Top reasons to visit Santander
- Stunning Beaches: Santander boasts beautiful urban beaches perfect for sunbathing and enjoying coastal views.
- Rich Cultural Scene: The city offers a vibrant atmosphere with art galleries, historic churches, and modern universities to explore.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in various recreational activities amidst breathtaking scenery, ideal for adventure seekers.
- Charming Neighborhoods: Discover laid-back areas with delightful architecture and delicious local cuisine.
- Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from beachfront hotels to pet-friendly stays.
Find great hotels in Santander
Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Santander, Spain, tailored to meet every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a beachfront getaway, a pet-friendly stay, or a convenient option for business travel, you'll find an array of hotels and hostels to choose from. Experience the charm of Santander while enjoying comfortable lodgings that cater to both leisure and work, making your visit memorable and enjoyable.
- Hotel Bahia: Located in the heart of Santander, Hotel Bahia is a sophisticated 4-star hotel perfect for business travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Its modern design and well-appointed rooms provide an ideal work environment, complemented by high-speed internet and meeting facilities. Guests enjoy a delightful dining experience with a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to key business districts and attractions makes it a prime choice for those blending work and leisure.
- Hotel Silken Coliseum: Another excellent 4-star option in Santander, Hotel Silken Coliseum seamlessly fuses modern amenities with a touch of elegance. This hotel caters to business travelers with its state-of-the-art conference rooms and business center. Guests can unwind in stylish rooms that offer comfort and tranquility. The on-site restaurant provides a delightful menu, while the hotel’s location near cultural attractions allows visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant local scene after a day of meetings.
- Hotel Chiqui: Perfect for families and beach lovers, Hotel Chiqui is a charming 3-star hotel situated near the stunning coastline of Santander. The hotel offers direct access to the beach, making it an ideal getaway for sun-seekers. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including babysitting services and safety features. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy nearby golf courses, creating a fun-filled vacation experience for all ages. With its family-friendly atmosphere and beach access, Hotel Chiqui is a wonderful choice for a memorable holiday.
Where to stay near Santander
In Santander, you'll find stunning urban beaches perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun. Explore the rich culture and history of this vibrant city, where friendly locals welcome visitors with open arms. Venture to nearby neighborhoods to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, charming architecture, and delectable cuisine. With its superb beaches and captivating sights, Santander promises an unforgettable vacation experience that beautifully blends leisure and exploration.
- Santander - Cantabrian Coast: Located 11.3km from Santander, this stunning coastal area offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Peak travel occurs from July to September, attracting those eager to enjoy the outdoors and beach activities. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails and access pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The nearby national state park is a highlight, providing opportunities for exploration and breathtaking views, ensuring that every traveler can find their piece of paradise.
- Ribamontan al Mar: Just 9.7km away from Santander, Ribamontan al Mar is a charming city that draws visitors primarily between June and August. This area is perfect for beach enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, with excellent trail access and campgrounds for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The local beaches are family-friendly and are situated near a national state park, providing a great backdrop for various outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking or simply soaking up the sun, Ribamontan al Mar promises an unforgettable experience.
- Camargo: Situated 8.0km from Santander, Camargo is a vibrant city with a steady flow of visitors throughout the year. Peak travel months are from May to July, attracting those in search of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This locale boasts ample campgrounds and golfing opportunities for sports enthusiasts. Close to the national state park and beautiful family beaches, Camargo is an excellent spot for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors while still being near the bustling city of Santander.
Things to do in and around Santander
Santander, located in Cantabria, Spain, is perfect for outdoor and beach vacations, offering stunning scenery and various recreational activities. Visitors can explore sports venues, engage in outdoor experiences, and visit art galleries, making it an ideal destination for family getaways. The city's vibrant atmosphere and beautiful landscapes ensure a memorable experience for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Shopping
For a vibrant shopping experience in Santander, visit Mercado La Esperanza and Mercado del Este, both offering a mix of local goods and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out larger malls like Centro Comercial Valle Real for more diverse shopping options.
Recreation
Experience the energy of El Sardinero Stadium, where you can catch a thrilling local sports event. Unwind at Parque de las Llamas, a serene park perfect for relaxation. For outdoor enthusiasts, Club de Golf Matelenas offers a scenic golf course surrounded by nature.
Adventure
Forestal Park Santander offers thrilling zipline and ropes courses, perfect for adventure seekers. For a family-friendly experience, head to Playa del Regatón, a campground 29.0km from the city. Explore the Laberinto de Villapresente, a fun maze located 27.4km away, ideal for making memorable family moments.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santander at the Palace of Festivals of Cantabria, where romance, culture, and entertainment come together. Enjoy captivating performances and immerse yourself in the local arts scene for a memorable evening in this charming coastal city.
*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 during your visit to Santander, consider exploring the city's free attractions like Jardines de Piquio and Plaza de Canadio. For transportation, utilize the affordable bus system or rent bicycles. Plan your trip between January to February or November for lower accommodation rates, and book hotels about a month in advance for the best deals. Mondays are the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be pricier. Additionally, check Expedia for package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for extra savings.
- 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 Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Explore Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santander with flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Santander
Santander is perfect for an outdoor vacation, offering stunning beaches and beautiful scenery. Key attractions include urban parks, historic churches, and modern universities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking culture and family-friendly experiences. Don't miss the chance to relax at Santander Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal views.
- Palacio de la Magdalena: This historic palace offers a glimpse into royal life with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Nestled on the cliffs overlooking the bay, it provides breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Santander Cathedral: A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral features intricate stained glass and a serene interior. Its historical significance and tranquil ambiance make it a must-visit for those seeking cultural enrichment.
- Banco Santander: This historic civic building showcases impressive neoclassical architecture. As the headquarters of one of the world's largest banks, it reflects the city's economic history and offers insight into Santander's pivotal role in finance.
Best time to go to Santander
The best time to visit Santander is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Santander
If you're planning a trip to Santander, you can fly into two major airports: Bilbao (BIO) and Santander (SDR). Bilbao (BIO) is 75.6km from Santander and offers several luxurious hotels, including The Artist Grand Hotel of Art, Hotel Melia Bilbao, and Radisson Collection Bilbao, all located about 4.8km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels to the airport are readily available. On the other hand, Santander (SDR) is only 4.8km from the city center, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Eurostars Hotel Real and the 4.5-star Hotel Art Santander, both offering convenient access and transportation to the airport.