Cheap flights from Valencia to Santander

Arriving from Valencia, most travellers will land at Santander Airport (Aeropuerto de Santander), located approximately 7 kilometres south of the city centre. The airport is well connected with regular bus services operated by Alsa, with journeys taking around 20 minutes to reach the heart of the city at a cost of roughly €5. If you prefer more flexibility, taxis are readily available from the airport terminal, with typical fares to the city centre ranging from €18 to €25 depending on traffic conditions and your exact destination.

Alternative transport options include car rental services, which operate from the airport and are ideal if you plan to explore the wider Cantabrian coast and countryside beyond Santander. The drive from the airport to the city centre takes approximately 15–20 minutes via well-signposted routes. For those arriving by coach or train from Valencia (which may take 12–14 hours), the city's bus station and train station are conveniently positioned in the city centre, making onward travel straightforward.

Once settled in Santander after your journey from Valencia, you'll discover a vibrant coastal city with a remarkable blend of belle-époque architecture and modern culture. The Paseo Marítimo stretches elegantly along the bay, offering stunning sea views and a perfect spot for an evening stroll. The city's cultural heart is rich with museums, galleries, and historic sites that reflect both its maritime heritage and contemporary artistic spirit.

Key attractions worth exploring include the striking Cathedral of Santander, rebuilt after the devastating 1941 fire, which stands as a symbol of the city's resilience. The El Magdalena Palace, perched on a peninsula, offers panoramic views across the bay and hosts cultural events throughout the year. Beach enthusiasts should visit Sardinero Beach, renowned for its golden sands and upscale promenade, whilst culture seekers will appreciate the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, which houses significant collections relating to Cantabrian history.

• Cathedral of Santander
• El Magdalena Palace
• Paseo Marítimo & Sardinero Beach
• Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology
• Historic Old Town (barrio antiguo)
• Centro Botín contemporary art museum

Santander's culinary scene reflects its position as one of Spain's premier fishing ports, and visitors arriving from Valencia will immediately notice the emphasis on fresh seafood and regional specialties. The city is celebrated for top-quality anchovies (boquerones), which are cured locally and exported worldwide, alongside other treasures from the Bay of Biscay. You'll also find exceptional rabas (fried squid rings), tender camarones (local shrimp), and angulas (elvers), which command premium prices but deliver an unforgettable taste of luxury.

Beyond seafood, traditional Cantabrian cuisine features hearty dishes such as picadillo (a rich meat stew with peppers and tomatoes) and marmita (a traditional fish stew made with local catch and potatoes). The region is also famous for its artisanal cider, which pairs beautifully with meals and reflects the cultural heritage of Cantabria. Don't miss regional pastries like sobaos pasiegos and quesada, which offer a sweet conclusion to your dining experience and make excellent gifts to take home.

• Rabas (fried squid)
• Camarones (local shrimp)
• Anchovies (boquerones)
• Picadillo (Cantabrian meat stew)
• Marmita (traditional fish stew)
• Sobaos pasiegos & quesada (regional pastries)