what to see in santander

What to see in Santander – 14 things to do and explore around the city

I was pleasantly surprised when visiting the Cantabrian region, that Santander would really hit me with wonderful memories of visiting this lovely city. A perfect combination of coastal promenades, crescent shaped beaches and seaside views, a historic old town and cultural treasures to explore and fantastic public markets, delicious regional cuisine and walking promenades to enjoy.

I totally loved my experience visiting Santander and have enjoyed all these 12 things to do and see around the capital region of Cantabria. I’m sharing my experience in this easy guide and show how easy it is to explore this city, check out the natural beauty combined with urban and historic sites to explore.

I love to walk around the city and find the many walking promenades so easy to visit the many attractions and fun places to explore around the city without using public transportation.

Where is Santander, Spain Located

Santander is located in northern Spain, on the Bay of Biscay, along the country’s rugged Atlantic coastline. It’s the capital of the autonomous region of Cantabria and sits between the sea and the green hills of northern Spain, offering a mix of beaches, cliffs, and natural parks. It’s well connected by road, rail, and ferry, and serves as a quieter coastal alternative to larger northern cities like Bilbao. Its location makes it a gateway to both the Cantabrian coast and inland mountain landscapes.

Why visit Santander, Spain?

Santander is a relaxed coastal city in northern Spain that offers a mix of urban charm, scenic coastline, and green spaces without the heavy crowds. It’s known for its long beaches like El Sardinero, elegant architecture, and the Magdalena Peninsula with its palace and walking trails. The city has a laid-back vibe, good seafood, and cultural spots like the Centro Botín. Whether you’re into beach strolls, watching the surf roll in, or exploring lesser-known corners of Spain, Santander is an easygoing place that still feels connected to local life.

What is the weather like and best time to visit Santander, Spain

Here’s an outline of the weather and best times to visit Santander, Spain:

1. Overall Climate

Oceanic climate with mild temperatures year-round
Cooler and wetter than southern Spain, especially in winter
Known for its greenery, thanks to regular rainfall

2. Spring (March to May)

Mild temperatures: average highs around 14–18°C (57–64°F)
Occasional rain, but increasing sunshine
Fewer tourists, pleasant for walks and outdoor activities

3. Summer (June to August)

Warm, not hot: highs average 22–25°C (72–77°F)
Best beach weather, low humidity, long daylight hours
Peak tourist season, especially in August
Still cooler and more comfortable than inland Spain

4. Fall (September to November)

September is still warm and a great time to visit
Gradual cooling: by November, temperatures drop to around 14°C (57°F)
Rain becomes more frequent toward late fall
Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere

5. Winter (December to February)

Mild but wet: highs around 12–14°C (54–57°F), frequent rain
Not ideal for beach activities, but fewer crowds
Good for a quiet city break and exploring museums, food, and culture

6. Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May–June): mild weather, fewer crowds, lush scenery
Early fall (September): warm sea, pleasant temperatures, relaxed vibe
Summer (July–August): best for beachgoers, festivals, and outdoor fun

14 things to do and see in Santander, Spain

With a multitude of wonderful attractions and fun things to do, I’m sharing my top pics of places to visit, explore and experience around Santander on this guide for you to choose what you might want to also do here.

1. Magdalena Peninsula

The Magdalena Peninsula is one of Santander’s most scenic spots, offering a mix of coastal nature, historical interest, and open green space. It’s home to the Magdalena Palace, a former royal summer residence set on a bluff with views of the bay and the sea. Visitors can walk or cycle the well-kept paths that loop through wooded areas, past small beaches like Playa de la Magdalena, and along rocky coastal edges. There’s also a small marine zoo with sea lions and penguins, especially popular with families. The grounds are free to enter and perfect for a relaxed stroll, picnic, or just watching sailboats pass by the bay. It’s a favorite local escape and a good place to catch sunset without leaving the city.

Explore walking trails, small beaches, and forested areas
Visit the Magdalena Palace and enjoy coastal views

2. El Sardinero Beach

El Sardinero Beach is Santander’s most iconic seaside stretch, known for its golden sand, gentle waves, and early 20th-century charm. It’s divided into two main sections—Primera and Segunda Playa—separated by the Piquío Gardens, offering a combined 1.3 km of shoreline backed by a wide promenade. The area is lined with historic architecture, including the elegant Gran Casino and Belle Époque-era hotels, giving it a refined yet relaxed vibe. The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, especially in the cooler months, and is well-equipped with amenities like showers, lifeguards, and accessible paths. It’s also surrounded by parks, seafood restaurants, and scenic viewpoints, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the coast without leaving the city.

Relax or take a stroll along the city’s most iconic beach
Popular in summer, with nearby cafes and a scenic promenade

3. Centro Botín

Centro Botín is a modern arts and cultural center situated on Santander’s waterfront, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano. The building features two elevated, rounded volumes clad in 270,000 ceramic tiles that reflect the changing light of the bay. Inside, it houses 2,500 square meters of exhibition space, a 300-seat auditorium, classrooms, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and sea. The center hosts contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and educational programs, aiming to foster creativity and community engagement. Surrounded by the expanded Pereda Gardens, Centro Botín seamlessly integrates with its natural and urban surroundings, providing a unique space for both locals and visitors to experience art and culture.

Modern art and cultural center on the waterfront
Designed by Renzo Piano, with exhibitions and a rooftop view

4. Paseo de Pereda & Jardines de Pereda

Paseo de Pereda and the adjacent Jardines de Pereda form a central and scenic part of Santander’s waterfront. The Paseo is an 800-meter promenade lined with 19th-century buildings featuring ashlar walls, balconies, and sea-facing viewpoints. These structures, which survived the 1941 fire, now house bars and restaurants with terraces, offering views of the bay .

The Jardines de Pereda, inaugurated in 1905 on land reclaimed from the sea, are named after the Cantabrian novelist José María de Pereda. The gardens feature a variety of trees, including magnolias, cedars, and palm trees, and are home to a monument dedicated to the writer . In 2014, the gardens underwent a renovation that doubled their size to 48,000 square meters, enhancing green spaces and integrating the area with the Centro Botín, a modern art center designed by Renzo

Together, the Paseo and Jardines de Pereda offer a blend of historical architecture, cultural landmarks, and green spaces, making them a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the city’s coastal charm.

Scenic waterfront walk lined with historic buildings and shaded gardens
Great for people-watching and relaxing

5. Mercado de la Esperanza

Mercado de la Esperanza is a colorful and lively market in Santander, Spain, housed in a historic 19th-century cast-iron structure. Opened in 1904 and designed by architects Eduardo Reynals and Juan Moya, the market is renowned for its architectural significance and lively atmosphere. The ground floor is dedicated to fresh seafood, offering a selection of fish and shellfish, while the upper level features stalls with meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and local specialties like sobaos pasiegos and orujo de Liébana. The market is a central hub for locals and visitors seeking quality produce and a taste of Cantabrian culinary traditions.

Local market with fresh seafood, meats, produce, and regional products
A glimpse into local food culture

6. Palacio de Festivales de Cantabria

The Palacio de Festivales de Cantabria is a striking cultural venue located on Santander’s waterfront, designed by architect Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oiza and inaugurated in 1991. Its distinctive design features four 50-meter towers inspired by ship masts, clad in marble and weathered copper, giving the building its unique greenish hue. Inside, the palace houses three main halls: the Sala Argenta, accommodating 1,642 attendees; the Sala Pereda, with 566 seats; and the Sala María Blanchard, seating approximately 150 people. These spaces host a diverse array of performances, including theater, music, dance, and film, throughout the year. Notably, the venue serves as the primary location for the International Festival of Santander, a prestigious event that attracts renowned artists from around the globe. With its blend of architectural innovation and cultural significance, the Palacio de Festivales stands as a central hub for the arts in the region.

Striking modern venue for concerts, theater, and cultural events
Worth visiting even just for the architecture

7. Maritime Museum of Cantabria (Museo Marítimo)

The Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico (Cantabrian Maritime Museum) in Santander offers an immersive journey into the region’s rich maritime heritage. Situated between the San Martín promontory and Playa de los Peligros, the museum’s modern architecture reflects its deep connection to the sea. Spanning over 3,000 m², its exhibits are divided into four main sections: ‘Life at Sea’ (Marine Biology), ‘Fishermen and Fisheries’ (Fishing Ethnography), ‘The Bay of Biscay and the Sea in History’ (Maritime History), and ‘Technological Avant-Garde Facing the Sea’ (Maritime Technology) .(Guide to Europe, museoscantabria, Turismo Santander)

A standout feature is the large aquarium, visible from a tiered seating area, showcasing significant marine species. Additional smaller aquariums allow for close-up views of vibrant fish. The museum also houses a remarkable 60-tonne whale skeleton, offering a glimpse into the region’s marine life.

Visitor Information:

Hours:
- May 1 to September 30: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–19:30 (last entry at 18:30)
- October 1 to April 30: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:00)
- Closed on Mondays and select holidays
Admission:
- General: €8
- Reduced: €5 (children 5–12, seniors, students, persons with disabilities, and others)
- Free for children under 5
Accessibility:
- The museum is equipped with ramps, elevators, and parking for visitors with reduced mobility
Reservations:
- Recommended, especially for free entry on Tuesdays after 14:00, which requires prior booking

Exhibits on the region’s marine history, sea life, and shipbuilding
Includes an aquarium section

8. Cabo Mayor Lighthouse and Coastal Walks

Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, perched on the northernmost point of Santander, offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Bay of Biscay. Built in 1839, it stands as one of the oldest and most significant lighthouses in Spain. Visitors can explore the surrounding coastal trails, which meander through cliffs, small beaches, and parks, providing ample opportunities for nature walks and photography. The nearby Centro de Arte Faro de Cabo Mayor, housed within the lighthouse, showcases maritime art and history, adding a cultural dimension to the visit .

Head north for dramatic cliffs and coastal trails
The lighthouse offers sweeping views of the Bay of Biscay

9. Playa de los Peligros & Playa de la Magdalena

Playa de los Peligros is a tranquil urban beach located near the heart of Santander, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful seaside experience without leaving the city. Despite its name, which translates to “Beach of Dangers,” the beach is known for its calm waters, fine golden sand, and gentle slope, making it particularly suitable for families and swimmers of all ages. The beach is equipped with various amenities, including sun loungers and parasols for rent, a children’s play area, and facilities for water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing. Accessible via bike paths and public transport, Playa de los Peligros offers a convenient and enjoyable beach experience within the city. (

Playa de la Magdalena, situated to the south of the La Magdalena Peninsula, is one of Santander’s most popular beaches. Stretching 900 meters in length with fine golden sand, it offers a spacious area for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is sheltered within the Bay of Santander, ensuring calm waters ideal for families and recreational activities. Facilities include sun loungers and parasols for rent, a beachside restaurant offering views of the bay, and rental services for water sports equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards. With its scenic surroundings and ample amenities, Playa de la Magdalena provides a quintessential beach experience in Santander.

Smaller, calmer beaches near the city center
Good for families or a quick swim

10. Cathedral of Santander

The Cathedral of Santander, officially named the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark in the city. Situated on the hill of Somorrostro, the site has been a place of worship since the 8th century, originally serving as an abbey dedicated to Saints Emeterius and Celedonius. The current structure, primarily Gothic in style, was constructed between the late 12th and early 14th centuries.

To note, the cathedral comprises two superimposed churches: the lower church, known as the “crypt or Christ’s parish,” built around 1200, and the upper church, the present cathedral, completed in the mid-13th century. The cathedral has undergone several reconstructions, especially after significant damages from the 1893 Cabo Machichaco explosion and the 1941 fire, with restoration efforts carried out between 1942 and 1953. Inside, visitors can find the mausoleum of the renowned Spanish scholar Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo, designed by sculptor Victorio Macho. The cathedral also houses a bell tower that offers panoramic views of the city and bay, along with a museum detailing the city’s history.

A quiet Gothic-style cathedral with historical significance
Overlooks the city and has a peaceful interior

11. Parque de Mataleñas

Green park with walking trails and views over rugged cliffs
Near the Mataleñas golf course and beach

12. Ferry Ride Across the Bay

Take a short ferry from the city center to nearby towns like Somo or Pedreña
Great for seeing the coastline from the water

Would you like these sorted by theme (nature, food, history, etc.) or by location?

13. Night fun at Canadio Square

This lively square is a favorite evening hangout for both locals and visitors, surrounded by tapa bars, cafés, coffee shops, and restaurants. It starts buzzing during the local version of happy hour, when people meet up for drinks and small bites known as pintxos. Dinner service around the square usually kicks off around 9 p.m. and goes until midnight, after which many head to nearby bars for a nightcap. The social scene often stretches well into the early morning hours.

14. Stroll the walking promenades of Santander

There’s so many fun walking promenades around Santander you can enjoy a stroll daytime into late at night. Here’s some of my favorite walks to do around the city.

1. Paseo de Pereda

A tree-lined promenade along the waterfront in the city center
Overlooks the harbor and Marina, with views of boats and bay activity
Flanked by historic buildings and elegant facades
Great for a casual walk, people-watching, or stopping at nearby cafes

2. Jardines de Pereda

Landscaped gardens just inland from the Paseo
Sculptures, shaded benches, and green space for relaxing
Family-friendly and close to the Centro Botín, an arts and culture hub

3. Paseo Marítimo de Santander

Stretches from the city center toward the beaches
Scenic views of the Bay of Santander and Mount Buciero in the distance
Popular with joggers, cyclists, and casual walkers

4. Avenida Reina Victoria

Elevated walk with panoramic views of the coastline
Passes by noble villas and historic buildings
Leads toward the beaches of El Sardinero

5. El Sardinero Promenade

Broad beachfront walkway along one of the city’s most famous beaches
Cafés, terraces, and places to stop for a drink with ocean views
Active and social, especially in summer

6. Magdalena Peninsula Pathways

A natural area with forested trails, coastal paths, and small coves
Walk around the peninsula past the Magdalena Palace
Offers a mix of sea views and green spaces, with spots to rest or picnic

Conclusion on visiting Santander

With its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, Santander offers a memorable and enchanting travel experience.

Thanks for checking out Visit Spain and Mediterranean and this post. We hope you check out all the other posts to explore all around the country for inspiration.

About author – Noel Morata

After relocating from the United States to Andalusia in 2020, I’ve made it my mission to discover every corner of Spain. Based just east of Granada, I’ve spent over 12 months exploring Catalonia province and the rest of Spain, including multiple extended visits to Barcelona throughout different seasons. My background in Spanish cultural studies and years of residence and exploring all of Spain have given me unique insight into the region’s historical significance, local customs, and culinary traditions.

I regularly update my guides with the latest information gathered through personal visits and relationships with local tourism officials, always seeking what’s new and exciting in each destination. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m passionate about discovering authentic local markets and regional specialties.

I hope this short guide on top places to visit in Santander makes your list of attractions and places to visit, please bookmark this post for future reference.