Santander isn’t just a beautiful seaside city; it’s a launchpad for exceptional tours and experiences that showcase the very best of northern Spain. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic mountain landscapes, historic villages, or prehistoric caves, Santander offers options that cater to all interests. For instance, the Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour combines breathtaking mountain scenery with cultural highlights, making it a favorite for those wanting a full day immersed in nature and history. Meanwhile, the Full Day Private 4WD Tour from Santander to Picos de Europa offers a personalized, flexible way to experience Spain’s rugged peaks in style.
With a rich array of options—guided day trips, private adventures, cultural visits—you can tailor your experience to match your interests and fitness level. Whether it’s a leisurely exploration of medieval towns or a high-adrenaline mountain excursion, Santander delivers memorable outings that will deepen your appreciation of this unique region.
Quick Overview
Our list features various tours, from scenic mountain adventures and historic village visits to cave explorations and coastal village trips. For example, the Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour offers a full-day immersion into Spain’s iconic landscapes and religious sites. The From Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour combines art, history, and charming village streets in just a few hours. Meanwhile, the From Santander or Llanes: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis explores stunning glacial lakes and local traditions. For those seeking adventure, the Santander: Surf Lessons on Playa de Somo provides a fun, hands-on introduction to surfing.
Below, we detail each experience to help you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour
At number 1, the Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour offers a comprehensive day immersed in the stunning Picos de Europa National Park. Starting from Santander, you’ll visit the Monastery of Santo Toribio, home to the Lignum Crucis—a relic believed to be a piece of the Cross of Jesus. The monastery is an awe-inspiring site, steeped in centuries of religious significance. Afterward, exploration continues in Potes, a charming town renowned for its narrow streets, medieval architecture, and lively atmosphere.
Optional activities like the cable car ride up to the mountains or horseback riding in Picos are available for added adventure. The trip is highly rated, with travelers praising guide Pepe’s friendly professionalism and the mountain vistas that leave a lasting impression. Many mention the long drive (around 100 km from Santander) but agree that the comfortable vehicle and insightful commentary make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: If you want a full day of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and optional adventure, this trip hits the spot for a well-rounded taste of northern Spain’s mountains.
2. From Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour
In second place, the Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum Tour is perfect for art lovers and history buffs. This 4.5-hour tour takes you into the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, famous for its preserved architecture and picturesque streets. The highlight is the Altamira Museum, where you’ll see the replica of the Cave of Altamira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its prehistoric cave paintings.
The tour includes a visit to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana and free time to soak in the village’s charm. Many reviews note how well-informed the guides are and how the tour balances structured visits with free time. Fans of archaeology and ancient art have praised the museum’s displays, although some wish they had more time to explore.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and authentic village life, suitable for families and anyone interested in prehistoric art.
3. From Santander or Llanes: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis
Coming in at number 3, the Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis tour is a must for mountain and nature enthusiasts. The lakes—formed by glaciers—are stunning, especially when framed against the rugged peaks of the Asturian Mountains. You’ll visit the Santa Cueva de Covadonga, where the tomb of King Pelayo, the legendary founder of Asturias, lies. The Covadonga Basilica offers impressive stonework and panoramic views.
Travelers love the scenic drives and the chance to see Asturian cideries and local specialties in Cangas de Onis. The tour includes multiple stops, with about 2 hours at the lakes, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of scenery and cultural stories. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide Santiago and the breathtaking landscape.
Bottom line: If you’re after scenic lakes, historic stories, and a taste of local culture, this day trip hits the high notes.
4. Full Day Private 4WD Tour from Santander to Picos de Europa
Number 4 on our list is a luxury experience — the Full Day Private 4WD Tour offers complete customization and personalized attention. Starting with hotel pickup, your guide takes you in a private vehicle to explore the Picos de Europa at your own pace. You can choose to ride the Fuente Dél cable car, visit off-the-beaten-path spots, or enjoy a tailored route with a special lunch stop.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want flexibility and exclusivity, especially those who prefer a relaxed, private experience over group tours. The reviews mention the excellent communication from guide Juan and the outstanding lunch provided. The trip’s flexibility means you can spend more time at favorite spots like Potes or the mountain viewpoints.
Bottom line: For those who value privacy, customization, and top-notch service, this private tour offers an unforgettable day in the mountains.
5. Cantabria: El Castillo Caves & Paleolithic Art
Number 5 is perfect for history and cave art enthusiasts. The El Castillo Caves & Paleolithic Art tour takes you into some of the world’s most important prehistoric caves, featuring UNESCO-listed cave paintings. You’ll visit El Castillo and Las Monedas caves, then explore the local village of Puente Viesgo and its Paleolithic Interpretation Centre.
The caves’ natural beauty and ancient art make this a memorable experience. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide Pepe and the opportunity to learn about early human life. The cave visit is in Spanish, but guides often translate, making it accessible. The tour’s limited access and the need for sturdy shoes mean it’s best for active travelers comfortable with some walking and small climbs.
Bottom line: A must-do for those interested in prehistoric art and archaeology, especially if you appreciate the natural beauty of caves.
6. Santander: Surf Lessons on Playa de Somo
Number 6 is for water sports lovers: surf lessons on Playa de Somo. This 2-hour class welcomes beginners to advanced surfers, with professional instructors guiding you through the basics or refining your skills.
The Playa de Somo is Spain’s first officially designated surfing area, and many visitors appreciate the friendly, helpful instructors. Reviewers mention the waves are great, and equipment is in excellent condition. Slightly chaotic organization at the start is common, but the overall experience is fun and rewarding.
Bottom line: If you want to try surfing or improve your skills with experienced teachers, this is a great choice on Santander’s coast.
7. Capricho Gaudí with entrance, Santillana del Mar and Sequoia Forest
Number 7 offers a blend of architecture, nature, and medieval charm. The Capricho Gaudí is a stunning modernist building, with admission included. Alongside, you visit the Sequoia Forest, home to impressive redwoods, and stroll through the historic streets of Santillana del Mar.
The tour’s flexible duration allows for a leisurely exploration of each site. Reviewers rave about the beauty of the forest and the architectural wonders of Gaudí’s creation. The medieval village provides perfect photo opportunities and local dining options.
Bottom line: A well-rounded tour ideal for lovers of architecture, nature, and authentic Spain towns.
8. Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour from Santander-small groups
Number 8 features a small-group guided experience focused on the Picos de Europa. The tour includes a cable car ride (costs separate), visits to Monastery of Santo Toribio, and the charming Potes. The intimate group size ensures personal attention and flexible stops.
Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guide Gabriela and the scenic drive through Cantabria’s countryside. The day’s highlights include stunning mountain views and cultural sites. The trip is suitable for those who want a more personal, less rushed experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a detailed, personal insight into the mountains and villages with a small-group feel.
9. From Santander or Torrelavega: Soplao Cave Excursion
Number 9 is an adventure into El Soplao Cave, known for its unusual geological formations. The tour includes a visit to the cave and a stop at Tina Menor viewpoint for spectacular scenery.
Reviewers highlight the stunning natural formations and the knowledgeable guide Jairo. The cave tour is mostly in Spanish, but volunteers often translate, and the scenery inside makes it worth the visit. The cave’s limited access means comfortable shoes and some fitness are recommended.
Bottom line: A unique geological experience, ideal for those interested in natural wonders and impressive formations.
10. Santander: Western Coast of Cantabria Villages Day Trip
Number 10 takes you along the coastline, visiting San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar. The trip combines coastal scenery, modernist architecture, and medieval streets, with an optional visit to Gaudí’s Capricho.
Reviewers note the comfortable vehicle, informative guide, and the variety of sights. The stops allow plenty of time for photos and local food tasting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a diverse coastal experience in one day.
11. Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum with tickets- small groups
Number 11 offers a compact 4.5-hour tour of Santillana del Mar, Altamira Museum, and the Museum of Jesus Otero. Hotel pickup simplifies logistics for art and architecture fans, with time to explore the quaint village and learn about prehistoric cave paintings.
Reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the museum visits. The tour is suitable for art lovers who want a relaxed yet enriching experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for art and history lovers seeking a straightforward, hassle-free day.
12. Santander: Comillas, modernist architecture & Gaudi
Finally, the Comillas: Modernist Architecture & Gaudí tour provides a deep dive into one of Spain’s most unique small towns. You’ll visit the Capricho de Gaudí and the Old Seminary, both showcasing stunning architecture.
The guided visits are complemented by scenic views of the port and beach. Reviewers love the intimate size and the chance to explore Comillas’ elegant streets.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for architecture enthusiasts and those wanting an elegant, artsy escape.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best experience depends on your interests, budget, and available time. For a full immersion in mountain scenery and cultural sites, the Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes is a great option. If prehistoric art is your passion, the El Castillo Caves & Paleolithic Art offers an unforgettable journey into early human history. For luxury and flexibility, the Private 4WD tour suits travelers wanting a personalized experience.
Budget-conscious visitors may prefer shorter, focused excursions like the Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum, which packs culture into a half-day trip. For those who love coastal scenery and architecture, the Western Coast Villages Day Trip combines multiple highlights in one day. Planning your trip around your main interests—be it mountains, caves, art, or villages—will ensure a memorable Santander experience.
Final Thoughts
Santander offers a wide variety of tours tailored to different tastes. Active travelers will appreciate the mountain hikes or surfing lessons, while history buffs will love cave explorations and medieval villages. Culture and architecture enthusiasts can’t miss Comillas or Santillana del Mar.
To get the most out of your trip, consider booking early—especially for private or small-group experiences—and start planning which activities align with your schedule. Whichever you choose, these tours promise authentic insights and lasting memories of northern Spain’s diverse landscape and rich culture.