top of page
back arrow p.jpg

Santillana del Mar and Altamira Museum

In this half-day excursion, you will visit the town of Santillana del Mar, listed as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, and see the neo-cave, a scale replica of the famous Altamira cave.

€ 60/pers.

HIGHLIGHTS
 
  • You will visit the Altamira Museum and the Neo-cave

  • You will get to know one of the most beautiful cities in Spain: Santillana de Mar

  • You will visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana

  • You will enjoy free time for shopping

BASIC INFORMATION
  • When: Daily, except for Mondays

  • Duration: 4.5 h

  • Pick-up points: at your Hotel in Santander or at the Pabellón de la Habana in Torrelavega.

  • Languages: Spanish, English, Italian
    (the tour is bilingual)

TOUR DESCRIPTION
BOOKING CALENDAR
calendario reserva

After picking you up from your hotel, we will set off towards the charming village of Santillana del Mar, often referred to as the "Town of Three Lies" as it is neither holy (santa), flat (llana), nor by the sea (mar). On our journey, we will travel along a section of the Camino del Norte, one of the historic pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. With a bit of luck, we may even spot pilgrims making their way along this peaceful route through picturesque villages and scenic countryside.

Upon arrival in Santillana del Mar, we will explore its historic center on foot, as it is entirely pedestrianized. Strolling through the cobbled streets, you’ll be transported to another era, surrounded by medieval houses, towers, and palaces that showcase the town's remarkable heritage. Highlights include the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a 12th-century masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and for those interested, the Jesús Otero Museum, dedicated to the works of the renowned local sculptor. After our guided tour, you’ll have free time to shop for local crafts or relax with a drink in one of the charming cafés.

Next, we will visit the Altamira Museum and Research Center, home to the replica of the world-famous Altamira Cave, known as the "Sistine Chapel of Rock Art." Discovered in 1879 by Cantabrian lawyer Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, the cave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first in the world where Paleolithic art was identified. While the original cave is closed to the public to preserve its delicate artwork, the neo-cave offers an exceptional reproduction that faithfully recreates the ancient paintings. This immersive experience will provide fascinating insights into the life and artistry of our Paleolithic ancestors.

Join us for this unforgettable journey through history, art, and culture in one of Cantabria’s most iconic destinations!

Recommendations
  • Comfortable footwear (Santillana's floor is paved)
  • Not recommended for people with reduced mobility
IF YOU’RE VISITING CANTABRIA FOR THE FIRST TIME
THIS EXCURSION IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST!
bottom of page