Santander Holidays

Nestled on Spain's northern coast is the captivating city of Santander, the capital of Cantabria. Known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and a delicious seafood-dominated palette, Santander is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveller.

With an alluring mix of breath-taking beaches, fascinating tourist attractions, and a bustling port that directly connects with the United Kingdom, Santander offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure that sets it apart from your average Spanish city. Whether you're a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a beach lover, rest assured, you've landed in the right place.

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Things to See and Do

Santander is a city that radiates cultural charm and historical grandeur. From its Gothic cathedrals and maritime museums to sculptures that tell tales of the past, Santander offers a myriad of attractions that showcase the city's rich tapestry of history and culture. Here's a glimpse of the treasures that await your exploration.

Catedral de Santander

Take a walk through history at the Catedral de Santander. This grandiose cathedral consists of two sections dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Don't miss the cathedral's cloister which is home to the tomb of Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo.

Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico

Experience the rich seafaring history of Cantabria at the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. Exhibits spread across four floors including a 60-tonne whale skeleton will provide an immersive maritime journey.

Los Raqueros

Discover the fascinating world of Los Raqueros, sculptures that pay homage to Santander's children who roamed the docks in search of valuable finds. The sculptures located near Paseo de Pereda will give you a glimpse into the city's gritty past.

Lighthouse of Cabo Mayor

Marvel at the beauty of Santander's lighthouse, the Lighthouse of Cabo Mayor. The lighthouse offers an excellent viewpoint to soak in the stunning vistas of the city.

Racing de Santander

If you're a fan of football, make sure to check out a match of Racing de Santander, the city’s popular football team. The intensity of the game coupled with the pulsating environment in the stadium makes it a must-try experience.

Food and Drink

Delight in the scrumptious seafood in Santander. Whether jumbo prawns cooked in garlic or a hearty bean stew with bits of seafood, make sure to ask your local restaurant owner for their daily specials.

Fried Calamari

Dive into the world of local cuisine with fried calamari, a popular Santander delicacy. These tender, juicy rings of battered squid are the perfect beachside snack or tapas bar entry.

Cocido Montañés

Try cocido montañés, a traditional Cantabrian stew, which offers a culmination of flavours that is hard to resist. Savour this meat and bean stew on a cool evening in a cosy local restaurant.

Craft Breweries

Does a tipple take your fancy? Santander offers a variety of craft breweries – perfect for a pint after a long day of sightseeing.

Sobao Pasiego

Rounding off your meal with the region’s famous sobao pasiego, a delightfully sweet and buttery cake, is a great way to end your culinary exploration of Santander.

Destination Essentials

Santander extends a warm invitation to visitors all year round. The city tends to shimmer in the summer months, where you can soak up the sun as you explore its myriad attractions and beautiful beaches.

For a quieter getaway, you might prefer visiting between April to June or September to November when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. With an excellent transport network that includes rail, air, and direct ferry services from the UK, your journey to Santander promises to be as enjoyable as the stay itself.

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