Top reasons to visit Santander
- Stunning Beaches: Santander boasts beautiful beaches along the Cantabrian Sea, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Cultural Exploration: The city is rich in history, featuring impressive churches and the stunning cathedral.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits, from golfing to exploring urban parks.
- Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, enhancing your visit.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, from beachside hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
Find great hotels in Santander
Discover a diverse array of accommodations in Santander, where hotels and hostels cater to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a beachside retreat, a pet-friendly haven, or a convenient base for business travel, Santander's lodging options promise comfort and convenience. With a variety of hotel services designed to enhance your stay, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and explore this stunning coastal city.
- Hotel Chiqui: Nestled in the heart of Santander, Hotel Chiqui is a charming 3-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Ideal for families and golf enthusiasts, this property offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days and scenic views. The hotel features golf-themed activities and amenities tailored for children, including babysitting services and safety features in rooms, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. With comfortable accommodations and a focus on leisure activities, Hotel Chiqui is a delightful option for those seeking a beachside getaway.
- Hotel Santemar: A highly-rated 4-star establishment, Hotel Santemar enjoys a prime location with direct access to the beach, making it a top choice for beach lovers. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Cantabria. Guests can expect comfortable rooms, a welcoming environment, and easy access to local attractions, ensuring a pleasant stay for those looking to immerse themselves in the coastal charm of Santander.
- Hotel Vincci Puertochico: This eco-certified 4-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, combines comfort with environmental responsibility. Located in Santander, Hotel Vincci Puertochico provides direct access to the beach while promoting sustainable practices, appealing to eco-conscious travellers. The hotel's contemporary design and thoughtful amenities create an inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both luxury and ecological mindfulness during their stay.
Where to stay near Santander
Santander, a charming coastal city in Cantabria, offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration. With its stunning beaches along the Cantabrian Sea and easy access to the vibrant downtown, visitors can indulge in both adventure and history. Enjoy the warm atmosphere created by friendly locals while soaking up the sun during your summer holiday. Nearby towns also provide additional cultural experiences, making Santander an ideal base for your Spanish getaway.
- Santander - Cantabrian Coast: Nestled approximately 11.3km from the vibrant city of Santander, the Cantabrian Coast offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventure and picturesque beach experiences. This region sees a surge of visitors from July to September, drawn by its breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for hiking, golfing, and exploring national parks. The local beaches are perfect for family outings and sun-soaked relaxation, making it a delightful destination for all ages. Enjoy the thrill of outdoor activities while soaking in the natural beauty that defines this coastal gem.
- Pielagos: Located about 12.9km from Santander, Pielagos is a charming city that welcomes visitors year-round, with peak travel times in June to August. Known for its outdoor adventures and family-friendly beaches, Pielagos is an ideal spot for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. The area features numerous hiking trails and campgrounds, allowing nature lovers to immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings. With its proximity to national parks, Pielagos offers a fantastic blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Valdecilla: A quaint village just 11.3km from Santander, Valdecilla is a hidden treasure for those seeking a romantic escape or entertaining experiences. Visitors flock here during the peak summer months of July to September, drawn by its scenic national park and historic tower. With a focus on outdoor enjoyment, Valdecilla provides a serene atmosphere where couples and families alike can explore the beauty of nature. The village's charm lies in its combination of history and adventure, making it a lovely stop on your Cantabrian journey.
Things to do in Santander
Shopping
In Santander, visit the El Corte Inglés, a large department store offering a range of gifts and souvenirs. For a unique experience, check out Mercado de la Esperanza, a vibrant market with local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Centro Comercial Valle Real, about 16.1km away, for more shopping options.
Recreation
The Serenity Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with a range of treatments, including massages and facials, designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. For outdoor relaxation, the beautiful beaches of El Sardinero provide a calming setting for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shore.
Adventure
Forestal Park Santander offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. Navigate through treetops and enjoy the thrill of soaring above the ground, all while soaking in the adventurous outdoor atmosphere that this unique attraction provides.
Nightlife
In Santander, the nightlife buzzes with energy. Enjoy a lively atmosphere at La Rúa, known for its vibrant tapas bars. For late-night dancing, head to The Club, where DJs spin until dawn. Alternatively, unwind at the Plaza de Cañadío, brimming with charming pubs and bars.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santander
To save money on your trip to Santander, visit during the off-peak months of January to February and November when prices drop. Enjoy free attractions like Plaza de Canadio and Jardines de Pereda. For transport, consider walking or using buses for budget-friendly travel. Book your hotel about a month in advance or search for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Mondays for the best rates. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in a package for additional savings, and use Expedia's filters to find affordable options that suit your needs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santander are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santander is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santander is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Santander is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santander with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Santander
Santander is an excellent destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities and sights to explore. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences at local churches and the stunning cathedral, as well as relaxing in urban parks. Whether you're seeking adventure or a taste of city life, Santander has something to cater to every traveller's interests.
- Santander Cathedral: This stunning cathedral showcases a beautiful blend of Gothic and Neoclassical architecture. Its serene atmosphere and intricate stained glass windows offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage, making it a tranquil spot for reflection.
- Palacio de la Magdalena: Nestled on a picturesque peninsula, this historic palace is an architectural gem surrounded by lush gardens and stunning coastal views. Visitors can explore its grand interiors and learn about its significance as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family.
- Banco Santander: An impressive example of civic architecture, Banco Santander reflects the city's financial heritage. The building's elegant facade and historic significance contribute to its status as a landmark, showcasing the evolution of Santander's economic landscape.
Best time to go to Santander
The best time to visit Santander can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santander falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santander falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Santander
Flying into Santander, Spain, is convenient with multiple airport options. Santander Airport (SDR) is a mere 4.8km from the city centre, with nearby hotels like Hotel Santemar, Hotel Vincci Puertochico, and Hotel Hoyuela, all easily accessible from the airport. Alternatively, Bilbao Airport (BIO), located 75.6km away, offers quality accommodation such as the Radisson Collection Bilbao, Hotel Sercotel Coliseo, and Catalonia Gran Vía Bilbao, all within 4.8km of the airport. For those considering Vitoria Airport (VIT), situated 107.8km from Santander, options include Agroturismo Abaienea, Hotel Nagusi, and Casa Rural Kerizara, with transport services available from the hotels.