Excursion Medieval santillana del mar tour at Santander

Participate in an in-depth walking inspection of Santillana del Mar, a beautifully preserved medieval waypoint along northern Spain’s fabled Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route – and one of the most significant historical cities in Cantabria. Founded in the 8^th century, the city endures as a true showplace of Romanesque architecture.

Located about an hour east by coach from Santander pier, this delightful town of cobbled lanes and splendid stone and brick buildings presents an entrancing snapshot of long-past times. With your knowledgeable guide in the lead, traverse the centuries – and learn of the town’s many legends and secrets – as you stroll a historic quarter where the defensive Tower of Don Borja and Merino Tower still stand guard over Renaissance-era palaces with stories to tell.

Visit landmarks like the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana – built on the site of a 12th-century hermitage and graced with handsome cloisters and a façade rich with religious sculpture.

After about an hour, with your guided walk now complete, enjoy another 30 minutes or so of free time for browsing the local shops and soaking up yet more of Santillana del Mar’s distinctive character on your own before reboarding the coach for the 45-minute return drive to Santander and your ship.  

Points of interests

Points of interest seen include: Santillana del Mar, Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, Tower of Don Borja, Merino Tower

Note

Please note: This active excursion involves some 1.2 km/0.75 mi of walking along uneven cobblestone surfaces, with inclines. Some five steps must be navigated at the collegiate church. The tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or have limited mobility. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes appropriate for the weather and non-slip walking shoes; bring along your preferred sun protection. The order of sights and activities may vary.