Santander, located in the Cantabria region in northern Spain, feels like something out of a fairy tale. Known as “the bride of the sea,” this charming city is a perfect blend of nature, history, and modernity. Its bay, one of the most beautiful in the world, is surrounded by green mountains and long stretches of white sandy beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
With this green guide, we set out to discover Santander, exploring the sights, the most beautiful beaches, must-see green itineraries, and eco-friendly stops for a sustainable vacation. Are you ready to start?
City of Kings and Fishermen
Santander has a long history as a holiday destination for the kings of Spain, with its magnificent buildings reflecting this aristocratic past. At the same time, it is a city of fishermen, with a maritime tradition still alive in the fishermen’s quarter, where you can enjoy typical dishes like rabas (fried squid), maganos encebollados (squid with onions), and clams à la marinera. This blend of aristocratic culture and maritime tradition gives the city a unique and fascinating identity.
What to See in Santander
The Historic Center: A Journey Through Time
Start your tour of Santander at the picturesque Pereda Gardens, where the tourist office is also located. Walking through this park filled with cedars and magnolias, you enter the historic heart of the city. The center, although not very large, is perfect for a leisurely stroll along its streets, discovering monuments and soaking up a unique atmosphere. The majestic facades of the banks are among the first buildings to catch your eye, highlighting the city’s economic importance.
Continuing along Calle Hernán Cortes, you reach Plaza Porticada, an emblematic place rebuilt after the devastating fire of 1941, and now one of the liveliest spots in Santander. Nearby are the Church of Christ and the Santander Cathedral, across from the Church of the Company. It’s the perfect time to take photos and discover the legends that tell the origins of the city.
Walking along Calle Juan de Herrera, you arrive at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where the lively local atmosphere invites a pause on the benches. From here, it’s easy to reach the MAS (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Santander and Cantabria) and the Menéndez Pelayo House-Museum, dedicated to the renowned local intellectual.
For an authentic experience, visit the Mercado del Este, renowned for the quality of its fresh fish and the variety of local products. At any bar in the market, you’ll find the counters piled high with delicious small dishes: these are the tapas.
These gourmet snacks come in numerous variations, showcasing the region’s abundance of fresh products. For example, anchovies, green peppers and olives, grilled shrimp, cheese, calamari, stuffed peppers, cod, and much more. Everywhere you go, you’ll find imaginative creations that will change your idea of a bar snack!
Contemporary Art and Architecture at the Botin Center Botin Center, Santander
The Botin Center, designed by architect Renzo Piano, is an example of how contemporary art and cutting-edge architecture can perfectly integrate into the urban fabric of a city. This cultural center is a landmark for art lovers and offers a rich program of exhibitions and events.
Take the elevator to the panoramic terrace for a free view of the city and the sea. A fun fact: the elevator includes an art installation that makes the short ride enjoyable!
Next to the Botin Center, don’t miss the sculpture “Los Raqueros,” depicting children diving into the water, a tribute to the young boys who once collected coins in the bay.
Discover Maritime Santander
Santander is perfect for nature and sea lovers. To explore its natural wonders, you can start with the beautiful Magdalena Peninsula. This area, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, is a unique combination of history and natural beauty. Before entering the large Magdalena Park, walk along Via Horadada to enjoy a spectacular view of La Torre Island and the Horadada Rocks. The peninsula, covering about 25 hectares, can be explored on foot or by a convenient tourist train.
Continuing the walk, you’ll reach Bikini Beach, where the Royal Pier is located, and a little further on, the Cerda Lighthouse. This scenic route culminates with the majestic Magdalena Palace, a city symbol located at the top of the peninsula. Here, in addition to enjoying a breathtaking view of the bay, you can admire three historical galleons and a reproduction of the raft used by local explorer Vital Alsar to cross the Pacific Ocean in 1970.
The Magdalena Palace, located on the peninsula of the same name, is the symbol of the city and offers a breathtaking view of the bay. Photo via Canva PRO Continuing along Avenida de la Reina Victoria towards Plaza de Italia, you’ll find the Grand Casino, built in 1916, which dominates the scene with its elegant architecture. This is the perfect place for a relaxing lunch at one of the many outdoor bars with a view of the beach, caressed by the sea breeze.
For a perfect souvenir photo, head to Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, a 30-meter tall lighthouse situated on towering cliffs. From here, the sunset over the Cantabrian Sea is an unforgettable sight.
Surf and Relax on the Beach
The numerous beaches in Santander, such as El Sardinero, El Camello, Mataleñas, La Concha, and Los Peligros, offer the opportunity to enjoy the sun and sea surrounded by unique landscapes. Some of these are easily accessible by boat from Santander (this option is convenient to avoid car travel and the difficulty of finding parking).
With their long stretches of golden sand and waves perfect for surfing, Santander’s beaches are the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon, even for children and families.
Green Itineraries and Nature
For nature and hiking enthusiasts, the surroundings of Santander offer unforgettable walks. The green landscape of the Cantabrian coast, with eucalyptus and maritime pine forests, flowery meadows, and dunes extending to the sea, will give you unforgettable views. Natural reserves, such as the Dunes of Liencres, are perfect for walking or cycling, offering panoramic views of the sea and total immersion in nature.
Where to Stay: Eco-Friendly Options
To make your stay eco-friendly, opt for sustainable accommodation, such as this eco-friendly apartment located in the upper part of the city, with a spectacular view of the bay. In addition to ensuring comfort and tranquility, it is managed with eco-friendly practices, such as the use of 100% renewable energy, waste separation, the choice of second-hand furniture, and a bicycle rental service for guests.
Santander is a city of many facets, where history, nature, and modernity meet in perfect harmony. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, a family vacation, or an adventure in nature, Santander is the ideal destination for your sustainable vacation. What are you waiting for to plan your trip and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this unique city?
Cover image: aerial view of Santander, photo via Canva PRO
