Santander

Over 60,000 people visit Palacio de la Magdalena annually and each one of them leave with an amazing and memorable experience that really stands out from their trip to Spain. It is one of the most iconic attractions in Santander and was built in the early 1900s as a home for the Spanish Royal Family.

You’ll love exploring the eclectic architecture of the building which combines French, English, and regional styles. Also, keep an eye out for the stables built by Javier Gonzalez de Riancho which emulate a medieval English village. Inside the palace you’ll see numerous works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Fernando Alvarex Sotomayor and Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida.

Palacio de la Magdalena, Address: Av. de la Reina Victoria, s/n, 39005 Santander, Cantabria, Spain

The Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria is a wonderful museum that shows the evolution of man all the way from prehistoric times up to the conquest of Cantabria by Augustus Caesar.

The exhibits are beautiful and gives visitors a chance to really delve into Cantabria’s rich history. It is recognized as one of the best museums in the area; the displays and the videos are explained in Spanish, French, and English so that all visitors can make the most of their experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to view artistic expressions from rich cultures all over Spain.

Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria , Address: Calle Bailén, s/n, 39004 Santander, Cantabria, Spain, Phone: +34-942-20-99-22

The Santander Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary of Santander, is a Roman Catholic place of worship which dates back to the 12th century. The mainly Gothic building complex has been renovated and extended several times over the years, but you can still see some of the original structure.

Be sure to allocate enough time to explore the cathedral fully, especially the well-preserved doorways, columns, and the portal with the coat of arms of Castile and Leon. Other aspects also include the beautiful stained glass on the windows and the chapels, especially the first one by Fernando Herrera Calderon which dates back to 1624.

Santander Cathedral, Address: Calle Somorrostro, s/n, 39002 Santander, Cantabria, Spain

If you are traveling with kids:

Found along the north coast of Spain, the Magdalena Peninsula can be found near the entrance to the Bay of Santander. It stretches for nearly 70 acres and is a popular recreational destination for both locals and tourists. You’ll find many things to see and do on the peninsula, including the cultural heritage site, Palacio de la Magdalena which is also on our list.

Other aspects include two stunning swimming beaches, a small zoo, a lighthouse, and gorgeous gardens near the palace. You can spend your time sunbathing or taking a dip on the beach, enjoying a picnic in the gardens, or taking the little ones to see the animals at the zoo. Map

Named after the 19th century Cantabrian writer Jose Maria de Pereda, the Jardines & Paseo de Pereda park in Santander is a great family friendly attraction for visitors in the area. You’ll be able to see sculptures and paintings resembling scenes from the author’s work; for example, the mountain life sculptures in bronze and stone are from his seminal works Escenas Montanesas.

Other places you can explore within the park include the Puerto Chico marina and the bayside promenade winding through the gardens. Architecture aficionados will enjoy seeing the stunning buildings with its unique architecture and glassed-in balconies.

The Faro de Cabo Mayor, or the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, is one of the most iconic examples of Santander’s civil architecture. The first attempt to build the lighthouse dates back to 1778 but it wasn’t lit for the first time until 1839. Today, visitors can find the lighthouse at the entrance to Santander Bay; the exemplary structure is one of the area’s best kept secrets. The breathtaking views alone are worth the visit so be sure to take your camera along. You’ll be able to explore the staggering 30-meter-high tower, the lush green space, and the museum complex along with the exhibition halls while you’re there.

Faro de Cabo Mayor, Address: Faro Cabo Mayor, 21, 39012 Santander, Cantabria, Spain, Phone: +34-942-20-36-48

The Mercado de la Esperanza is housed in an iconic building that was designed in 1897 and is now a prime example of well-preserved 19th century iron architecture. Today, the structure is a declared historical-artistic monument, but what you’re really there to see is the amazing market housed within in. The market is mostly dedicated to food and is the largest of its kind in all of Cantabria. On the main floor, you’ll find an expansive array of seafood and fish, much of which were freshly caught that very morning. On the upper floors, visitors will find other meat products, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables.

Mercado de la Esperanza, Address: Plaza de la Esperanza, s/n, 39002 Santander, Cantabria, Spain, Phone: +34-942-20-30-87

Where to Eat

The Restaurante El Serbal is a Michelin star dining establishment that was created in 1999 in one of Santander’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Puertochico. It quickly grew to fame and became renowned for transforming fresh products which are locally sourced into flavorful culinary concoctions. Some of their most creative dishes include the flambeado and the steak tartare. One of the restaurant’s most prominent features is its extensive winery which has over 500 local and international varietals, so be sure to pair your meal perfectly for an overall amazing dining experience. The delicious food, wonderful service, and memorable experience will be one of the best things you remember about your trip to Spain.

Restaurante El Serbal, Address: Calle Andrés del Río, 7, 39004 Santander, Cantabria, Spain, Phone: +34-942-22-25-15