Santander doesn’t seem like a tourist destination, however it does have a lot to offer.
It is definitely a place where you can relax and take each day as it comes. If you are staying in Santander for a couple of days, in this post you will find a few ideas for things to do. As this is not a typical tourist destination, please do polish on your Spanish language skills, as what you will find is that not many people speak English. As long as you know the basics, such as coffee, beer, how to order food etc, you will be fine. Everyone is very polite and happy to hear that you are trying to speak the language.
How to get from the Santander airport to the city centre
Catch bus S4 from outside of the terminal. The cost is €3.20 or €3.40 depending on the day. The journey takes approximately 17 minutes and it drops you off outside the Santander bus station. Check the timetable when coming back, it’s available on the board as soon as you get off the bus. Refer to the timetable at the bus station as Google Maps is not always accurate.
What to do in Santander
Santander doesn’t seem like a tourist destination, however it does have a lot to offer.
It is definitely a place where you can relax and take each day as it comes. If you are staying in Santander for a couple of days, in this post you will find a few ideas for things to do. As this is not a typical tourist destination, please do polish on your Spanish language skills, as what you will find is that not many people speak English. As long as you know the basics, such as coffee, beer, how to order food etc, you will be fine. Everyone is very polite and happy to hear that you are trying to speak the language.
Palace de Magdalena – take a picnic
If you enjoy walking, it takes about an hour to walk from city centre of Santander to Palace de Magdalena. You can make short stops for a drink and pintxos. You will have plenty of opportunities as Santander is full of amazing bars and restaurants. Once you arrive at the palace, you will notice that it is surrounded by a very big park. It is a great idea to bring a picnic with you and enjoy amazing views of the ocean. Park is also a home to sea lions, seals and penguins. If you arrive before 12 o’clock, you will have a chance to watch them having their lunch. You can also catch a small train that goes around the park.
Beaches in Santander
While at the palace, you will have an easy access to a beach. Water is very clean, however it can get cold. If you enjoy snorkeling, make sure you bring your gear. There are a couple of beaches available and they are easily accessible. Follow your way up to the Marina and continue waking straight, you will get to the beaches area. All of them are very clean and well maintained.
Playa del Sardinero: The most famous — long, golden, and great for sunbathing.
Playa de la Magdalena: Quieter, near the palace, and perfect for snorkeling.
Playa de los Peligros: A family-friendly beach near the marina.
Hop on & hop off bus in Santander
It’s worth booking if you have a small amount of time. Bus will take you to the most important places in Santander. I have included the booking link as well, just click on the Hop on & hop off bus in Santander.
Santander Food Market
If you love cooking and have rented accommodation with a kitchen, food market is the place where you want to go for your food shop. You will find the most beautiful fruit and vegetables there as well as fresh fish and sea food. It is probably worth visiting in the morning to make sure you can buy everything you need.
The Cantabrian Maritime Museum
Cost €8 and a visit there is a great way of spending your afternoon, straight after a beach picnic or snorkelling. Museum aims to show the history of the seamen. It also has a small aquarium and a skeleton of a whale which is 25m long. Great to learn something new and enjoy the aquarium.
Surfing in Somo
I always wanted to try surfing and I finally managed to do it. I wasn’t the best at it but enjoyed the experience. I booked my surfing lesson through GET YOUR GUIDE (please press the link to book your surfing lesson in Somo) and can highly recommend it. Great instructor as well as the staff at the checkin desk.
How to get to Somo from Santander
I hope this will make the trip to Somo easier for everyone, as I found it really difficult to find information about getting there.
Take bus from the bus station in Santander. Bus company name is Palomera and it departures from platform 7 or 8 (please check on the screen or at the information desk) It will cost you €2.35 per ticket(one way), driver only accepts cash. Please be aware that there will be no announcements and you need to check your google maps to make sure you get off at the right stop, which is SOMO ENTRADA. You can take a ferry back to Santander. Please take a look at the map below to see where the ferry port is in Somo. It will take you back to Santander Marina.
Catedral de Santander
Located in the heart of the city, another beautiful place worth visiting while in Santander. Take your time to contemplate gothic architecture and enjoy what the cathedral has to offer – peace and quiet and time for prayer.
- Free or low-cost entry.
- A great place to soak in the architecture and take a quiet break from sightseeing.
Trip to Bilbao from Santander
I have a separate post about visiting Bilbao, but just to give you an idea – you can catch a coach from Santander bus station. Please book in advance online as you will not be able to buy tickets from driver. Seats are reserved so plan your trip in advance. Ticket price was €17.45 per person, return, including all the fees and taxes, coach company – ALSA.
1 Day in Bilbao – click to read
Where to stay in Santander
Where to Stay in Santander
From budget hotels to boutique stays, Santander has options for every traveler. Here are some highly rated places:
- Budget:
- Hostel Santander (click to book) – central, clean, and great for solo travellers.
- Hotel Boutique Las Brisas (click to book) – affordable with sea views.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Bahia (click to book) – modern and right by the ferry terminal.
- Luxury:
- Eurostars Hotel Real (click to book) – a historic 5-star hotel with stunning views.
Best tours in Santander through GetYoutGuide
Where to Eat and Drink in Santander
Santander is brimming with small bars and local eateries. Here are a few regional favorites:
- Pintxos: Bite-sized bar snacks similar to tapas but even more creative. Try them with a local cider or beer.
- Rabas: Fried squid, a Cantabrian specialty.
- Café Dromedario: The best place for local coffee — it’s a brand roasted in Santander.
Top Picks:
- Bodega Cigalena – rustic tavern with local wines and tapas.
- La Mulata – upscale seafood restaurant.
- Casa Lita – known for its variety of pintxos.
Final Verdict: Is Santander Worth Visiting?
If you’re after an off-the-beaten-path destination with beautiful beaches, relaxed vibes, and authentic Spanish culture — yes, Santander is absolutely worth visiting.
It’s safe, clean, welcoming, and filled with hidden gems. Whether you’re after waves, walks, or wine, Santander delivers a peaceful but enriching travel experience.
FAQ
Is Santander good for a beach holiday?
Yes! Santander has some of the cleanest and most scenic beaches in northern Spain.
Is Santander tourist-friendly?
It’s not overly touristy, which is part of its charm — but it’s friendly, walkable, and easy to explore with some basic Spanish.
How many days do you need in Santander?
2–3 days is perfect for exploring the highlights, enjoying the beaches, and taking a day trip to Somo or Bilbao.
Is Santander expensive?
It’s more affordable than many Spanish cities — expect great food and wine at good prices.