Attractions and Places To See around Costera - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Costera include a variety of historical sites, religious buildings, and natural viewpoints, primarily located in the Cantabria region of Spain. This area features well-preserved medieval towns, significant architectural landmarks, and coastal trails offering views of the sea and mountains. The landscape combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, providing diverse exploration opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Costera
- The most popular attractions is Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, a historical…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre
Highlight • Historical Site
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Historic center of Comillas
Highlight • Historical Site
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Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps)
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Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana (Colegiata de Santa Juliana)
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San Vicente de la Barquera
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Church of Saint Christopher
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Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (Santander)
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Devil's Eye
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Getting …
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Cabo Mayor Lighthouse
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Nearby there is a restaurant that is very popular among Santander residents for midday meals.
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Monument to the Raqueros
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Popular around Costera
Road to Lisbon – bikepacking the Alps, Pyrenees and Picos de Europa
Camino del Norte (in reverse) – Discovering northern Spain's stunning coastline
Legendary climbs - Ports of La Vuelta a España
Green, Blue and Gold - Coastal Path through Asturias (GR 204)
Vía Verde del Pas - Along the Riverbank through Cantabria
Cycle between land and sea in northern Spain – Pedales de Cantabria
Paths and waves – surf trip by bike in Cantabria
Water everywhere — Amazing routes near Santander
An epic getaway – Santander-Mediterráneo Nature Trail
A pilgrim adventure – Spain’s Lebaniego Challenge
Other adventures around Costera
Tips from the Community
In the square there are many cafes that invite you to linger.
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Unfortunately, the Romanesque Collegiate Church is closed on April 26th - Monday - there are also no opening hours.🤔
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Whenever I walk through Santander I stop by here.
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Be sure to visit Faro de Cabo Mayor, it is very beautiful to look at and you can take a lovely walk from here.
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Meet the talented child divers who were forced to work, fishing their tips from Santander Bay with their teeth. The Monumento a los Raqueros is a captivating public artwork dedicated to the city's children who earned their living in the docks. These "raqueros" were forced to loot and pickpocket before diving into the water to claim their wages, sometimes even between their teeth. Examine the sculpture and consider the tragic, unusual lives these children led. The four bronze figures of young children that form the monument make for a memorable photograph. Consider the sculpture of a young boy watching another jump into the water. One of the boys sits on the ground with his legs dangling over the quayside. Enjoy the magnificent views of Santander Bay and watch the boats on the M
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Located in the historic center of Santander is the cathedral, arguably the city's most famous building. It was rebuilt after the two-day fire in 1941 on the salvaged 12th-century crypt. This Gothic building is the city's landmark. It is considerably simpler than many other cathedrals in Spain, but this very fact makes it a very attractive place to visit. Among other things, the remains of Saints Emeterius and Celedonis can be seen in Santander Cathedral. They represent a sanctuary of the patron saints. The church is open to visitors daily. https://www.rundreisen.de/de/rundreisen/rundreisen-angebote/spanien-rundreisen/santander-kathedrale-von-santander.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Costera?
The Costera region in Cantabria, Spain, is rich in history. You can visit the Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the Colegiata de Santillana del Mar. Another notable site is the Historic center of Comillas, featuring late historicism and early modernism architecture, including the Palacio de Sobrellano. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera also offers historical charm with its castle and bridge.
Are there any significant religious buildings to visit?
Yes, Costera features several important religious sites. The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana in Santillana del Mar is a prominent example. You can also visit the San Pedro Church of Oreña, which offers spectacular views of the Picos de Europa and is located next to the Camino de Santiago. In Santander, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is another significant religious landmark.
Where can I find natural viewpoints or scenic spots in Costera?
For breathtaking views, head to the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, which not only offers panoramic coastal views but also houses exhibitions about lighthouses. The Devil's Eye is a natural monument and viewpoint, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Additionally, the San Pedro Church of Oreña provides excellent vistas of the Picos de Europa.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Costera?
Many attractions in Costera are suitable for families. The Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre and the Historic center of Comillas are great for exploring charming streets and historical architecture. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera, with its beach and historical sites, is also a good option for families. The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse offers an interesting visit for all ages.
What outdoor activities are available near Costera's attractions?
The Costera region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and hiking. For challenging MTB trails, explore options like 'Alto la Mina – circular desde Castro Urdiales' or 'Parque Natural de las Dunas de Liencres y playa de La Arnía'. Gravel biking enthusiasts can try routes such as 'Alto de LA-1 (395 m) – Oriñón Bay loop from Castro-Urdiales'. For hiking, consider waterfall hikes like 'Lamiña Waterfalls - circular from Barcenillas'. You can find more details and routes in the MTB Trails around Costera, Gravel biking around Costera, and Waterfall hikes around Costera guides.
Are there challenging trails or natural attractions for experienced adventurers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps) is a demanding but rewarding experience. It involves descending and ascending 700 steps to reach a beautiful spot with fantastic views and the possibility of a swim. This trail requires good physical preparation, suitable footwear, and plenty of water. The Devil's Eye, a natural monument and cave, also presents a challenging visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Costera?
Visitors frequently praise the historical legacy and natural beauty of the region. The well-preserved village centers, such as Santillana del Mar, are highly appreciated for their cultural richness. The spectacular views from places like Faro del Caballo and San Pedro Church of Oreña are also a major draw. The unique architecture in towns like Comillas is often highlighted as a must-see.
Can I find beaches or coastal areas near these attractions?
Absolutely. The Costera region is known for its coastal beauty. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera offers a lovely beach experience. The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse provides stunning views of the coastline, and the descent to Faro del Caballo can lead to opportunities for swimming on the cliffs of Mount Buciero.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in Costera's historic towns?
The historic towns in Costera showcase a blend of architectural styles reflecting their rich past. In Santillana del Mar, you'll find centuries-old architecture, including the Romanesque Colegiata. Comillas is particularly noted for its architecture of late historicism and early modernism, with prominent examples like the Palacio de Sobrellano and buildings by Joan Martorell and Lluís Domènech i Montaner, including early works by Antoni Gaudí.
Are there any specific hiking trails for different difficulty levels?
Yes, the region offers hiking trails for various skill levels. For moderate waterfall hikes, consider 'Lamiña Waterfalls - circular from Barcenillas' or 'Parque Natural de los Collados del Asón – circular by the Camino del Val del Asón'. An easier option is 'Churrón de Borleña via the La Llana stream path'. For a more challenging experience, the Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps) is a difficult trail with significant elevation changes. You can explore more options in the Waterfall hikes around Costera guide.
Is there an absolute driving ban in any of the historic centers?
Yes, in the Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, there is an absolute driving ban in the entire old town. Visitors should plan to park outside and explore the village center on foot to fully appreciate its well-preserved historical charm.
Most popular routes around Costera
Most popular attractions around Costera
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