Santander isn’t just a pretty seaside city; it’s also a superb base for exploring some of northern Spain’s most intriguing and scenic experiences. Whether you’re craving breathtaking mountain vistas, archaeological marvels, or panoramic city views, Santander offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. We especially love the Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour for its small-group intimacy and spectacular scenery, and the Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour for a personalized dive into ancient cave art. But whatever your flavor, this list will help you find the perfect tour in Santander to make your travel experience memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a range of options from full-day scenic mountain adventures to city hop-on-hop-off sightseeing, as well as intimate cave explorations and regional excursions to Santoña and Laredo. Each offers something unique: from the small-group Picos de Europa trip with its cable car rides and village visits, to the private cave tour that uncovers UNESCO-listed archaeological sites. We’ve also included budget-friendly hop-on-hop-off options perfect for casual explorers, and full-day regional tours for those wanting a deeper dive into Cantabria’s coast. Read on for detailed reviews of each.
1. Picos de Europa and Potes Guided Tour from Santander-small groups
At number 1 on our list, this full-day small-group tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of northern Spain’s most dramatic mountain scenery. The tour starts with an easy hotel pickup in Santander, making logistics hassle-free. The highlight is a cable car ride (separate expense) up to the Picos de Europa, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of rugged peaks and deep valleys that will make your camera shed tears of joy. The itinerary also includes a visit to Monasterio de Santo Toribio de Liebana, home to the sacred Lignum Crucis, and a charming stroll through Potes, a town famous for its medieval architecture and inviting cafes.
One of the best features of this tour is its small group size—limited to just eight people—ensuring a personal experience and plenty of time for questions. Guides like Gabriela are known for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling, making history, nature, and local culture come alive. Reviewers love the contrast this trip offers compared to Santander’s cityscape, with comments like, “The scenery was outstanding, and Potes is truly picturesque.” The tour is excellent for nature lovers and those wanting a taste of authentic mountain villages, all packed into a manageable nine hours.
Bottom Line: This tour strikes a great balance between adventure and comfort, perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of Picos de Europa with a friendly guide.
2. Private Puente Viesgo Caves Full-Day Tour from Santander
Number 2 on our list is the private cave tour that takes you into Cantabria’s most remarkable archaeological sites. For around $260 per person, you get a personalized experience that includes hotel transfers, entrance fees, and a detailed exploration of UNESCO-listed caves like El Castillo and Las Monedas. These caves are famous for their prehistoric cave paintings—some the earliest known art in Europe—and provide a fascinating glimpse into human history.
What sets this tour apart is its exclusivity: you won’t be fighting crowds, and your guide can tailor the experience to your interests. The itinerary also includes a visit to Santillana del Mar, a village often called one of the most beautiful in Spain, with cobblestone streets and medieval charm. The Museo de Altamira features a replica of the famous caves, offering a comprehensive context for the art you see underground.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Pepé and Hanna—”Our private guide made every stop engaging and insightful,” reports one traveler. The optional e-bike add-on is perfect for those wanting a bit more activity, cycling along the scenic Via Verde del Pas. This tour is ideal for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts who want a flexible, in-depth day.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about prehistoric art and prefer a private, customized experience, this tour offers excellent value for a full immersion into Cantabria’s ancient world.
3. Santander: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Train
For a flexible, no-fuss way to see Santander’s highlights, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Train combo is ideal. Valid for one day, this open-top double-decker bus allows you to explore key sites like Paseo Pereda, the Palacio de la Magdalena, and El Sardinero Beach at your own pace. The buses run frequently, and you can hop on or off at any of the ten stops, including the Cathedral and Parque de Mataleñas.
This tour is praised for its entertaining onboard commentary and helpful staff. Reviews mention how the driver goes out of their way to assist, making this a comfortable way to get oriented in Santander. The included train ticket to the Magdalena Palace adds a scenic touch, especially as you enjoy views of the bay from the open-air upper deck.
While not a deep-dive cultural experience, it’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time without planning. It’s especially suitable for families or travelers on a tight schedule who want to see the city without the hassle of figuring out public transportation.
Bottom Line: A practical, budget-friendly way to get a broad overview of Santander’s city sights in just a few hours.
4. EXCURSION TO CANTABRIA: Santander | Santoña | Laredo
Number 4 is a full-day regional tour that covers three coastal highlights—Santoña, Laredo, and the Anchovy Museum—offering a taste of Cantabria’s maritime culture. This organized excursion is perfect if you want to see more than just Santander, with the convenience of a comfortable bus and guided commentary. You’ll explore Santoña’s historic center, enjoy free time in Laredo’s sandy beaches, and may even visit the Faro del Caballo lighthouse if conditions allow.
A standout feature is the visit to the Anchovy Museum, which celebrates Santoña’s famous anchovy fishing industry—an essential part of local identity. The flexible timing allows you to relax and soak in the coastal scenery without rushing. The tour is ideal for travelers seeking a structured day with cultural and seaside highlights, without the need to drive or navigate public transport.
Reviews are glowing, with one traveler noting, “The tour was well-organized, and we loved exploring the charming towns without the stress of planning.” It’s best suited for those who prefer guided outings and want to experience a mix of history, food, and seaside relaxation.
Bottom Line: A great choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive coastal experience with plenty of free time and local flavor.
5. City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Rounding out the list is the affordable City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, priced at just over $30. This one-hour tour offers a quick, panoramic overview of the city’s key attractions, including Paseo Pereda, Museo Marítimo, Palacio de la Magdalena, and El Sardinero beach.
It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed, casual exploration. The audio commentary keeps you informed about the city’s highlights as you cruise through, and the flexibility to hop on and off gives you control over your day. Reviews highlight the helpful staff and the quality of the guides, making it a reliable option for a quick city overview.
While it doesn’t replace a thorough walking tour, it’s a cost-effective way to get a sense of Santander’s layout and top sights without breaking the bank or overextending your schedule.
Bottom Line: An excellent quick introduction to Santander for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, flexible option.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Santander
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re drawn to spectacular mountain scenery and small-group experiences, the Picos de Europa is hard to beat. For archaeology lovers who want a private, in-depth day, the Caves private tour offers tailored insights. If you’re short on time but want a broad city overview, the Santander hop-on-hop-off provides maximum flexibility.
Those interested in regional culture and coastline beauty should pick the Santander | Santoña | Laredo excursion, which combines seaside charm with local traditions. Budget travelers will find the city sightseeing bus a quick and affordable way to see the city.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times and spots. Think about your energy levels—if you’re up for mountain adventures, the small-group Picos tour is ideal; if comfort and flexibility matter most, the city tour or private cave trip fit best.
In summary, Santander offers more than just a pretty seaside—it’s a launchpad for memorable adventures, whether you want to explore towering peaks, ancient caves, or lively city streets. For a balanced mix of nature, culture, and convenience, the top choices include the small-group mountain tour, the private archaeological journey, and the flexible city sightseeing experience. Don’t forget to book early to make the most of these fantastic options—happy exploring!