The sandy beaches, the great weather, the wonderful hospitality – this is Santander and Cantabria. A relatively unknown and unspoiled part of Spain makes it a perfect holiday destination for those who like something a little different. But where should you stay? Bustling Santander town? The pedestrianized Santillana del Mar? Or the coastal Galizano? We have you covered; here are some of our favorite places to stay in Santander and Cantabria.
Where to Stay in Santander
Santander has everything you could want from a vacation. A bustling old town. Miles of sandy beaches and great weather in the spring and summer months. But it also has a busy nightlife scene. So if you’re looking for some buzzing nightlife mixed with relaxing days, get yourself to Santander.
Eurostars Hotel Real, Santander
The Eurostars Hotel Real in Santander is iconic. It’s location can’t be beaten, a grand Victorian-like structure looming over Santander’s bay. This is 5 star, old school luxury at its best. There are large, sweeping rooms with elegant furnishings and decadent upholsteries. A gym, spa and sauna complete the picture.
Pérez Galdós, 28, Santander
Hotel Santemar, Santander
The Hotel Santemar is a beautifully designed space in the heart of Santander. The rooms have a beach feel to them with deep blues and sandy yellows and views over Santander bay. By foot, you’re just a few minutes from the beach. The hotel comes complete with a gym and a great restaurant. A perfect place to relax after a busy day in Santander.
Joaquin Costa 28, Santander
Vincci Puertochico, Santander
The splendid Vincci Puertochico hotel is situated right on the water. This 4-star hotel has bright, modern rooms with nautical twists. We love the quirkily designed bar and lounge with wicker lampshades, brightly patterned walls and a great drink selection. While all of this is wonderful, be sure to make the best of the summer terrace for drinks and snacks.
Castelar 25, Santander
Suite Home Pinares, Santander
The Suite Home Pinares is a quaint, 14 bedroom guesthouse with personality and style. Each thoughtfully decorated room has an individual style, each one with a beautiful bathroom. The hotel is situated just moments from the beach and the sea, which makes it a great home-from-home during your time in Santander.
Avenida Los Infantes 23, Santander
Where to Stay in Santillana Del Mar
Heading into Santillana Del Mar is like stepping back in time. The town is open to pedestrians only and houses some impressive historical buildings and sights. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so with a stay here, you get the best of both worlds: a bustling little town with rural activities close to hand. Because it combines these two so beautifully, we always love our stays here.
Hotel Cuevas, Santillana Del Mar
Just 30 minutes from Santander lies the Hotel Cuevas in Santillana del Mar. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, this could be the place for you. The 4-star hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by trees and gardens. And the quirkily designed rooms are bright with bold colors and patterns. Don’t forget the common spaces too, all decorated in calming tones.
Avenida Antonio Sandi 4, Santillana Del Mar
Parador De Santillana De Gil Blas, Santillana Del Mar
Paradors are always a delight to stay in and the Parador De Santillana De Gil Blas is no exception. The hotel occupies a large family mansion which is dripping with character. Think exposed beams, original flooring and large, open rooms. This town is only open to pedestrians which guarantees a quiet, peaceful stay. Additionally, it’s just isolated enough to make you feel like you’ve escaped everyday life.
Plaza Ramon Pelayo 11, Santillana Del Mar
Where to Stay in Galizano
If you like pretty beaches, Galizano might well be the place for you. This small coastal town close to Santander has one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, with access to many others. While here, we recommend taking at least one day to soak up the sun and relax on the beaches nearby.
Hotel Palacio Torre De Galizano
There is one word to describe the Hotel Palacio Torre De Galizano and that is impressive. It’s a beautiful stone building just moments away from the Galizano and Langre beaches. This is a ‘gastronomic hotel’, so expect culinary greatness from Chef Javier Marañon. Javier has worked in some of the best Michelin star restaurants in the area. Because of his experience, he brings his signature flair to every dish in the restaurant. Additionally, the rooms are a delight, with excellent quality beds, natural light and minimalistic touches.
Barrio La Iglesia 37 Galizano, Cantabria
Staying in Santander and Cantabria
The coastal region of Santander and Cantabria is a great place to base yourself for a relaxing few days. Some of our favorite tours in the area include our Cantabria food tour and our Monastery of Santo Toribio day tour. If you like hiking, gastronomy or water sports, you’re in the right place, as our best tours of Santander show. Additionally, beautiful Bilbao is only a few hours away, where more excitement, culture and history awaits you. While here, be sure to check out. the best things to do in Bilbao if you’re heading along the coast.
