Santillana del Mar Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Santillana del Mar? Our comprehensive guide has you covered with recommendations on what to see, do, eat and more.


Are you planning a trip to Santillana del Mar? This charming medieval town in Cantabria, Spain, is a delightful destination with plenty to explore. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Santillana del Mar.

Introduction to Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a small town located in the northern coast of Spain, in the region of Cantabria. The name of the town means “holy flat area by the sea”. The town’s cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and enchanting atmosphere make it a popular destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Santillana del Mar

If you’re not sure where to start in Santillana del Mar, we’ve compiled a list of must-see attractions for your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar: This Romanesque-style church is the most famous tourist attraction in Santillana del Mar. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, and it has been preserved over the years.
  • Altamira Museum: This museum is dedicated to the prehistoric paintings found in the nearby Altamira Cave. The museum holds a replica of the cave, as well as a variety of other fascinating exhibits.
  • The Regina Coeli Museum: This museum is housed in a former monastery, and it showcases a collection of religious art and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Santillana del Mar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Santillana Zoo: This zoo houses a variety of animals, including reptiles, mammals, and birds. It’s a great place to bring the kids for a fun and informative experience.
  • The Cabarceno Natural Park: This park is home to a range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and bears. Visitors can explore the park by driving or taking a guided tour.
  • Beaches: There are several beaches in the vicinity of Santillana del Mar, including the Playa de Oyambre and the Playa de la Concha. These beaches are perfect for relaxing and soaking in the sun.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an excellent destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • Route of the Three Temples: This route takes you through the countryside to visit three historic churches: the Church of Santa Juliana, the Church of Santa María de Yermo, and the Church of San Román.
  • The Camino de Santiago: Santillana del Mar is one of the stops along the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. You can hike part of the way to take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Chiqui Park Bike Lane: This route is perfect for families with young children. It’s a flat, paved route that takes you through scenic countryside with plenty of opportunities for a picnic.

Best Things to Do in Santillana del Mar: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your trip to Santillana del Mar. Some of our top recommendations include:

  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy a guided horseback ride through the Cantabrian countryside.
  • Wine Tasting: Take a tour of a local winery and sample some of the best wines from the region.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to prepare traditional Cantabrian dishes in a fun and interactive cooking class.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santillana del Mar

If you plan to spend a week in Santillana del Mar, here’s how you can fill your days:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Museum
Day 2 Explore the Cabarceno Natural Park
Day 3 Enjoy a day at the beach
Day 4 Take a cooking class and explore the town’s culinary scene
Day 5 Hike the Route of the Three Temples
Day 6 Go horseback riding and enjoy a wine tasting tour
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town’s beautiful architecture and scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar offers a variety of traditional dishes and local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rabas: This popular dish is made of fried calamari and often served as an appetizer.
  • Cocido Montañés: A hearty stew made with beans, cabbage, potatoes, and pork.
  • Quesada Pasiega: A type of cheesecake made with quark cheese and eggs.

Local Beverages

  • Pacharán: A traditional liqueur made with sloe berries.
  • Cider: Cantabria is known for its cider, which is made from local apples.

Where to Stay in Santillana del Mar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Santillana del Mar, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of our top recommendations include:

  • Parador de Santillana: This stunning hotel is housed in a 12th-century mansion and offers elegant rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Hotel Spa San Marcos: Relax in this charming hotel with a spa and outdoor pool.
  • Hostal San Telmo: A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Santillana del Mar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Santillana del Mar is known for its handicrafts and traditional products. Some of the items you should bring back as souvenirs include:

  • Pottery: Santillana del Mar is home to many talented potters who produce a range of beautiful and unique pieces.
  • Anchovies: These local fish are a popular snack in Cantabria and make for a tasty souvenir.
  • Sobaos and Quesadas: These traditional cakes are made from local ingredients and make for a delicious treat.

Local Culture and Customs of Santillana del Mar

The locals in Santillana del Mar are proud of their heritage, and many traditions are still important to them. Some of the customs and traditions you might encounter include:

  • Traditional Dancing: During the annual festival of La Folía, locals dress in traditional clothing and perform dances in the streets.
  • Religious Festivals: Many religious festivals take place throughout the year, including the Feast of San Roque and the Feast of Santo Domingo.
  • Bullfighting: Bullfighting is still a popular sport in Cantabria, and you may have the opportunity to see a bullfight during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Santillana del Mar

The best time to visit Santillana del Mar depends on your preferences. Summer is the busiest time of year, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are quieter months, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is the least popular time to visit, with colder temperatures and fewer attractions open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santillana del Mar

Do:

  • Greet people politely.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect cultural or religious traditions.
  • Litter or damage historic buildings.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a relatively safe destination. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions to avoid theft or other risks.

Health in Santillana del Mar

Cantabria has a high-quality healthcare system that includes public and private hospitals. Visitors from EU countries are covered by their EHIC card, while travelers from other countries are advised to purchase travel insurance.

Getting to Santillana del Mar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Santillana del Mar is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here’s how to get there:

Airports Near Santillana del Mar

  • Santander Airport: Located just 30 minutes away from Santillana del Mar, Santander Airport offers daily flights to many major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Santillana del Mar

  • Santander Bus Station: Bus services run regularly between Santander and Santillana del Mar, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.

Other Options

  • Car: Driving is a great way to explore the surrounding area, and car rental is available from Santander Airport.
  • Train: There are no train services to Santillana del Mar, but trains run regularly from Madrid to Santander.

How to Get Around in Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a small town and easy to navigate on foot. If you want to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a car is a good option.

Where to Go Next from Santillana del Mar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore further afield, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Comillas: This charming town is located a short drive from Santillana del Mar and offers stunning architecture and beaches.
  • Picos de Europa National Park: This stunning park is located around two hours away from Santillana del Mar and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain.
  • Bilbao: This vibrant city is just over an hour away from Santillana del Mar and offers a wealth of cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Santillana del Mar is a truly magical destination, with plenty of attractions to explore and traditions to soak up. With this guide, you’re ready to plan your ultimate trip to Santillana del Mar!

One of the streets in Santillana del Mar One of the streets in Santillana del Mar Church of the Colegiata Church of the Colegiata