Things To Do
in Santoña
Santoña is a charming coastal town located in the northern region of Spain, known for its picturesque beaches and stunning cliffs overlooking the Bay of Biscay. The town is famous for its anchovies and seafood, which are cherished delicacies that attract food lovers from all over the world. Santoña's historic center is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a lively atmosphere with many tapas bars and restaurants.
Visitors can also explore the town's impressive medieval castle, enjoy water sports activities, or simply relax on the beautiful sandy beaches.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk along the coastline. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and take photos of the beautiful landscapes.
Visit the local fish market to see fresh catches of the day. Grab a seafood lunch at one of the nearby restaurants to savor the region's culinary delights.
Stroll through the charming streets and discover quaint shops. End your day with a local pintxos experience in a cozy bar.
Hike the nearby trails of the protected natural area. Revel in the stunning views of the coastline and nature's beauty.
Have a picnic lunch amidst the greenery. Birdwatching is also a great afternoon activity as the area attracts various species.
Return to town and unwind with a drink at a seaside cafe. Enjoy the sunset while listening to the waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Famous for its excellent seafood, particularly anchovies.
- Welcoming and friendly local community.
- Proximity to natural parks and outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Can be quite quiet during off-peak tourist seasons.
- Transportation options may be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- Higher living costs compared to some rural areas in Spain.
- Weather can be quite humid, which may not be to everyone's liking.
Best Activities in Santoña
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails of this protected natural park, ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
Enjoy a kayaking adventure in the serene waters of Santoña Bay, where you can admire the beautiful coastline and observe marine life.
Take a hike to the iconic Santoña Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding cliffs.
Relax on the sandy shores of Playa de Santoña, participate in beach games, or take a refreshing swim in the sea.
Rent a bike and ride along the coastline, enjoying the fresh air and picturesque views of the surrounding areas.
Join a local fishing charter for a day at sea, where you can try your hand at fishing and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
Places to Visit in Santoña
Visit one of these nice places.
A prominent hill offering panoramic views of Santoña, the Cantabrian Sea, and the surrounding landscape, ideal for hiking and photography.
A natural park providing stunning views of wetlands and diverse birdlife, perfect for nature photography and capturing scenic landscapes.
A cape that features dramatic coastal views and beautiful sunsets, making it a great spot for evening photography.
A beautiful beach known for its golden sands and striking cliffs, offering fantastic opportunities for beach and sunset photography.
An iconic lighthouse situated at the coast, offering a unique viewpoint for maritime photography and capturing coastal scenery.
A small chapel located on a hill with spectacular views of the harbor and the city, perfect for capturing both architectural and scenic shots.
A viewpoint located at the site of an old castle, providing elevated views over Santoña and its surroundings, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Santoña
Santoña Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and olive oil, creating a tangy and flavorful appetizer. Recommended to try at Bar La Bikina.
Must-Try!
This traditional tuna stew showcases the local tuna catch and is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Look for it at Restaurante Juanma.
The local term for deep-fried calamari, often served with a squeeze of lemon. Try this delicacy at Mesón La Bodeguilla.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and other gastronomic delights. It's the perfect spot to experience the vibrant food culture of Santoña.
Along the seafront promenade, visitors can sample a range of street food including seafood paella, empanadas, and freshly grilled sardines from the picturesque coastal stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santoña, as in many parts of Spain, it's common for shops and businesses to close in the afternoon for a siesta. Be respectful of this cultural practice and plan your activities around these hours.
When meeting someone in Santoña, it's customary to greet with a handshake or two kisses on the cheeks (starting with the right). Always greet using proper titles, such as 'Señor' or 'Señora', to show respect.
When dining in Santoña, wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. It's also polite to keep your hands on the table (but not elbows), and when you finish, it's customary to place your cutlery parallel on the plate to indicate you are done.
Safety
Tipping in Santoña
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santoña, Spain, tipping is generally not mandatory, but it is appreciated. Locals often round up the bill in restaurants or leave small change as a gesture of gratitude, especially for good service. For larger groups or exceptional service, a tip of around 5-10% may be left.
Payments in Santoña are typically made using cash, although many establishments also accept credit and debit cards. It is common for restaurants and cafes to have a minimum charge for card payments. Travelers should be aware that some smaller businesses may prefer cash, so it's good to carry some euros.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Santoña. The weather starts to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Expect blooming flowers, lush greenery, and more pleasant outdoor conditions. This season is ideal for hiking and exploring the nearby natural parks.
Summer (June to August) is warm and lively in Santoña, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This is peak tourist season, offering vibrant local festivities, beautiful beaches, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy long days and warm evenings, perfect for dining al fresco.
Autumn (September to November) brings mild temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It's a beautiful time to visit as the fall colors transform the landscape. Expect fewer tourists than in summer, making it ideal for a more peaceful experience while still enjoying local festivals.
Winter (December to February) in Santoña can be cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is the off-peak season, providing a quieter experience. Visitors can expect occasional rain, but the coastal scenery remains stunning, and it’s a good time for cultural exploration and enjoying hearty local cuisine.
Santoña at Night
Hiking in Santoña
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural park featuring a variety of trails through wetlands, beaches, and forests. Ideal for hiking and observing diverse wildlife.
A scenic trail along the coastline with breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs. Suitable for all levels of hikers.
A mountainous area offering several hiking routes with panoramic vistas of the Bay of Santoña and nearby landscapes.
A beautiful hiking trail that follows the Asón River, showcasing stunning waterfalls and lush greenery.
A coastal path that runs along the cliffs near Santoña, providing picturesque views of the coastline and opportunities for beach access.
Aiports
How to reach Santoña by plane.
Santander Airport is the closest international airport to Santoña, located approximately 28 kilometers away. It offers flights to various European destinations.
Bilbao Airport is about 90 kilometers from Santoña and is one of the main international airports in northern Spain, with numerous connections to major cities in Europe and beyond.
Vitoria Airport is located roughly 130 kilometers from Santoña. It primarily serves cargo flights but also has some passenger services, mainly to domestic destinations.
La Rioja Airport, situated around 120 kilometers from Santoña, offers limited commercial flights, mainly serving regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Santoña, primarily consisting of individuals born and raised in Spain.
A growing demographic group, including people from countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.
Citizens from other EU countries, including residents from Italy, France, and Germany.
Individuals from Moroccan and Algerian backgrounds who have settled in the area.
A smaller but notable group primarily consisting of individuals from countries like China and the Philippines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Santoña, with a strong local team and a passionate fan base.
Handball has a significant following in Santoña, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Due to its coastal location, surfing is popular among locals, especially at nearby beaches.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, fostering youth participation.
Sailing is enjoyed by both locals and tourists, with the bay providing ideal conditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santoña.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Santoña is predominantly known for its seafood-based cuisine, several restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian and vegan options such as vegetable paella, patatas bravas, and fresh salads.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dishes like grilled fish, Spanish omelet (tortilla española), and rice-based paella at various dining establishments in Santoña.