Santander’s top tours cut right to the heart of this fascinating Spanish city. The essential “Santander in Flames” walking tour brings the devastating 1941 fire to life, showing how this disaster reshaped the entire city center. Architecture buffs will appreciate the guided visits to Gaudí’s often-overlooked Capricho mansion and the historic town of Comillas. For nature lovers, the Picos de Europa day trips offer spectacular mountain scenery and hiking without the tourist crowds you’ll find in other parts of Spain. The private cave tours and 4WD adventures get you off the beaten path, while December visitors shouldn’t miss the atmospheric Christmas tour through medieval Santillana. Let’s look at our favorite tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- The top-rated historical tour in Santander is the “Tour 1941: Santander in Flames,” with a 99% recommendation rate and 4.9/5 star rating.
- The “Magic Christmas Tour in Santillana” offers a unique medieval journey through the charming town of Santillana del Mar, starting from $251.20 per person.
- The “Capricho De Gaudí and Comillas Tour” and “Picos De Europa and Potes Guided Tour” provide in-depth architectural and scenic experiences with small group sizes.
- Private tours, such as the “Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour” and “Full Day Private 4WD Tour,” offer customized experiences with knowledgeable guides.
- The “City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour” allows for flexible city exploration with on-board audio commentary in multiple languages.
Tour 1941: Santander in Flames
Although the events of 1941 left Santander in ruins, the Tour 1941: Santander in Flames provides a poignant and informative glimpse into this pivotal moment in the city’s history.
Earning a 99% recommendation rate from 297 travelers, this 4.9/5 star-rated tour takes visitors on an engaging in-person journey through the aftermath of the devastating fires. Knowledgeable guides, like Raquel, enhance the experience with captivating anecdotes and historical insights as the group explores the city’s landmarks.
Starting at 11 AM from the Santander City Council, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and is accessible for wheelchair users, those with strollers, and service animals.
Concluding at Plaza Cañadío, the tour offers a comprehensive understanding of Santander’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Consistently praised for its informative and immersive nature, the Tour 1941: Santander in Flames is a must-do experience for any visitor seeking to uncover the rich history of this remarkable Spanish city.
Read our full review: Tour 1941: Santander in Flames Review
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The Capricho De Gaudí and Comillas Tour – Santander
This comprehensive tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of Santander’s architectural gems, with a focus on the renowned Capricho de Gaudí and the charming town of Comillas.
Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the stunning Capricho de Gaudí, an iconic example of the architect’s unique style. The tour also includes visits to Palacio de Sobrellano, a picturesque cemetery, and other highlights in Comillas.
Convenient transportation via air-conditioned minivan and a knowledgeable driver-guide ensure a seamless and informative experience. With a small-group size limited to eight participants, this tour provides a more personalized journey.
Priced at $71.17 per person, the tour offers the flexibility of reserving now and paying later. While most travelers can participate, there are some limitations, such as non-accessibility for wheelchairs.
Read our full review: The Capricho De Gaudí and Comillas Tour – Santander Review
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Picos De Europa and Potes Guided Tour From Santander
Santander’s natural wonders take center stage with the Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour. This full-day excursion offers travelers a chance to explore northern Spain’s magnificent mountain scenery.
Departing from Santander, the tour takes guests to the Picos de Europa, where they can opt for a cable car ride to enjoy breathtaking vistas. The itinerary also includes a visit to the historical Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liebana and the charming village of Potes, known for its picturesque architecture.
Rated 4.6/5 based on 82 reviews, with 91% of travelers recommending the tour, this small-group experience promises a personalized and informative journey. Highlights include the knowledgeable guide, the stunning mountain landscapes, and the quaint charm of Potes.
While transportation and local taxes are included, visitors should be prepared for potential weather changes and bring appropriate outdoor attire. With a maximum group size of 8, this tour offers an intimate and customized exploration of Santander’s natural splendor.
Read our full review: Picos De Europa and Potes Guided Tour From Santander Review
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Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour From Santander
Travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Santander’s rich cultural and natural heritage can embark on the Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour. This private tour from Santander takes visitors to the archeologically significant Puente Viesgo caves, including El Castillo and Las Monedas, known for their ancient cave paintings.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour offers personalized attention and the option to include an e-bike excursion for added activity.
The tour includes hotel transfers, cave entrance fees, and transportation by private vehicle. A minimum of 2 people is required, with a maximum group size of 8. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to engage travelers in both Spanish and English, the guides provide an informative and enlightening exploration of the unique caves and the historical significance of the sites.
Accessibility considerations are noted, and early booking is recommended due to limited cave admissions.
Read our full review: Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour From Santander Review
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Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Santander to Picos De Europa. Excellent Meals.
Embarking on a thrilling journey, this full-day private 4WD tour from Santander takes visitors deep into the captivating Picos de Europa mountain range.
Boasting an exceptional 100% recommendation rate from 24 travelers, this tour provides an immersive experience with excellent meals included. Guests can expect a guided route with cultural, geological, and ethnographic insights, as well as opportunities for off-road driving, hiking, and wildlife watching.
The tour includes stops at the charming town of Santillana del Mar and the historic Potes, along with a cable car ride in the Central Massif.
Praised for its outstanding communication, the tour also offers flexibility, with pickup available from Santander or Bilbao airports and seaports.
At a price range of €430.00 per person, this private 4WD adventure offers tremendous value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Santander to Picos De Europa. Excellent Meals. Review
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City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers visitors a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s key attractions. With a 24-hour pass, travelers can hop on and off the open-top, double-decker buses at any of the 10 well-placed stops to visit sights like the Santander Cathedral, Cantabrian Maritime Museum, and El Sardinero beach.
The tour features on-board audio commentary in multiple languages, along with free headphones, ensuring an informative experience. While the service operates daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, with a bus every 35-40 minutes, some customers have reported long wait times and limited bus availability.
Plus, there have been instances of tour cancellations without prior notice, though the majority of reviews highlight the beautiful views and informative commentary.
To make the most of the tour, it’s recommended to check for operational updates and use paper vouchers to avoid potential issues with e-tickets. The City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Review
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Kayak Excursion Through the Bay of Santander.
One of the best ways to explore the stunning Bay of Santander is through a kayak excursion. Operated by Stand Up Santander, the 2-hour tour takes participants on an adventure through the picturesque waters, with a maximum of 20 travelers.
Priced at €30.00 per person, the experience includes all necessary kayaking equipment, insurance coverage, and private transportation to and from the activity site, which is located next to the Maritime Museum of Santander.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed, and there’s easy access to public transportation. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems.
With an impressive 5.0-star rating based on 2 reviews, the kayak excursion has received praise for its excellent treatment, safety focus, engaging guides, and overall enjoyable experience. Participants are advised to exercise caution when disembarking from the kayaks.
Read our full review: Kayak Excursion Through the Bay of Santander. Review
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Full Day Tour Lakes of Covadonga and Santillana From Santander
What better way to explore the breathtaking natural wonders of Cantabria than the full-day tour of the Lakes of Covadonga and Santillana from Santander?
Operated by Buendía Tours, this comprehensive excursion takes visitors on a journey through Covadonga Lakes, the Sanctuary, and Cangas de Onís. Priced from €42.00 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 54 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes round-trip bus transfers from Santander, walking tours of the Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary, and free time to explore the picturesque town of Cangas de Onís. Lunch is provided during the tour.
Travelers should arrive at the meeting point, Estación Marítima in Santander, 15 minutes early to avoid delays.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly. Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
Customer reviews praise the breathtaking views and highlight the impressive Covadonga church and Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onís, though some have noted accessibility concerns during inclement weather.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Lakes of Covadonga and Santillana From Santander Review
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Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Bilbao to Picos De Europa. Fine Meals.
Embarking on a full-day private 4WD tour from Bilbao to Picos de Europa offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking natural wonders of this renowned national park.
Guided by a knowledgeable expert, the tour provides a perfect blend of exploration and culinary delight. Visitors can expect a focus on local cuisine, indulging in a selection of pinchos, tapas, and a main meal at a top-notch restaurant.
The tour also includes tickets for the Fuente De cable car, providing stunning vistas of the rugged mountain landscape. Complementing the experience, a personal photographer captures memorable moments, with the option to purchase printed photos.
Priced at $596.60 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with free cancellation and a flexible payment option. Positive reviews highlight the tour’s memorable experiences and the exceptional expertise of the guide, Juan, making this an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive and authentic Picos de Europa adventure.
Read our full review: Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Bilbao to Picos De Europa. Fine Meals. Review
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Magic Christmas Tour in Santillana
The Santillana del Mar Yuletide tour invites travelers on a magical medieval journey through the picturesque town, immersing them in the enchanting spirit of a traditional Spanish Christmas. Priced from $251.20 per person, this private tour takes participants to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, where they’ll discover the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The tour guide leads the way, providing insights into the architecture and significance of the church, whose 3€ entrance fee is included.
Afterward, the tour concludes in the historic center of Santillana del Mar, allowing guests to explore the charming streets and soak up the festive atmosphere on their own.
This experience is suitable for most travelers and can be booked with the “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, the Santillana del Mar Yuletide tour promises a truly enchanting Christmas adventure in Spain.
Read our full review: Magic Christmas Tour in Santillana Review
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The Sum Up
Santander offers a diverse array of tour options, from exploring the city’s fiery history to immersing oneself in the natural wonders of the Picos de Europa. Whether it’s a guided tour, a private excursion, or an adventurous kayak trip, visitors can discover the rich cultural and scenic treasures that make Santander a captivating destination. With a range of experiences to choose from, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.