from Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum tour

Discover the rich history and cultural charm of Cantabria on a full day tour to Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Museum. Begin your journey with a scenic drive along part of the historic Camino del Norte, the northern pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Upon arrival in Santillana del Mar famously known as the Town of Three Lies you’ll be transported to another time as you stroll through its cobbled streets, lined with medieval stone houses, historic towers, and charming palaces.

Your guide will lead you through the town’s highlights, including the twelvth century Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, an architectural gem steeped in religious history. You’ll also have the option to visit the Museum of Jesús Otero, home to works by one of Cantabria’s most celebrated sculptors. After the tour, enjoy some free time to wander through quaint shops, purchase local crafts, or relax with a coffee in one of the village’s cozy cafes.

The final stop of the day is the renowned Altamira Museum and its extraordinary Neo Cave. This museum preserves and replicates one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world Altamira Cave, also known as the Sistine Chapel of Rock Art. Since the original cave is closed to protect its ancient paintings, the replica offers a fully immersive experience that faithfully recreates the vibrant cave art of our Paleolithic ancestors. It’s the perfect way to end your day steeped in the region’s deep and fascinating heritage.