Stretching over a wide bay on the northern coast of Spain, Santander is a lively port city which has also become a popular seaside resort.

Some of Santander's main attractions include the Cathedral, housing the tomb of Marcelino Menendez Pelayo; Paseo de Pereda, featuring a boulevard abound with gardens and 'miradors'; Market of La Esperanza, in a modernist style; the Menendez Pelayo Stately home, which has been declared a historic-artistic site; the Festival Palace, where the Santander International Festival is held; and the Cantabrian Maritime Museum, one of the best in its specialty.

El Sardinero is one of the most popular beaches in Santander. Here visitors will be able not only to enjoy the sea but also to walk along its promenade featuring buildings such as the Gran Casino, in a Belle Epoque style; the Plaza de Italia, with fine summer terraces; and the Piquio Gardens, on a rocky inlet.

Santander's commercial area is found in Santa Lucia, Arrabal or El Cubo Streets. Visitors should not miss the Altamira Caves, containing prehistoric paintings which are thought  to be 14,000 years old.

Santander's specialties are 'rabas' (fried squid), 'bocartes rebozados' (breaded whitebait), 'cocido montanes' (a stew made of beans, meat and cabbage), 'quesada' (cheesecake) and 'sobaos pasiegos' (sponge cakes made with butter, flour and eggs), just to name a few.