Hotels in Santander

Centre and Paseo de Pereda

The Paseo de Pereda looks out over the bay with its glassed-in façades and the gardens where the Centro Botín stands. Behind it are the cathedral, Plaza Porticada, the Mercado de la Esperanza and the shopping streets. The train and bus stations and the ferry terminal are a short walk away, so you don't need transport to reach your hotel. It is the area for seeing the city in a few days.

Best-rated in this area: Hotel Bahía, with a score of 8.9 from 7,802 reviews.

Puertochico and Cañadío

Puertochico is the old fishing harbour, now full of pleasure boats, at the end of the Paseo de Pereda. Just behind it, Plaza de Cañadío and the nearby streets are full of pintxo bars and terraces, busy from early evening. You will like it if you want a lively spot for dinner and drinks, but expect noise until late at weekends.

Reina Victoria and the Magdalena

Avenida de la Reina Victoria links the centre with El Sardinero along the top of the coast. It is a residential stretch with views over the bay and small beaches such as Los Peligros and La Magdalena. At the entrance to the Magdalena peninsula you have the palace, the small marine zoo and walks among the pines, ideal if you are travelling with children.

El Sardinero

Here you have the First and Second beaches, separated by the Piquío gardens, and the Gran Casino. The neighbourhood has a classic seaside-resort feel and is quieter at night. To the north, Mataleñas park and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse are good for cliff-top walks. City buses run frequently to the centre, or you can walk back around the bay. It is the area in most demand in summer, so book early.

Best-rated in this area: Hotel Palacio del Mar, with a score of 8.6 from 3,220 reviews.