Cantabria in a Day: Modernisme, Medieval Stone & Santander’s Grand Bay

Bo. Sobrellano, s/n, 39520 Comillas, Cantabria

💡 Arrive right at opening to photograph the glazed ceramic sunflower tiles and minaret-style tower before tour crowds gather. Don't miss testing the musical window sashes and the ergonomic furniture designs in the attic.

Pl. Abad Francisco Navarro, 39330 Santillana del Mar, Cantabria

💡 Entering at 11:45 gives you ample time before the strict 13:00 midday closure. Take time to study the late-12th-century Romanesque cloister; its carved capitals depict biblical allegories and battle scenes in astonishing detail.

Magdalena Peninsula, Santander, Cantabria

💡 Walk the outer perimeter path around the promontory for panoramic views over the Cantabrian Sea and the El Sardinero beaches. Pass the open-air marine enclosure with seals and sea lions before admiring the English-style royal palace gifted to King Alfonso XIII.

Plaza Emilio Botín, P.º de Pereda, s/n, 39004 Santander, Cantabria

💡 Even if you only skim the rotating contemporary galleries, ascend the external suspended steel-and-glass walkways ("El Pachinko") designed by Renzo Piano; the cantilevered rooftop platforms offer the most striking vantage point over Santander Bay.

P.º de Pereda, 37, 39004 Santander, Cantabria

💡 Positioned directly across from Puerto Chico on Paseo de Pereda, this iconic institution features over 300 hot and cold pincho varieties. Nab a stool along the counter right as the evening spread emerges; order the warm spider-crab tartlet, caramelized foie, or *anchoa de Santoña sobre tosta*, paired with a glass of crisp local Albariño.