Where to Stay in Santander 🇪🇸: 7 Areas & Best Places Guide

I’ve fallen in love with Santander during my countless visits to this charming coastal city in northern Spain. This isn’t your typical tourist destination where you’ll fight crowds for beach space – instead, you’ll discover a perfect blend of royal history, stunning beaches, and authentic Spanish culture that most travelers completely miss. From the elegant promenades of El Sardinero to the bustling harbor life of Puerto Chico, each neighborhood tells its own story and offers completely different experiences.

Choosing where to stay in Santander can make or break your trip, and I’ve learned this the hard way through years of exploring every corner of the city. Whether you’re arriving on the Portsmouth ferry, seeking the perfect beach vacation, or diving deep into Cantabrian culture, the right neighborhood will transform your visit from good to absolutely unforgettable. Let me share the insider knowledge I’ve gathered about Santander’s seven distinct areas, so you can pick the perfect base for your Spanish adventure.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Santander

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Santemar
• ✨ 5-Star: Eurostars Hotel Real
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Sardinero
• 🛏 3-Star: NH Ciudad de Santander
• 💸 Cheap: Micampus Santander Student Residence
• 🏢 Apartment: Alquiler Aptos en Santander Centro
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel Bahía
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Chiqui

Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Santander 📋

• 🗺️ First-Time Visitors: Puerto Chico Hotels
• 🏖️ Beach Lovers: El Sardinero Beach Hotels
• 🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts: Santander City Centre Hotels
• 👑 Royal History: Peninsula of Magdalena Hotels
• 🚢 Transit Convenience: Brittany Ferries Santander Hotels

1. Puerto Chico – Where to Stay in Santander for First-Time Visitors

Central Location. I discovered Puerto Chico is where Santander’s heart beats strongest. This waterfront neighborhood gives you everything within walking distance – the historic center, ferry terminal, and buzzing tapas bars. The ferry port sits right here, where ferries arrive from Portsmouth daily at 14:15.

Harbor Views. The charm hits you immediately when you step onto the marina boardwalk. Colorful fishing boats bob alongside luxury yachts, while harborfront restaurants like La Mar (Calle de La Peña Herbosa 11) serve the freshest seafood I’ve tasted in northern Spain. The Monument to the Raqueros stands at the harbor’s edge, honoring children who once dove for coins from wealthy tourists.

Walking Distance. My advice is simple – this location gives you convenience. Plaza Porticada sits just 5 minutes away, Centro Botín takes 8 minutes, and the cathedral requires only a 10-minute stroll through cobblestone streets. The Real Club Marítimo, housed in a striking rationalist building, anchors the marina perfectly.

Local Experience. The Mercado del Este morning buzz energizes the entire area. This historic 1842 market opens 8:30-14:30 weekdays and 8:00-14:30 Saturdays. I love grabbing fresh pintxos from stalls like Tentempié and Casa del Indiano, then watching ferries depart for England while sipping cortado at waterfront cafes. The market also houses Cantabria’s Prehistory and Archaeology Museum in its basement.

Dining Scene. Calle Peña Herbosa transforms into Puerto Chico’s gastronomic heart. These restaurants buzz with locals and visitors:

• Bodega Fuente Dé (Calle Peña Herbosa 5) – Traditional tapas bar
• A Banda (Calle Peña Herbosa 15) – Exceptional paella specialist
• La Pirula (Number 21) – Hearty three-course menus
• Olivia Santander – Fresh sushi and Asian fusion

Best Hotels in Puerto Chico

Luxury Hotels

• Eurostars Hotel Real – This elegant waterfront property combines Belle Époque architecture with modern amenities, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Santander and sophisticated dining options.
• El Balcón de la Bahía Suites – These contemporary suites feature stunning harbor views and spacious layouts, perfect for extended stays with full kitchen facilities and premium furnishings.
• Vincci Puertochico – Located in the heart of the historic harbor district, this boutique property offers intimate accommodations with direct access to waterfront dining and cultural attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• NH Ciudad de Santander – This modern business hotel provides reliable comfort with contemporary rooms, excellent breakfast service, and convenient location near shopping and transport links.
• Sol Boutique Santander – A stylish mid-range option featuring designer interiors, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, and personalized service in a central location.
• Hostal La Torre – This family-run establishment offers clean, comfortable rooms with traditional Spanish hospitality and excellent value for money in a quiet residential area.

Best Hostels

• Hostel Villa Miguela – This cozy hostel features bright dormitory and private rooms with shared facilities, creating a friendly atmosphere perfect for budget-conscious travelers and backpackers.
• El Hostel & CO – A budget-friendly option providing dormitory-style accommodations with shared kitchens and common areas, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and exploring Cantabria on a shoestring budget.

2. El Sardinero – Where to Stay in Santander for Beach Lovers

Beachfront Paradise. El Sardinero feels like stepping into Spain’s golden age of tourism. This elegant district stretches along two stunning beaches – Playa del Sardinero Primera and Segunda – where I’ve watched countless sunrises paint the Cantabrian Sea golden. The grand Casino building dominates the shoreline like a Belle Époque jewel.

Royal Heritage. The Magdalena Peninsula creates a dramatic backdrop, where Spain’s royal family once vacationed at Palacio de la Magdalena. I love walking the coastal path that connects both beaches, passing the iconic lighthouse and discovering hidden coves. The palace now hosts the Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo summer courses.

Beach Activities. Both beaches offer different experiences – Primera beach bustles with families and beach bars, while Segunda provides a quieter atmosphere. The waves here suit beginners perfectly for surfing lessons, and I’ve spotted locals playing volleyball most evenings. Beach umbrellas rent for €8-12 daily, sunbeds cost €6-10.

Dining Excellence. The beachfront promenade houses some of Santander’s finest restaurants. These establishments define El Sardinero’s culinary scene:

• El Serbal (Calle Andrés del Río 7) – Michelin-starred modern Cantabrian cuisine
• Deluz (Avenida Reina Victoria 153) – Creative seafood with ocean views
• Marisquería Cañadío (Plaza de Cañadío 4) – Traditional seafood institution
• Café Central (Plaza de Italia) – Perfect for morning cortados and people-watching

Shopping District. Avenida Reina Victoria transforms into a sophisticated shopping boulevard. Boutiques like Adolfo Domínguez and Purificación García occupy elegant storefronts, while local shops sell everything from beach accessories to Cantabrian specialties. The weekly market on Plaza de Italia happens Thursdays 9:00-14:00, featuring local produce and artisan goods.

Best Hotels in El Sardinero

Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Sardinero – This elegant establishment is among the best places to stay for families, offering spacious rooms and direct access to things to do in Santander’s premier coastal district.
• Hotel Chiqui – This upscale hotel provides an enjoyable stay with elegant interiors and exceptional service, making it hands down the best choice for discerning travelers visiting Spain.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Silken Rhin Santander – A modern property offering excellent value among various hotels in the area, featuring contemporary rooms and convenient location for exploring Santander.
• Gran Hotel Victoria – This historic hotel combines traditional charm with modern comfort, providing a selection of hotels’ best features at reasonable rates for your visit to Santander.

Best Budget Options

• Hotel Las Brisas – This budget-friendly property offers clean, simple rooms and represents excellent value for money, perfect for travelers seeking affordable places to stay for families.
• Alda Don Carlos – A modest establishment providing basic amenities and honest service, ideal for budget-conscious visitors who want a convenient base for exploring Santander.
• Apartamentos Las Brisas – These self-catering apartments offer independence and flexibility, perfect for extended stays and families who prefer cooking facilities during their visit to Santander.

3. Santander City Center – Where to Stay in Santander for Culture Enthusiasts

Historic Heart. The city center pulses with centuries of maritime history. I discovered narrow streets hiding remarkable architecture – from the Gothic Cathedral to the modernist Banco Santander headquarters. Plaza Porticada serves as the perfect starting point, where locals gather for evening paseos and weekend markets bring the square alive.

Cultural Treasures. The Centro Botín dominates the waterfront with its striking golden curves designed by Renzo Piano. Inside, rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary art alongside Cantabrian masters. I spend hours here, especially during free admission days (first Sunday monthly). The nearby MAS (Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo) opens Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-19:00, entry costs €3.

Shopping Streets. Calle del Medio and Calle de Jesús de Monasterio create the main shopping arteries. El Corte Inglés anchors the district, while independent boutiques line the pedestrian zones. The covered Mercado de la Esperanza operates Monday-Saturday 8:00-15:00, perfect for fresh produce and local specialties like Sobaos Pasiegos.

Nightlife Scene. The area around Plaza Cañadío transforms after dark. These venues define the city center’s evening energy:

• Café con Libros (Calle Gravina 4) – Literary café with live music Thursday-Saturday
• El Rincón del Jazz (Calle Daoíz y Velarde 13) – Intimate jazz club, shows start 22:30
• La Dolce Vita (Calle Vargas 59) – Classic cocktail bar with 1960s Italian charm
• Pub Nelson (Calle Marqués de la Hermida 11) – Traditional English pub atmosphere

Best Hotels in Santander City Center

Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Bahía – This sophisticated waterfront property represents the best areas and hotels for discerning travelers, offering elegant rooms with harbor views and premium service for an unforgettable experience.
• SOHO Boutique Palacio de Pombo – A beautifully restored historic palace that combines heritage architecture with modern luxury, providing guests with a unique selection of hotels experience in the heart of the city.
• Silken Coliseum – This upscale establishment offers refined comfort and exceptional service, making it perfect for travelers who appreciate quality and want easy access to things to do in Santander.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Plaza Pombo B&B – A charming bed and breakfast that provides excellent value with personalized service and cozy rooms, ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable base near Santander Ferry Terminal.
• Apartamentos Art Suite Santander – This centrally located property offers modern amenities at reasonable rates, perfect for families who want to stay in Santander for families while exploring the city’s attractions.
• Casa Rosita Santander – A welcoming family-run establishment that provides authentic Spanish hospitality and comfortable rooms, showing that Santander has so much to offer at every price point.

Best Hostels

• Pensión Real – This budget-friendly option offers clean, simple rooms with traditional Spanish character, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers exploring the outskirts of Santander.
• Hostal La Mexicana – A modest hostel providing basic amenities and friendly service at affordable rates, ideal for young travelers who want to experience authentic local atmosphere.
• Alojamientos Cantiber Santander – Simple dormitory-style lodging with shared facilities and communal areas, perfect for meeting fellow travelers while keeping costs low during your visit.

4. Canalejas – Where to Stay in Santander for Peaceful Retreats

Residential Charm. Canalejas feels like discovering Santander’s secret neighborhood. This quiet residential area sits between the bustling city center and El Sardinero’s tourist crowds. I love the tree-lined streets where locals walk their dogs and children play in small parks – it’s authentic Spanish suburban life.

Multiple Beaches. The coastline here offers three distinct beach experiences within walking distance. Playa de los Peligros stretches wide and sandy, perfect for morning jogs. Playa de la Magdalena curves around the peninsula, while the tiny Playa del Camello provides intimate swimming. Each beach has its own character and crowd.

Local Life. The neighborhood centers around its small commercial district along Avenida de los Castros. I discovered excellent family-run restaurants serving hearty Cantabrian dishes without tourist prices. The weekly market on Wednesdays 9:00-14:00 brings together neighbors shopping for fresh fish, vegetables, and regional cheeses.

Transport Connections. Bus lines 1, 2, and 7 connect Canalejas to downtown Santander every 15 minutes during peak hours. The journey takes 12-15 minutes to Plaza Porticada. These routes make exploring easy:

• Line 1 – Direct to city center via Cuatro Caminos
• Line 2 – Connects to El Sardinero beaches
• Line 7 – Links to train station and ferry terminal
• Night Bus N1 – Weekend service until 02:30

Best Hotels in Canalejas

Luxury Hotels

• Apartamento Santander Zona Tetuán PuertoChico – This premium apartment offers sophisticated furnishings and prime harbor location, providing guests with upscale Suite Santander-style living and panoramic water views.
• Apartamento Zona Playa Sardinero – An elegant coastal apartment featuring modern amenities and designer interiors, perfectly positioned for a leisurely walk from El Sardinero Beach to enjoy the city’s finest sights.
• Acogedor y luminoso piso Santander – This stunning bright apartment combines luxury with authentic Spanish character, offering spacious rooms with premium finishes and excellent accommodation options for discerning travelers.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Residencia Universitaria Alto de Miranda – A modern student residence offering clean, comfortable rooms with shared facilities, providing outstanding value and flexible lodging for budget-conscious guests.
• Dávila HOME Beach – This contemporary apartment features bright, airy spaces with modern conveniences, centrally located for easy access to key landmarks and transport links.
• Apartamentos Reina Victoria – Well-appointed flats offering home-like comfort with kitchen facilities and living areas, perfect for families or longer stays seeking independence and flexibility.

Best Hostels

• Piso Sardinero - Almar d'Pipe – Simple yet comfortable lodging with basic amenities and shared spaces, ideal for backpackers who want proximity to coastal highlights on a tight budget.

5. Magdalena Peninsula – Top Place to Stay in Santander for Royal History

Royal Heritage. The peninsula feels like stepping into Spain’s royal past. Palacio de la Magdalena dominates the hilltop, where King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenie spent summers between 1913-1930. I love exploring the palace grounds (open daily 10:00-18:00, €4 entry), where peacocks roam freely and gardens overlook the Cantabrian Sea.

Scenic Walking. The peninsula offers Santander’s most spectacular coastal walk. The path circles the entire headland, passing hidden beaches, a small zoo, and the famous lighthouse. I recommend starting early morning when mist lifts from the sea. The complete circuit takes 45 minutes at a leisurely pace.

University Atmosphere. Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo occupies several peninsula buildings during summer months. The campus buzzes with international students attending Spanish language courses and cultural programs. Coffee shops and small restaurants around the university stay open 8:00-22:00, creating a youthful, intellectual atmosphere.

Beach Access. Playa de la Magdalena curves around the peninsula’s southern shore, protected from strong Atlantic winds. The beach features calmer waters perfect for families with young children. Lifeguards patrol June-September 11:00-19:00, and the beach bar serves fresh seafood and cold drinks 10:00-sunset.

Best Hotels in Magdalena Peninsula

Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Santemar – A prestigious waterfront property featuring luxurious rooms with panoramic views, exceptional dining, and world-class spa facilities for discerning travelers.
• Occidental Hoyuela – This upscale hotel combines modern luxury with traditional Spanish elegance, providing spacious suites and premium services for an unforgettable experience.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hostería Santander – A welcoming mid-range property offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities and friendly service, perfect for travelers seeking quality without premium prices.
• Gran Hotel Victoria – This budget-friendly establishment provides basic but clean rooms with essential amenities, ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers exploring the city.

6. Cuatro Caminos – Where to Stay in Santander for Budget Travelers

Budget-Friendly Hub. Cuatro Caminos proves you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy Santander. This working-class neighborhood sits inland from the tourist zones, where locals live and shop. I discovered authentic tapas bars charging half the prices of beachfront establishments, plus grocery stores and markets that won’t drain your wallet.

Transport Central. The area’s name means “Four Roads,” reflecting its role as Santander’s transport hub. Multiple bus lines converge here, making it simple to reach any part of the city. The main bus station handles regional connections to Bilbao, Oviedo, and Madrid. Tickets to downtown cost €1.30, with buses running every 10 minutes during daytime.

Local Markets. Plaza de México hosts a bustling market Tuesday and Friday mornings 9:00-14:00. I love browsing stalls selling fresh produce, local cheeses, and household items at prices locals pay. The covered Mercado de Cuatro Caminos operates Monday-Saturday 8:00-15:00, perfect for self-catering travelers wanting authentic ingredients.

Neighborhood Dining. These local establishments serve excellent food without tourist markup:

• Bar Asador El Rinconcito (Calle General Dávila 195) – Famous for grilled meats
• Cafetería Monty (Plaza de México 8) – Popular breakfast spot with locals
• Restaurante Casa Setién (Avenida Valdecilla 5) – Traditional Cantabrian cuisine
• Taberna El Balcón (Calle Cisneros 45) – Authentic tapas and regional wines

Best Hotels in Cuatro Caminos

Luxury Options

• Puerto Principe PENSIÓN – This premium waterfront property offers elegant suites with harbor views and sophisticated amenities, providing guests with upscale Suite Santander-style living in a prime location.
• Valdecilla Center Apartment – A luxury apartment featuring modern design and high-end furnishings in the medical district, perfect for extended stays with spacious layouts and premium facilities.
• Amplio Piso en Calle Alta – This spacious upscale apartment combines traditional Spanish architecture with contemporary luxury, offering elegant interiors and refined comfort for discerning travelers.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• San Fernando Street Apartment – A well-appointed mid-range apartment offering comfortable living spaces with modern amenities and convenient central location for exploring the city.
• Completo Piso en Santander a 5 Minutos del Centro – This complete apartment provides excellent value just five minutes from downtown, featuring full kitchen facilities and comfortable furnishings for independent travelers.
• Hostal del Carmen – A traditional guesthouse offering reliable comfort with friendly service and clean rooms, ideal for travelers seeking quality lodging at reasonable rates.

Best Budget Options

• Maitika – This budget-friendly property provides simple but clean dormitory-style lodging with shared facilities, perfect for backpackers and young travelers on tight budgets.
• Estudios Blanmart – Basic apartment-style accommodations offering self-catering facilities and essential amenities, ideal for budget-conscious visitors seeking independence and flexibility.
• Estudios Aranzazu – Simple studio apartments providing affordable lodging with kitchenette facilities and basic furnishings, perfect for students and budget travelers exploring the city.

7. Near Ferry Terminal – Where to Stay in Santander for Transit Convenience

Ferry Connections. The ferry terminal handles daily crossings to Portsmouth, making this area essential for UK travelers. Brittany Ferries operates the Pont-Aven and Cap Finisterre ships, departing Santander Tuesdays and Saturdays at 15:15. I’ve used this route multiple times – the 24-hour crossing saves on flights while letting you bring your car.

Business District. The terminal area doubles as Santander’s business quarter, with modern office buildings and conference facilities. Hotel pricing reflects business travel demand, especially during weekdays. The area stays quieter evenings and weekends, but restaurants and services cater to professional travelers with extended hours.

Practical Services. Everything a traveler needs clusters around the terminal. Currency exchange opens Monday-Friday 9:00-18:00, while the tourist information office operates daily 9:00-14:00, 16:00-19:00. Car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) have counters inside the terminal building, essential for exploring Cantabria’s countryside.

Walking Distance. Despite feeling separate from central Santander, the ferry area connects easily to major attractions. These walking times help plan your exploration:

• Puerto Chico Marina – 8 minutes along the waterfront
• Centro Botín – 12 minutes via scenic harbor route
• Plaza Porticada – 15 minutes through city center
• Train Station – 10 minutes for onward travel connections

Limited Dining. Restaurant options focus on quick meals for departing passengers rather than memorable dining experiences. The terminal cafeteria serves basic sandwiches and coffee 6:00-22:00, while nearby Café Bar Neptuno (Muelle de Maliaño 3) offers simple fish dishes and local beer.

Luxury Hotels

• Apartamentos Bahía Arena – This premium waterfront property offers elegant suites with stunning harbor views and sophisticated amenities, providing guests with upscale Suite Santander-style living near the coast.
• Hotel Faranda Alisas Santander – A luxury hotel featuring modern design and high-end facilities in a prime location, perfect for discerning travelers seeking refined comfort and exceptional service.
• Piso Acogedor en Santander – This cozy upscale apartment combines traditional Spanish charm with contemporary luxury, offering spacious layouts and premium furnishings for extended stays.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pensión Angelines – This traditional pension offers clean, comfortable rooms with authentic Spanish hospitality and excellent value for money in a central location.
• Santander Central Hostel – A well-positioned property providing basic but comfortable facilities with convenient access to major city landmarks and transport connections.

Best Hostels

• Abba Santander – This budget-friendly establishment offers clean dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, perfect for backpackers and young travelers exploring the city on tight budgets.
• Hostal Plaza Santander – Simple yet comfortable lodging with basic amenities and communal areas, ideal for meeting fellow travelers while keeping costs low during your visit.
• El apartamento de San Javier by Just Room – Basic apartment-style accommodations offering self-catering facilities and essential amenities, perfect for budget-conscious visitors seeking independence and flexibility.

FAQs about Visiting Santander

1. Where are the best places to stay in Santander?

The best areas to stay include Puerto Chico for first-time visitors seeking central convenience, and El Sardinero for beach lovers wanting luxury coastal experiences. Each neighborhood offers distinct advantages, from historic charm in the city center to peaceful residential vibes in Canalejas.

2. Which hotel in Santander offers the best location?

Suite Home and SOHO Boutique Palacio de la Merced provide excellent central positions near major attractions and transport links. Both properties place you within walking distance of Santander Cathedral, the Bay of Santander, and key cultural sites.

3. What makes El Sardinero the top place to stay?

El Sardinero combines beautiful beaches with elegant Belle Époque architecture, creating Santander’s most prestigious neighborhood. The area features luxury hotels like Eurostars Hotel Real and easy access to both Cabo Mayor lighthouse and the heart of Santander.

4. Where should families find the best places to stay?

Families should consider Canalejas for its residential atmosphere and multiple beach access points, or El Sardinero for comprehensive facilities. Both areas offer safe environments with parks, family restaurants, and easy transport connections around Santander.

5. Which best neighborhoods suit business travelers visiting Santander?

The city center and ferry terminal areas serve business travelers best, with properties like Silken Río Santander offering modern amenities. These locations provide quick access to Santander Airport, conference facilities, and the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria.

6. What accommodation in Santander provides the best views?

Le Petit Boutique Hotel and waterfront properties in Puerto Chico offer stunning views of Santander Bay and the coastal landscape. These locations let you enjoy panoramic vistas while staying close to the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico and other attractions.

7. When is the best time to visit Santander?

Summer months provide the best time to visit Santander, especially during the Festival Internacional de Santander in August. The coastal town enjoys warm weather perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities around Cantabria.

8. How do you get to Santander accommodation easily?

Santander offers excellent transport connections via Santander Airport, ferry terminal for UK travelers, and train links to major Spanish cities. Most travelers to Santander find convenient options whether arriving by air, sea, or rail for their trip to Santander.

9. Which areas of Santander offer luxury hotel experiences?

El Sardinero leads for luxurious hotels with properties like Eurostars Hotel Real providing spa services and beachfront elegance. The area represents one of the best places in northern Spain for upscale coastal vacations.

10. What makes Santander a perfect place to stay?

Santander is a city that combines rich maritime heritage with modern attractions, offering something for every type of traveler. From beautiful beaches to cultural sites like Santander Cathedral, the city of Santander provides an ideal base for exploring northern Spain’s diverse landscapes and experiencing authentic Spanish coastal culture.