Explore the Timeless Wonders of the Cave of Altamira
Discover the prehistoric artistry of the Cave of Altamira in Santillana del Mar, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient cave paintings and rich history.
The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, is a stunning archaeological site that offers a mesmerizing glimpse into prehistoric art. Renowned for its remarkable cave paintings, this UNESCO World Heritage site invites tourists to explore the rich history and culture of early humans. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits that bring the ancient world to life, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in archaeology and history.
A brief summary to Cave of Altamira
- Avenida Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, s/n, Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, 39330, ES
- +34942818815
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Consider visiting the Altamira Museum first for a deeper understanding of the cave's significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the walk to the cave and museum involves some uneven terrain.
- Check the opening hours beforehand, as they may vary seasonally.
- Plan to spend extra time in Santillana del Mar to explore its charming streets and local eateries.
Getting There
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Bus
From the city center of Santander, head to the Santander Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Santander) located at Plaza de las Estaciones. Take the ALSA bus towards Santillana del Mar. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Santillana del Mar bus stop, exit the bus and walk towards Avenida Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola. The Cave of Altamira is a short 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Follow the main road until you see the signs for the Cave.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from any location in Santander. Simply ask the taxi driver to take you to 'Cueva de Altamira' in Santillana del Mar. The drive will take approximately 25-30 minutes. Make sure to have the address 'Avenida Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, s/n, 39330 Santillana del Mar' handy.
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Train and Walking
Start by taking a train from Santander to Torrelavega at the Santander train station (Estación de Tren de Santander). The train ride takes about 20 minutes. Once you arrive at Torrelavega, exit the train station and catch a local bus or taxi to Santillana del Mar. Alternatively, you can walk from Torrelavega to Santillana del Mar, which is around 5 kilometers. The walk will take approximately 1 hour, so plan accordingly.
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Unmissable attractions to see
National Museum and Research Center of Altamira
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Cueva Altamira original
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