The mountainous region around Santander offers several standout day trips worth your time. I love the private 4WD expedition to Picos de Europa – it packs adventure, nature, and local culture into one satisfying day. You’ll enjoy off-road exploration, scenic hikes, and a memorable local lunch in the mountains. Another excellent option is the self-guided coastal heritage tour, which takes you through charming Santillana del Mar and along dramatic seaside cliffs. For serious mountain enthusiasts, the Bilbao-based Picos tour delivers spectacular views and authentic regional cuisine. Let’s look at our favorite full-day tours from Santander.
Key Points
- The 5-star rated 4WD tour from Santander to Picos de Europa provides an immersive off-road experience with hiking, wildlife watching, and a cable car ride.
- The self-guided tour in Santillana del Mar and Comillas focuses on the rich heritage and scenic beauty of the Cantabrian coast with pre-planned itinerary and air-conditioned transport.
- The 4WD tour from Bilbao to Picos de Europa by Northern Spain Private Tours offers an all-inclusive experience with snacks, a hearty local lunch, and flexible pickup options.
- Culinary experiences in Picos de Europa tours emphasize regional delicacies, including pinchos and tapas, with meals at top local restaurants.
- Tour accessibility and logistics are enhanced with pickup options, accommodation for strollers, personalized itineraries, and free cancellation policies.
Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Santander to Picos De Europa. Excellent Meals.
Departing from Santander, this full-day private 4WD tour transports guests into the stunning Picos de Europa mountain range. Rated 5.0 out of 24 reviews, this highly recommended tour offers a personalized experience with cultural, geological, and ethnographic interpretation from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes snacks, finger food, and a main meal at a top local restaurant, with an option for a mountain-side snack or sandwich. Pickup is available from Santander airport, hotels, or other nearby locations, as well as from Bilbao airport or seaport. The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am, ensuring a full day of adventure.
Highlights of the tour include off-road driving, hiking, wildlife watching (vultures), and a cable car ride in the Central Massif.
Travelers rave about the excellent communication, memorable experiences, and the opportunity to visit picturesque locations like Potes, Mogrovejo, and Santillana del Mar.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking a comprehensive Picos de Europa experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Santander to Picos De Europa. Excellent Meals. Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Self Guided Tour in Santillana Del Mar and Comillas
This self-guided day tour whisks visitors from Santander to the captivating towns of Santillana del Mar and Comillas, allowing them to enjoy the rich heritage and scenic splendor of the Cantabrian coast.
The tour’s Romanesque temple, fishing villages, and coastal viewpoints promise an enriching experience. Travelers will explore the historic Santillana del Mar and enjoy the scenic wonders of San Vicente de la Barquera and the dramatic cliffs of La Concha and Los Locos.
The tour’s pre-planned itinerary ensures a seamless experience, with air-conditioned transportation and pickup service from Santander. Lunch is included, and the tour accommodates strollers and service animals, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
With largely positive reviews highlighting the tour’s beautiful locations and knowledgeable guides, it offers an excellent way to discover the highlights of Cantabria in a single day. The only notable feedback suggests a desire for more time in Santillana del Mar, but overall, this self-guided tour provides a great introduction to the region.
Read our full review: Full Day Self Guided Tour in Santillana Del Mar and Comillas Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Bilbao to Picos De Europa. Fine Meals.
A captivating full-day private 4WD tour whisks adventurous travelers from Bilbao to the breathtaking Picos de Europa mountain range. Operated by Northern Spain Private Tours, this all-inclusive experience immerses guests in the region’s stunning landscapes and rich culinary delights.
Priced from $609.47 per person, the tour includes snacks, a hearty local lunch, and a dinner featuring pinchos and tapas. Guests can opt for a sandwich in the mountains if preferred. The tour also covers cable car tickets to Fuente De and entrance fees to cultural sites. Participants will be treated to a personal photographer’s services, with photo printing available.
This private tour offers a flexible start time, with pickup from hotels, airports, or other locations near Bilbao. The tour has received an overall rating of 4.0 from 5 reviews, with one praising the memorable scenery and excellent lunch.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed. Authenticity checks ensure the reliability of the reviews.
Read our full review: Full Day Private 4WD Tour From Bilbao to Picos De Europa. Fine Meals. Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?
Many tour providers offer discounts for group bookings. Customers should inquire about group rates when booking their tours. Discounts may be available for parties of a certain size, which can provide significant savings for travelers.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour. Some providers may charge a small fee for cancellations within 24 hours. Be sure to check the specific policy when booking.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Fit My Interests?
The tours can often be customized to fit your interests. Many tour operators are happy to tailor the itinerary and activities to your preferences, allowing you to get the most out of your sightseeing experience.
Are There Any Age or Physical Requirements for the 4WD Tours?
Most 4WD tours in Santander don’t have age or physical requirements, but they may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their specific policies and accommodations before booking.
What Is the Typical Group Size for the Private Tours?
The typical group size for private tours varies, but they generally accommodate smaller groups of 2-6 people. This allows for a more personalized and flexible experience compared to larger group tours.
Recap
Santander offers a variety of exceptional full-day tours. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Picos de Europa mountains on a private 4WD excursion, or discover the charming towns of Santillana del Mar and Comillas on a self-guided adventure. Those seeking a more luxurious experience can enjoy a private 4WD tour from Bilbao, complete with fine meals. These diverse options provide ample opportunities to fully take in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.