About the Port
Santander sits along the northern coast of Spain in the region of Cantabria, its identity shaped by centuries as both fishing port and fashionable seaside retreat. The elegant Paseo de Pereda traces the waterfront with gardens and grand facades, a legacy of the era when Spanish royalty favored the city as a summer residence. Wide beaches curve along the bay just beyond the historic center, giving the city an easy blend of maritime heritage and coastal leisure.
The harbor sits within walking distance of the old town, making it simple to explore the promenade, plazas, and seafront on foot. Cantabria's greener, hillier landscape unfolds just outside the city, offering a quieter counterpoint to Spain's better-known southern coasts. Santander rewards a relaxed pace, rewarding those who wander its streets and shoreline alike.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Santander.
Walk El Sardinero Beach
Santander's grand crescent beach lies a short walk or bus ride beyond the old town, backed by belle-époque villas and a casino. Ideal for a brisk seaside stroll or a swim if time allows.
Visit the Magdalena Peninsula
Wander the palace grounds once used as a royal summer residence, set on a green headland with cliffside paths and sea views. Reachable on foot or by a quick local bus from the port.
Explore the Old Town Center
Duck into the compact historic quarter around the cathedral and Plaza Porticada, packed with plazas, market halls, and tapas bars just steps from the waterfront promenade.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Santander
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 5, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Sirena | 22 | $12,899 | |
| Aug 5, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Sirena | 12 | $7,799 | |
| Aug 27, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Spirit | 12 | $16,600 | |
| Aug 28, 2026 | Swan Hellenic | SH Diana | 10 | $3,600 | |
| Sep 8, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Spirit | 10 | $6,950 | |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Dawn | 12 | $8,520 | |
| Sep 25, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Marina | 7 | $2,340 | |
| Oct 1, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Dawn | 12 | $8,040 | |
| Oct 13, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Dawn | 12 | $7,260 | |
| Mar 28, 2027 | Cunard | Queen Elizabeth | 7 | $1,089 | |
| Apr 14, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Grandeur | 24 | $15,799 | |
| Apr 22, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Laperouse | 10 | $9,100 | |
| Apr 23, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Spirit | 28 | $13,500 | |
| Apr 24, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Lyrial | 10 | $6,850 | |
| Apr 28, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Grandeur | 10 | $6,335 | |
| May 5, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Spirit | 16 | $11,410 | |
| May 8, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | L'Austral | 10 | $7,260 | |
| May 12, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Dawn | 12 | $40,000 | |
| Jul 19, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Laperouse | 12 | $10,320 | |
| Aug 6, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Boreal | 9 | $7,470 |
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