Santillana del Mar - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Santillana del Mar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santillana del Mar, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santillana del Mar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santillana del Mar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Santillana del Mar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a charming town located in the autonomous community of Cantabria in northern Spain. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly the Romanesque-style Santa Juliana Collegiate Church and the cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses. The town is also home to several museums, including the Museum of the Inquisition and the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art. It is situated just a few kilometers from the stunning coastline of Cantabria and is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the region's rich cultural and natural heritage.

What to visit in Santillana del Mar

Sure, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Santillana del Mar and a bit of information about each: 1. Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar: This Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and features intricate stone carvings and a beautiful cloister.
2. Altamira Cave: The Altamira Museum features a replica of the famous prehistoric cave paintings, which were discovered here in 1879.
3. Museum of the Inquisition: This museum explores the history of the Spanish Inquisition and includes exhibits on torture devices and court proceedings.
4. Regina Coeli Diocesan Museum: This museum showcases religious art and artifacts from the Romanesque and Gothic eras, including gold and silver chalices and sculptures.
5. Santa Juliana Museum: This former convent houses art and furnishings from the 16th to the 19th centuries, including a unique collection of ceramic plates depicting scenes from Don Quixote.
6. Palace of the Velarde: This 18th-century palace features a beautiful Baroque facade and houses the municipal library.
7. Tower of Merino: This medieval tower was built in the 13th century and once served as a prison. Today, it houses a small museum about local history.
8. Zoo de Santillana: This small zoo features animals from all around the world, including tigers, lions, lemurs, and more.
9. Santillana del Mar Old Town: Wander through the charming cobbled streets of the old town, which is filled with historic buildings and traditional architecture.
10. Museum of Jesus Otero: This museum celebrates the life and work of Jesus Otero, a famous local artist who specialized in sculpture and painting.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santillana del Mar.

When to go on holiday to Santillana del Mar

The best time to visit Santillana del Mar is during the late spring and early autumn months, from April to June and September to November. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside. Additionally, the town is less crowded than in the summer months, giving visitors a chance to experience more of the local culture and traditions. The summer months, from July to August, tend to be very busy and hot, so it is best to avoid those months if possible.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santillana del Mar

To get to Santillana del Mar, you have several options: 1. By car: The easiest way to get there is by car. Santillana del Mar is located about 30 minutes from Santander and about 2 hours from Bilbao.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate services to Santillana del Mar from nearby cities such as Santander, Torrelavega and Bilbao.
3. By train: The nearest train station is in Torrelavega, which is about 20 minutes away by car. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Santillana del Mar.
4. By plane: The nearest airport is Santander Airport, which is located about 30 minutes away by car. Once you land at the airport, you can take a bus or a taxi to Santillana del Mar.
I hope this information is helpful to you!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santillana del Mar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santillana del Mar

Here are some typical foods of Santillana del Mar in Spain along with a brief description for each of them: 1. Cocido montañés - This is a hearty mountain stew made with white beans, cabbage, potatoes, chorizo, and other meats. It is simmered for hours to create a thick, satisfying dish.
2. Sobaos y quesadas - These are two popular desserts in Santillana del Mar. Sobaos are sponge cake-like pastries made with butter and flour, while quesadas are similar but are made with cream cheese and have a denser texture.
3. Bonito del norte - This is a type of tuna that is found in the waters off the northern coast of Spain. It is typically grilled or baked with olive oil and served with vegetables.
4. Rabas - These are battered and fried squid rings, similar to calamari. They are crispy and typically served as a snack or appetizer.
5. Pote - This is another popular stew in Santillana del Mar. It is made with white beans, chorizo, and other meats, along with vegetables like onion, garlic, and potatoes.
6. Queso de Nata de Cantabria - This is a type of cheese made from cow's milk in the Cantabria region, which includes Santillana del Mar. It is creamy and rich and is often served with bread and cured meats.
7. Orujo - This is a traditional liqueur that is made from the skins of grapes after they are pressed for wine. It has a high alcohol content and is often consumed as a digestif after meals.
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Santillana del Mar an expensive destination for tourists?

Santillana del Mar can be considered a slightly expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as the time of year you visit, your level of accommodation, transportation costs, and the activities and attractions you plan to do while there. Accommodations in Santillana del Mar can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels with higher rates during peak season, while restaurants and cafes usually offer reasonably priced meals. Overall, while Santillana del Mar is not the most budget-friendly destination in Spain, it is still possible to plan a trip on a budget with careful planning and research.

Where to find accomodation in Santillana del Mar

It is best to find accommodation either in Santillana del Mar itself or in nearby towns such as Comillas or Suances. These areas offer a variety of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals to choose from. Staying in one of these areas will provide easy access to the main attractions and allow for a more immersive cultural experience.
You can check hotel prices at Santillana del Mar here:
Booking.com

Is Santillana del Mar a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santillana del Mar is generally considered a very safe place for tourists. It is a small town in Northern Spain with a low crime rate, and the local authorities work hard to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. As with any destination, it is always advisable to take reasonable precautions and be aware of your surroundings, but in general, Santillana del Mar is a safe and welcoming place for tourists to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santillana del Mar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santillana del Mar the most?

Santillana del Mar is a popular tourist destination in Spain that attracts different types of travelers. This charming medieval town offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for visitors of all ages. However, it is more suitable for couples and families who want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere with gorgeous landscapes.
Couples will love the romantic ambiance of Santillana del Mar. The town's cobblestone streets are dotted with beautiful old buildings, cozy cafes, and restaurants to enjoy the delicious local cuisine. The historical and cultural attractions, such as the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana or the Diocesan Museum Regina Coeli, are also perfect for a romantic stroll.
Families will appreciate the town's kid-friendly attractions, such as the Altamira Museum, where children can learn about cave paintings, or the Zoo de Santillana, where they can see over 200 species of animals. The natural landscapes in the surrounding area also provide opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
Although young people looking for fun may not find Santillana del Mar as appealing because it is a more tranquil town with a relaxed pace of life, they can still enjoy the town's traditional festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Festival of Santa Juliana or the Medieval Fair.

How to get around Santillana del Mar

The best way to move around Santillana del Mar is on foot, as it is a small town with most attractions close to each other. However, if you need to travel to a nearby destination, you can use a taxi, rent a bike, or take a bus. Some local companies also offer guided tours around the town and nearby areas.

What to see around Santillana del Mar

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Santillana del Mar: 1. Comillas: A charming coastal town with stunning architecture, including the famous “El Capricho,” a unique architectural work by Antonio Gaudi.
2. Santander: This elegant city on the Bay of Biscay is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive palace and museums, and famous food markets.
3. Caves of Altamira: Located in the nearby town of Santillana del Mar, the Caves of Altamira are a UNESCO World Heritage site that are famous for their prehistoric paintings.
4. Picos de Europa National Park: This national park offers breathtaking scenery and fantastic hiking opportunities.
5. Llanes: A lovely coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches, historic houses, and tasty seafood.
6. Bilbao: Home to the impressive Guggenheim Museum and delicious Basque cuisine, Bilbao is a great day trip destination from Santillana del Mar.
7. Potes: A picturesque mountain town with a beautiful medieval center and easy access to the Picos de Europa National Park.
I hope this helps you plan your trip!
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