Palacio de la Magdalena

Palacio de la Magdalena which includes a park, a house and heritage architecture
Palacio de la Magdalena which includes a house, interior views and heritage elements
Palacio de la Magdalena featuring a house, interior views and heritage elements
Palacio de la Magdalena featuring heritage architecture, a house and a garden
Palacio de la Magdalena which includes art and heritage elements


Experience the ostentatious splendour of a palatial home where members of the Spanish royal family used to take their summer holidays.

Enter the richly decorated rooms and salons of the Palacio de la Magdalena where Spanish royals used to enjoy their vacations. This magnificent early 20th-century building was the summer residence of King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia de Battenberg for 18 years. They ruled Spain until the country became a republic for the second time, in 1931.

Today, the palace is used for university summer courses, weddings and other events throughout the year. Exploring the interior is only possible on a guided tour. Visit rooms that are furnished with centuries-old furniture. Study Bargueños pieces from the Spanish renaissance. This is a style of wooden cabinets from the 16th to 18th centuries characterized by many draws and storage compartments and embellished interiors.

Examine the oil portrait of Queen Victoria Eugenia by the notable Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla. There is also a bust of the queen by the English sculptor Conrad Dressler and a painting of the royal children. Other highlights include a 16th-century table and English Baroque and Hepplewhite furniture.

Go to the chapel for its 17th-century altars and look around the Saleta de la Reina, formerly a private room of the queen.

The palace is open daily except during the summer months when it can be toured only on the weekends. Guided tours take place several times a day and last for approximately 45 minutes. The tours have a fee and are only conducted in Spanish. Children under the age of 10 enter for free.

The Palacio de la Magdalena is located at the top of the Magdalena Peninsula, a large coastal park that encompasses other attractions including a small marine park, the Muelle de las Carabelas (the Dock of the Caravelles, also known as the Museum of Man and the Sea), beaches and a lighthouse. Take a bus from the city center that stops close to the peninsula’s entrance or drive and use the large free parking lot just outside the park.

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Things to do near Palacio de la Magdalena

Your visit to Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander offers a variety of enjoyable activities, including scenic ferry rides and boating opportunities that allow you to explore the stunning coastline. Additionally, the surrounding area is perfect for shopping, with charming boutiques and local shops to discover. Make sure to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere that this picturesque destination has to offer.

Shopping

Within 1.2km of Palacio de la Magdalena, you can explore Mercado La Esperanza and Mercado del Este, both bustling public markets offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring other shops further afield for even more options.

Recreation

At El Sardinero Stadium, immerse yourself in vibrant sports activities, just 621m from Palacio de la Magdalena. For a serene escape, Parque de las Llamas, located 1.2km away, offers peaceful walks and relaxation. Alternatively, enjoy outdoor sports at Campo Municipal de Golf de La Junquera, also 1.2km distant.

Adventure

At Forestal Park Santander, located 621m from Palacio de la Magdalena, experience thrilling zipline adventures and a challenging ropes course amidst lush greenery. For family fun, head to Playa del Regatón, 9.9km away, where you can enjoy camping in a vibrant outdoor setting.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Palacio de la Magdalena is vibrant, with the Palace of Festivals of Cantabria offering a dynamic theatre experience just 1.6km away. Enjoy captivating performances amidst a blend of culture and romance, perfect for families and couples alike seeking an entertaining evening.

Find the best attractions near Palacio de la Magdalena

While visiting Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander, immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty. Explore nearby attractions such as El Real Palacio and the stunning beaches, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through urban parks and along the coast. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the history of the Palace of La Magdalena, a royal residence that offers captivating insights into the region's heritage and scenic views of the surrounding cape.

  • El Sardinero Beach: Located a mile from Palacio de la Magdalena, El Sardinero Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with golden sands and lively beach vibes. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
  • Banco Santander: Situated two miles away, Banco Santander is a stunning historic civic building that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its impressive architecture and historical significance provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.
  • Somo Beach: Also two miles from Palacio de la Magdalena, Somo Beach is renowned for its tranquil setting and natural beauty. With its expansive sandy shores and surf-friendly waves, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and water sports.

Best time to go to Palacio de la Magdalena

The best time to visit Palacio de la Magdalena is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Palacio de la Magdalena

To save money on your trip to Palacio de la Magdalena, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and November. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure better rates, particularly on Mondays, which are the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to refine your options and check for last-minute deals. Combining hotel, flights, and activities into an Expedia package can also lead to significant savings. Lastly, take advantage of free activities around the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Palacio de la Magdalena are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Palacio de la Magdalena about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Palacio de la Magdalena is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Palacio de la Magdalena is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you have in mind. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Palacio de la Magdalena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.