Start your adventure in the province of Cantabria by visiting Santander. Visit the Palacio de la Magdalena located in a small island just off the coast of Santander. It offers stunning views of the sea and houses a small museum that showcases the history of the palace. Then, take a stroll at Puerto Chico, a small but charming harbor that offers great photo opportunities.
Explore the natural beauty of Cantabria by visiting Picos de Europa National Park, a stunning mountain range known for its dramatic landscapes, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. Take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain for panoramic views or go for a hike through its well-maintained trails. Don't forget to bring a picnic basket to enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
Visit Comillas, a charming coastal town filled with modernist architecture. The El Capricho de Gaudí is a must-visit place and is a renowned work of art. It exudes a fairy-tale atmosphere with its colorful ceramic tiles that ornament the entire facade. Stroll around the town center and stop by at the local shops for some souvenir shopping.
Explore the quaint town of Santillana del Mar, known for its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Visit the famous Altamira Caves Museum, which houses some of the finest prehistoric art in the world. Afterward, visit the lovely church of Colegiata de Santa Juliana, which boasts impressive Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century.
Relax and unwind at the charming beach town of Suances. Enjoy a day lounging on the beautiful beach, walking around the town, and exploring its beautiful surroundings. The Marqués de Santillana viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the town and its beautiful bay. Enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping a cocktail at one of the many restaurants that line the waterfront.
End your trip in Cantabria by visiting the beautiful seaside town of Santoña. Take a boat tour of the Marshes of Santoña, Victoria and Joyel Natural Park where you can observe the natural beauty of the area's flora and fauna. Visit the El Fuerte del Mazo Museum, a beautifully restored 17th-century fortress that offers a glimpse of the town's maritime past.
Public transportation is widely available in Cantabria, which includes buses and trains. The best way to get around and explore the natural beauty of the region is by car. Car rentals are available at both the Bilbao and Santander airports. The estimated cost of renting a car is around $40-50 a day.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the charming coastal towns of Noja, San Vicente de la Barquera, and Laredo. You can also go surfing in the beautiful beach of Loredo or paddleboarding in the Suances bay. If you have less time, consider abbreviating your stay in Santander, skipping some of the museums, or taking a shorter boat tour of Santoña.
Santander Airport (SDR) is the main airport in Cantabria, located about 5 kilometers from the city center of Santander. It offers domestic and international flights to popular destinations in Europe. Bilbao (BIO) is also a nearby airport located approximately 100 kilometers from Santander, offering more international flights and is served by major airlines such as British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France.