Lush mountain settings, picture-perfect white sandy beaches, and ancient architecture, Santander, Spain is a truly unique city. Northern Spain tours differ from the rest of the country climate-wise, with temperatures in Santander a lot more variable than other parts of the country, but it retains its timeless beauty come rain or shine.
The best time to visit Santander is definitely in the spring and summer, when temperatures soar and the gorgeous plant life bursts into a vibrant rainbow, especially in the Jardines de Pereda. These botanical gardens are just outside the intriguing Centro Botin Arts Centre, designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano. The rest of the city centre is jam-packed with other attractions too, including the famous Cathedral de Santander.
Venturing a little further out you’ll come to the iconic Palacio de la Magdalena, a royal summer residence that overlooks the sea. With Newmarket Holidays, you’ll be whisked through all these highlights, with plenty of opportunities to linger in places you feel most attracted to.
While the city is undoubtedly a mecca for history lovers, it has a thriving contemporary culture that’s as rich and complex as any well-curated exhibition. The city’s university is named after its most famous son, the historian and critic Menendez Pelayo. It isn’t the only place you can learn about his legacy in the city, with plenty of smaller museums dedicated to or including exhibitions about his life and works. There’s also a plethora of other attractions to explore, from galleries to dance shows. Santander holidays truly are a perfect fit for all kinds of traveller.
8 days from £1,805 pp
May 2025 - November 2025
8 days
3 airports
5 included
11 included
Dive into the arts, culture, and history of Spain with a visit to top-notch arts exhibitions and museums, or simply (wander the local beaches where you might be lucky enough to spot a sea lion!).
Cantabrian people are proud of their seafood.
However, no matter where you go to eat the fish soup will stand out. Filling but not too heavy, while also managing to be healthy and explode with flavour, there is a unique recipe in every restaurant and is a must-eat during your Santander trip.
Translating to ‘fried milk’, leche frita might not seem like the most appealing dessert, but once you bite into the sweet, firmly textured dish, you’ll see why every region in the north of Spain is quick to claim it as their own.
After eating far too much of the delicious food on offer, a few glasses of orujo will help it all go down. Similar to grappa but a bit sweeter, it’s the perfect aperitif.
First trip to Santander? Here are a few questions you might have.
GMT +1
2 hours 30 minutes
Not required
Euro
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