Guided Tour of the Neocave of Altamira and Santillana del Mar

Stands out for

  • • Exact replica of the Altamira Cave to protect original prehistoric paintings
  • • Prehistoric rock art of bison, deer, and horses, over 35,000 years old
  • • Cool, damp, and quiet environment recreating the original prehistoric atmosphere
  • • Walk through cobbled streets and visit the Colegiata de Santa Juliana
  • • Accessible for visitors with limited mobility and families with young children
FamilyHistoryAccessible

Description

Context

The Altamira Cave, located just 2 km from Santillana del Mar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its exceptional prehistoric rock art. The cave’s ancient paintings, dating back over 35,000 years, represent one of the most significant examples of early human artistic expression. Due to the extreme fragility of the original artwork, public access to the original cave is permanently restricted. Instead, visitors experience a meticulously recreated version called the Neocave, which faithfully reproduces the original’s cool, damp atmosphere and sensory environment.

The Experience

During the guided tour, you’ll walk through the Neocave, observing life-sized depictions of bison, deer, and horses painted with natural pigments. The dim lighting and quiet atmosphere immerse you in a prehistoric world, while the scent of wet stone enhances the journey. After the cave experience, you’ll visit the museum, featuring educational exhibitions on prehistoric life and artistic techniques. The visit concludes with a walk through the cobbled streets of Santillana del Mar, including a visit to the Colegiata de Santa Juliana and a chance to enjoy the authentic medieval ambiance.

For Whom

This tour is ideal for families with children aged 2 and up, visitors with limited mobility, and anyone passionate about history and archaeology. It is not recommended for those seeking to visit the original Altamira Cave, nor for individuals who have difficulty standing for long periods or who are uncomfortable in enclosed, dimly lit spaces.

Local Context

Santillana del Mar, designated a Historic-Artistic Ensemble, preserves its medieval architecture and traditional culture. The local community actively maintains the region’s cultural heritage, offering visitors an authentic and well-preserved environment that complements the archaeological experience.

Key Info

Difficulty

Easy

Setting

Best season

All year round

Recommended Age Range

All ages

Kid-friendly Booking required

Practical Guide

Everything you need to know about Guided Tour of the Neocave of Altamira and Santillana del Mar

Location

How to get there

By car Public transport

In this area

Santillana del MarMunicipio
Expert Recommendations

Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on cobbled streets and museum floors. The best time for visiting is early morning to avoid crowds. Booking in advance is essential, particularly during high season. The activity involves low physical exertion but is not suitable for those who are uncomfortable in enclosed, dimly lit spaces. Combine the visit with a walk through the historic town center and enjoy authentic local cuisine.

Physical Requirements

low physical activity, mainly walking

About the Area

Santillana del Mar is a medieval village located in Cantabria, renowned for its well-preserved historic center, designated as a Historic-Artistic Ensemble. In addition to the Neocave of Altamira, the area offers attractions such as the Colegiata de Santa Juliana, the Villapresente Maze, and nearby beaches. The region provides full tourist services, free parking, and excellent road connections from Santander and other nearby towns.

Offers

Best available offers for Guided Tour of the Neocave of Altamira and Santillana del Mar

Visita Museo Altamira y Santillana del Mar niños

 

Min. 1
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Duration: La duración de esta actividad es de aproximadamente 4,5 horas.
Description

Ahora los más pequeños también pueden disfrutar junto a los mayores de una jornada de visita desde Santander, retrocediendo 13.000 años en el tiempo y conociendo la prehistoria y sus ancestros con un paseo por la localidad de Santillana del Mar, lugar de la Cueva de Altamira. Los pequeños de 2 a 12 años podrán disfrutar de la entrada al museo de Altamira y un paseo por Santillana del Mar. También, visitar su Colegiata de Santa Juliana y el Museo de Jesús Otero. Todo ello con una duración de unas 4,5 horas.  Conocerán las costumbres de nuestros antepasados y sus pinturas y expresiones, así como atuendos y apariencia. Un museo que supone una réplica de la cueva original y que nos acercará a la época en la que los antiguos hombres vivían y pasaban el día a día entre sus paredes. Para continuar, habrá un paseo por la localidad donde se ubica la cueva y el museo, Santillana de Mar. Un recorrido por un pueblo que está considerado de los más hermosos de la península, y siempre acompañados por un guía que supervisará la ruta para su comodidad y aprendizaje. ¡La prehistoria nos espera! *Tiempo libre antes de volver a Santander.

Included Services
  • Persona acompañante
  • Recogida en tu hotel en Santander
  • Transporte privado en minivan (2-8 pers
  • )
  • Entrada al museo de Altamira
  • Entrada a la Colegiata de Santa Juliana
  • Seguro incluido
Group size: min. 1
From €28
Visita Museo de Altamira y Santillana del Mar 4h

 

Min. 2
View more
Duration: Esta actividad tiene una duración aproximada de 4,5 horas.
Description

Si estás en Santander y te apasiona la prehistoria y estás pasando unos días por el litoral cantábrico, esta es una excursión  que tienes que realizar. Para todos, hasta los más pequeños que también la disfrutarán, os llevaremos en un viaje en el que retrocederéis  en el tiempo más de 13.000 años para conocer más cosas sobre la prehistoria  y nuestros ancestros gracias a las pinturas que nos dejaron. Podréis visitar el Museo de Altamira y saber más sobre las costumbres de nuestros antepasados y sus pinturas y expresiones. Pero también participaréis en una visita guiada a la neocueva, que es la réplica a escala de la cueva de Altamira. Además, nos acercaremos a Santillana del Mar para conocer este pueblo medieval, uno de los más bonitos de España. Te encantará recorrer sus calles empedradas  y visitar su Colegiata de Santa Juliana y el Museo de Jesús Otero. Al final de la visita, disfrutarás de un tiempo libre para compras o tomar un café antes de retomar el viaje de regreso a Santander.

Included Services
  • Transporte privado en minivan (2-8 personas)
  • Entrada a la Colegiata de Santa Juliana
  • Recogida en tu hotel en Santander
  • Entrada al museo de Altamira
  • Una persona acompañante
  • Seguro
Group size: min. 2
From €58

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers about Guided Tour of the Neocave of Altamira and Santillana del Mar

No, the original Altamira Cave has been closed to the public since 2002 to protect the fragile artwork. Visitors experience a highly accurate replica known as the Neocave, which faithfully recreates the original art and environment.
Yes, booking in advance is strongly recommended to ensure entry, especially during peak season and for family group tours.
Yes, both the museum and the Neocave are accessible for visitors with limited mobility. It is recommended to inform the operator in advance to ensure smooth access.
No, photography is not permitted inside the Neocave or in certain areas of the museum to protect the artwork and exhibits.
A family guided tour lasts between 4 and 5 hours, including the Neocave visit, museum exploration, and a walk through the historic town of Santillana del Mar.