Santander is the capital of Cantabria and also a municipality that extends beyond the compact city. The bayfront, El Sardinero and the Magdalena Peninsula contain many of its best-known landmarks, while Cueto, Monte and San Román retain coastal landscapes and Peñacastillo offers an inland perspective. The city and these four local areas make for different journeys within the same municipality. Each guide links to entries on monuments, beaches, museums, routes and local celebrations.
If this is your first visit, begin at the Pereda Gardens, the cathedral and the waterfront. Set aside time for the Magdalena Peninsula or El Sardinero. For a less urban coastal day, follow the route from Cabo Mayor towards La Maruca and Virgen del Mar; Peñacastillo is worth a separate outing for its views. Church and museum opening times, guided visits and beach services can change. Our guides describe lasting features and point to official sources for details that depend on the date.