Private tour of Santander with interior of the cathedral and Centro Botín

Key Points

• Exclusive private tour with a dedicated official guide in Spanish, English, or Italian
• Visits to Santander’s main landmarks, including the Cathedral of Santa María and Centro Botín
• Includes tickets for the cathedral and the Botín Center, skip the lines
• Duration of 2.5 hours, starting at the Tourist Office in Santander, with a flexible schedule
• Suitable for groups up to 5, with wheelchair accessibility but not ideal for children under 6

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meet at the Santander Tourist Office for a Personalized Experience

This private tour of Santander begins at the Tourist Office, where you’ll meet your official tour guide. The guide, accredited and experienced, is available in Spanish, English, or Italian. This setup ensures a personalized journey through the city’s most important sights.

From the start, the tour emphasizes intimate access and detailed explanations, perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Santander’s culture and history. The private nature makes it ideal for groups of up to 5 people, providing a comfortable and flexible pace. Note that transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Pereda Gardens and the Widening of Santander

The tour kicks off with a visit to Pereda Gardens, a scenic spot where the guide offers a 15-minute guided tour. This garden is located next to the widening of the city, offering views of historic buildings like the Banco Santander and old shipowner structures.

The guide shares insights about Santander’s past, including its destructive fire and how the city rebuilt itself. This initial stop provides a relaxing start and sets the stage for understanding Santander’s growth and resilience.

Inside the Gothic Majesty of Santander Cathedral

The highlight of the tour is the 45-minute guided visit inside the Cathedral of Santa María de la Asunción. Known as Santander’s most important religious building, the cathedral features a Gothic structure with notable architectural details.

The guide leads you through the interior and exterior, explaining the history, architecture, and artwork of this iconic site. Visiting the cathedral offers a meaningful glimpse into Santander’s spiritual and cultural heritage, making it a key highlight.

Visiting Santander’s Town Square and Historic Streets

Next, the tour takes you to Plaza Porticada, also called Plaza de Velarde, where a 15-minute visit allows for a quick look at one of the city’s central points. This square was the former home of the Santander International Festival, adding a layer of cultural significance.

Passing by the Church of “La Compañía” and Eastern Market, the guide points out gourmet highlights and historic buildings along the way. These stops reveal Santander’s lively urban life and architectural charm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering the Centro Botín and Its Masterpieces

The tour’s final stop is the Centro Botín, where a guided visit of 1 hour awaits. This cultural and art center is considered the most significant institution in the city, known for its international art collection.

Inside, you’ll see works by Sorolla, Matisse, Juan Gris, Gutiérrez Solana, among others. The guide explains the story behind the collection, giving visitors a rich context. After the guided tour, visitors have time to explore the temporary exhibitions independently.

Practical Details: Tickets, Accessibility, and Group Size

Included in the tour are tickets to the cathedral and Centro Botín, allowing skip-the-line entry. The exclusive tour guide remains with the group throughout, ensuring a seamless experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

The duration is approximately 2.5 hours. The tour starts and ends at the Tourist Office, with no transportation included, so visitors should plan to arrive on time. The private group arrangement offers a more intimate experience, ideal for those who prefer personalized attention.

Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible with a “Reserve now, pay later” option, enabling travelers to hold their spot without upfront payment. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind to the reservation process.

Why Choose This Santander Private Tour?

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of interior visits to key landmarks and the personalized guidance provided. The private setting ensures detailed explanations and a tailored experience. The inclusion of tickets simplifies planning, preventing long queues especially at popular sites like the cathedral and the Botín Center.

While the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, its compact 2.5-hour schedule makes it easy to fit into a day of exploring Santander. It’s well suited for small groups seeking a rich, cultural overview with expert guidance.

Final Thoughts on the Santander Private Tour

This 2.5-hour private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Santander’s historic and cultural highlights. The inside access to the cathedral and Centro Botín adds depth to the visit, making it perfect for those interested in art, architecture, and history.

The expert guides provide engaging stories and context, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The limited group size guarantees individual attention, making it a good choice for visitors who appreciate customized commentary.

However, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so travelers should plan their arrival accordingly. The tour’s price of $283 per group is reasonable considering the exclusive access and guided experience, especially for small groups.

This tour is best suited for adults and older children (over age 6), who can appreciate the cultural and historical insights shared by the guides. Overall, it’s a valuable option for those who want an intimate, guided exploration of Santander’s key sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 6 years old, as the content and pacing are designed for older participants.

Are tickets included in the price?
Yes, the cathedral and Centro Botín tickets are included, allowing for skip-the-line access.

Can I choose the language of the guide?
Yes, the tour is available in Spanish, English, and Italian, so you can select the language that suits you best.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable participation for guests with mobility needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby