Welcome to Santander, the elegant capital of Spain's Cantabria region, nestled on one of the world's most beautiful bays. This sophisticated port is a favorite stop for lines like P&O Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
Unlike busier Spanish ports, Santander offers a blend of urban culture, stunning beaches, and lush green landscapes, all within easy reach.
Cruise passengers are drawn to its belle époque architecture, world-class gastronomy, and its role as a gateway to the prehistoric art and medieval villages of Northern Spain.
The most iconic landmark is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal palace perched on a peninsula with stunning sea views. It's surrounded by a beautiful park and public beaches.
Art lovers must visit the Centro Botín, a striking modern art center designed by Renzo Piano, located right on the waterfront a short walk from the cruise terminal. Its cantilevered structure juts out over the bay, offering unique views.
Explore the city's history at the Santander Cathedral, a Gothic structure built over earlier Roman ruins. Don't miss the tranquil cloister and the lower church, the Iglesia del Cristo.
For a relaxing afternoon, stroll along the famous El Sardinero beach, a long, golden stretch of sand lined with elegant buildings, cafes, and the historic Gran Casino.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
A short journey from Santander takes you to the stunning medieval town of Santillana del Mar, often called the 'town of three lies' as it is neither holy, flat, nor by the sea. It's located about 30 kilometers west, a 30-40 minute drive.
Adjacent to Santillana del Mar is one of the world's most important prehistoric sites, the Caves of Altamira. While access to the original cave is extremely restricted, the Altamira Museum and Neocave offers a breathtaking replica and fantastic exhibits.
You can also explore the Picos de Europa National Park, though it requires a longer excursion of at least 1.5 hours each way, offering a dramatic change of scenery with its rugged mountain peaks.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
The cruise port, known as the Estación Marítima, boasts one of the best locations in Europe. Ships dock directly in the heart of Santander's city center.
Passengers can walk off the ship and immediately find themselves on the main seaside promenade, the Paseo de Pereda, with the city's downtown just steps away.
No shuttles are necessary to explore the city center, as shops, restaurants, and the Centro Botín are within a 5-10 minute walk. The terminal itself has basic amenities, but the city's full offerings are at your doorstep.
Cruise ships typically dock directly at the pier; tendering is not common in Santander.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
The official currency in Santander is the Euro (€).
While some tourist-focused shops might accept US dollars, the exchange rate will not be favorable. It is highly recommended to use Euros for all transactions.
ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available throughout the city, including near the port, and offer the best exchange rates.
Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Santander is considered a very safe city with a low crime rate, making it comfortable for tourists to explore independently.
As in any city, visitors should practice standard safety precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas such as the main shopping streets or on public transport to prevent pickpocketing.
There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. The city is welcoming, and walking around both during the day and in the evening in the main commercial and tourist areas is generally safe.
Guided tours are an option for convenience, but they are not necessary for safety reasons.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Santander has a mild oceanic climate, quite different from the intense heat of southern Spain.
The main cruise season from spring to autumn sees pleasant weather. Summers (June-August) are warm with average temperatures between 18-24°C (64-75°F).
Spring and autumn are mild but can be unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain. Rain is possible year-round, so it is always wise to pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella, even in summer.
Dressing in layers is recommended to adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. The region is not affected by hurricanes.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Santander is a very walkable city, and many of its main attractions are easily accessible on foot from the cruise terminal.
For destinations further afield, such as the El Sardinero beaches, the local bus network (TUS) is efficient and affordable.
Taxis are readily available at a rank just outside the terminal and offer a convenient way to travel. Ride-sharing services like Uber may also operate in the city.
For a comprehensive overview, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which typically stops near the cruise pier and covers all major sights.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
The main shopping district is centered around the pedestrianized streets of Calle Juan de Herrera and Calle Burgos, offering a mix of Spanish high-street brands, international names, and local boutiques.
For a taste of local life and gourmet products, visit the Mercado de la Esperanza, a vibrant historic market where you can find Cantabrian cheeses, anchovies from Santoña, and other regional delicacies.
Souvenirs to look for include 'sobaos pasiegos' (a rich butter sponge cake) and 'orujo', a local pomace brandy. Prices in shops are fixed and not negotiable.
The area around the port and Paseo de Pereda also has a variety of souvenir shops and upmarket stores.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
SUMMARY
Santander offers cruise visitors a delightful blend of urban elegance, stunning beaches, and rich regional history. Explore the regal Magdalena Peninsula, stroll along the famous El Sardinero beach, and enjoy the vibrant city center's atmosphere and shops. The surrounding region of Cantabria provides dramatic coastal scenery and charming medieval villages.
Altamira Museum
Journey back in time at the Altamira Museum, home to the Neocave, an incredible full-scale replica of the world-famous Altamira Cave. Here you will witness breathtakingly accurate reproductions of prehistoric bison, horse, and human hand paintings. This immersive experience is often called the "Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic Art."
Let's design a customized
Create your ideal shore excursion by combining the best of the city and the countryside to match your interests. You could pair a guided tour of Santander's highlights with a scenic drive to a quaint fishing village or a visit to a local food producer. This option allows you to build a unique itinerary for a perfect day in port.
This is a private
Enjoy the ultimate flexibility and personal attention with a private tour exclusively for your party. Your dedicated guide can adjust the schedule on the fly, allowing you to spend more time at the places you love most. Avoid the crowds and delve deeper into Cantabrian culture at your own pace.
I am focused in
Immerse yourself in a specific theme with a tour dedicated to your passion, whether it is gastronomy, nature, or history. You might spend the day discovering the region's culinary treasures, from market pintxos to world-class anchovies. Alternatively, explore the cobbled streets of medieval Santillana del Mar for a deep dive into local history.
Explore the spectacular Picos de Europa National Park on a private, one-day tour from Santander. Your expert guide, a geologist and foodie, will customize the journey through Cantabria's villages to your interests. This exclusive experience for up to four people includes quality meals, Fuente De cable car tickets, and a professional photo report of your day. Travel in comfort in a 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser for an unforgettable visit.
Arrange your airport transfer with a reliable, professional taxi service available 365 days a year. Your driver will greet you with a nameplate, providing a safe and personalized door-to-door experience. The service adapts to your passenger and luggage needs and will monitor your flight, waiting up to 45 minutes at no extra charge in case of delays. With 24/7 customer service, you can enjoy a comfortable and uncomplicated transfer.
Discover the small village of San Sebastián de Garabandal, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared to children in the 1960s. Your tour drives through the beautiful mountain scenery of Saja Nansa Park to this cozy village. You will visit the church of San Sebastián and a sanctuary among the pine trees where the apparitions took place. Depending on your tour time, you may have the opportunity to participate in the village mass or a public recitation of the Rosary.
Discover the most important and special spaces of the Bay of Santander on this unique tour. The bay is considered internationally to be one of the most beautiful in the world. This experience promises to be an unforgettable memory for you and your companions during your holidays.
Visit the unknown capital of "Green Spain" on a special tour led by a knowledgeable female historian. You will explore the city's most important sites in an enjoyable way. This experience is designed to combine fascinating history and local culture for a memorable outing.
Discover the gems of Cantabria in a single day, exploring its nature, architecture, and cuisine. The tour begins in a magnificent Redwood Forest before heading to the village of Comillas. There, you'll enjoy a guided tour and visit "El Capricho," an early modernist work by Gaudí with admission included. Your final stop is Santillana del Mar, considered one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the country.
Discover the history of the magnificent Magdalena Palace, a gift to the king from the people of Santander. You will visit the public rooms on the main floor while learning about the royal family's summers here. Afterward, walk the peninsula grounds to see the Museum of Man and the Sea, the old Royal Stables, and a mini-zoo with sea lions, seals, and penguins.
Journey along the western coast of Cantabria to discover its most important villages. You will explore the historic ensemble of San Vicente de la Barquera and the medieval streets of Santillana del Mar, plus the elegant Modernist buildings of Comillas. The tour culminates with a visit to the magnificent neocave of Altamira, an exact replica of the original UNESCO World Heritage cave.
Embark on a seven-day adventure through the less-visited but fascinating regions of Northern Spain. This tour showcases amazing mountain landscapes, charming beaches, and top-notch gastronomy. Key city highlights include discovering the famous Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and exploring the La Rioja wine region from Logroño. You will also admire the imposing Gothic cathedral in Burgos and visit Santander, one of the most elegant cities on the northern coast.
Feel the excitement of a canoe trip down the Ason River on this adventure-filled tour. You will journey through the beautiful Collados del Ason Natural Park, seeing the birthplaces of both the Gandara and Ason rivers. The tour also includes a visit to one of the famous caves in Ramales de la Victoria, Cullalvera Cave.
Stimulate your senses on a gastronomic tour through Cantabria's beautiful landscapes. You will visit a factory to learn how the famous Santoña anchovies are made and enjoy a tasting. The day also includes a visit to a family-run wine cellar and a stop at a traditional sobao maker, with product tastings included at each location. Explore the fishing town of Santoña and take in the beauty of the peaceful Pasiego Valleys.
Journey to Puente Viesgo to visit two caves with paintings, both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will explore the "El Castillo" cave, which contains some of the oldest preserved paintings in the world, including famous negative hand silhouettes. The tour also includes a visit to "Las Monedas" cave to see its beautiful charcoal drawings and high geological value. Finally, enjoy a short walk through the cozy village of Puente Viesgo with views over the Pas River.
Experience Cantabria's Paleolithic art on this comprehensive tour to multiple historic sites. Begin at the Altamira Museum to see the Neocave, an exact replica of the famous Altamira Cave. Then, enjoy a rare opportunity for a private visit to the actual caves of "El Castillo" and "Las Monedas," both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The day is completed with visits to the charming villages of Santillana del Mar and Puente Viesgo.
Discover the fishing village of Santoña and learn its most famous tradition. You will visit a small factory to see how the famous anchovies of Cantabria are manufactured. Afterward, enjoy an unforgettable boat trip through the beautiful bay and marshes of Santoña.
Take a full-day excursion to the beautiful mountain region of Liébana, crossing the dramatic Hermida gorge by van. At Fuente Dé, you will have free time to optionally take the cable car up into the Picos de Europa. You will also visit the Monastery of Santo Toribio, one of Christianity's four holy places, and have free time for lunch in Potes, the region's capital.
Explore the architectural wonders of Comillas on this focused tour. Visit "El Capricho," one of the few buildings constructed by the famous architect Gaudí outside of Catalonia. You will also see the awesome Old Major Seminary, the Sobrellano Palace, and the historical center on a short walking tour.
Explore the beautiful medieval village of Santillana del Mar, where you will enjoy a walking tour and free time for shopping. You will also have the opportunity to visit its historic Collegiata Church if you wish. The tour continues to the renowned Museum of Altamira to visit its Neocave, a perfect replica of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Cave of Altamira.
Immerse yourself in Spanish language and culture with a week-long course at your teacher's home. You will live with a prestigious instructor and his family, sharing meals and daily activities to practice your Spanish. While becoming another member of the family, you will have your own private bedroom and en-suite bathroom for privacy. The home, dating from the 1780s but with modern comforts, is located in a gorgeous area of Spain.
Journey through valleys and forests to visit El Soplao, considered one of the most relevant caves in Europe for its geological value. Inside, you will take a one-hour guided walking tour to witness this wonder of nature. Afterward, the tour proceeds to a scenic lookout to enjoy great views of the estuary of the Tina Menor river.
Spend an unforgettable day visiting the extraordinary Cabárceno Nature Park. You will tour the park by minivan, viewing more than 150 animal species living in a semi-free environment. Enjoy seeing the park from a distance on the cable car and have fun at the sea lion and birds of prey demonstrations. Please note that demonstrations are subject to cancellation due to weather or seasonal schedules.
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