What to See in Santander in 1 Day — Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Santander is the capital of Cantabria on Spain's northern coast. The city blends elegant Belle Époque buildings with beautiful Bay of Biscay beaches. After a major fire in 1941 destroyed its medieval center, Santander rebuilt itself into a modern and welcoming place. The Palacio de la Magdalena sits on a green peninsula overlooking the bay, and the two El Sardinero beaches are among the best in northern Spain. Santander also has top cultural spots like the Centro Botín, designed by Renzo Piano, a rebuilt Gothic cathedral, and lively tapas bars serving fresh seafood. Its maritime history, royal ties, and true northern Spanish feel make it a great alternative to crowded Mediterranean cities. You can walk along the waterfront, try rabas (fried squid) in local taverns, or visit prehistoric caves nearby. This Freetour.com guide will help you find the city's main sights, best food, and hidden gems, with helpful tips for each stop.
Must-see sights: Palacio de la Magdalena, Playa del Sardinero, Centro Botín, Santander Cathedral, Península de la Magdalena
Typical daily budget: €45–70 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: June–September
Famous for: El Sardinero beaches, Palacio de la Magdalena, rabas, anchovies, Centro Botín, royal summer residence
Top tours: Free Tour Santander in Flames, Free Tour Santander Novia del Mar, Criminal Tour: Santander Under Summary Secret
Begin your exploration at the Palacio de la Magdalena, Santander's most emblematic monument and former royal summer residence. Built between 1908 and 1912, this English-style palace was a gift from the city to King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia, attracting the European elite and positioning Santander as a high-class destination. The palace served various functions throughout history, including a hospital, temporary housing for 1941 fire victims, and a university campus.
Today, you can visit the inside of the palace on a guided tour that takes about 45 minutes. The Península de la Magdalena around the palace has green parks, walking paths, meadows, and pine trees, all stretching out into the Bay of Biscay. You’ll also find a small zoo, a lighthouse, and great spots to enjoy the views. On the south side of the peninsula, Playa de los Bikinis and Playa de la Magdalena are two nice beaches for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Practical Info: Palace guided tours Mon-Fri 11:00am-1:00pm & 4:00pm-6:00pm, Sat-Sun 10:00am-10:45am, 11:00am-11:45am, 12:00pm-12:45pm; Tours last ~45 min; Entry €6 general; Book in advance, especially summer; Peninsula grounds open daily free; Allow 2-3 hours total.
Playa del Sardinero is Santander’s most famous beach and a highlight of the city. It’s a long, curved stretch of golden sand with beautiful Belle Époque buildings behind it, giving the area a classic seaside feel. The beach is actually two parts, Primera (First) and Segunda (Second) Sardinero, separated by rocks. Together, they run for more than a kilometer and have great facilities, calm water, and amazing views of the bay. You can still see the area’s elegant past in the grand hotels and the casino along the shore.
Between the two Sardinero beaches, you’ll find the Jardines de Piquío, neat gardens on the cliffs with great sunset views. The promenade along the beach is perfect for a walk and links to many restaurants and cafés.
Practical Info: Beaches have free access year-round; Facilities include lifeguards (summer), showers, changing rooms, parasol/lounger rentals; Best swimming June-September; Allow 2-3 hours.
Explore Santander Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción), a Gothic monument rebuilt after the 1941 fire. The cathedral complex consists of two churches built atop each other—the lower Iglesia del Cristo dating to the 13th century and the upper cathedral. The lower church's crypt houses the relics of Santander's patron saints, the martyrs Emeterius and Celedonius. Though largely reconstructed following fire damage, the cathedral preserves medieval elements, including Gothic arches and archaeological foundations.
Practical Info: Open Mon-Sat 10:00am-7:30pm, Sun/holidays 10:00am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-7:30pm; Guided tours €3 general, FREE children under 12; Mass schedules vary; Allow 45 minutes.
Centro Botín is a modern cultural center designed by Renzo Piano, who won the Pritzker Prize. It opened in 2017 and seems to float above the Bay of Santander on thin supports, with shiny surfaces and walkways that give it a unique look. Inside, you’ll find changing art exhibits, cultural events, and educational activities. The terraces offer wide views of the bay that are just as impressive as the art inside.
Practical Info: Check current exhibition hours and admission on the official website; Generally Tue-Sun; Exhibitions require tickets; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Paseo de Pereda is a stylish walkway along the water, lined with grand buildings, gardens, and monuments. Look for the Los Raqueros statues, which honor orphans who used to dive for coins. The Palacete del Embarcadero, built in 1932, also offers free art exhibits.
Plaza Porticada — Santander's main square, rebuilt after the 1941 fire with arcaded buildings in regional style, serving as the city's commercial heart.
Mercado de la Esperanza — Beautiful covered market offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties with an authentic atmosphere.
Cabo Mayor Lighthouse — Dramatic lighthouse perched on cliffs northwest of the city, offering panoramic coastal views and sunset-watching.
Interpretation Center of the History of the City — Museum documenting Santander's history, including extensive exhibits about the devastating 1941 fire.
Santander's cuisine centers on exceptional Cantabrian seafood fresh from the Bay of Biscay. Rabas—deep-fried squid rings—are Santander's quintessential tapa, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The best rabas come from magano or peludín squid varieties, served piping hot with lemon. La Bombi in Santander serves legendary rabas with bay views.
Anchoas de Santoña (Santoña anchovies) from the nearby coastal town rank among Spain's finest tinned fish. These anchovies are carefully salted and preserved in olive oil, delivering intense umami flavor. Cantabrian anchovies increasingly command premium prices reflecting their quality. Try them at Bodega del Riojano or Solorzano paired with local white wine.
Pulpo (octopus) is often grilled or used in salads. Cocido montañés offers a hearty bean-and-pork stew perfect for cooler weather. Marmita de bonito showcases tuna with potatoes and peppers, while chipirones en su tinta (small squid in ink) served with white rice delivers classic Cantabrian flavors. Fresh merluza en salsa verde (hake in green sauce) represents another regional specialty. Popular tapas neighborhoods include areas around Plaza Pombo, Calle Hernán Cortés, and waterfront districts. Expect €3-6 per tapa; a proper crawl costs €15-30. Traditional taverns like Casa Lita, Las Hijas de Florencio, and Rampalay (offering 30+ pincho varieties) deliver authentic experiences.
Free Tour Santander in Flames — Duration: 2h 30min | Starting at Ayuntamiento de Santander. Discover the center of Cantabria's capital and the Great Fire of 1941 that modified the city's structure and way of life. Enjoy a different itinerary through representative monuments from a catastrophic perspective. The official guide, an expert in urban planning and natural hazards, provides a fun visit exploring the worst that Santander has experienced. Rated #1 route in the city on TripAdvisor. The guide wears white and orange corporate clothing with Experienta's orange umbrella. Spanish language. Reservations are required, especially during the high season. Tip-based.
Free Tour Santander Novia del Mar — Duration: 2h 15min | Comprehensive tour of Santander's center covering the city, the bay, and its people with Cantabrian guides. Check the website for the meeting point and schedule.
Criminal Tour: Santander Under Summary Secret — Duration: 2 hours | Evening tour (7:00pm) exploring Santander's darker history, including crimes and mysteries. Entry €8. Check the website for booking details.
Explore more tours Santander.
Santander has a mild oceanic climate, with moderate temperatures and frequent rainfall year-round. Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit, with temperatures between 17 and 23°C (63-73°F), warm sea water for swimming (20°C/68°F in August), and the least rain. Still, it’s a good idea to bring rain gear. July and August are the warmest months, sometimes with hot days. Spring (May to June) is pleasant, with temperatures from 13 to 18°C (55-64°F), blooming parks, and fewer crowds, though there can be some rain. In autumn (September to November), early September is still warm enough for the beach, with temperatures from 14 to 21°C (57-70°F), but rain increases in October and November. Winter (December to February) is cooler, with temperatures from 8 to 13°C (46-55°F), frequent rain, and cloudy skies. It’s too cold for the beach, but good for exploring the city’s culture. Santander gets rain all year, especially in January, February, and November. The weather can change quickly, so always pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
Santander's origins trace to a Roman port settlement, though the city gained prominence during the Middle Ages as an important fishing harbor and commercial center. By the 19th century, Santander had become an elegant resort favored by the Spanish aristocracy. The city's fortunes soared when King Alfonso XIII chose the Palacio de la Magdalena as his summer residence in 1913, attracting the European elite.
The Great Fire of 1941 represents the defining catastrophe in Santander's history. Beginning late Saturday, February 15, 1941, the fire burned for two days, fueled by powerful southeasterly winds estimated at over 180 km/h. Starting on Cádiz Street near the docks, flames rapidly reached the cathedral on the highest ground, becoming a massive fire that spread to surrounding streets.
The destruction was massive. A total of 377 buildings were destroyed across 37 streets, covering 14 hectares. The old medieval center was almost completely lost: 1,783 homes and 508 businesses were destroyed, along with six churches and convents. About 10,000 people, or 10% of the population, lost their homes, and 7,000 people lost their jobs. Only one person died—Madrid firefighter Julián Sánchez—and 115 were injured. The fire was called "the Andalusian" because it started on Cadiz Street and ended at Seville Street.
Reconstruction lasted 25 years, transforming Santander from a medieval town into a modern city with wide commercial streets, such as Juan de Herrera, connecting the City Hall to Hernán Cortés. Today, the reconstructed cathedral and Interpretation Center preserve the memory of this catastrophic event that reshaped the city.
What can you see in Santander in one day?
Visit Palacio de la Magdalena, explore Península de la Magdalena, relax at Sardinero beaches, tour the Cathedral, see Centro Botín, stroll Paseo de Pereda.
What are the best things to do in Santander?
Explore Palacio de la Magdalena and the peninsula, enjoy beach time at El Sardinero, visit the Centro Botín art center, tour the Cathedral, enjoy seafood tapas, walk along waterfront promenades, and take free walking tours.
When is the best time to visit Santander?
June-September offers the warmest weather (17-23°C/63-73°F) and the best beach conditions; July-August is peak season; May-June or September offer good weather with fewer crowds.
What should you eat in Santander?
Try rabas (fried squid), anchoas de Santoña (premium anchovies), pulpo (octopus), cocido montañés (bean stew), chipirones en su tinta (squid in ink), merluza en salsa verde (hake).
How many days do you need in Santander?
2-3 days covers main sights and beaches; 3-4 days allows day trips to nearby caves, coastal towns, and Picos de Europa.
What happened in the 1941 Santander fire?
The devastating fire on February 15-16, 1941, destroyed the historic center—377 buildings, 37 streets, 14 hectares burned; 10,000 people were homeless; fueled by 180+ km/h winds; only 1 death but massive material damage.
Which free tours are available in Santander?
Freetour.com offers the Santander in Flames tour (2.5h exploring the history of the 1941 fire, rated #1 on TripAdvisor), the Santander Novia del Mar tour (2h 15min), and the Criminal Tour evening experience (€8).
Quick Takeaway
Must-see sights: Palacio de la Magdalena, Playa del Sardinero, Centro Botín, Santander Cathedral, Península de la Magdalena
Typical daily budget: €45–70 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: June–September
Famous for: El Sardinero beaches, Palacio de la Magdalena, rabas, anchovies, Centro Botín, royal summer residence
Top tours: Free Tour Santander in Flames, Free Tour Santander Novia del Mar, Criminal Tour: Santander Under Summary Secret
1-Day Itinerary in Santander
Palacio de la Magdalena & Península
Begin your exploration at the Palacio de la Magdalena, Santander's most emblematic monument and former royal summer residence. Built between 1908 and 1912, this English-style palace was a gift from the city to King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia, attracting the European elite and positioning Santander as a high-class destination. The palace served various functions throughout history, including a hospital, temporary housing for 1941 fire victims, and a university campus.
Today, you can visit the inside of the palace on a guided tour that takes about 45 minutes. The Península de la Magdalena around the palace has green parks, walking paths, meadows, and pine trees, all stretching out into the Bay of Biscay. You’ll also find a small zoo, a lighthouse, and great spots to enjoy the views. On the south side of the peninsula, Playa de los Bikinis and Playa de la Magdalena are two nice beaches for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Practical Info: Palace guided tours Mon-Fri 11:00am-1:00pm & 4:00pm-6:00pm, Sat-Sun 10:00am-10:45am, 11:00am-11:45am, 12:00pm-12:45pm; Tours last ~45 min; Entry €6 general; Book in advance, especially summer; Peninsula grounds open daily free; Allow 2-3 hours total.
Playa del Sardinero
Playa del Sardinero is Santander’s most famous beach and a highlight of the city. It’s a long, curved stretch of golden sand with beautiful Belle Époque buildings behind it, giving the area a classic seaside feel. The beach is actually two parts, Primera (First) and Segunda (Second) Sardinero, separated by rocks. Together, they run for more than a kilometer and have great facilities, calm water, and amazing views of the bay. You can still see the area’s elegant past in the grand hotels and the casino along the shore.
Between the two Sardinero beaches, you’ll find the Jardines de Piquío, neat gardens on the cliffs with great sunset views. The promenade along the beach is perfect for a walk and links to many restaurants and cafés.
Practical Info: Beaches have free access year-round; Facilities include lifeguards (summer), showers, changing rooms, parasol/lounger rentals; Best swimming June-September; Allow 2-3 hours.
Santander Cathedral
Explore Santander Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción), a Gothic monument rebuilt after the 1941 fire. The cathedral complex consists of two churches built atop each other—the lower Iglesia del Cristo dating to the 13th century and the upper cathedral. The lower church's crypt houses the relics of Santander's patron saints, the martyrs Emeterius and Celedonius. Though largely reconstructed following fire damage, the cathedral preserves medieval elements, including Gothic arches and archaeological foundations.
Practical Info: Open Mon-Sat 10:00am-7:30pm, Sun/holidays 10:00am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-7:30pm; Guided tours €3 general, FREE children under 12; Mass schedules vary; Allow 45 minutes.
Centro Botín
Centro Botín is a modern cultural center designed by Renzo Piano, who won the Pritzker Prize. It opened in 2017 and seems to float above the Bay of Santander on thin supports, with shiny surfaces and walkways that give it a unique look. Inside, you’ll find changing art exhibits, cultural events, and educational activities. The terraces offer wide views of the bay that are just as impressive as the art inside.
Practical Info: Check current exhibition hours and admission on the official website; Generally Tue-Sun; Exhibitions require tickets; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Major Landmarks & Museums
Paseo de Pereda is a stylish walkway along the water, lined with grand buildings, gardens, and monuments. Look for the Los Raqueros statues, which honor orphans who used to dive for coins. The Palacete del Embarcadero, built in 1932, also offers free art exhibits.
Plaza Porticada — Santander's main square, rebuilt after the 1941 fire with arcaded buildings in regional style, serving as the city's commercial heart.
Mercado de la Esperanza — Beautiful covered market offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties with an authentic atmosphere.
Cabo Mayor Lighthouse — Dramatic lighthouse perched on cliffs northwest of the city, offering panoramic coastal views and sunset-watching.
Interpretation Center of the History of the City — Museum documenting Santander's history, including extensive exhibits about the devastating 1941 fire.
Local Food & Seafood Culture
Santander's cuisine centers on exceptional Cantabrian seafood fresh from the Bay of Biscay. Rabas—deep-fried squid rings—are Santander's quintessential tapa, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The best rabas come from magano or peludín squid varieties, served piping hot with lemon. La Bombi in Santander serves legendary rabas with bay views.
Anchoas de Santoña (Santoña anchovies) from the nearby coastal town rank among Spain's finest tinned fish. These anchovies are carefully salted and preserved in olive oil, delivering intense umami flavor. Cantabrian anchovies increasingly command premium prices reflecting their quality. Try them at Bodega del Riojano or Solorzano paired with local white wine.
Pulpo (octopus) is often grilled or used in salads. Cocido montañés offers a hearty bean-and-pork stew perfect for cooler weather. Marmita de bonito showcases tuna with potatoes and peppers, while chipirones en su tinta (small squid in ink) served with white rice delivers classic Cantabrian flavors. Fresh merluza en salsa verde (hake in green sauce) represents another regional specialty. Popular tapas neighborhoods include areas around Plaza Pombo, Calle Hernán Cortés, and waterfront districts. Expect €3-6 per tapa; a proper crawl costs €15-30. Traditional taverns like Casa Lita, Las Hijas de Florencio, and Rampalay (offering 30+ pincho varieties) deliver authentic experiences.
Free Walking Tours
Free Tour Santander in Flames — Duration: 2h 30min | Starting at Ayuntamiento de Santander. Discover the center of Cantabria's capital and the Great Fire of 1941 that modified the city's structure and way of life. Enjoy a different itinerary through representative monuments from a catastrophic perspective. The official guide, an expert in urban planning and natural hazards, provides a fun visit exploring the worst that Santander has experienced. Rated #1 route in the city on TripAdvisor. The guide wears white and orange corporate clothing with Experienta's orange umbrella. Spanish language. Reservations are required, especially during the high season. Tip-based.
Free Tour Santander Novia del Mar — Duration: 2h 15min | Comprehensive tour of Santander's center covering the city, the bay, and its people with Cantabrian guides. Check the website for the meeting point and schedule.
Criminal Tour: Santander Under Summary Secret — Duration: 2 hours | Evening tour (7:00pm) exploring Santander's darker history, including crimes and mysteries. Entry €8. Check the website for booking details.
Explore more tours Santander.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Getting There: Airport 5km from center (bus, taxi); Direct trains from Madrid (4-5h), Bilbao (2.5h); Well-connected by bus
- Getting Around: Compact center walkable; Good bus network; Bike rentals available; Ample parking near beaches.
- Accommodation: Stay near Sardinero for beach access or the city center for sightseeing; Book ahead of time for July-August
- Language: Spanish spoken; Limited English outside tourist areas; Basic Spanish helpful
- Meal Times: Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm; Tapas bars busiest 8-10pm
- Safety: Very safe city; Normal precautions on crowded beaches
- Weather: Bring layers and a rain jacket, even in summer. The northern coast often gets light rain.
- Tipping: Not mandatory; Round up or 5-10% for good service; Free tours €10-15 per person
- Visit Duration: 2-3 days is ideal for main sights and beaches; 4 days allows day trips to nearby attractions
Weather in Santander
Santander has a mild oceanic climate, with moderate temperatures and frequent rainfall year-round. Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit, with temperatures between 17 and 23°C (63-73°F), warm sea water for swimming (20°C/68°F in August), and the least rain. Still, it’s a good idea to bring rain gear. July and August are the warmest months, sometimes with hot days. Spring (May to June) is pleasant, with temperatures from 13 to 18°C (55-64°F), blooming parks, and fewer crowds, though there can be some rain. In autumn (September to November), early September is still warm enough for the beach, with temperatures from 14 to 21°C (57-70°F), but rain increases in October and November. Winter (December to February) is cooler, with temperatures from 8 to 13°C (46-55°F), frequent rain, and cloudy skies. It’s too cold for the beach, but good for exploring the city’s culture. Santander gets rain all year, especially in January, February, and November. The weather can change quickly, so always pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
Short History of Santander
Santander's origins trace to a Roman port settlement, though the city gained prominence during the Middle Ages as an important fishing harbor and commercial center. By the 19th century, Santander had become an elegant resort favored by the Spanish aristocracy. The city's fortunes soared when King Alfonso XIII chose the Palacio de la Magdalena as his summer residence in 1913, attracting the European elite.
The Great Fire of 1941 represents the defining catastrophe in Santander's history. Beginning late Saturday, February 15, 1941, the fire burned for two days, fueled by powerful southeasterly winds estimated at over 180 km/h. Starting on Cádiz Street near the docks, flames rapidly reached the cathedral on the highest ground, becoming a massive fire that spread to surrounding streets.
The destruction was massive. A total of 377 buildings were destroyed across 37 streets, covering 14 hectares. The old medieval center was almost completely lost: 1,783 homes and 508 businesses were destroyed, along with six churches and convents. About 10,000 people, or 10% of the population, lost their homes, and 7,000 people lost their jobs. Only one person died—Madrid firefighter Julián Sánchez—and 115 were injured. The fire was called "the Andalusian" because it started on Cadiz Street and ended at Seville Street.
Reconstruction lasted 25 years, transforming Santander from a medieval town into a modern city with wide commercial streets, such as Juan de Herrera, connecting the City Hall to Hernán Cortés. Today, the reconstructed cathedral and Interpretation Center preserve the memory of this catastrophic event that reshaped the city.
FAQ about Santander
What can you see in Santander in one day?
Visit Palacio de la Magdalena, explore Península de la Magdalena, relax at Sardinero beaches, tour the Cathedral, see Centro Botín, stroll Paseo de Pereda.
What are the best things to do in Santander?
Explore Palacio de la Magdalena and the peninsula, enjoy beach time at El Sardinero, visit the Centro Botín art center, tour the Cathedral, enjoy seafood tapas, walk along waterfront promenades, and take free walking tours.
When is the best time to visit Santander?
June-September offers the warmest weather (17-23°C/63-73°F) and the best beach conditions; July-August is peak season; May-June or September offer good weather with fewer crowds.
What should you eat in Santander?
Try rabas (fried squid), anchoas de Santoña (premium anchovies), pulpo (octopus), cocido montañés (bean stew), chipirones en su tinta (squid in ink), merluza en salsa verde (hake).
How many days do you need in Santander?
2-3 days covers main sights and beaches; 3-4 days allows day trips to nearby caves, coastal towns, and Picos de Europa.
What happened in the 1941 Santander fire?
The devastating fire on February 15-16, 1941, destroyed the historic center—377 buildings, 37 streets, 14 hectares burned; 10,000 people were homeless; fueled by 180+ km/h winds; only 1 death but massive material damage.
Which free tours are available in Santander?
Freetour.com offers the Santander in Flames tour (2.5h exploring the history of the 1941 fire, rated #1 on TripAdvisor), the Santander Novia del Mar tour (2h 15min), and the Criminal Tour evening experience (€8).
