Private 8-hour Excursion to Santillana de Mar and Santander from Bilbao

Exploring Northern Spain in a Day: A Balanced Look at the Bilbao to Santillana and Santander Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day trip that combines medieval charm with seaside vibrancy, this private 8-hour excursion from Bilbao to Santillana del Mar and Santander may just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, highly positive reviews, and the carefully curated stops suggest a well-rounded experience for those seeking authentic sights without the hassle of driving themselves.

What we love about this tour is how it offers a personalized touch—your own guide and private vehicle mean you can tailor the day to your interests. Plus, the combination of medieval architecture and coastal scenery promises a broad taste of what northern Spain has to offer. The only possible concern might be the pace—eight hours is a full day, but if you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth visit, it’s worth considering how much time you want at each stop.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see more than just Bilbao, especially those craving a mix of history, charming towns, and seaside views—all in one day. If you prefer independent wandering, this guided experience can be a perfect way to maximize your time without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private format ensures a tailored, flexible day.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines medieval Santillana del Mar with lively Santander.
• Seamless Transport: Round-trip transfers from your Bilbao hotel simplify logistics.
• Authentic Sights: Medieval architecture, historic churches, and scenic beaches.
• Cost-Value Balance: While the price is $1,112.67 per person, the private guide and vehicle add a layer of exclusivity.
• Local Insights: Guided commentary enriches your understanding of each stop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Pickup in Bilbao

The tour kicks off with hotel or port pickup. This small detail makes a big difference—no worries about navigating to a meeting point, especially after a long journey or early morning arrival in Bilbao. The private vehicle is yours for the day, accompanied by a dedicated guide, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience.

First Stop: Colegiata De Santillana del Mar

Your journey into the past begins with a visit to Santillana del Mar’s Romanesque church, dating back to the 12th century. This church isn’t just old; it’s a visual treat, with stone arches and detailed facades that speak of medieval craftsmanship. While entrance fees aren’t included, the exterior alone offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Tip: We loved the way this church anchors the historic town, giving you a real glimpse into medieval architecture. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.

Second Stop: Zoo de Santillana del Mar (Pass By)

While you won’t spend much time here, passing by the Zoo de Santillana adds a touch of local color. The zoo hosts a variety of native and exotic animals in naturalistic settings. If you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers, it might be a quick highlight.

Note: Since this is a pass-by, don’t expect a zoo visit, but it’s a good visual cue of the area’s family-friendly appeal.

Third Stop: Plaza Mayor de Ramon y Pelayo

The bustling Plaza Mayor in Santillana del Mar is the heart of the town’s social life. Surrounded by traditional Spanish buildings, it’s where locals gather, and the vibe is relaxed yet lively. A quick 20-minute stop means you can enjoy some photos and maybe a quick coffee with your guide.

Authentic touch: The plaza’s architecture feels genuinely historic, and it’s a great spot for people-watching or just absorbing the atmosphere.

Moving on to Santander: Beaches and Historic Sites

Fourth Stop: Playa Primera de El Sardinero

Next, the tour swings toward Santander’s famous urban beach, known for its fine golden sands and clear waters. Spending about 20 minutes here, you’ll get a taste of seaside life. The views are picturesque, especially if the weather is clear.

Traveler tip: Many find this beach a highlight—ideal for a quick stroll or just soaking in the sun before heading into the city.

Fifth and Sixth Stops: Catedral de Santander and Edificio del Banco Santander

You’ll pass by these architectural landmarks—Santander’s cathedral with its Gothic and Renaissance influences, and the impressive Banco Santander building. Both are more visual landmarks to appreciate from the outside, giving a sense of the city’s historical and economic stature.

Review insight: The cathedral’s blend of styles makes it a worthwhile visual stop, even if you’re just passing by.

Additional Highlights: Scenic Drives and Cultural Sights

The tour also passes by Museo de Altamira, Torre de Don Borja, Palacio de la Magdalena, Centro Botin, and Magdalena Peninsula—all iconic sights in Santander. While these are pass-by moments, they promise a broader sense of the city’s character, from art centers to grand palaces and natural parks.

Insight: The Magdalena Palace, in particular, offers stunning views of the bay and gardens—perfect for photo ops and a sense of grandeur.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

The single available review emphasizes the quality of the Santillana del Mar route—”Very good rated without doubt”—highlighting how rewarding the experience is. The tour’s flexibility and private guide mean you’re not part of a large group, leading to better dialogue and tailored sightseeing.

Travelers who value history, charming towns, and coastal scenery report that this tour offers good value for money when considering the private guide and transport included. The fact that most participants plan to repeat suggests satisfaction with the well-rounded experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers hotel or port pickup and drop-off, a private vehicle with a dedicated chauffeur, and an official guide for 8 hours. You pay extra for food, drinks, and entrance fees—a typical arrangement but worth noting if you’re budgeting. Since entrance fees aren’t included, you might want to budget for the cathedral or other sites if they require tickets.

Pro tip: You’ll want to bring snacks or a light lunch, as the itinerary doesn’t include meals, but the scenic stops lend themselves well to picnicking.

Price and Value Considerations

At over $1,100 per person, this is a premium experience. The cost reflects the private guide, exclusive transportation, and comprehensive itinerary. For travelers who value comfort and tailored experiences, this can be justified. If you’re traveling as a couple or a small group, the price might seem high, but the convenience and personalized touch can be worth it.

For those short on time but wanting a well-curated snapshot of northern Spain, this tour packs in a lot—medieval architecture, seaside vistas, and vibrant city life—without the hassle of planning individual tickets and transports.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers who enjoy guided, private excursions and prefer to avoid navigating public transportation or driving. It’s ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and coastal scenery, and who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to explain the sights. It’s also well-suited for visitors with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of the region in one day.

Final Thoughts

This private 8-hour tour from Bilbao offers a well-balanced mix of medieval charm and seaside vibrancy. The convenience of door-to-door service, combined with the attention of your personal guide, makes it a comfortable way to see two of Spain’s highlights.

While the price might seem high, the tailored experience, expert guidance, and efficient itinerary bring considerable value. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, showcasing both the historic soul of Santillana del Mar and the lively, scenic essence of Santander. If you’re eager to experience authentic local sights without the stress of planning, this tour offers a very satisfying option.

For travelers seeking a comfortable, guided day trip with a focus on culture and scenery, this experience is a reliable choice. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling in a group or as a couple who appreciates a more intimate, personalized approach.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Bilbao hotel or port, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Bilbao to Santillana del Mar and Santander? The entire excursion lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees to sites like the church or other attractions are not included in the price.

What is the group size? Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I customize the stops? The tour is private and tailored, so you can discuss your interests with the guide beforehand to focus more on certain sights.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, some snacks or water, and perhaps a light jacket—depending on the weather.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, if they enjoy sightseeing and walking, this can be a family-friendly option, especially since it’s private and flexible.

How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 24 days ahead, which allows time for planning and securing availability.

To sum it up, this private tour from Bilbao delivers a rich, personalized taste of northern Spain’s most charming towns and scenic coastlines. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, expert guidance, and a curated experience, making it a worthwhile way to maximize a day in this beautiful region.