Santona’s urban and marine landscapes offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural wonder. This guided tour invites visitors to enjoy the charming fishing village, exploring its iconic landmarks, vibrant fishing port, and the legacy of renowned explorer Juan de la Cosa. From the scenic promenade to the fascinating anchovy trade, the tour promises an enriching experience that unveils the unique character of this coastal community.
Key Points

- Explore the fishing village of Santoña, including its fishing port, famous anchovy, and Carnival monument.
- Visit the auction room to learn about the fishing sale process and gain insights into the life of Juan de la Cosa.
- Walk along the promenade to discover Santoña’s history and culture.
- Engage with Italian salt fishmongers and learn about the origins of the famous anchovy fillet.
- Understand the accessibility considerations for the tour, including moderate walking and navigation through uneven terrain.
Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the fishing village of Santoña. Priced from €10.00 per person, the 1.5-hour tour is available in Spanish, English, and French.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour allows for flexible booking. Highlights include discovering the fishing port, learning about the famous anchovy, and exploring the Carnival monument.
The tour starts at the monument to Juan de la Cosa, followed by a walk along the promenade discussing Santoña’s history. Visitors will also visit the marina and Italian salt fishmongers, as well as the auction room.
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Highlights of the Tour

The highlights of the Santona: Urban and Marine Visit tour include discovering the fishing village of Santoña, exploring the Carnival monument, and learning about the origin of the famous anchovy fillet.
Visitors will also visit the fishing port and auction room, where they’ll learn about the fishing sale process.
Explore the fishing port and auction room, learning about the intricate process of the fishing sale.
The tour provides insights into the life and exploits of Juan de la Cosa, an influential explorer.
Throughout the 1.5-hour experience, you will walk along the promenade and passage, gaining a deeper understanding of Santoña’s rich history and marine-based economy.
Tour Description

The tour begins next to the monument to Juan de la Cosa, a renowned Spanish explorer.
Participants walk along the promenade and passage, discussing Santoña’s history.
The tour explores the marina and visits the Italian salt fishmongers.
Visitors then enter the auction room to learn about the fishing sale process.
The tour provides a map and brochure on Santoña, as well as entrance to the auction room inside the Lonja.
Food, drinks, and tips aren’t included.
Inclusions
The tour includes a map and brochure on Santoña, providing participants with helpful information about the area.
Plus, the tour grants access to the auction room inside the Lonja, allowing visitors to witness the fishing sale process firsthand.
However, food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price. Visitors are responsible for any tips they wish to provide.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, so it’s important to check availability and select appropriate participants and dates.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility
While the tour offers an engaging exploration of Santoña’s urban and marine attractions, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. The tour requires moderate walking and navigation through uneven terrain, including the fishing port and auction room.
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The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Those with limited mobility may find the walking challenging.
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Visitors should consider their physical capabilities before booking.
Alternative arrangements or accommodations may be available upon request, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.
Juan De La Cosa and His Exploits
Juan de la Cosa was a renowned Spanish explorer and cartographer whose exploits shaped the early understanding of the Americas.
As the owner and captain of the Santa María, he accompanied Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to the New World in 1492.
De la Cosa later created the first known map depicting the coastlines of the Americas, which provided Europeans with a more accurate representation of the newly discovered lands.
His expeditions and cartographic work played a crucial role in the Age of Exploration, expanding geographical knowledge and guiding future voyages of discovery.
The Fishing Port and Auction Room
After exploring the town’s historic landmarks, visitors then venture towards the fishing port, the heart of Santoña’s maritime heritage.
At the port, they’ll witness the bustling auction room where the day’s catch is sold. The tour guides explain the intricate process:
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Fishermen unload their hauls onto the auction floor
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Buyers inspect the fish and place their bids
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An auctioneer coordinates the rapid-fire transactions
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The seafood is then distributed to local restaurants and shops
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the rhythms of Santoña’s thriving fishing industry, a cornerstone of the community’s identity.
The Origin of the Famous Anchovy Fillet
The famous anchovy fillet, a staple of Santoña’s culinary legacy, finds its origins deeply rooted in the town’s fishing heritage.
The anchovy, locally known as "bocarte," is a small, oily fish that has been a crucial part of the local economy for centuries.
The anchovy, locally known as "bocarte," has been a crucial part of Santoña’s local economy for centuries.
Santoña’s unique microclimate and traditional curing methods produce the prized anchovy fillets that are exported worldwide.
Visitors can learn about the intricate process, from harvesting to salting and aging, that gives these fillets their distinct flavor and texture.
Sampling the renowned anchovy is a must when exploring Santoña’s vibrant marine traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, the tour inclusions do not cover any food or drinks. Participants will need to purchase their own refreshments separately during the tour. The tour focuses on the sights and history of Santoña, not providing meals.
Do I Need to Book in Advance or Can I Buy Tickets on the Day?
You can book the tour in advance to secure your spot, but you can also purchase tickets on the day if there’s availability. Reserving ahead of time is recommended to guarantee your preferred date and time.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides Spanish, English, and French?
The tour is available in Spanish, English, and French. It does not mention being offered in any other languages.
Can I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour?
Yes, you can get a full refund if you cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance. The tour offers flexible booking, allowing you to reserve your spot and pay later.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?
There’s no mention of discounts for seniors or students in the tour details. The price is listed as a flat rate of €10.00 per person. You’ll need to contact the tour provider to inquire about any potential discounted rates.
The Sum Up
The "Santona: Urban and Marine Visit" tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the charming fishing village of Santoña. Participants can enjoy the town’s rich history, vibrant fishing port, and the local anchovy trade. With guided commentary in multiple languages, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that celebrates the legacy of explorer Juan de la Cosa and the vibrant marine life of the region.
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