Santander, with its seaside charm and access to stunning landscapes, is a fantastic base for exploring what northern Spain has to offer. Whether you’re craving a mountain getaway, a cultural stroll, or a scenic boat ride, the city’s tour options are as diverse as the coastline itself. We love how some tours, like the Picos de Europa day trip, combine breathtaking mountain scenery with visits to historic monasteries and charming villages. Others, like the city cruise, let you see Santander from a fresh perspective, soaking in the skyline and coastal views. No matter your interest or fitness level, you’ll find an adventure that fits.
Santander offers a rich variety of guided day trips, private tours, cultural excursions, and outdoor adventures. Some options focus on natural wonders like the Covadonga Lakes or Soplao Cave, while others highlight architectural marvels like Gaudí’s Capricho or the Modernist architecture of Comillas. Whatever you choose, each experience provides a different window into this lively, scenic part of Spain. Below, we’ve gathered the top 15 tours to help you plan an unforgettable visit.
1. Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour
At number one, this full-day tour combines spectacular mountain views with cultural highlights. You’ll visit the Santo Toribio Monastery, which houses the Lignum Crucis, and explore Potes, one of Spain’s prettiest villages. The itinerary includes an optional cable car ride into the Picos de Europa, plus a horseback riding option for those feeling adventurous. With a 4.7/5 rating from 257 reviews, it’s clear many find this trip unforgettable. The tour lasts about nine hours, making it perfect for travelers who want an in-depth experience without rushing. The highlight for many is the chance to enjoy the magnificent mountain landscape and the historic monastery.
The tour begins with pickup at your hotel, followed by a scenic drive through the mountains. The visit to the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liebana is a spiritual highlight, and the free time in Potes allows for wandering its cobblestone streets and enjoying local cuisine. Optional horseback riding and cable car rides add extra fun. Reviewers mention the tour’s “magnificent scenery” and “well-organized” experience, making it a top pick for outdoor lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded mountain adventure with cultural stops, this tour offers a full day of breathtaking scenery and fascinating history.
2. Santander: 1-Hour City Cruise Around the Bay
Number two on our list is a quick, relaxing way to see Santander from the water. This one-hour cruise offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline, important buildings, and coastal landmarks. Rated 4.4/5 from 577 reviews, it’s popular for its easy pace and informative guide commentary. This tour is ideal if you want a gentle introduction to the city or a peaceful break from sightseeing on land.
As you cruise around the bay, you’ll spot key sites like the Palacio de la Magdalena and Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. The guide shares insights into Santander’s maritime history and architecture, making it both scenic and educational. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views without much commitment.
Bottom Line: For a brief but charming glimpse of Santander’s coast, this cruise provides a relaxing and informative experience.
3. Guided tour in English through the heart of Santander
Number three offers an intimate two-hour walk through Santander’s lesser-known streets, led by a passionate local guide. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 65 reviews, this tour is a favorite for those who love history, culture, and inspiring stories. It’s a perfect starting point to familiarize yourself with the city’s hidden corners, lively plazas, and beautiful viewpoints.
Your guide shares insider tips and stories about Santander’s architectural gems, historic landmarks, and scenic vistas. This walk is designed to connect you with the city’s vibrant atmosphere and its stories, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The route often includes stops at key sites but also leaves room for spontaneous discoveries.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a personal, engaging introduction to Santander, this guided walk is hard to beat.
4. From Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour
Number four takes you into the medieval world with a visit to the charming village of Santillana del Mar, plus the renowned Altamira Cave replica. Rated 4.8/5 from 76 reviews, it’s a balanced mix of history, art, and architecture. For just over four hours, you’ll explore cobbled streets, visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, and learn about the discovery of the famous cave paintings at the Altamira Museum.
The highlight is the Neocave, a faithful replica of the original cave paintings, which allows you to experience prehistoric art without the need for a special permit. Many reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the museum’s engaging displays. The tour is suitable for history lovers and families, especially those interested in ancient art.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a captivating glimpse into Spain’s prehistoric art and medieval architecture, perfect for cultural explorers.
5. From Santander or Llanes: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis
Number five is a full-day adventure into Asturias’ scenic mountains, boasting panoramic views of glacial lakes and visits to historic sites. Rated 4.8/5 from 72 reviews, it’s perfect for nature lovers. You’ll see the tomb of King Pelayo at Santa Cueva, and the Covadonga Basilica built from mountain stone.
This tour combines spectacular scenery with cultural history, and includes tasting local specialties in Cangas de Onís. The itinerary is flexible enough to include short walks, photography, and a leisurely lunch. It’s ideal if you want a mix of outdoor beauty and cultural discovery, especially with the chance to learn stories about the Santina, a religious icon that disappeared during the Spanish Civil War.
Bottom Line: For a full-day scenic and cultural tour in Asturias, this trip is a well-rounded choice.
6. Full Day Private 4WD Tour from Santander to Picos de Europa
Number six offers the ultimate flexibility with a private, fully customizable 4WD tour. For around $497, you get a personalized experience exploring the Picos de Europa, with stops at the Desfiladero de La Hermida, Potes, and Fuente D. The highlight is the Cable Car at Fuente D, which lifts you 753 meters into stunning mountain vistas.
This private tour allows you to tailor your day, including optional activities like a cable car ride or hiking. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and personable their guide was, making this a top pick for travelers seeking a luxury, flexible experience. The itinerary is rich in scenic drives and cultural stops, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Bottom Line: For a premium, personalized mountain experience, this private tour delivers excellent value and unforgettable vistas.
7. Santander: Surf Lessons on Playa de Somo
Number seven combines fun and fitness with two hours of surf lessons on Spain’s first officially designated surf spot. Rated 4.7/5 from 53 reviews, it’s perfect for beginners and intermediates alike. The lessons are led by professional, qualified instructors who tailor the class to your level.
Waves at Playa de Somo are known for their quality, making it a great place to learn or improve your skills. The equipment is in good condition, and the instructors friendly. Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere with plenty of encouragement. It’s especially suited for active travelers wanting a memorable beach experience in Santander.
Bottom Line: If you want to try surfing in a safe environment with expert guidance, this is a fantastic option.
8. Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour from Santander-small groups
Number eight offers a small-group, full-day tour that combines mountain scenery with charming villages. Rated 4.5/5 from 83 reviews, it’s praised for its personal touch. The guided experience includes a cable car ride (additional cost), visits to the Santo Toribio Monastery, and free time in Potes.
Travel in a comfortable small group, capped at eight, for a more intimate experience. Guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views from the cable car. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who want a personal, well-paced exploration of the Picos de Europa and its charming villages.
9. From Santander or Torrelavega: Soplao Cave Excursion
Number nine explores El Soplao Cave, one of the world’s most impressive geological formations, rated 4.9/5 from 26 reviews. It offers an unparalleled view of stalactites and stalagmites and is an excellent choice for geology buffs or those seeking a natural marvel.
The tour includes a guided visit inside the cave and a stop at the Tina Menor viewpoint for scenic photos of the Cantabrian countryside. The cave tour lasts about 75 minutes, with extra time for photos outside. The guided inside tour is in Spanish, but the guide can translate, making it accessible for English speakers.
Bottom Line: For a natural wonder experience, this trip to Soplao Cave combines geology and scenic views in a manageable half-day.
10. Santander: Western Coast of Cantabria Villages Day Trip
Rated 4.8/5 by 33 reviewers, this full-day tour takes you through San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar. It’s a favorite for its variety and scenic stops. You’ll visit Gaudí’s Capricho (optional), explore the medieval town of Santillana, and tour the Altamira Museum.
Travel in comfort with an informative guide who highlights the history and architecture of each site. The tour balances cultural exploration with time to wander and take photos. It’s suited for those who want to experience both coastal villages and historic towns on a relaxed day.
Bottom Line: For a scenic, culturally rich day exploring the Cantabrian coast, this trip is a top choice.
11. Capricho Gaudí with entrance, Santillana del Mar and Sequoia Forest
Number eleven combines architecture, nature, and medieval charm. Rated 4.6/5, it includes a guided tour of Gaudí’s El Capricho, visits to Santillana’s medieval streets, and an walk through the Sequoia Forest.
The day offers a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor activity, with tickets included for Gaudí’s masterpiece. The tour is ideal for those interested in architecture as well as nature lovers. It’s flexible, lasting between 5 and 10 hours, and includes free time for lunch and shopping.
Bottom Line: For a varied day blending architecture, forests, and historic villages, this tour stands out.
12. Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum with tickets- small groups
This small-group tour is a comprehensive cultural package rated 4.5/5. It combines a visit to the medieval village of Santillana, the Altamira Museum, and the Museum of Jesus Otero. The trip lasts about four and a half hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized service, the guide’s detailed explanations, and the opportunity to see the UNESCO-listed cave paintings. It’s especially good for art lovers and families who want a relaxed pace and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, stress-free cultural day, this tour offers a great balance of sites and stories.
13. Santander: Comillas, modernist architecture & Gaudi
Number thirteen is a short, enriching tour of Comillas, rated 5/5. It focuses on modernist architecture, including Gaudí’s El Capricho, and the historic Old Seminary. With about four to five hours, it offers a scenic drive and guided visits to the key sights.
Ideal for those interested in architecture and design, the tour provides a deep dive into Comillas’ cultural gems. Many reviewers highlight the informative guides and the beautiful views over the small port.
Bottom Line: For architecture lovers, this compact tour reveals the artistic side of Cantabria’s coastal town.
14. From Santander: Fascinating Saint Sebastian of Garabandal
Number fourteen offers a spiritual and scenic experience, rated 5/5. It visits the village of Garabandal, famous for Virgin Mary appearances in the 1960s. The tour lasts about five hours and includes learning about the miracle stories.
The guide provides a thoughtful narration of the pilgrimage site, with plenty of time to explore the mountain scenery of Saja Nansa Nature Park. It’s suited for visitors interested in religious history and peaceful landscapes, with a personal and reflective tone.
Bottom Line: For a combination of spiritual interest and mountain scenery, this trip offers a meaningful experience.
15. Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour from Santander
Rounding out the list, number fifteen is a private full-day tour focusing on archaeological caves, including the UNESCO-listed El Castillo and Las Monedas. Rated 5/5 from 12 reviews, it’s perfect for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Your guide handles transfers, cave tickets, and provides detailed insights into prehistoric cave paintings. Optional add-ons like an e-bike tour make it more active. It’s ideal for those wanting a personalized, in-depth exploration of Cantabria’s archeological treasures.
Bottom Line: For a tailored, history-rich day, this private tour offers exclusive access and expert guidance.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting the best tour in Santander, think about your interests and the kind of experience you want. If you’re after mountain scenery and cultural icons, the Picos de Europa tour offers a full immersion. For outdoor activity and physical fun, the surf lessons or private mountain tour might suit you better. Meanwhile, those drawn to history and archaeology will love the Soplao Cave excursion or Altamira Museum visits.
Budget, time, and physical readiness are key factors. For example, the small-group Picos tour balances guide attention with a manageable size, while the private full-day cave tour (link) offers maximum flexibility for dedicated history buffs.
Final Thoughts
Santander’s tour options span the gamut from scenic mountain adventures and historical explorations to sea cruises and active lessons. For nature lovers, the Covadonga Lakes and Picos de Europa trips are outstanding choices. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the Altamira Museum or the Gaudí architecture.
If you’re pressed for time, the city cruise or the guided city walk are perfect quick hits. Larger groups or those seeking personalized attention should consider private options, which tend to be more flexible and tailored to your interests.
To make the most of your trip, book early—many of these tours fill up in advance, especially during peak seasons. Whatever your style, Santander’s variety of tours assures an authentic, memorable experience in this vibrant coastal city.
