3hrs
Santander
Price from: 125.00 euros
On this tour, you will get the chance to visit the wonderful Santander Cathedral, one of the city´s most important historical landmarks. The Cathedral stands as a symbol of Santander´s spiritual and architectural heritage, with origins dating back to the 12th century. The cathedral is made up of two different parts: the Lower Church of Christ, which is an earlier Romanesque style, and the Upper Church, built in a Gothic style during the 14th century. The cathedral´s stunning facade and intricate stonework are signature elements of medieval artistry. Inside, you´ll find beautifully preserved chapels, stained glass windows, and altars, making it a captivating place to explore the deep-rooted history of the city.
Next, we´ll take a leisurely walk to the Pereda Gardens, a lush green space that offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. As we walk through the gardens, we´ll stop at the Monument to the Fire of Santander, a commemorative sculpture that honors the devastating fire of 1941. The fire, one of the most tragic events in Santander´s history, swept through the town and destroyed countless buildings, but it also led to a large-scale reconstruction effort that reshaped the city´s modern identity. The monument is an important reminder of the resilience of the people of Santander.
Designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano, the Botín Centre is a stunning work of contemporary architecture, located right on the waterfront. This cultural center, which houses art exhibitions, cultural events, and performances, is an architectural masterpiece that integrates with the surrounding environment. Its sleek, sophisticated modern design features an innovative glass facade, allowing natural light to the interior spaces. The highlight of the Botín Centre is its rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Santander´s vibrant bay and city.
As we move to the Magdalena Palace, located on the picturesque Magdalena Peninsula, you´ll be captivated by the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscapes. The palace itself, a grand and regal building, was originally constructed as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family in 1911. The palace was used by King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia and became a symbol of the Spanish monarchy´s connection to the region. Surrounded by lush pine forests and extensive gardens, the estate offers a glimpse into the lives of Spain´s royal family. Inside, you´ll find quaint rooms furnished in a style that reflects the early 20th century, with many rooms still preserving their original decoration.
Sardinero Beach is one of Santander´s most famous and beautiful stretches of coastline. This golden sand beach is popular with both locals and visitors, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty. The Casino nearby is an elegant and historic building, originally built in the late 19th century which reflects old-world charm. The Piquio Gardens, with their carefully preserved greenery and panoramic sea views, provide a relaxing setting to admire the coastal landscape.
As we continue our journey, we´ll pass by the Racing Stadium, home to the Real Racing Club, one of the most important football clubs in the region. This stadium, located near the beach, is an iconic structure that has seen countless matches and events over the years, offering a sense of the local sporting culture.
To end the day, we´ll visit the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, located on the rugged cliffs overlooking the coastline. This iconic lighthouse has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Bay of Biscay since 1839, standing as a symbol of safety for sailors navigating the area. From the lighthouse, you´ll enjoy spectacular views of the dramatic coastline, where rocky outcrops meet the rolling waves of the sea. The cliffs here are home to diverse wildlife, including seabirds, making it a great spot for nature and birdwatching enthusiasts.
DAY 1:
SANTANDER
END OF SANTANDER´S ICONIC LANDMARKS AND HIGHLIGHTS TOUR