EXCURSION TO CANTABRIA: Santander | Santoña | Laredo

If you’re planning a trip to northern Spain, a guided excursion that takes you through the captivating towns of Santoña and Laredo offers a fantastic way to experience the region’s coastal beauty, culinary delights, and historic charm. Based on detailed reviews and honest descriptions, this tour from Santander is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Cantabria’s highlights—all in one day.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, you’ll get the chance to walk through picturesque cobblestone streets and admire architectural treasures like Santoña’s Fortress of San Martin and Laredo’s Gothic church. Second, the inclusion of a visit to the Anchovy Museum offers a tasty peek into local gastronomic traditions.

However, keep in mind that the day is packed, and some stops, like the Faro del Caballo, depend on the season and availability. This means a bit of flexibility in your expectations. This tour is best suited for travelers who love exploring charming coastal towns with a mix of history, scenery, and local flavor.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Santoña and Laredo with free time to explore on your own.
• Visit to the Anchovy Museum offers insight into a regional specialty.
• Optional visit to Faro del Caballo depending on the season.
• Comfortable private transportation ensures a smooth ride between stops.
• Authentic local cuisine like Santoña’s famous anchovies and regional wines.
• Ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and culinary experiences in northern Spain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

This excursion covers some of the most scenic and culturally rich spots along Cantabria’s coast in just a single day. We loved the way the itinerary balances structured sightseeing with ample free time, allowing you to soak up the atmosphere at your own pace. Whether you’re into photography, history, or food, there’s something here to captivate every traveler.

The private bus transportation from Santander makes the journey comfortable, especially after a morning of exploring. Plus, the tour guides are noted for their attentiveness and friendliness—an important factor when you’re navigating unfamiliar towns.

The only possible hurdle? The long day of travel and walking might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with small children. Still, for those eager to see a lot without organizing everything yourself, this tour offers excellent value.

Starting Point: Santander’s Estación Marítima

Your adventure begins at the Estación Marítima in Santander, a convenient pick-up point for most travelers. The journey starts with a comfortable round-trip private bus—a crucial factor when considering comfort, especially on a 10-hour day. The bus ride itself is about an hour to Santoña, giving you a chance to appreciate the Cantabrian coastline.

Santoña: Charm and Flavor

First stop: Santoña, about 1 hour from Santander. This small town is a gem for lovers of cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Dominating the entrance to the bay is the Fortress of San Martin, an impressive structure that hints at centuries of maritime history.

You’ll have around 3.5 hours here, giving plenty of time to stroll through the narrow streets, visit local markets, or snap photos of the colorful houses. Be sure to visit the Anchovy Museum, which offers insights into Santoña’s most famous export—its exquisite anchovies. As one review notes, “the museum is a true delight for foodies,” and trying the anchovies here is a must. They’re famed for their flavorful, artisanal quality, often paired with regional wines like those from Liébana.

You might also enjoy wandering along the promenade, soaking in views of the bay, or popping into local cafes for a quick snack. Santoña’s culinary reputation isn’t just about anchovies—there are cheeses, sausages, and sweets to discover if you venture into the markets.

Laredo: Coastal Beauty and Historic Charm

After Santoña, a 30-minute bus ride takes you to Laredo, another highlight of the region. Here, the focus is on coastal scenery and historic architecture. With 4 hours of free time, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore the old town, characterized by cobbled streets and colorful houses.

Don’t miss the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, a striking Gothic building that crowns the town. The Barrio Pesquero —the fishing district— is perfect for wandering among traditional bakeries and vivid houses that evoke a lively maritime atmosphere.

Laredo is also famous for its golden beaches, with La Salvé Beach being the most popular. Its wide sands are ideal for relaxing or just dipping your toes in the sea. For natural beauty lovers, the Cliffs of Costa Quebrada nearby provide stunning views, perfect for capturing those memorable travel photos.

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Optional Faro del Caballo

Depending on the season and availability, some tours include a visit to Faro del Caballo. This is a scenic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the coast. If weather permits, you’ll love the vistas; if not, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan or be flexible.

Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing and tasting, a 1-hour bus ride brings you back to Santander’s Estación Marítima, where the tour concludes.

This tour offers a solid value with many included options: round-trip transportation, visits to the Anchovy Museum, and free time in two charming towns. The private bus ensures a comfortable, hassle-free experience, avoiding the stress of public transport or self-driving.

However, the price doesn’t include meals or dinners, so bringing your own snacks or planning for a meal during the free time is wise. Also, some extras like cancellation insurance are optional but worth considering if your plans are uncertain.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer shared, “MUY BIEN. TANTO EL GUÍA ( DENIS ), COMO LA CONDUCTORA ( DIANA ) HAN ESTADO EXCEPCIONALES,” emphasizing the quality of the guiding and transportation service. Even with only two participants, the service was not canceled or postponed—a testament to the tour company’s reliability.

• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll be walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water in warmer months.
• A small cash stash is handy for snacks, souvenirs, or tips.
• Pack a swimsuit and towel if you plan on enjoying the beaches.
• Identify your meeting point and arrive a little early—timeliness is key.

This day trip is perfect for history buffs who want to see authentic coastal towns, food lovers eager to sample regional specialties, and nature enthusiasts interested in scenic vistas. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer guided logistics and organized free time rather than navigating public transport or planning independently.

If you’re staying in Santander and want a comprehensive view of Cantabria’s seaside charm in a single day, this tour checks almost every box.

This excursion offers a well-balanced mix of historic exploration, scenic views, and culinary delights. It’s a convenient way to experience some of Cantabria’s most beloved towns without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

The flexibility of free time allows you to pursue your own interests—be it photography, sampling local produce, or simply soaking in the seaside atmosphere. The included visit to the Anchovy Museum alone makes it worthwhile for lovers of regional specialties, and the visits to Santoña and Laredo promise picturesque streets and stunning coastlines.

For travelers seeking a day of authentic coastal culture, with comfortable transportation and engaging guides, this tour offers excellent value. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a chance to see some of the most charming corners of northern Spain in just a single day.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting and ending at Santander’s Estación Marítima.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip private transportation, visits to Santoña and Laredo, free time in both towns, the Anchovy Museum, and optional Faro del Caballo visits depending on the season.

Is food included?
No, meals and dinners are not included. Travelers should bring cash or plan to enjoy local eateries during free time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, food and drinks, cash, and a daypack.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year, but older children and families who enjoy walking and sightseeing will find it engaging.

What if Faro del Caballo isn’t available?
The visit to Faro del Caballo depends on the season and weather conditions. If unavailable, the tour proceeds with the other scheduled stops.

How many people typically join the tour?
It varies; some reviews mention only a couple of travelers, and the tour accommodates larger groups as well.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Absolutely. The itinerary provides several hours in Santoña and Laredo for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxing.

In sum, this day trip from Santander offers a wonderful opportunity to see the coast of Cantabria through a lens of history, scenery, and delicious local flavors. It’s a practical, enjoyable choice for anyone looking to get a taste of authentic northern Spain without the stress of planning every detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: