Santander & Cantabria 🌊
"Elegant bay views and dramatic cliffs in Green Spain."
Fly from Manchester to Santander for a sophisticated city-meets-beach vibe. With a rental car, you can explore the Picos de Europa mountains and the charming medieval town of Santillana del Mar within a short drive.
A perfect blend of Northern Spain's regal city life in Santander and the dramatic, green landscapes of rural Cantabria. Experience world-class beaches, Gaudí architecture, and prehistoric treasures within a short, scenic drive.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Royal Palaces and Golden Sands
Morning — Arrive in Santander. Start at the Palacio de la Magdalena, the former summer residence of Spanish royalty, set on a stunning peninsula with a mini-zoo.
Afternoon — Head to the El Sardinero district. Walk along the golden sands of Primera and Segunda beaches and admire the Belle Époque architecture of the Gran Casino.
Evening — Enjoy a seafood dinner in the Puertochico neighborhood. Sample 'rabas' (fried squid), a local staple, at a traditional bodega.
💡 The city bus system is very efficient; buy a rechargeable 'Tarjeta de Transporte' at estancos.
Day 2 · Art, Bay Views, and Tapas
Morning — Take a morning boat trip across the Bay of Santander (one of the most beautiful in the world) to the village of Somo for a beach walk.
Afternoon — Visit the Centro Botín, a futuristic art center designed by Renzo Piano that hangs over the bay. Explore the Pereda Gardens.
Evening — Go on a 'tapas crawl' around Plaza de Cañadío. This area comes alive at night with locals enjoying drinks and small plates.
💡 Try 'Sobao Pasiego', a delicious local sponge cake, with your morning coffee.
Day 3 · Prehistory and Medieval Charm
Morning — Pick up a rental car and drive to the Altamira National Museum to see the replicas of the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings.
Afternoon — Explore the cobblestone streets of Santillana del Mar, often called 'The Town of Three Lies.' Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana.
Evening — Check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet dinner of 'Cocido Montañés' (a hearty bean and meat stew) at a local tavern.
💡 Parking in Santillana is limited to residents; use the large municipal lots just outside the old town.
Day 4 · Gaudí and Coastal Cliffs
Morning — Drive to the coastal town of Comillas. Visit the Pontifical University and the Sobrellano Palace, stunning examples of Modernista architecture.
Afternoon — Visit El Capricho de Gaudí, one of the few buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí outside of Catalonia. Walk the coastal trails of Oyambre Natural Park.
Evening — Dine in the port area of Comillas, focusing on fresh catch-of-the-day fish and local cider.
💡 Book tickets for 'El Capricho' online in advance to avoid long queues.
Day 5 · Coastal Return and Local Flavors
Morning — Drive back toward Santander, stopping at the white-sand beach of San Vicente de la Barquera for a final look at the Picos de Europa mountains behind the sea.
Afternoon — Return to Santander. Do some last-minute shopping at the Mercado de la Esperanza for local cheeses and anchovies.
Evening — Final sunset walk along the Paseo de Pereda before heading to the airport or train station for departure.
💡 Check your rental car return times carefully to avoid extra day charges.