Santoña is a wonderful small town. We stayed nearby (at the beach) for 9 nights this spring and didn't really know much about this town before.
And what a beautiful surprise this place was. It has a very charming center, nice walking streets, friendly folks (with lots of friendly dogs), a great beach nearby, a charming little harbour and the BEST anchovies (anchoas) you will ever eat in your life.
Drop your car at one of several (free) parking lots. We always used the one at the Calle Gral. Salinas, right at the harbour. Always a spot there, free and safe (even it looks dark - it's perfectly fine).
Walking along the harbour heading south to the lovely Promenade. Later on head to the center of town. The heart is the wonderful Plaza San Antonio. Some charming buildings here and a very lively atmosphere. Walk along the traffic free main drag "Calle Cervantes". It's a great little town, pet and family friendly, perfectly safe at any time of the day. There weren't really any international tourists when we visited. Great, so we had the place for ourselves. But it's still surprising. Ok, it's not a town with a very old historic center. But it's a great town nonetheless. Lots of great independent shops (Bazars, fashion, groceries, bakeries, Delis and of course Anchoa shops).
Besides the great shopping there are the countless restaurants and Tapas Bars. Great food all over. And anchovies everywhere. A great selection for factory prices can be found at the "La Mutua Anchoateca" restaurant/bar which also serves very good red wine.
Almost all bars and restaurants are dog-friendly, even indoors. Great thing.
Outside of the town are the countless anchovies factories. Many sell their cans directly on site for factory prices. Check out the smaller, but divine factory of "La Machina". Best anchoas we've ever had!
Fantastic town. We miss it. Loved it here. read more