Santander lies along the northern coast of Spain and boasts exotic seafood dishes, talented chefs, and a terrain that includes lush rolling hills, towering cliffs, and diverse beaches. The locale is so scenic that the Spanish Royals built their new vacation palace here in 1912. In 1941, a fire destroyed a large portion of the city center, dividing it in two. The area has subsequently been rebuilt retaining the original architectural style.

Tourist Attractions:

Casa Pardo is in a posh neighborhood with spectacular views of the bay. The house dating back to 1915 features a decorative colonnade and square-notched tower and is one of the city’s most splendid mansions.

Casa Pombo designed in 1875 features colonnades, domes, and pillars that are both artistic and ornate exuding great exterior beauty.

Dique de Gamazo is a monument to the city’s seafaring history located near the small port. It is an exceptional manmade marine jetty 8 meters deep, 180 meters long, and 15 meters wide dating back to 1908.

Edificio de Correos or the Post Office building which dates back to 1915 features a façade with three towers.

Edificio de Los Arcos de Botín this four-story structure represents the architectural trends of the early 1800’s. Visitors cannot see the inside of the building.

Edificio de Los Pinares is located near the Primera Playa and the house grounds provide unforgettable glimpses of the beach and sea. Visitors cannot see the inside of the building.

Edificio de Viviendas en la Calle Castelar; the entire block has elegant homes that feature corner domes, turrets, balconies, and pillars.

Edificio del Banco Santander is linked by an archway to a sister building and features ornate sculptures on its roofline and is one of the city’s most impressive buildings.

Paseo de Pereda y Calle Castelar; a stroll down this street provides a nice view of the Cathedral and the harbor.

Plaza de José Antonio or Plaza Pombo provides a scenic retreat on route to some of the city’s busiest shops and restaurants.

Car hire in Spain is available from companies like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Solmar, Alamo, National and Centauro.