A weekend getaway to Santander is city, sea and nature in one. A complete package that does not require a great deal of forward planning. All you need is a car and the curiosity to explore.
A perfect getaway to northern Spain
Santander is located in Cantabria, in the north of the peninsula, and overlooks the Cantabrian Sea. This coastal city is marked by the Atlantic breeze and a landscape that combines urban beaches, cliffs, hills and a bay that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
But beyond the clichés of sea and mountain, the visit is worth it because you can have breakfast overlooking the Bay of Biscay, walk among stately mansions, eat rabas (fried squid) in a bar with napkins on the floor and, within ten minutes, be surrounded by grazing cows. Therefore, it could be said that this trip offers a mixture of city, nature and the quiet life, combined with excellent gastronomy.
However, the city invites you to move around and keep exploring, especially if you visit Santander on a weekend. That's why there's no better option than renting a car with OK Mobility. You can book in advance and pick up your vehicle directly at Santander airport or at the train station. If you are coming from nearby places like Bilbao or Asturias, you can also choose to pick it up at our offices there.
What to see in Santander in one weekend
If you want to make the most of your weekend getaway to Santander, these are the spots you can't miss:
A walk through the historic centre and the area near the Cathedral
Start in the heart of the city. Santander Cathedral, built sometime between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, makes for an interesting visit. This is especially true of the Crypt of Christ, which preserves Roman vestiges.
Just a few steps away is the City Hall and the Plaza Porticada, where concerts are often held in summer. If you let yourself be carried away by the city streets, you will find markets such as La Esperanza, with fresh fish and local atmosphere.
Magdalena Peninsula
The former summer residence of Alfonso XIII is a palace which can only be visited on certain occasions. Whether you're interested in the palace itself or not, what's really worthwhile is the park where it's located. Besides being huge, it has sea views, forests and roads that end in cliffs.
If the weather is good, it is an ideal place for a long hike or a stop to recharge your batteries before exploring further. From here you have a good view of the island of Mouro and you can reach the nearby beaches.
Beaches of Sardinero and Mataleñas
The beaches of northern Spain are not the best known, but only those who have been there know that they are right up there with the best of them. If you don't believe us, go to the beaches at Sardinero. They are urban, wide and with clear sand and well maintained promenades.
If you walk north, you will pass through Piquío park, a quiet corner with benches and flowers, and arrive at Mataleñas, wilder and with steep cliffs. In the surroundings of the Cabo Mayor lighthouse there are easy trails along the coast.
Centro Botín and Pereda Gardens
Centro Botín, designed by Renzo Piano, is an exhibition centre with a peculiar construction that floats above the pier and combines art, architecture and views. Whether you opt to go inside or not, visit the Pereda gardens and the maritime area. There are sculptures, benches in the shade of century-old trees and direct access to the boats that cross the bay.
Rio de la Pila viewpoint and funicular ascent
Another plan for a weekend getaway to Santander is a ride up the Río de la Pila funicular. It is free and offers views of the city from above. The neighbourhood is a bit more alternative, with bars, graffiti and a different atmosphere from the promenade. It is a less touristy area, but it has its own charm, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Excursion to Santillana del Mar or Comillas
If you have half a day to spare and a car, make the most of it. Santillana del Mar is half an hour away and seems almost stuck in the 15th century, although it is not actually by the sea. Comillas, on the other hand, has the Capricho de Gaudí and a beautiful beach. Both are beautiful and won't take much time to visit.
Rent your car in Santander with OK Mobility and don’t miss out on these places — and many more. Book now and explore Santander with no limits on a weekend getaway.
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