Cafes

The selection of cafes in Santander is very decent, ranging from the ubiquitous tapas bars to bakeries and ice cream parlours serving high-quality homemade gelato. Many cafes double as bars in the evening when beer and wine come to replace the daytime "lungo" and "cortado". Santander is also famous for its pastries and delicious cheesecakes (quesadas pasiegas).

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Chocolatería Valor

To enjoy a quintessential Spanish dessert, try the very popular waterside Chocolatería Valor. The menu features, of course, freshly-made churros (long, deep-fried sticks of special dough) with hot chocolate to serve as a dip. The menu also features other desserts, such as pancakes and tea …

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Café Suizo

Located directly on the city's main promenade, Café Suizo is a local institution and longstanding cafe with a view. It offers outdoor seating and serves great value breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and very decent …

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Mercado del Este

This market isn't known for its shops as much as its selection of pleasant cafes ideal for a short break or a people-watching session. Sit down and enjoy authentic tapas with a nice glass of wine — get a bottle from one of the wine shops to bring back with you if you …

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Gallofa&Co

Gallofa&Co is a wildly popular local bakery offering an overwhelming array of tasty bread, pastries, and …

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Heladeria Via Mazzini 43

Popular ice cream shop in central Santander offering artisanal ice creams and mouthwatering …

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Siboney

This cafe/restaurant in Puerto Chico is a good choice for lunch or dinner. With its outdoor seating and a great array of delicious foods —pizza, patatas bravas, meat and chicken skewers —Siboney is a great pick for those looking for sit-down dining in the …

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