Car Hire Santander Airport — Gateway to Cantabria’s Natural Wonders
Santander Airport (SDR), officially Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport, sits just 5km from the city centre, making it one of Spain’s most conveniently located airports. Named after the legendary golfer who hailed from Cantabria, the airport provides immediate access to one of Spain’s most beautiful and varied regions. Within an hour of landing, you can be walking through a medieval town, swimming at a pristine beach, or heading into the Picos de Europa mountains.
Northern Spain’s “Green Spain” offers a completely different experience from the Mediterranean coast. Lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and a rich cultural heritage make Cantabria a rewarding destination. A rental car is essential—the region’s treasures are scattered across mountains, valleys, and coastlines that public transport only partially serves.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at Santander Airport
Rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of the compact terminal. All major international companies and Spanish specialists operate here. The airport’s small size means efficient processing—typically 15-20 minutes.
Most companies have vehicles in adjacent parking within walking distance of the terminal. The airport’s proximity to the city (5km) means you can be on your way within 30 minutes of landing.
Required documents: Valid driving licence, passport or ID, and credit card. EU licence holders don’t need an International Driving Permit; non-EU visitors should check requirements.
Ferry note: Brittany Ferries operates from Portsmouth and Plymouth to Santander. If arriving by ferry, collect your rental from city offices rather than the airport.
Driving from Santander Airport
The airport connects directly to the S-10 motorway and the A-67 running south. For Santander city centre, head north (about 10 minutes). For the west coast and Comillas, take the S-20 and A-67 west. For the Picos de Europa, head south on the A-67 then east (about 1.5 hours). For Bilbao, head east on the A-8 (about 1 hour).
Top Destinations from Santander Airport
Santander City (5km, 10min)
The elegant capital with the Magdalena Palace, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. The bayfront promenade and historic centre deserve a day of exploration.
Santillana del Mar and Altamira (30km, 35min)
One of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns, plus the replica of the famous Altamira Cave with 36,000-year-old paintings. Combine both for a full day.
Comillas (50km, 50min)
A charming coastal town with Gaudí’s El Capricho building, a modernist university, and beautiful beaches. The architecture and scenery combine for a unique experience.
Picos de Europa (100km, 1.5hr)
Spectacular limestone mountains with the Fuente Dé cable car offering panoramic views. Traditional villages, hiking trails, and dramatic gorges make this a full-day excursion.
Costa Quebrada (15km, 20min)
Dramatic cliffs and hidden coves just west of Santander. The beaches at Liencres and the cliff formations offer spectacular scenery close to the city.
Tips for Driving in Cantabria
Roads: Main roads are excellent. Mountain roads to the Picos can be narrow and winding. The Desfiladero de la Hermida gorge road is spectacular but requires careful driving.
Speed limits: 50km/h urban, 90km/h open roads, 120km/h motorways.
Parking: Santander has paid parking in the centre. Small towns generally have free parking but narrow medieval streets.
Fuel: Stations are plentiful on main routes. Fill up before heading into the Picos.
Weather: Cantabria’s weather is changeable—rain is common year-round. Mountain roads may be affected by weather; check conditions before heading to the Picos.
Book your Santander Airport car hire through the search above for competitive rates with instant confirmation.