Santander, Spain: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Santander, Spain? If you're planning to go to Santander, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Santander, Spain

Based on the climate and weather in Santander, Spain, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santander, Spain

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santander, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santander, Spain by month

January

In January, Santander is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Santander, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Santander can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Santander is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in this region is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Santander during May, you will probably find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you are traveling to Santander in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July here is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Santander in August, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

In October, Santander is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Santander, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Santander in November, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you vacation in Santander during December, you may notice that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santander. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic Cathedral - Catedral de Santa Maria de la Asunción, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque de Altamira, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Santander, Spain

Santander is a stunning city located on the northern coast of Spain. Known for its breathtaking beaches, cultural landmarks, and historic architecture, the city attracts tourists from all over the world. With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are the top tourist attractions in Santander that you don't want to miss.

1. Palacio de la Magdalena: Located in a breathtaking natural park, the Palacio de la Magdalena is a must-see attraction in Santander. This iconic royal palace was once the summer residence of King Alfonso XIII and is now a popular cultural attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, explore the stunning gardens and enjoy the incredible views of the sea.

2. Playa del Sardinero: Santander boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, and the Playa del Sardinero is one of the most popular. This stunning beach has golden sand, crystal clear water, and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. It's the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

3. Centro Botin: Centro Botin is a world-class cultural center that is dedicated to the arts and sciences. The building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, and it's situated on the waterfront making it the perfect spot to take in the stunning views. The center hosts a variety of cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year.

4. Roman Catholic Cathedral: The Roman Catholic Cathedral in Santander is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain. It is an impressive building that features stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a breathtaking altar. The cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is a significant cultural landmark.

5. Jardines de Pereda: The Jardines de Pereda is a beautiful public park that is located in the center of Santander. The park boasts stunning fountains, sculpture, and an outdoor theatre that hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year. Take a relaxing stroll through this beautiful park to escape the hustle of the city.

6. Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria: The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and ancient tools. It's an excellent place to learn more about the rich heritage of Santander.

7. Mirador del Faro de Cabo Mayor: The Mirador del Faro de Cabo Mayor is a stunning viewpoint that overlooks the sea and the city of Santander. It's the perfect place to watch the sunset, take in the stunning views, and capture some stunning photographs.

Santander is a city that has something to offer everyone, from beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks and historic architecture. These top tourist attractions in Santander will give you a taste of all that this remarkable city has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Santander has something for you.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Honshu, Japan, Macapá, Amapá, Brazil, Palakollu, India, Mercato Saraceno, Italy, Boyabat, Turkey, Nilakkal, India, Castletown, Ireland, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil, Koka, Japan, Busha, Ukraine, and Kish, Azerbaijan.