Taking Spanish lessons in Santander
When in Spain, do like the Spanish do. While international visitors flock to the south of the country, Spaniards head north to Santander. And they're not wrong to do so. Once the Spanish royal family's favourite summer getaway, Cantabria's capital is becoming more and more popular with international visitors. Overlooking the Bay Biscay, this charming seaside city is well known for its golden beaches, picturesque promenades, and grand squares and boulevards. Santander vacation rentals will put you in the heart of the action.
Learn to live like royalty in Santander
Sadly, many of Santander's most beautiful buildings were lost in a great fire in 1941. Don't worry though, there are still some pretty spectacular sights to behold. On the Magdalena Peninsula, you'll gaze in wonder at the Magdalena Palace, an incredibly grand mansion that was once the summer residence of the Spanish Royal family. In nearby El Sardinero is the opulent Gran Casino del Sardinero, while in the city center you'll find the medieval Santander Cathedral. And to the north is Parque de Cabo Mayor, which features rugged cliffs and rock formations, plus the imposing Faro de Cabo Mayor, Cantabria's oldest lighthouse.
Santander—a beach for all occasions
You're spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in Santander. In San Ramon there's the peaceful Playa de la Virgen del Mar, while in Ribamontan al Mar, you'll find the spectacular Playa de Langre sandwiched between 2 cliffs. Santander's most famous beach is Playa del Sardinero in elegant El Sardinero, which is a popular spot for swimmers, surfers, and those who just want to look good. In the city center, there are many fine museums and galleries to explore, and the Mercado del Este, an indoor market, is worth a visit if you're feeling peckish and want some tapas.
Some sunny times in northern climes
So if you're thinking typical Spanish beach weather, then think again. Santander is in the north of the country, which means it has a milder climate than most other parts of Spain. That said, it's still pretty pleasant most of the year. The summers tend to be warm and dry, and you can expect it to reach the high 70s in July and August. It's still quite nice in September, with average highs in the low 70s. It starts to get cold and wet come mid-October, so if you want a Santander vacation rental outside of the busy summer months, try early fall.
A close escape in Dunas de Liencras Natural Park
Even though it's a city of some 180,000 people, Santander's very close to some seriously rugged landscapes. The Dunas de Liencres Natural Park, at the mouth of the Pas River, is only a 25-minute drive from the city center. The park consists of almost 500 acres of coves, beaches, dunes, and sprawling pine forests. If you book your Santander vacation rental in winter, chances are that you'll happen upon lots of migratory waterbirds, which reside in the dense forest, as well as a few other reptiles and mammals.
Transportation options to and around Santander
Fly into Santander (SDR), the closest airport, located 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from the city center.
If you're traveling by train, Santander Station, Santander (YJL-Santander Train Station) and Valdecilla Station are the main stations in the area.
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