, between the two Sardinero beaches, have sea views and well-kept gardens.
Getting Around
You can walk to many places in Santander, with many points of interest in the city center. For longer distances, the city has a bus network. The TUS (Transportes Urbanos de Santander) runs numerous routes throughout the city. You can also use the city's bike-sharing system, TusBic, which has stations across Santander.
Day Trips from Santander
Santander is a good starting point for exploring the Cantabria region. A short drive will take you to the Cabárceno Nature Park, home to over 100 animal species in a unique karst landscape. Those interested in history should visit the town of Santillana del Mar, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and proximity to the Altamira Caves, which contain prehistoric cave paintings.
