When I explored Santander, a gem on Spain’s northern coast, I discovered that some of the city’s most unforgettable experiences don’t cost a cent. In this guide to the best free tours in Santander, I’ll show you how to uncover the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture—all without opening your wallet.
As someone who’s walked these scenic routes firsthand and spoken with expert local guides, I’ve handpicked only the most reputable and well-reviewed walking tours, offering authentic insights into Santander’s maritime legacy, civil war past, and artistic heritage.
These free guided tours are usually tip-based, so you only pay what you think the experience was worth—making them ideal for budget travelers and backpackers. From the historic Centro Botín and the elegant Plaza Porticada to the dramatic cliffs of La Magdalena Peninsula, each stop is packed with stories you won’t find in your average travel brochure. Many tours are led by licensed guides who hold credentials in Spanish history and urban development, adding real substance to your sightseeing.
Whether you're passionate about architecture, intrigued by local legends, or simply want a smart way to navigate the city, these tours deliver both value and depth. Stay with me as I break down where to find the top-rated free tours in Santander, when to go, what to expect, and how to get the most out of every step.
Best Free Tours in Santander, Spain
1. THE Free tour of Santander
For 2 hours you will tour Santander with a local guide ready to make you fall in love with the city. As we said, it's easy: it's impossible not to fall in love with the many charms of Santander. Some of the places you visit are the Pereda Gardens (where you can enjoy amazing views of what is considered by all Cantabrians to be the best bay in the world), the Cathedral of Santa María de la Asunción , the Town Hall , the Central Market or the Plaza Porticada ... This tour is undoubtedly a perfect first date with Santander.
2. Free tour of the coast of Santander
The Cantabrians are very proud of their coasts and we are not surprised at all: they are of a wild and overwhelming beauty. This tour will take you to see a small part of the Cantabrian coastline: from Playa del Sardinero to the Molinucos cove or Mataleñas beach . It ends at the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse , the perfect end to a walk you will not forget.
3. Old Town and History of Santander: The Great Fire of 41
If you want to learn about one of the darkest chapters in Santander's history , this tour reviews the events of that fateful night in February 1941 that would change the city forever. We are obviously talking about the Great Fire of '41 , a tragedy that devastated and reduced much of the historic center to ashes and that marked a before and after in the city.
4. Free Tour of Sardinero and Magdalena
After strolling around Sardinero beach and learning how the royal family influenced its growing popularity, the tour will take you to the Magdalena Peninsula , where the curious Magdalena Palace stands. The former summer residence of Alfonso XIII and Victoria Eugenia is now one of the great jewels of Santander. This tour lasts about 2 and a half hours and we found it super interesting!
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How much to tip?
Other tours (paid) in Santander
Although they are not free, there are some excursions and activities from Santander that are highly recommended. Of all of them, we recommend these without fail:
- Excursion to Altamira and Santillana del Mar (popular)
- Boat trip around the Bay of Santander
- Excursion to the Picos de Europa
- Visit to the Soplao Cave
Other free tours in Cantabria
If you have several days of time and want to discover other corners of Cantabria , these free tours may surely interest you:
- Free tour in Santillana
- Free tour in Comillas
- Free tour in Liérganes
These are, for us, the best free tours in Santander, but we don't want to finish without recommending everything there is to see and do in Santander and some tips on places to eat well and cheaply . We hope you enjoy your stay (we are sure you will, we already told you that Santander does not disappoint!).
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