from Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum tour

About this tour

Explore Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval towns, and visit the Altamira Neo-Cave, a stunning replica of the legendary Altamira Cave with its famous prehistoric art.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Altamira Museum and its Neocave 
• Walk around the beautiful village of Santillana de Mar
• Visit the Museum of Jesus Otero
• Visit the Collegiata Church of Santa Juliana
• Enjoy some free time for shopping in Santillana

SUMMARY

After hotel pick-up, we’ll journey towards Santillana del Mar, often called the “Town of Three Lies” because it is neither holy (santa), flat (llana), nor by the sea (mar). Along the way, we’ll follow part of the historic Camino del Norte, a picturesque pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. If we’re lucky, we might even spot pilgrims walking this scenic path.

Upon arrival, we’ll take a walking tour through the town’s pedestrianized historic center, where medieval stone houses, towers, and palaces transport you to another era. We’ll visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece, and for those interested, the Jesús Otero Museum, featuring works of the renowned local sculptor. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore charming boutiques, shop for local crafts, or relax at a café.

Next, we’ll visit the Altamira Museum and Research Center, home to the Neo-Cave, a meticulously crafted replica of the original Altamira Cave, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Rock Art.” Discovered in 1879 by Cantabrian lawyer Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, the cave was the first to reveal Paleolithic cave paintings, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. Since the original cave is now closed to preserve its delicate art, we will visit the Neo-Cave, this will offer us an authentic and immersive experience, bringing prehistoric life and artistry to life.