Car Hire Santander — Gateway to Green Spain’s Natural Wonders
Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria, sits on a beautiful bay along Spain’s northern coast. While the city offers golden beaches, a historic centre, and the famous Magdalena Palace, the surrounding region holds some of Spain’s most spectacular natural treasures. The Picos de Europa mountains, prehistoric caves with UNESCO-listed art, and charming fishing villages all lie within easy driving distance. Hiring a car in Santander is essential for experiencing this region of green valleys, dramatic coastlines, and rich history.
Northern Spain, often called “Green Spain,” receives more rainfall than the south, resulting in lush landscapes that contrast dramatically with the Mediterranean’s aridity. The region’s food culture is distinctive—fresh seafood, hearty stews, and excellent cheeses. A rental car lets you explore both the popular destinations and the hidden valleys where traditional life continues unchanged.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Santander
Santander Airport (SDR), officially Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport, sits 5km from the city centre. All major international companies and Spanish specialists operate here. The airport’s proximity makes pickup quick and convenient.
City locations include offices near the ferry terminal (for arrivals from Portsmouth or Plymouth), the train station, and the city centre.
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 arrivals: Brittany Ferries connects Santander to Portsmouth and Plymouth. If arriving by ferry, you can collect your car from nearby rental offices.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Santander
Picos de Europa (100km, 1.5hr)
One of Spain’s most spectacular mountain ranges, with jagged limestone peaks, deep gorges, and traditional villages. The cable car at Fuente Dé offers stunning views. Allow a full day or overnight in one of the mountain refuges.
Altamira Cave (30km, 35min)
The “Sistine Chapel of Palaeolithic Art” contains 36,000-year-old paintings. The original cave is closed for preservation, but an excellent replica can be visited. The museum provides context for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Comillas (50km, 50min)
A charming town with a Gaudí building (El Capricho), a modernist university, and beautiful beaches. The combination of architecture and coastal scenery makes it unique.
Santillana del Mar (30km, 35min)
One of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns, with cobblestone streets and stone houses. Despite its name, it’s inland from the sea. The Colegiata church is a highlight.
Costa Quebrada (15km, 20min)
A dramatic coastline of cliffs, coves, and beaches just west of Santander. The beach at Liencres and the cliffs at Costa Quebrada offer spectacular scenery.
Tips for Driving in Cantabria
Roads: Main roads are excellent. Mountain roads to the Picos can be narrow and winding—the gorge road through the Desfiladero de la Hermida is spectacular but requires careful driving.
Speed limits: 50km/h in built-up areas, 90km/h on open roads, 120km/h on motorways.
Driving style: Spanish drivers are generally courteous. Mountain roads require patience—use pull-outs to let faster vehicles pass.
Parking: Santander has paid parking in the centre. Small towns generally have free parking, but medieval streets can be narrow.
Fuel: Stations are plentiful on main routes. Fill up before heading into the Picos or remote coastal areas.
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 car hire through the search above for competitive rates with airport and city pickup options.