Our journey to Santander, the vibrant capital city of Cantabria, was a delightful continuation of our family road trip through northern Spain. Nestled along the Bay of Biscay, Santander welcomed us with its blend of seaside charm, cultural treasures, and family-friendly attractions. Here’s a glimpse into our memorable experience exploring Santander with our kids.
Arrival in Santander
Arriving in Santander, we were immediately struck by its picturesque setting along the bay. The kids were excited to see the sea and explore a new city after our adventures in Asturias. The warm sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the shore set the stage for our exploration of this vibrant coastal city.
Beach Fun at Playa del Sardinero
Playa del Sardinero
Our first stop was Playa del Sardinero, one of Santander’s most famous beaches. The kids couldn’t wait to splash in the waves and build sandcastles on the golden sands. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, making it convenient for families to enjoy a day of sun and sea. We spent hours playing beach games, relaxing under umbrellas, and sampling local snacks from nearby vendors.
Miniature Train Ride
To explore more of Playa del Sardinero and its surroundings, we hopped on a miniature train that runs along the promenade. The kids loved the novelty of riding a train by the sea, offering scenic views of the coastline and beachfront hotels. It was a fun way to take in the sights while giving our feet a break from walking.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
Magdalena Peninsula and Palacio de la Magdalena
A highlight of our visit to Santander was exploring the Magdalena Peninsula, home to the Palacio de la Magdalena. This historic palace, set amidst lush gardens overlooking the sea, served as a royal residence and now hosts cultural events and exhibitions. The kids enjoyed exploring the palace grounds, spotting deer in the park, and learning about its history through interactive exhibits.
MUPAC – Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria
For a dose of history and archaeology, we visited the MUPAC museum. The interactive exhibits and artifacts from Cantabria’s prehistoric past fascinated the kids, offering insights into the region’s ancient civilizations and cave paintings. Hands-on activities kept them engaged as they learned about the early inhabitants of Cantabria.
Culinary Delights
Sampling Local Cuisine
No visit to Santander would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. We sampled fresh seafood dishes at waterfront restaurants, including grilled fish, seafood paella, and pintxos (small snacks). The kids enjoyed trying local specialties like rabas (fried squid) and churros con chocolate for dessert. The lively atmosphere of the restaurants and cafes added to our dining experience.
A Memorable Family Experience
Our time in Santander was filled with laughter, exploration, and cultural enrichment amidst its beautiful coastal setting. From beach adventures and train rides to exploring historic landmarks and savoring local cuisine, Santander offered us a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural discovery in Cantabria.
Reflecting on Santander
As we reflect on our family adventure in Santander, we are grateful for the opportunity to explore such a vibrant and welcoming city in Cantabria. Santander’s seaside charm, cultural attractions, and family-friendly atmosphere left a lasting impression on our family, and we look forward to returning someday to create more cherished memories along Spain’s northern coast.
