Things to do in 

Santander

Feel the fresh coastal breeze in your hair, soak up the soft Spanish sunrays, and let the buzz of friendly chatter envelop you. Santander is a city that lives and breathes vibrancy, capturing hearts with its welcoming atmosphere. Through its top attractions to the lesser-known backstreets, there's a world to uncover. This section uncovers a collection of things to do in Santander that extends beyond your standard guidebook. Spanning seasonal highlights to neighborhood gems, it's a peek into the real, multi-layered heartbeat of this dynamic coastal city.

Explore Santander off the beaten path

Slip into quieter corners with alternative things to do that swap lines for easy strolls, local bites, and small scenes that reveal a slower rhythm.

Cultural experiences: Around Saturday noon, squeeze into Barrio Pesquero for a plate of rabas and the buzz at the counter. Toward evening, watch traineras carve the bay from the Paseo Marítimo, then duck into Casa Lita on Paseo de Pereda for two pintxos and a splash of txakoli.

Small museums and galleries: Pop into the Biblioteca Menéndez Pelayo on a weekday morning to see the scholar’s preserved study and shelves stacked to the ceiling. Ride out to the Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and browse lighthouse‑inspired art before walking the cliffs. Back in town, check the current show at Galería Juan Silió and chat with whoever’s minding the desk.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Take the Río de la Pila funicular and step onto the upper terrace for a wide sweep over rooftops and the bay in late afternoon. For golden hour, follow the coastal path around Mataleñas toward Cabo Mayor and linger where the grass meets the cliffs.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Go early to Mercado de la Esperanza for sobaos pasiegos, a slab of quesada, and advice from stallholders who know which cheeses are at their peak. Later, wander Mercado del Este and pick up tins of Santoña anchovies and bonito from the gourmet counters. If you want something to take home, browse Casa del Queso for creamy Picón or a nutty Idiazabal and ask them to vacuum‑seal it.

Popular neighbourhoods

Discovering the neighbourhood spirit is like turning pages of a colourful travelogue. Each corner of Santander paints its own picture, each brimming with character and stories to be told.

Centro: Soak in the lively urban vibe of this busy downtown area, adorned with grand architecture, vibrant local markets, and popular tapas bars buzzing with patrons.

El Sardinero: Relish the charm of this sophisticated beach district, lined with historic hotels, picturesque gardens, and broad sandy beaches offering fantastic surfing opportunities.

La Magdalena: Rejoice in the royal kingship of La Magdalena Palace, explore wide green parks and observe the sea from magnificent viewpoints. It's a true blend of culture and nature.

Puertochico: Sip pints in witness of picturesque marina views as you explore this trendy quarter, known for its exceptional seafood restaurants and chic boutiques.

Paseo de Pereda: Admire the stunning seafront promenade and grand belle-époque buildings as you meander through this historical boulevard, brimming with street musicians, eateries, and lively local chatter.

Things to do in Santander by season

Spring: Walk the Magdalena Peninsula, watch Semana Santa processions move through the centre, and catch a breezy afternoon on El Sardinero. Families find playgrounds and easy paths along the coast.

Summer: Settle into sandy days, join Baños de Ola’s seaside heritage festivities in early July, and feel the city lift during Semana Grande de Santiago with fireworks over the bay. Evenings call for tapas near the waterfront.

Fall: Softer light returns to the beaches and cliffs, with fewer crowds for surfing lessons and coastal trails. Markets stack mushrooms and anchovies, an easy draw for food-minded travellers and seniors.

Winter: Christmas lights brighten the centre, the Three Kings parade delights kids, and carnival shakes off the chill before spring. Cafés become a comfortable base between bracing seaside walks.

Expect Semana Santa processions, July’s Baños de Ola, and Semana Grande de Santiago with street shows and fireworks. Through summer, neighbourhood fiestas and occasional open-air films keep nights lively.