Santander Ferries

The port of Santander plays a key role in the ferry network of Spain, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Santander serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Santander, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Plymouth - Santander connecting Santander with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Brittany Ferries run regular services from Santander, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Santander offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Santander is well-connected to Spain's transportation network, with direct train services from Madrid taking approximately 4.5 hours via high-speed rail. By road, the city is accessible via the A-8 coastal highway, connecting it to Bilbao (about 1 hour east) and Gijón (2 hours west). Santander Airport offers connections to several European cities, with a convenient shuttle bus linking it to the ferry terminal in about 15 minutes. The ferry terminal itself is centrally located, with local buses stopping nearby, and ample parking facilities available for those arriving by car. Taxis are readily available throughout the city for direct transfers to the port.

Nestled along the stunning Bay of Biscay, Santander combines the sophistication of a historic port city with the natural beauty of Cantabria's coastline. This elegant northern Spanish destination balances urban refinement with seaside charm, offering visitors pristine beaches alongside impressive cultural institutions. As a key ferry connection point to the UK and other European destinations, Santander serves as both a captivating destination and a gateway to northern Spain's treasures.

Santander enjoys a mild oceanic climate, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) and winter averages of 9-12°C (48-54°F). The prime months to visit are June through September, when warm days are perfect for enjoying the city's beaches and outdoor cafés. July and August bring the International Festival of Santander, filling the city with music and performing arts events. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) offer pleasant temperatures with fewer tourists and more competitive accommodation rates. Ferry services maintain regular schedules year-round, though winter crossings may occasionally face weather-related adjustments.

From Santander's port, travelers can board ferries to Portsmouth in southern England, with crossings taking approximately 24 hours aboard comfortable ships equipped with cabins, restaurants, and entertainment. The nearby Basque Country, including vibrant Bilbao with its Guggenheim Museum, is easily accessible via coastal ferries in under 2 hours. For nature enthusiasts, ferry services connect to portions of the stunning Costa Verde and provide access to charming fishing villages along the Cantabrian coast. Santander also serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Picos de Europa National Park, with seasonal ferry services to coastal towns that serve as gateways to this magnificent mountain range.

Santander's crown jewel is the expansive El Sardinero Beach, where golden sands meet the azure Bay of Biscay in a sweeping crescent. Culture seekers will appreciate the Centro Botín, a striking contemporary art center designed by architect Renzo Piano that hovers above the waterfront. The Peninsula of La Magdalena offers a royal palace, mini-zoo, and panoramic views of the bay, all within a sprawling green park. For culinary adventures, head to Mercado de la Esperanza to sample fresh seafood and regional specialties like rabas (fried squid) and sobaos pasiegos (small sponge cakes), then stroll the elegant Paseo de Pereda promenade as locals do each evening. The historic Barrio Pesquero (Fisherman's Quarter) retains authentic charm with its colorful buildings and excellent seafood restaurants.

Few visitors realize that much of Santander's old town was destroyed in a devastating fire in 1941, leading to the city's distinctive mix of pre-fire architecture and mid-century reconstruction. The city is home to one of the world's oldest international banks, Banco Santander, founded here in 1857 before becoming a global financial giant. Santander's royal connection runs deep – the Palacio de la Magdalena was built as a summer residence for King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenie in the early 20th century after being gifted to them by the city. The local beaches feature natural underwater caves that are visible at low tide, creating fascinating tidal pools explored by marine biologists and curious visitors alike.