Santillana del Mar Spain: Complete Travel Guide and Best Things to See

Planning a trip to Santillana del Mar Spain? This medieval village in Cantabria—often ranked among Spain’s most beautiful—preserves exceptional historic and artistic heritage. In this complete guide you’ll find the must-see sights, a handy map, practical tips, and an easy itinerary so you know exactly what to see and how to make the most of every corner.

Set on the western coast of Cantabria, Santillana del Mar dazzles with cobbled streets, heraldic mansions, and the imposing Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, protected as a Historic-Artistic Site since 1886. For me—after countless childhood afternoons here savoring sobaos and fresh milk—time in Santillana del Mar feels simply suspended.

Known as the “town of three lies” (it’s neither saintly, flat, nor by the sea), the truth is that Santillana del Mar wins you over with its medieval layout—sloping cobbled streets and intricate architectural details from the very first step. Wear comfortable shoes and let yourself be guided: a private walking tour of Santillana del Mar is the best way to uncover its stories and legends.

Less than 2 km from town you’ll find the Altamira Museum and Cave (UNESCO World Heritage), an essential stop to understand the area’s millennia-old history. And this is just the start—keep reading to discover the best places to see in Santillana del Mar and plan an unforgettable visit.

Parking in Santillana del Mar Spain

If you’re on a road trip around Cantabria, we recommend parking at the Plaza del Rey car park in Santillana del Mar Spain. Right in front there’s a bus stop with service to Santander, though schedules are limited and not very convenient. You can book a guided excursion from Santander to Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Neocave.

If you don’t have a car, a convenient option is to take the train to Torrelavega, where a bus line with more frequent service departs from the same station. However, to enjoy more freedom, consider renting a car so you can explore the area without relying on public transport schedules.

Best Things to See in Santillana del Mar

1. Regina Coeli Diocesan Museum

Just a few steps from the parking area, on the outskirts of the village, stands the Regina Coeli Convent (“Queen of Heaven”), home to Spain’s first diocesan museum.

It houses more than 800 pieces—statues, paintings, and other ecclesiastical objects—mostly from Cantabrian parishes. After the Second Vatican Council, these works were removed and placed here to preserve them when new guidelines called for greater religious simplicity.

Alongside pieces from churches in the Diocese of Santander, the museum also displays numerous colonial-era works from the Philippines, Mexico, and Peru, crafted in silver, ivory, and silk.

Built in the 17th century, the building was the first Dominican convent in Cantabria and once sheltered Poor Clare nuns from the Santa Clara convent in Medina del Pomar and the Santa Cruz convent in Santander.

2. Historic Center of Santillana del Mar Spain

Wooden balconies and family coats of arms decorate the mountain-style mansions that line the cobbled streets of one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. All of Santillana del Mar Spain is essentially an open-air historic center, where every stone corner transports you back to the Middle Ages.

The layout of the two main streets—where the most important buildings stand—forms a shape reminiscent of a horseshoe.

Right before the junction of these streets stands one of the town’s most elegant buildings, the Peredo-Barreda Palace, once owned by descendants of the Marquise of Benemejís. Today it houses a Caja Cantabria cultural center, where you can visit temporary exhibitions and a beautiful inner garden that once hosted King Alfonso XIII on summer holidays.

Before entering the old Calle del Rey—now split into Carrera, Cantón, and Río Streets—make a stop at the Casa de los Villa. Its striking façade features two large round windows flanking the main door and wrought-iron balcony pulpits. Originally a defensive tower later expanded, it now belongs to the Santillana del Mar Town Hall and is open to visitors.

On Carrera Street, you’ll find the Velarde Tower, a 15th-century house-tower that nearly blends in but stands out for its two Gothic-arched doorways.

On Cantón Street stands the Hotel Casa del Marqués*****, set in the 15th-century House of Leonor de la Vega. Tradition claims it was home to the first Marquis of Santillana and possibly his mother, though the construction dates of this palatial house—distinguished by three Gothic coats of arms—don’t fully support that legend.

On Río Street awaits the town’s most striking coat of arms: the one on the House of The Villa, also known as Casa de los Hombrones. Enormous in size and bearing the Villa family crest with the motto “Un buen morir es honra de la vida” (“A good death is the honor of life”), it draws the eye of every passerby.

In Santillana del Mar, coats of arms are everywhere: once the capital of the Merindad de Asturias de Santillana, it served as a refuge for powerful noble families. Many residents were hidalgos who displayed their heraldry on palace façades. Quick tip: a helmet signifies nobility, while mermaids or tritons indicate a colonial connection to the Americas.

3. Plaza Abad Francisco Navarro

We arrive at the square—the heart of Santillana del Mar Spain—where the imposing Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana stands, arguably the most Instagram-worthy spot in the entire village.

At the foot of the church stand three noble palaces between Río Street and the square. On one side are the Quevedo and Cossío houses, now joined together. This spot—famous for the Casa Quevedo stand selling traditional sweets and for the Cossío coat of arms adorned with tritons—is a favorite meeting place for both locals and visitors.

The stone-arched tunnel running through Casa Quevedo originally served as a drain for the spring beside the 16th-century washhouse and watering trough in the square, as well as for the small stream that gave Río Street its name.

On the opposite side of the square, the former residence of Archduchess Margaret of Austria is now the Museo del Barquillero, a must-see stop in Santillana del Mar.

The museum—once popular with both children and adults—formerly featured a first-floor collection of traditional antique toys, though this exhibit has now been removed by the owners. It still offers a wide variety of sweets, including gluten-free options.

In the same spot stands the notable Jesús Otero Museum. Since opening in 1994, this cultural space has showcased the local artist’s outdoor sculptures and hosts temporary exhibitions by talented contemporary artists. Immerse yourself in Jesús Otero’s work and enjoy the captivating displays the museum offers visitors.

4. Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana

The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, which gives Santillana del Mar Spain its name, has always been the heart of this charming village. This Romanesque monument, declared a National Monument in 1889, is one of the most important landmarks in northern Spain.

Since the 9th century, the Monastery of Santa Juliana has shaped the history of the village. Originally a small hermitage built by monks to house the relics of young Juliana of Nicomedia—martyred in 3rd-century Turkey—it evolved into the prestigious collegiate church by the 12th century.

Looks like Santillana del Mar does have a touch of the “saintly” after all, don’t you think?

A visit to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana reveals fascinating details, from the cattle grid at the entrance to the checkerboard pattern of the Camino de Santiago, since this site lies along the Northern Route.

Inside the church you’ll find treasures such as the Flemish-influenced main altarpiece, remnants of the lost façade, a 12th-century baptismal font, and the tomb of Saint Juliana. Admire the 42 capitals of the Romanesque cloister—considered the finest in the Cantabrian range—carved with scenes of daily life, biblical stories, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, featuring both real and mythical creatures.

To uncover all the secrets of this landmark and the rest of the village, we recommend the full Santillana del Mar tour—the perfect way to make the most of your visit. It’s the very heart of the town and an essential stop when exploring what to see in Santillana del Mar.

5. Velarde Palace

After exploring the collegiate church, take a stroll toward Plaza de las Arenas, where you’ll be impressed by the imposing Velarde Palace—a magnificent Renaissance residence also known as the Palacio de las Arenas, named for the square in which it stands.

This magnificent building, erected by Alonso Velarde in the mid-16th century, stands out for the coats of arms, balconies, and pinnacles decorating its façade. Now converted into a museum dedicated to the Velarde lineage and other notable residents, it has welcomed visitors since March 2023.

Step inside to explore the rich history of the Velarde family and other nobles who left their mark on this palace.alacio. 

6. Plaza Mayor de Ramón Pelayo

Also known as Plaza del Mercado, this was the second square created in Santillana del Mar Spain to accommodate population growth and the need for a merino after the establishment of the Merindad de Asturias de Santillana. Here you’ll find an impressive architectural mix ranging from medieval structures to Renaissance, Baroque, and later styles.

The Casa de la Parra, a building from the early 16th century, takes its name from a grapevine that once draped its façade. It shows clear Gothic influence in the pointed window arches and Renaissance touches in the pinnacles crowning the structure. In the 17th century it was joined to the Casa del Águila, recognizable by the Estrada y Tagle coat of arms on its façade.

Today, both houses serve as an exhibition hall run by the Government of Cantabria, where you can learn about the Vijanera festival, a pagan celebration declared of National Tourist Interest. To experience Spain’s first carnival of the year, visit Silió in Cantabria on the first Sunday of January.

In front of them stands the sculpture “Santillana al Hombre de Altamira,” another striking work by artist Jesús Otero.

In the Plaza Mayor, you’ll also find the two most important medieval towers of Santillana del Mar Spain: the Merino Tower, the oldest, which housed the King’s representative starting in 1209 when the village was the capital of the Asturias de Santillana; and the Torre de Don Borja, a 15th-century tower that now hosts the Santillana Foundation and year-round cultural events.

The Casa del Cura, with its balcony overflowing with colorful flowers, also catches the eye of visitors.

On the opposite side of the square stands a stately 17th-century house that once belonged to the Barreda-Bracho family and was converted into the Parador Nacional Gil Blas in 1944. Named after the local stable boy who inspired the French novel The History of Gil Blas of Santillana, the parador’s café also offers gluten-free options.

And finally, the Town Hall of Santillana del Mar, a Baroque building where the flags of Le Dorat (France) and Borgolavezzaro (Italy) fly alongside those of Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, Spain, and the European Union. These twinning honors reflect their shared heritage: Le Dorat for its similar collegiate church and Borgolavezzaro for preserving relics of Saint Juliana.

7. Museum of Torture

As proof that there’s plenty to explore in Santillana del Mar Spain, you’ll find the Museum of Torture. It houses more than fifty instruments once used for punishment and capital execution across Europe, from the Middle Ages through the Industrial era.

However, it’s not recommended for children because of its grim subject matter, nor for visitors with limited mobility, as a long flight of stairs beyond the first room is unavoidable.

8. Convent of San Ildefonso

And back near the Diocesan Museum, you’ll find the Convent of San Ildefonso. Here, Dominican nuns once sheltered young women from the prominent families of the village and the surrounding region.

The Poor Clare nuns, originally based in the Diocesan Museum, moved into the building in 2007 seeking greater peace and quiet after the Dominican sisters left the village.

One of its treasures is a large Filipino ivory Christ from the early 18th century that dominates the main altar. However, the convent is better known for the exquisite handmade sweets the nuns craft and sell inside the enclosure.

They’re a delight for both the eyes and the palate—treats you definitely shouldn’t miss. perderte.

To bid farewell to Santillana del Mar Spain, stop by the Casa de los Tagle, where a spectacular coat of arms provides the perfect finale to your visit. It’s located in Campo Revolgo, just a short walk from the parking area and the bus stop.

Did you think the journey ended here? Not a chance! Santillana del Mar Spain still has plenty more to see and stories to tell—and the same goes for its beautiful surroundings.

9. Altamira Cave

The Altamira Cave, world-renowned for its remarkable prehistoric paintings, is often called the “Sistine Chapel of Rock Art.” Would you really leave without seeing it?

Located less than 2 kilometers from Santillana del Mar Spain, this cave represents the pinnacle of Upper Paleolithic art and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovered in 1875 by Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, grandfather of banker Emilio Botín, the Altamira Cave contains bison paintings created about 14,500 years ago using red and black pigments.

These masterpieces showcase the artistic genius of our ancestors, who used the natural rock contours to create three-dimensional figures, forming a unique polychrome chamber known as the “Sistine Chapel of Rock Art.” Some of the earliest paintings in the cave date back about 36,000 years.

Although the original cave is closed to protect its paintings, you can visit the Altamira Neocave, a 2001 replica that faithfully recreates the original chambers and offers a fascinating experience for visitors. Be sure to explore the Altamira Museum as well, which houses more than 400 archaeological artifacts, including prehistoric sewing needles.

The Altamira Neocave and Museum provide a complete experience for understanding prehistoric life.

Cantabria has served as the backdrop for various international productions, from The Others to Primos, showcasing the region’s beauty on the big screen. The Altamira Neocave, for example, appeared in the film Altamira starring Antonio Banderas.

Also read: Cueva El Soplao: aventura minera

Also read: Cueva del Moro Chufín

Best Day Trips and Places to Visit Near Santillana del Mar Spain

As you can see, Santillana del Mar Spain is a true treasure trove—rich in culture, history, and unique experiences. Take your time to enjoy the village in depth and, if you can, explore its beautiful surroundings too.

The best way to see all the places we recommend is on a road trip around Cantabria. You’ll have the freedom to set your own pace and reach spots that organized tours often skip—perfect for exploring beyond Santillana del Mar Spain.

UBIARCO

As promised, here’s the second myth-buster: Santillana del Mar Spain does have access to the sea—at Santa Justa Beach. Located about 9 km from the village, near Ubiarco, it’s one of the area’s best-kept secrets.

It’s a small sandy cove tucked beneath a cliff—an authentic gem in the Onzapera inlet near Santillana del Mar Spain. Beyond its natural beauty, you’ll be wowed by a unique hermitage built right into the rocks.

COMILLAS

Halfway between Santillana del Mar Spain and San Vicente de la Barquera lies Gaudí’s Capricho, in Comillas—a unique building that stands among Cantabria’s great architectural gems in one of its most beautiful towns.

CÓBRECES

If you’re after a quieter spot away from the crowds, head to the El Bolao cliffs in Cóbreces—an easy add-on from Santillana del Mar Spain. The town is known for the Cistercian Abbey of Santa María de Viaceli, where butter and cheeses are made, and for its excellent local lemons. The sweeping coastal views from El Bolao are simply breathtaking.

SUANCES

Another nearby spot worth visiting is El Sable Beach in Tagle, close to Suances. Completely wild and sheltered by surrounding cliffs, this beach is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

LIENCRES

Our beautiful province holds countless secrets, and you’ll need more than one trip to uncover them all. On the way from Santillana del Mar to Santander, you can also explore the Liencres Dunes Natural Park, which features two beaches, several coves, and a fragrant pine forest—a truly spectacular natural setting.

SANTANDER

And as the grand finale, Santander—Cantabria’s capital—offers endless things to see and do. The city perfectly blends sunny beach tourism with rich historical and cultural heritage.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Santillana del Mar

Can it get any better? Absolutely. Before we go, here’s our shortlist of the best places to eat on Cantabria’s western coast—with gluten-free options and menus for travelers like us who need them.

We’re incredibly proud of what our region offers—and of the places we’ve personally discovered. We can’t wait to share them so you can enjoy an unforgettable gluten-free experience in and around Santillana del Mar.

La Villa

Address: Plaza Gándara, 1, Santillana del Mar

A gluten-free flavor showcase in the heart of Santillana del Mar Spain. The small dining room belies a big menu—100% safe for celiacs—with all the classic dishes from Cantabria. ACECAN certified.

Restaurante Conde

Address: Juan Infante,18. Santillana del Mar

A cozy eatery with a back terrace. Numerous dishes can be prepared gluten-free—don’t miss their tasty skillet specialties. They also offer gluten-free beer, but keep in mind they don’t take reservations.

Las Quintas  

Address: C/. Juan Infante, 20, Santillana del Mar

The best gluten-free bakery and patisserie in Cantabria—right on one of the village’s main streets. Taste classic local sweets like sobaos pasiegos, biscuits, pastries, cakes, and even Roscón de Reyes—all made in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.

And that wraps up our journey through the marvelous Santillana del Mar Spain—a corner steeped in history, culture, and beauty that has guided us along its cobbled streets and stately ancestral homes.

Any time is perfect to visit. Strolling through Santillana del Marin summer is a joy, with every shop and café in full swing, though it’s also the busiest season.

If you don’t mind the cold, consider visiting at Christmas. Santillana del Mar’s Three Kings Parade, with a 50-year history, was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2009. This eight-scene pageant lasts about two hours and is truly enchanting.

There’s also a Nativity scene contest that draws participants from across the municipality. It’s a time of year celebrated with special excitement by all the locals.

Ready to venture beyond the walls of Santillana del Mar? For those wishing to extend their trip, Cantabria unfolds a wealth of natural and architectural treasures waiting to be explored.

Get ready to embark on a journey that awakens all the senses—and be sure to share your experience with us. Until the next stop!

Interactive Map of Santillana del Mar Spain: All the Must-See Sights