Visiting Santander in just one day might seem like too little time to enjoy this gem on Spain’s northern coast, but with a well-planned itinerary you can discover its most iconic spots. In this guide, you’ll find the top 10 things to do in Santander Spain in one day — from stunning beaches to its charming old town and mouth-watering local cuisine.
Bathed by the Cantabrian Sea, Santander perfectly blends elegant architecture with a modern, relaxed vibe. The deep blue of the sea and the lush green hills frame every walk through the city, which is not only a beach destination but also rich in culture, history, and local life.
As someone who’s deeply in love with Santander, I can tell you its beaches are among the most beautiful in Spain (though I still have a few left to compare!). This list gathers the very best of the city in a route you can easily explore on foot — or, if you prefer, by public transport or aboard the City Sightseeing tourist bus.
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1. Cabo Mayor Lighthouse
The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse is one of the great guardians of Cantabria’s coastline. Inaugurated in 1839, it rises majestically above dramatic cliffs that offer breathtaking views — true to its other name, Faro de Bellavista (“Beautiful View Lighthouse”).
This Santander icon marks the starting point of two unforgettable coastal walks: one towards Costa Quebrada and Liencres, where the wild landscape of cliffs and rock formations will leave you speechless; and another towards Mataleñas and El Sardinero, a gentler route that combines seaside elegance with natural beauty. In this guide, we’ll follow the path towards El Sardinero, but if you have the chance, don’t miss the Costa Quebrada trail — its panoramas are simply spectacular.
Standing 91 meters above sea level, the lighthouse not only guides sailors but also serves as a small cultural center. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions dedicated to the world of lighthouses, including works from the local artist Eduardo Sanz.
Climbing up to this privileged viewpoint overlooking the Bay of Santander is a treat for the senses: the salty sea breeze, the vastness of the Cantabrian Sea, and postcard-perfect views — especially at sunrise.
Also Read: Ruta de los Faros de Cantabria
2. Mataleñas Beach and Coastal Trail
Descending from Cabo Mayor Lighthouse along the cliffs, you’ll reach Mataleñas Beach, a hidden cove that many consider the most beautiful in Santander. Sheltered between rugged cliffs, its natural surroundings make it the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful corner away from the city’s more touristy spots.
The Mataleñas Coastal Trail borders the local golf course and leads all the way to Feygón, where the famous El Sardinero area begins. It’s an easy and pleasant walk, with constant views of the Cantabrian Sea and plenty of scenic spots to stop, rest, and take in the view.
If you haven’t had breakfast yet, this is the perfect excuse. Nearby you’ll find some of Santander’s most popular places — the Hotel Chiqui, Bar Corona, and Café El Parque — where you can enjoy a delicious coffee with a stunning view over the Second Beach of El Sardinero.
3. El Sardinero, the Heart of Santander
Among the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain, a visit to El Sardinero is an absolute must. The large white “Santander” letters welcome you to the city’s most iconic seaside area. As the old song by Los Carabelas goes, “There’s no summer like a summer in El Sardinero” — and I couldn’t agree more. I’m completely in love with this elegant, lively corner of northern Spain.
El Sardinero Beach is the largest and most famous in Santander, divided into two sections — the First and Second Beaches — separated by the lovely Piquío Gardens, a perfect spot to capture some of the most beautiful photos of your trip. At low tide, both beaches merge into a long golden stretch of sand, ideal for a barefoot walk while the waves gently touch your feet.
As you stroll along, you’ll also spot elegant early-20th-century buildings such as the Gran Hotel Sardinero and the Gran Casino de Santander, symbols of the city’s golden age. The area is always full of life — stop for some traditional rabas (fried squid rings, a local favorite) at one of the nearby bars before continuing your walk toward the Magdalena Palace, just a pleasant stroll away. On the way, you’ll pass by La Concha and El Camello beaches, both quieter but equally charming.
A lesser-known local gem is the old Pombo railway tunnel, reopened in 2022 as a pedestrian walkway. From the back of the Hotel Santemar, near the Casino, it’s just a short 300-meter walk to reach Tetuán Street. Inside, you’ll find a small photo exhibition with historical details and original remains — including bas-reliefs with the initials TSV (Tranvía a Vapor del Sardinero), old platforms, and rail sidings. It’s a cool and fascinating route, perfect for walking or cycling, and a great shortcut back to the city center.
4. The Palace of La Magdalena
Among the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain, a visit to La Magdalena Palace is a true highlight. This iconic landmark captures the hearts of both adults and children alike. Built in the early 20th century as the summer residence of King Alfonso XIII, its privileged location — surrounded by gardens and overlooking the spectacular Bay of Santander — makes it a setting worthy of royalty.
Since 1977, the palace has been owned by the Santander City Council, and in 1982 it was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument. Today, visitors can stroll around the peninsula and explore the palace’s interior on guided tours that showcase its most impressive rooms. It’s worth checking the schedule in advance, as the building also hosts the Menéndez Pelayo International University’s summer courses, as well as conferences and events, which may limit access during certain periods.
Families will love the famous “Magdaleno”, a small tourist train that circles the peninsula, offering an easy and fun way to admire its cliffs and hidden viewpoints. Nearby, you can also find a small marine animal park and the fascinating Museum of Man and the Sea, which displays boats and maritime artifacts that celebrate Santander’s deep connection with the ocean.
Visiting La Magdalena Palace is like stepping into the history of Santander while enjoying one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the Cantabrian coast.
The Museum of Man and the Sea commemorates the remarkable achievement of Vital Alsar, a sailor from Santander who crossed the Atlantic Ocean aboard three galleons. Known locally as the Pier of the Caravels, it also displays, next to the small marine zoo, a replica of the wooden raft he used to cross the Pacific Ocean in 1970.
Also Read: 3 Palacios en Cantabria: una experiencia inolvidable
Also Read: ¿Viajas a Santander con niños? Estos son los lugares que debes visitar
5. Puertochico and the Waterfront Promenade
After so much walking, it’s the perfect time to take a well-deserved break in Puertochico, one of the liveliest areas in Santander. Here you’ll find some of the city’s best-known restaurants, ideal for enjoying fresh fish, seafood, or a plate of traditional rabas (fried squid rings) by the sea. Prices tend to rise the closer you are to the waterfront, but the experience — and the views — are absolutely worth it.
From the Duna de Zaera to the Centro Botín, the Santander waterfront promenade stretches along one of the most beautiful bays in the world. You can enjoy it on foot or, for something more original, hop aboard a boat tour around the bay to admire the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water while feeling the cool sea breeze.
The Duna de Zaera, built for the 2014 Sailing World Championships, is an open grandstand facing El Puntal, a long sandy spit that sits just across the bay. Along the promenade you’ll also pass some of Santander’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Palace of Festivals, the Royal Yacht Club, the Raqueros sculptures, the Palacete del Embarcadero, the Banco Santander headquarters, and the Stone Crane — all symbols of the city’s maritime heritage.
The Palacete del Embarcadero, inaugurated in 1932, has served many purposes throughout its history and today functions as a cultural venue hosting exhibitions and conferences. The Stone Crane, a 20-meter-high industrial relic, was in use until 1990 and could lift up to 30 tons. Today, it stands as one of the city’s most beloved meeting points and a reminder of Santander’s industrial past.
Once poor children who dove into the bay for tossed coins, the Raqueros are now immortalized as a symbol of Santander’s maritime soul.
Also Read: 20 planes perfectos para conocer Cantabria
6. The Botín Center
Between the Stone Crane and the Pereda Gardens stands the Botín Center, Santander’s most striking contemporary building. Designed by architect Renzo Piano and inaugurated in 2017, it’s a space dedicated to modern art, creativity, and culture.
Inside, the center hosts temporary exhibitions by both Spanish and international artists, along with cultural activities such as concerts, workshops, and open-air summer cinema. Admission costs €8, and it’s open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. — book your tickets online to skip the queues.
Even if you don’t have much time, it’s worth climbing the outdoor staircase, which is free to access, to enjoy the spectacular views of Santander Bay. More than just a museum, the Botín Center has become a true cultural icon and a favorite meeting point right in the heart of the city.
7. Boat Tour Around Santander Bay
Among the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain, one of the most unforgettable experiences is taking a boat tour with Los Reginas, the iconic vessels that have been sailing across the bay for decades. Right next to the Palacete del Embarcadero, you’ll find their ticket offices, where you can buy tickets for a truly memorable cruise around one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
During the summer months, several routes depart from the Muelle de Calderón:
- Sightseeing Tour of the Bay (1 hour)
- Biodiversity and Marine Life around Mouro Island (1 h 10 min)
- Excursion along the Cubas River (1 h 45 min)
From May to September, boats also leave every 30 minutes for El Puntal Beach, a long, golden sandbar perfect for a relaxing family day. From there, you can enjoy a unique perspective of Santander Bay or walk its nearly 4 km shoreline all the way to Loredo Beach — an ideal plan to unwind and reconnect with nature (our dear Dr. Belaustegui would definitely approve!).
The round-trip crossing lasts about 10 minutes and costs €5. Keep an eye on the timetable, as the last return trip varies by month: 7:15 p.m. in May and September, and 8:00 p.m. in June, July, and August.
Be sure to board the right boat — some routes also continue to Somo and Pedreña, two charming fishing villages famous for their excellent seafood restaurants.
8. Río de la Pila Viewpoint
Are you going to miss the best viewpoint in Santander? And the best part — it’s completely free!
Right in the heart of the city, the Río de la Pila funicular takes you effortlessly up to one of the most spectacular panoramic spots in Santander. Opened in 2008, this modern urban lift connects the lively area full of bars and restaurants with the upper part of the city, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the rooftops and, in the distance, the Peña Cabarga mountain.
The funicular operates every day of the year, from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, making three short stops in a ride that lasts just three minutes. From the final stop, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Santander Bay and the city skyline — a perfect place for photos.
The Río de la Pila area, together with Plaza de Cañadío, forms one of Santander’s main social hubs, buzzing with life both day and night. You’ll find plenty of bars, taverns, and pubs where you can enjoy local tapas, rabas (fried squid), and the cheerful, laid-back atmosphere that defines northern Spain.
9. Old Town of Santander
Among the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain, exploring the Old Town is a must to understand the city’s history and character. Although much of the center looks modern today, that’s because a devastating fire in 1941 destroyed most of the original medieval quarter — the area once surrounded by 12th-century walls. The blaze even reached the Cathedral, erasing much of what was once known as the Puebla Vieja.
Conocido como el “incendio andaluz” por comenzar en la calle Cádiz y terminar en la calle Sevilla, este fuego, avivado por el viento sur, se convirtió en una de las mayores tragedias que ha vivido Santander.
Even so, Santander’s heart still holds plenty of charm. Highlights include the City Hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption — where you can climb up to the bell tower — and the Mercado de la Esperanza, the city’s traditional food market still bustling with daily life.
Nearby, the Plaza Porticada preserves sections of the old medieval walls, while the Plaza del Príncipe hides an air-raid shelter from the Spanish Civil War that can now be visited. Don’t miss the Mercado del Este, now transformed into a lively hub full of cafés and small shops, perfect for rainy days.
You can wander freely through the most emblematic streets — Calle del Medio, Arrabal, Paseo de Pereda, or Hernán Cortés — or join one of the guided tours organized by the Tourism Office throughout the year. There is also excellent walking tour that reveal the city’s hidden corners and fascinating stories.
10. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is one of Santander’s most iconic landmarks. Built between the late 12th and 14th centuries, it has undergone several restorations and expansions over the centuries. In pure Gothic style, the cathedral stands out for its simplicity and elegance, and it is open to the public for guided or self-guided visits.
Inside, you can stroll through the Gothic cloister, one of the most beautiful parts of the building, and visit the tomb of Santander-born writer Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo. Nearby is the Church of the Holy Christ, considered the oldest in the city. Also Gothic in style, it’s a truly special place: beneath its glass floor lie Roman archaeological remains, while its thick columns adorned with vegetal carvings create a solemn and almost mystical atmosphere.
Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Sundays the cathedral remains open until 9:00 p.m.
More Places to Visit in Santander Spain
his journey through the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain may be coming to an end, but the city still hides many more treasures waiting to be discovered. One day is simply not enough to enjoy everything this elegant seaside gem has to offer.
Although this guide doesn’t include Santander’s museums, there are two that absolutely deserve a visit: the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, located next to the Mercado del Este, and the Cantabrian Maritime Museum.
The Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, features more than 2,000 m² of exhibits showcasing remains from Cantabria’s most famous prehistoric caves — including Altamira, El Castillo, and La Garma, true jewels of European cave art. It also offers workshops and family-friendly activities that bring the fascinating world of the Paleolithic era to life.
The Cantabrian Maritime Museum, on the other hand, celebrates life at sea. Spanning over 3,000 m², it houses aquariums, historical artifacts, and even the 20-meter skeleton of a whale. Among its curiosities are a two-headed sardine and a faithful reconstruction of the cabin of the Machichaco ship, whose explosion in 1893 marked one of Santander’s most tragic historical events.
Also Read: Museos de Santander: guía completa
Final Thoughts
Santander is a city deeply shaped by its history — from the Great Fire of 1941 to the tragic Cabo Machichaco explosion — yet it has always found a way to rise again and shine proudly by the sea. Not even the rain can dim the charm of this northern gem.
I hope this guide to the Top 10 Things To Do in Santander Spain has inspired you to experience the city for yourself. If you’ve already been here, share in the comments which corner captured your heart; and if you haven’t, save this post and start planning your next getaway to this beautiful coastal city.
Glutendtrotter Tip
Make sure to book your stay ahead of time if you’re visiting in high season — and don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning Cantabrian coast on a day trip.
And remember, at Glutendtrotters we always think of those who travel gluten-free. Don’t miss our gastronomic recommendations across Cantabria and enjoy the region’s incredible flavors with complete peace of mind.
If you’re craving more, check out our post 20 Perfect Plans to Discover Cantabria, filled with ideas to keep exploring this wonderful land that we love so much.
See you on our next adventure, Glutendtrotters!
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FAQs
There are many beautiful places to visit in Santander. We recommend walking along the Waterfront Promenade and Reina Victoria Avenue, enjoying El Sardinero Beach and La Magdalena Palace, trying some rabas in La Cañía, having coffee at Café Pombo, exploring the Mercado de la Esperanza, and walking through the Tetuán Tunnel.
Yes, Santander is definitely worth visiting. The city has 13 beaches, with El Sardinero being the most famous, and the iconic La Magdalena Palace surrounded by gardens and family-friendly areas. Its gastronomy is another highlight: don’t miss the rabas, Santoña anchovies, Tresviso cheese, mountain or lebaniego stew, and for dessert, sobaos and quesada pasiega (also available gluten-free). It’s easy to explore on foot and has an excellent bus network.
Santander is synonymous with Cantabria’s rich gastronomy. The most typical dish is rabas, a popular appetizer among locals. Also try anchovies with roasted peppers, mountain or lebaniego stew, and of course, a seafood platter in the traditional Fishing District.
Not only can you walk around Santander — it’s actually the best way to discover this beautiful city. Santander isn’t very large, so you can easily cross it from end to end. We recommend walking from the Botín Center to Puerto Chico along the waterfront, then following the Reina Victoria Promenade. Don’t miss a stroll around the El Sardinero area, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and the lively summer atmosphere.
