What to do in Santander

Discover Santander: Coastal Elegance Meets Outdoor Adventure

Santander, the capital of Cantabria in northern Spain, is a stunning seaside city where natural beauty and outdoor adventure blend seamlessly with urban charm. With sweeping golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, a vibrant harbour, and easy access to lush countryside, Santander is an ideal destination for anyone looking to discover northern Spain’s hidden gems.

Whether you're strolling along the elegant promenade, catching waves at Playa de Somo, or hiking along wild coastal paths, Santander offers a wide variety of things to do for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. It’s a place where surfboards and seafood go hand-in-hand, and where every day invites you to explore something new.

Outdoor Activities in Santander

Santander is surrounded by sea, sand, and green hills, offering some of the top outdoor experiences in Cantabria. It’s a hub for water sports, coastal exploration, and scenic escapes.

Surfing and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Santander is one of Spain’s most iconic surf destinations. Just across the bay lies Playa de Somo, a long stretch of beach with consistent waves perfect for all levels. Regular ferries from the city centre make it easy to reach, and there are also waves closer to town at Playa del Sardinero and Playa de Mataleñas.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular way to explore calmer waters within the bay. Glide past cliffs, beaches, and elegant waterfront buildings for a peaceful yet active experience.

Coastal Hiking and Cliff Walks

The coastal paths around Santander offer dramatic views of the Cantabrian Sea. The Camino de Santiago del Norte passes through the city, with sections leading to secluded coves, green headlands, and hidden beaches. The walk from Playa del Sardinero to the Cabo Mayor lighthouse is especially scenic, with ocean views, seabird sightings, and powerful cliffs.

Sea Kayaking and Boat Tours

Kayaking around Santander Bay is an original and eco-friendly way to discover the city from the water. Paddle between beaches, past the Magdalena Peninsula, and towards Somo or Pedreña, stopping for swims or picnics along the way. Boat tours, including wildlife-watching and sunset cruises, are also widely available and perfect for relaxing outdoor adventures in Santander.

Sailing and Windsurfing

Santander is a major sailing centre and regularly hosts international regattas. Visitors can try sailing in the calm inner bay or take a beginner’s course from one of the many sailing clubs. On windy days, windsurfing is also possible along certain beach zones, especially near El Puntal.

Cycling and Green Spaces

The city is full of cycle paths and scenic parks. Hire a bike and ride along the coastal promenade, through Parque de las Llamas, or over to the Magdalena Peninsula. These green spaces are perfect for families, joggers, and anyone seeking low-impact outdoor activity.

Local Tips for Outdoor Activities in Santander

Weather in Santander is mild but changeable. Always pack a light waterproof jacket and layers, even in summer. The sea remains fresh year-round, so wetsuits are recommended for surfing or paddling, especially outside of July and August.

Most surf and paddle schools provide all necessary gear, and there are plenty of rental shops near the beaches. Public ferries across the bay are frequent and scenic, a great way to access Somo, El Puntal, or Pedreña without needing a car.

For something off the beaten path, consider visiting Playa de Langre, a wild and unspoilt beach surrounded by cliffs, ideal for hiking, surfing, or simply relaxing away from the city.

After your activity, refuel with local dishes like grilled sardines, rabas (fried squid), or seafood stews, and try a glass of local white wine or cider while overlooking the sea.

Best Time to Visit Santander

Santander is enjoyable all year round, but each season offers different benefits for outdoor adventures.

Summer (June to September) is ideal for beach days, surfing, sailing, and coastal walks. The weather is at its warmest, with long daylight hours and regular outdoor events and festivals.

Spring and early autumn (April to June and September to October) are great times to visit for hiking, paddleboarding, and cultural visits. These shoulder seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lush green landscapes.

Winter is quieter but still full of potential for coastal walks, mild hikes, and caving in nearby areas. Surfers will find larger swells and emptier line-ups during the off-season.

How to Get to Santander

Santander is easy to reach from across Spain and Europe.

By Air: Santander Airport (SDR) is just 6 km from the city centre and offers regular flights from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona, as well as seasonal connections to other European destinations. Taxis and public buses connect the airport to central Santander in under 15 minutes.

By Train: RENFE and FEVE trains connect Santander with major cities and nearby regions. The train from Madrid takes around 4.5 hours and offers scenic views through northern Spain’s interior.

By Bus: ALSA operates long-distance buses between Santander and cities such as Bilbao, Oviedo, and Madrid. The bus station is located centrally, making onward travel easy.

By Car: Santander is connected via the A-8 motorway, offering scenic drives along the northern coast. Driving is a good option for reaching nearby beaches, villages, and natural parks.

Once in the city, Santander is compact and walkable, with excellent public transport and ferry options for getting around.

Santander is more than just a beautiful city by the sea, it’s a gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences across land and water. Whether you're chasing waves in Somo, hiking past dramatic cliffs, or kayaking through the bay, Santander invites you to enjoy nature without leaving comfort and culture behind. Pair your visit with inland adventures in the Picos de Europa or nearby coastal gems like Comillas or Castro Urdiales for a full Cantabrian escape.