Santander

The old city of Santander was damaged by a fire in 1941 and was rebuilt with wide boulevards, a modern waterfront promenade, sidewalk cafés, shops, restaurants and hotels. It is a good base for exploring the regions of Cantabria and Asturias and famous for its port, with passenger and car ferries sailing to many destinations

Attractions

There are three beaches at Santander, Playa de Castaneda, Playa del Sardinero, and Playa de la Concha or the beautiful beach of El Puntal which is a 15 minute boat ride away. Many visitors head for the resort of El Sardinero which is a few kilometres away and escape the beaches to take in the lighthouse with its great views and cliff-top walks.

El Sardinero also offers a beautiful promenade with some magnificent buildings such as the Gran Casino and the Plaza de Italia. The Piquío Gardens are also worth a visit, situated on a rocky inlet between the two main beaches.

Santander Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the town, and it can be found opposite the Plaza Porticada, surrounded by public buildings. There are several museums to visit, including the Municiple Arts Museum on Calle Rubio and the Regional Prehistoria y Arqueologia Museum on Calle Casimiro.

Shopping and Eating Out

When shopping, look out for the local ceramic works, and when eating out try specialities such as rabas (fried squid), bocartes rebozados (breaded whitebait), and fresh shellfish and the excellent local beef dish, cocido montañés (a stew made of beans, meat and cabbage).

Tourist Information

Tourist Office: Plaza de Velarde,s/n - 39004 Santander (Cantabria)Tel. +34 942216120 www.spain.info/Santander

Airport

Santander Airport is located about 7km from the city.