Palacio de la Magdalena travel guide

The Palacio de la Magdalena, located on the picturesque Magdalena Peninsula in Santander, is a remarkable example of early 20th century architecture. The construction of the palace began in 1908 and was completed in 1912 under the patronage of King Alfonso XIII who used it as a summer residence until 1930.

The palace was designed by architects Javier González Riancho and Gonzalo Bringas Vega, incorporating English and French influences into its unique design. During the Spanish Civil War, it was used as a military hospital, and later, it housed the International University Menéndez Pelayo.

In 1982, the Palacio de la Magdalena was declared a cultural heritage site. Today, it serves as a symbol of the city's rich history and is a popular tourist destination, hosting various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Architecturally, the Palacio de la Magdalena is a perfect blend of English and French styles, making it a unique spectacle. It is characterized by a majestic tower at the center, flanked by two wings with overhanging balconies. It stands out with its stone facade, with the rest of the palace mainly made of brick, all of which is covered by a slate roof.

The interior of the palace is equally stunning, with ornate ceilings, grand staircases and a wealth of antique furniture. The palace grounds are also distinctive, housing a small marine zoo and a beautiful sculpture garden. The views from the palace itself are unparalleled, overlooking the Cantabrian Sea and the Magdalena Peninsula.

The palace has also served as the backdrop for the popular Spanish TV series, 'Gran Hotel,' further adding to its intrigue and popularity.

Located in the dynamic Santander, the popular Palacio de la Magdalena is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Santander or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

Santander is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Santander offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Santander and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Centro Botín, Mercado del Este, Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico, Catedral de Santander, and Plaza Porticada.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Santander has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Santander, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

Palacio de la Magdalena is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Santander, Spain. If you're flying in, Bilbao Airport is approximately 44.5 miles (71.6 km) away from Santander. From there, you can easily reach Palacio de la Magdalena by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Santander, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Palacio de la Magdalena, which is located 2.2 miles (3.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Palacio de la Magdalena, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Av. De la Magdalena, 1, 39005 Santander, Cantabria, Spain, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Palacio de la Magdalena!

The best time to explore Palacio de la Magdalena largely depends on your interest and preference. If your priority is favorable weather, the mild temperatures and low rainfall of late spring and early fall are ideal. These seasons offer a perfect balance of comfortable temperature and lesser crowds. Visit in May-June or September-October to enjoy the palace and its beautiful surroundings at leisure. The summer months, July and August, while warmer, are also a popular time due to the 'University of Menendez Pelayo International Courses' held annually at the palace. This event brings a vibrant, academic atmosphere to the otherwise tranquil palace. However, this also means larger crowds and busier tourist spots. If you prefer a quieter experience, avoiding the peak summer months could be beneficial. Remember, winters in Santander are rainy and can restrict outdoor activities. Therefore, while deciding the best time to explore Palacio de la Magdalena, consider your weather preference, crowd tolerance level, and interest in local events.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Palacio de la Magdalena and Spain's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Bilbao Airport and the city of Santander, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Spain cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Santander and beyond.

Conveniently explore Palacio de la Magdalena and plenty more captivating attractions in Santander by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Palacio de la Magdalena and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Santander has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Palacio de la Magdalena below.

Aside from Palacio de la Magdalena, Santander is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Santander, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Centro Botín, Mercado del Este, and Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico.

Centro Botín is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Santander, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Centro Botín is Muelle de Albareda, P. º de Pereda, s / n, 39004 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in Santander is Mercado del Este. Like Centro Botín, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars among 7,600 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is C. Hernán Cortés, 4, 39003 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.

Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Santander. This museum and top attraction in Santander has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,700 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Av. De Severiano Ballesteros, s/n, 39004 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Santander below.