Getting to know Santander in two days isn’t about speed, but about the right sequence of events. Divide your itinerary into a compact first day and a more packed second, leaving some time to spare before your next bus. In the plan below, the points of interest are grouped so that you spend less time on transport and more on the city itself.
The following is a guide, not a strict hour-by-hour timetable. Check ticket availability, admission fees and any building works before you set off; in Spain, pay particular attention to the midday heat, the later mealtimes and allow time for a leisurely stroll.
Day one: exploring the city centre
Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, head to the Pereda Gardens, and from there to the Botín Centre. This combination gives you a first impression of Santander without any complicated logistics. It’s best to book detailed tours only once your arrival time has been confirmed.
Don’t leave charging your phone until the evening: navigation apps and e-tickets drain the battery quickly. Mark your return stop and an alternative walking route separately on the map.
Day two: the main attraction and a relaxed finish
Spend the morning on the Magdalena Peninsula: during peak times, you may need a timed ticket here. Next, make your way to El Sardinero beach via the narrow streets and squares. This order keeps the second half of the day flexible.
Before heading back, allow some quiet time without any new sightseeing. You’ll need this to sort out your luggage, use the loo, charge your phone and make your way to the platform without any unnecessary stress.
How to draw up a realistic budget
Divide your budget into accommodation, local transport, one main paid attraction, food and a contingency fund. Alternate between free squares and historic districts with ticketed attractions, and only buy a tourist card once you’ve calculated your actual travel needs.
What to prepare before arrival
- an offline map marking the Pereda Gardens and the Magdalena Peninsula;
- the address of your accommodation and luggage storage facilities;
- comfortable footwear and a light layer of clothing in case the weather changes;
- the latest return time to your departure point.
Useful links
To help you prepare, also read about how to plan your first day after a long coach journey, offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone, and how to find a hotel from the coach stop. You can check coach routes and travel options on RedRay. Check the latest visitor guidelines and events calendar via Spain’s official tourism portal and the official websites of specific attractions. Sources verified on 6 September 2026.
Questions and Answers
Are two days enough for a first visit to Santander?
Yes, if you focus on two neighbouring areas each day and don’t plan to visit too many museums. For a leisurely pace, stick to one main attraction per day.
Where is the best place to leave your luggage after getting off the coach?
First, check if early check-in is available at your accommodation. If this isn’t possible, use the official left-luggage facility and keep your receipt until you collect your belongings.
Do I need to buy a city travel pass?
Work out your planned journeys. If the main attractions are close together, individual tickets or walking may be better value than a day pass.
What should you book in advance in Santander?
First and foremost, check access to the Magdalena Peninsula and your accommodation check-in details. It’s best to keep the rest of your itinerary flexible in case of bus delays or changes in the weather.