The city of Santander, set on a peninsula between its stunning bay, the open sea, and the surrounding mountains, captivates with its serene beauty. Its sunrises and sunsets, thanks to its unique orientation, bathe the bay in a golden light that, reflected between the sea and green hills, creates an almost magical atmosphere.
Santander is surrounded by five long white-sand beaches — some open to the sea, others sheltered within the bay. Although it does not preserve the urban layout of San Sebastián — several fires destroyed its historic centre — the heart of the city retains an effortless elegance, with its stately public buildings and its seafaring cathedral.
The residential district, El Sardinero, still boasts grand houses, the magnificent Hotel Real, the historic Casino, and the splendid Palacio de la Magdalena, all of which evoke the charm of the Belle Époque, the golden age in which they were built. Also worth mentioning are its beautiful yacht club, tennis club, and its iconic golf courses: the municipal course perched atop seaside cliffs, and the Pedreña golf course across the bay, where the legendary Seve Ballesteros learned to play.
Blessed with a mild, pleasant climate, Santander is a calm city, free from crowds — perfect for strolling, enjoying one of its famous ice creams, or having merienda (afternoon tea) in one of its many cafés. Here, people dress elegantly and take pride in this daily ritual.
In summer, the city comes alive with a rich cultural calendar, with the Palacio de Festivales and the ever-debated Centro Botín at its heart.
Nearby, it’s well worth visiting the charming village of Liérganes, or taking a day trip to the dramatic Picos de Europa, following the spectacular Hermida Gorge to Potes. Other highlights not to miss are Santillana del Mar, Comillas, and San Vicente de la Barquera.
HOTELS
Santander may not have an extensive hotel scene, but it offers a handful of charming, high-quality options:
Hotel Real: A magnificent landmark, built in 1913, with stunning views.
Hotel Bahía: Right in the heart of Santander.
RESTAURANTS
In Santander, you’ll eat well almost anywhere — and you must try the famous rabas (fried squid).
Cenador de Amós: In Villaverde de Pontones, set in a beautiful manor house. One of Spain’s most renowned restaurants.
El Riojano: A true classic, with traditional tavern-style décor.
Bar del Puerto: Another classic; long considered the city’s most elegant, with a refined maritime atmosphere.
El Serbal: Overlooking Sardinero beach. Traditional Spanish cuisine with a sophisticated twist.
El Puntal: A beach shack–restaurant on the stunning Puntal beach. Accessible by small boats departing near the Centro Botín.
SHOPPING
Santander has always been ahead of its time — when it was hard to find international products in Spain, you could find them here. Though many of those iconic shops have disappeared, the city’s streets still preserve that refined charm that made it famous.
Around Hernán Cortés and Daoiz y Velarde streets, you’ll find delightful boutiques for fashion and home décor — well worth exploring.
Percha: A women’s boutique full of class, taste, and style — the city’s finest.
NOTE: Please note that this is not a conventional travel guide but a collection of suggestions that reflect the lifestyle that Tissa Fontaneda wishes to share through her handbags and accessories.
