Car Rental in Santander

Santander is the elegant port city of Cantabria and with a rental car from the center, you can explore the entire green northern coast. Four rental locations in the center give you good options to reach the region's fantastic beaches and mountain ranges. El Sardinero beach and Picos de Europa are both accessible in under an hour.

Santander is located on the Cantabrian Sea, about 390 km north of Madrid and 115 km east of Oviedo. The famous El Sardinero beach is just 3 km from the center. The Picos de Europa National Park can be reached about 70 km to the south via the S-10 motorway, and San Sebastián is 160 km east of Santander.

Drive to Comillas and Santillana del Mar, about 40 km to the west, to see Gaudí's El Capricho and one of Spain's best-preserved medieval towns. Plan a day trip to Picos de Europa and the Fuente Dé cable car for spectacular mountain views. Park at Palacio de la Magdalena and walk along the peninsula for Santander's best views.

How far is it from Santander to Picos de Europa? About 70 km to the south, roughly 1 hour's drive via the S-10 motorway and CA-17. Can I take a ferry to England and pick up a rental car in Santander?

Yes, Santander has ferry connections with Portsmouth and Plymouth. You can pick up a rental car directly in the port area. Which beaches are close to Santander?

El Sardinero is 3 km from the center, and Somo and Loredo can be reached by ferry or a 30-minute drive.

We compare prices from all major providers at Santander Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.