Unforgettable Things to Do in Santander Spain: Must-Sees

Set along the breathtaking Cantabrian coast, Santander is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets, a city where culture, coastline, and culinary charm meet. Perfect for travelers seeking laid-back excursions and elevated wine tourism, this seaside gem offers a unique mix of historic architecture, golden beaches, and world-class art. From strolling cliffside trails to admiring modern exhibitions and sampling local cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do in Santander Spain. And for wine lovers, nearby Cantabria wineries offer a taste of the region’s lesser-known but distinctive varietals. Whether unwinding with a glass of wine after a museum visit or soaking in the sea breeze along the promenade, Santander invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

What are the best things to do in Santander?

Explore the artistic Centro Botín

No visit to Santander is complete without experiencing the Centro Botín, a spectacular cultural hub designed by Pritzker-winning architect Renzo Piano. Jutting above the Bay of Santander, this architectural masterpiece hosts contemporary art exhibitions and offers panoramic views across the water. The elevated walkways and reflecting surfaces make it a dream-like setting for travel photographers. If you’re passionate about moderno y contemporáneo de Santander y Cantabria, you won’t miss this stunning institution curated with world-class finesse. Among the top things to do in Santander Spain, the Centro Botín stands out as a beacon of creativity and modern culture.

Wander through Jardines de Pereda (Pereda Gardens)

Adjacent to Centro Botín, the Jardines de Pereda offer a tranquil green escape in the heart of Santander. With tree-lined paths, shaded benches, and thoughtful sculptures tucked among the greenery, these gardens blend nature and culture effortlessly. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a relaxed picnic, or simply soaking up the atmosphere while listening to local musicians. A favorite among both residents and visitors, the park adds a serene pause to the city’s vibrant rhythm.

Visit the historic Santander Cathedral

Ready to step into a real-life time capsule? The Santander Cathedral is unlike any other, two Gothic churches stacked one on top of the other, making it a true feast for architecture lovers. This layered masterpiece has withstood floods, fires (including the devastating one of 1941), and centuries of transformation. As you wander through its towering naves and down into its ancient crypts, you’re not just visiting a religious site, you’re walking through the living history of Santander.

Relax on El Sardinero beach

Craving that classic beach moment? El Sardinero delivers with golden sand, gentle waves, and just the right dose of old-school charm. Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply watch the sea shimmer as the sun sets, this beach has something for everyone. Framed by elegant 19th-century villas and breezy seaside cafés, it captures the timeless coastal vibe that makes Santander so special. Pack a towel, grab an ice cream, and make like a local, you’re in for a relaxing treat.

Stroll through La Magdalena Palace

Looking for a place where nature and history come together with sea views? The Magdalena Peninsula is your spot. This scenic headland is home to the Palacio de la Magdalena, a grand royal residence built between 1908 and 1912 for the Spanish royal family as a summer retreat. Today, it’s one of Santander’s most iconic landmarks. Wander along cliffside trails, discover hidden beaches like Playa de los Bikinis, and soak up panoramic views over the Bay of Santander. With its blend of lighthouses, sandy coves, and stately architecture, this is the kind of place where you’ll want to linger, camera in hand and sea breeze in your hair.

Immerse yourself in nautical history at the Maritime Museum

Want to dive into Santander’s maritime soul? The Maritime Museum is the perfect place to start. This family-friendly spot celebrates the region’s deep connection to the sea, with exhibits ranging from local marine life and historical navigation tools to beautifully crafted model ships and tales of early exploration. It’s not just about boats, it’s about understanding how the Cantabrian coast has shaped the people, culture, and economy of northern Spain. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just love a good sea story, this museum offers a fun, educational look into life by the water.

Admire the view from Playa de Mataleñas

Tucked behind Cabo Mayor, Playa de Mataleñas is one of Santander’s best-kept secrets, and well worth the effort to reach. This stunning beach, known for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, is nestled in a small cove that feels worlds away from the city. You’ll get there via a steep but scenic path that rewards you with sweeping views over the Bay of Biscay and the Santander coastline. It’s a favorite among locals for its peaceful vibe, crystal-clear water, and natural setting. Pack your towel, wear good shoes, and get ready for one of the most rewarding beach escapes in town.

Discover Plaza Porticada and Plaza de Cañadío

Step into Plaza Porticada, the cultural and architectural heart of Santander, rebuilt with elegance after the devastating fire of 1941. Once the stage for summer concerts and classical performances, this lively square still pulses with city life, surrounded by stately arcades and steeped in history. Plaza de Cañadío offers a different rhythm, buzzing with vibrant nightlife, cozy cafés, local brews, and plates of irresistible tapas. Whether you’re into grand facades or late-night bites, these twin plazas give you a taste of both Santander’s resilience and its easygoing charm.

Visit Esperanza Market behind the town hall

Tucked just behind Santander’s town hall, Mercado de la Esperanza is a lively, flavor-packed stop that brings the city’s food culture to life. Inside this striking iron-and-glass building, you’ll find stalls overflowing with fresh fish, squid, artisan cheeses, and all the local staples that make Cantabrian cuisine so irresistible. Whether you’re picking up picnic ingredients or sampling tapas on the spot, it’s a warm and welcoming place to feel the heartbeat of the city, and maybe chat with a few locals while you’re at it.

Visit the most iconic beaches of Santander Spain

Playa de los Peligros
Just a short walk from central Santander, Playa de los Peligros is a calm, family-friendly beach perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Sheltered by the bay, its gentle waters make it ideal for swimming, especially with kids. With soft golden sand, a scenic promenade, and views of the Magdalena Peninsula, it’s a great spot to unwind without straying far from the city buzz. Despite its name, “Beach of Dangers,” it’s one of the safest and most accessible beaches in Santander.

Playa del Camello
Playa del Camello is one of Santander’s most iconic beaches, known for the camel-shaped rock formation that gives it its name. Located near the Magdalena Peninsula, this beach offers soft sand, shallow waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing or a casual swim. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s a picturesque spot that blends natural charm with urban convenience.

What are the best things to do around Santander Spain?

Explore the wine vineyards of Cantabria

Just a 30-minute drive from Santander lands you in the heart of Cantabria’s lush wine country, a hidden gem in northern Spain. This green, sea-kissed region is dotted with boutique vineyards nestled among rolling hills and charming villages. Join one of Winalist’s Cantabria Wine Tours to explore family-run estates offering guided tastings, atmospheric cellar visits, and delicious pairings with locally caught fish and artisanal cheeses. While often overlooked compared to larger wineries in Spain, Cantabria’s vineyards offer a more intimate, authentic experience. It’s one of the best day trips from Santander, where wine, culture, and countryside come together beautifully. And don’t forget your camera, the views are as rewarding as the wines.

Admire the maritime views at Cabo Mayor lighthouse

Just a 15-minute drive from central Santander, Cabo Mayor is a dramatic headland where rugged cliffs meet sweeping ocean views. At its edge stands the Faro de Cabo Mayor, a striking lighthouse perched high above the Bay of Santander, offering one of the most panoramic vistas in the region. Walk the cliffside paths facing the untamed Cantabrian Sea, where crashing waves and salty breezes provide a refreshing escape from city life. Follow the trails to Playa de Mataleñas, a secluded golden-sand beach nestled between cliffs. Whether you’re chasing the perfect sunset shot or simply craving a moment of quiet, Cabo Mayor delivers a memorable coastal pause just minutes from the city.

Drive to Torrelavega

Just 25 minutes inland from Santander, a drive to Torrelavega offers a glimpse into Cantabria’s local life beyond the coastline. Known for its bustling markets, traditional eateries, and authentic northern Spanish charm, Torrelavega is a working city with a strong cultural identity. Wander through the Mercado Nacional de Ganados, one of Spain’s largest livestock markets, or walk the town center for local pastries, artisan shops, and lively cafés. It’s a great stop for travelers looking to experience a different side of Cantabria, where tradition and community come before the tourist trail.

Discover our team’s new guide on the best things to do in Torrelavega!

Discover modern art in Nearby Bilbao

While Bilbao is about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, you can rent one from Santander, it makes for a rewarding day trip for those looking to broaden their cultural horizons. Home to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, Bilbao offers a striking contrast to Santander’s own Centro Botín, crafted by Pritzker Prize-winner Renzo Piano. The city blends Gothic roots with bold modern design, making it a dream for architecture and art lovers. Beyond its visual appeal, Bilbao is also a rising star in the world of gastronomy and wine. Consider adding a Bilbao wine tour to your itinerary to experience the region’s culinary richness firsthand. From relaxed waterfront strolls to immersive cultural encounters, northern Spain delivers depth, flavor, and inspiration at every turn.

Complete your trip with our best tips on the top things to do in Bilbao!

Good to Know before visiting Santander Spain