Nantes, France: A Whimsical Journey Through Maritime Dreams and Mechanical Wonders

Nantes, France, a city where the echoes of maritime history intertwine with fantastical steampunk creations, presents visitors with an enchanting dilemma: would you prefer to saddle a giant squid or board a submersible for an imaginary voyage to the ocean’s depths? For many, the allure of a fierce-looking merhorse, its reins tentatively grasped, proves irresistible. High above, children glide on flying fish with metallic fins flapping, while parents battle stormy seas at the helm of colossal conch shells. This is the captivating experience of the Carrousel des Mondes Marins, a three-storey steampunk merry-go-round that stands as one of the undeniable highlights of any visit to Nantes. More than just a fairground ride, it’s a profound work of art and a vibrant homage to the city’s most famous son, Jules Verne, whose seminal novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea inspired its intricate design. It is, unequivocally, a lot of fun.

Situated on the banks of the Loire River, approximately 30 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean, Nantes is a city whose prosperity was historically built upon its deep connection to the sea. In the 1830s, a young Jules Verne, growing up near the bustling docks, harbored dreams of becoming a ship’s captain. Though this particular ambition remained unfulfilled, it propelled him on a far grander series of imaginative journeys, channeling his profound wanderlust into iconic novels such as Around the World in 80 Days and Journey to the Centre of the Earth. While Nantes’ last shipyards closed in the 1980s, marking the end of an industrial era, Verne’s unique visionary spirit provided the fertile ground for a radical art and urban regeneration project: Les Machines de l’Île. This ambitious initiative has successfully breathed new life into the once-abandoned quays and warehouses of the Île de Nantes, the river island that served as the heart of the city’s maritime industry.

Today, the Île de Nantes is the stomping ground of the magnificent Grand Éléphant, a 12-meter-high mechanical pachyderm crafted from steel and wood. This colossal creature, a true engineering marvel, carries passengers on enchanting tours of the island, delighting bystanders by playfully spraying them with water from its trunk. Having seen countless photographs, nothing truly prepares one for the sheer thrill of turning a corner and witnessing this majestic beast lumbering gracefully towards you. The magic behind these incredible machines can be further explored at the nearby Galerie des Machines, where the visionary creators, François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice, bring a diverse mechanical menagerie of strange and wonderful creatures to life, offering a glimpse into the creative process and the intricate mechanics that power these fantastical beings. The blend of art, engineering, and storytelling here perfectly encapsulates Nantes’ identity as a city that cherishes its past while boldly embracing innovation.

The profound connection to Jules Verne also inspired the naming of the city’s renowned summer arts festival, Le Voyage à Nantes. From July to September, this festival transforms the city’s streets, parks, and public spaces into a dynamic open-air art gallery, attracting both locals and international visitors. My visit happily coincided with the festival’s opening weekend, and the elegant squares and avenues of the Graslin district, particularly bustling with activity. DJ sets provided a lively soundtrack, food stalls offered an array of local delicacies, and crowds eagerly explored the newly unveiled artworks. In the Place Graslin, a stunning square constructed, like much of Nantes, from the distinctive chalky-white tuffeau stone quarried from the Loire valley, a truly cataclysmic eruption had been artistically conjured in front of the grand opera house. Huge ammonites, ancient marine fossils, appeared to have been violently forced up from beneath the earth, engulfing cars in a dramatic mountain of rubble. Their doors stood wide open, radios still playing, creating the eerie impression of hurried abandonment.

Just a few yards away, children gleefully played in the dancing water fountains of the square, seemingly oblivious to the artistic apocalypse unfolding. Meanwhile, the white-aproned waiters of the exquisite Art Nouveau brasserie, La Cigale, expertly wove through the crowded pavement tables, delivering platters of fresh seafood to diners who remained utterly unfazed by the dramatic scene before them. This thought-provoking artwork, titled "Fossil Opera," serves as a powerful commentary on consumerism and the transient nature of human endeavor, and is just one of about a dozen site-specific installations that magically appear across the city during the festival. Nantes’ commitment to public art and urban renewal, exemplified by projects like Le Voyage à Nantes, has earned it recognition, including the European Green Capital award in 2013, highlighting its innovative approach to sustainable urban development.

Even outside the vibrant summer months, Nantes, France’s sixth-largest city, offers a wealth of discoveries. Each year, a select handful of the festival installations are chosen to become permanent fixtures, resulting in an impressive and ever-growing collection of contemporary public art. Notable examples include "Les Anneaux," a series of 18 giant steel rings elegantly situated on the Quai des Antilles. These rings not only frame picturesque views of the Loire but also illuminate dramatically at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Another striking piece is Tadashi Kawamata’s "Belvédère de l’Hermitage," a unique viewing platform inspired by a swallow’s nest, which daringly juts out over a sheer cliff, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.

All of these diverse cultural highlights, both historic and contemporary, are conveniently linked by the Ligne Verte, a distinctive 12-mile (20km) green line painted directly onto the pavement, guiding visitors on a self-guided tour. Following this engaging trail, one can wander through the Passage Pommeraye, an exquisite 19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcade renowned for its opulent architecture and intricate detailing. The line then leads past the imposing Château des ducs de Bretagne, a magnificent moated 15th-century castle that stands as a powerful symbol of Brittany’s historical independence and Nantes’ ducal past. A stop at the excellent Musée d’arts de Nantes is a must, as it houses an impressive collection of international art spanning seven centuries, from Old Masters to contemporary works. The trail culminates at the peaceful Jardin des Plantes, a charming botanical garden that offers free entry, home to a handful of modern art installations and a delightful cafe, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. From here, it’s a short stroll to the Lieu Unique, a vibrant cultural space and concert venue housed within the former factory that once produced the city’s beloved, buttery LU biscuits, a testament to Nantes’ industrial heritage transformed into a hub for contemporary arts.

Nantes continues to look to the future with ambitious projects. The Jardin Extraordinaire is a newly created garden and climbing wall situated within a disused granite quarry in the Bas-Chantenay district. Its exotic planting, dramatic waterfall, and inviting paddling pools are directly inspired by descriptions found in Jules Verne’s novel, The Mysterious Island, further solidifying his enduring legacy. The nearby Chantenay docks have undergone a significant transformation, now colonized by creative studios, dynamic music spaces, and the popular Little Atlantique Brewery, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century former oil mill. Opposite the quarry, a derelict industrial building is currently being reimagined as the Cité des Imaginaires, a new riverside cultural hub that will eventually provide an expanded and modern home for the Jules Verne Museum. This ambitious project epitomizes Nantes’ creative, unconventional, and forward-thinking spirit. One can be certain that Jules Verne, the master of imagination, would wholeheartedly approve of his hometown’s fantastical evolution.
The trip was supported by Le Voyage à Nantes. Oceania Hôtel de France, just off the Place Graslin, has air-conditioned doubles from €101 room-only. Winter’s Journey, a seasonal festival of concerts, temporary light installations, artworks and gastronomic events, runs from 21 November to 3 January.

Basel, Switzerland: Where Art Flows with the Rhine

Unless you are a dedicated professional who makes an annual pilgrimage to the world-renowned Art Basel fair, Switzerland’s third-largest city might inadvertently pass you by. Often, travelers on the fast train from Paris might find themselves whizzing through Basel, one stop before Zurich. However, to bypass this vibrant cultural hub would be a significant oversight. For aficionados of art and design, Basel presents itself as the quintessential city to explore on an enriching long weekend, offering a sophisticated blend of history, creativity, and Swiss charm.

Basel proudly bills itself as "the city of art and culture on the Rhine," a boast it lives up to with remarkable conviction. A leisurely stroll through its charming old town reveals a meticulously preserved historical core, where medieval alleys open onto grand squares. The magnificent Basel Minster, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with its distinctive red sandstone and twin spires, dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views over the city and the winding Rhine River. After admiring its architectural grandeur, visitors can enjoy a refreshing cold beer at one of the many inviting cafes that dot the city. When summer temperatures soar, a beloved local tradition beckons: joining the residents for a refreshing dip in the clean, flowing waters of the Rhine, often using a "Wickelfisch" (a waterproof bag shaped like a fish) to keep belongings dry. This blend of urban sophistication and natural recreation is a hallmark of Basel.

Beyond the scenic beauty and historical charm, one must engage with the region’s extraordinary artistic offerings. Within the city proper, the Kunstmuseum Basel stands as a venerable institution, housing an astonishing collection of over 300,000 works spanning eight centuries. Its galleries feature masterpieces by giants of art history, including Monet, Van Gogh, and Warhol, offering a comprehensive journey through various artistic movements. In stark contrast, the Museum Tinguely is dedicated entirely to the whimsical and often provocative kinetic sculptures of the idiosyncratic Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. His Dada-esque machines, often built from scrap metal and found objects, delight and challenge visitors with their playful movements and mechanical artistry, reflecting a unique blend of engineering and artistic expression.

However, the two paramount draws for art and design enthusiasts are strategically located on the city’s outskirts, easily accessible and forming part of a wider cultural landscape. The Fondation Beyeler, nestled in the picturesque suburb of Riehen, is housed in a stunning building designed by Renzo Piano, harmoniously integrated into a park-like setting. It boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, consistently featuring blockbuster exhibitions that draw international acclaim, such as the current focus on Pierre Huyghe. Just a short bus or train ride across the German border in Weil am Rhein lies the Vitra Design Museum, a global mecca for design lovers. This institution is home to one of the world’s largest and most significant permanent exhibitions of modern furniture design, a testament to the evolution of functional art.

Before delving into the museum’s interior, a walk around the Vitra Campus is an absolute pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts. The campus is a living gallery of contemporary architecture, featuring iconic buildings by some of the most celebrated architects of our time. Marvel at the deconstructivist forms of the main museum building by Frank Gehry; explore the Vitra Schaudepot, which houses the vast furniture collection, a striking structure designed by the Basel-based firm Herzog & de Meuron; admire Zaha Hadid’s dynamic former fire station, an early and influential work; and contemplate the serene, minimalist lines of Tadao Ando’s conference pavilion. Adding to this architectural tapestry is a beautiful garden designed by the celebrated Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf, known for his naturalistic planting schemes. The recently added Doshi Retreat, a tranquil space for quiet reflection designed by the late Indian architect Balkrishna Doshi – his first completed project outside India and one of his last works – further enhances the campus’s profound artistic and architectural dialogue.

Stepping inside, exploring the Schaudepot feels akin to wandering through a colossal, meticulously curated doll’s house. Its rooms are filled with instantly recognizable furniture icons, tracing the evolution of design from the 19th century to the present day. Visitors can admire groundbreaking works by legendary designers such as Verner Panton, Le Corbusier, Alvar Aalto, and Charles and Ray Eames, each piece telling a story of innovation and aesthetic vision. The museum also hosts compelling temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific design themes or individual designers. After such an exhaustive and inspiring journey through art and design, the VitraHaus Café offers a welcome respite, serving a delicious lunch amidst the inspiring surroundings. Basel, therefore, is not merely a stopover; it is a profound immersion into the heart of European art, architecture, and design.
The Volkshaus, a boutique hotel in the old town, has doubles from 152 Swiss francs (£138) room-only.

Lübeck, Germany: The Majestic Queen of the Hanseatic League

Unless you’ve delved into Thomas Mann’s monumental family saga, Buddenbrooks, the historic city of Lübeck might not immediately spring to mind. Yet, in the Middle Ages, this strategically located port city in northern Germany, approximately 70km northeast of Hamburg, was one of the wealthiest and most powerful urban centers in Europe. Today, despite suffering significant damage during World War II, particularly from RAF bombing in 1942, Lübeck remarkably retains its status as a beautifully intact medieval gem, a testament to its enduring spirit and architectural heritage.

The city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is uniquely situated on an island, encircled by the serene rivers Trave and Wakenitz. These waterways offer an excellent starting point for exploration. My boyfriend and I opted to hire an electric boat (€49 for up to six people), spending a delightful hour circumnavigating the island, admiring its distinctive silhouette punctuated by seven towering church spires. The experience provides a unique perspective on the city’s historical layout and its strong connection to its surrounding waters.

Back on dry land, we embarked on a guided walking tour, commencing at the iconic, albeit famously "wonky," Holsten Gate. This imposing red-brick structure, with its two massive towers and pointed spires, is not only the city’s most recognizable landmark but also a symbol of Lübeck’s former power and independence. Its subtle lean, caused by subsidence over centuries, only adds to its charm and character. Our tour took us past the five magnificent red-brick churches (two of which boast double spires), emblematic of the Brick Gothic architectural style prevalent in the Baltic region. We climbed St Petri’s viewing tower, an arduous but rewarding ascent, which offered breathtaking panoramic views across the city’s red rooftops, waterways, and beyond. We also paused at the 800-year-old town hall on the bustling marketplace, an exquisite example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, reflecting centuries of civic pride and governance.

Just as captivating as the grand public buildings are the hidden gems that lie behind their gothic splendor. At one time, a labyrinthine network of 180 hidden alleyways and courtyards threaded through the old town. Approximately 80 of these intimate, flower-filled, cobbled alleys remain today. These narrow passages were originally built behind the grand mansions of wealthy merchants to provide housing for the less affluent citizens. Today, these charming, restored cottages are highly sought-after residences, and the courtyards themselves are a delight to explore, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into a different facet of Lübeck’s social history.

To gain a deeper understanding of Lübeck’s illustrious past, we visited the European Hansemuseum, housed within the old castle monastery. This modern and engaging museum masterfully tells the compelling story of the Hanseatic League, the powerful medieval trade network that stretched from England to Russia. It vividly illustrates how this league bestowed immense wealth upon Lübeck, earning it the prestigious title of "the Queen of the League," and secured its status as a free city state until as late as 1937. The museum employs innovative exhibition techniques to bring this crucial period of European history to life.

In a nearby palace, the Museum Behnhaus Drägerhaus showcases a rich collection of 19th- and early 20th-century German and European art, including significant works by the Norwegian master Edvard Munch, who was known to visit Lübeck and famously painted its distinctive salt warehouses. Just around the corner, the Günter Grass-Haus is dedicated to the Nobel laureate Günter Grass, who regularly stayed in Lübeck and spent his final years there until his passing in 2015. The museum celebrates his literary and artistic legacy, connecting visitors to one of Germany’s most important post-war writers.

Our visit in June coincided with the vibrant HanseKulturFestival, when the quarter around St Jakob’s church buzzed with live music stages, enticing food stalls, and lively outdoor bars. While the next major festival is scheduled for 2028, Lübeck ensures a year-round cultural calendar with annual museum, theatre, and literature nights, as well as popup live music events throughout the summer, ensuring there’s always something to experience.

Lübeck also embraces its natural surroundings, offering three distinct open-air swimming areas, one conveniently located on the island itself. For those yearning for the open sea, the Baltic coast is not far away. We enjoyed a delightful day trip to Travemünde, a historic resort town boasting miles of pristine sandy beach. The journey itself was part of the charm, taking a scenic 90-minute river ferry there and a swift 20-minute train back, offering a perfect blend of leisurely travel and efficient return.

In town, a culinary highlight is the medieval Schiffergesellschaft (Seafarers’ Guild), now a traditional Hanseatic restaurant. Here, diners gather at long communal tables, immersing themselves in an authentic atmosphere reminiscent of the city’s seafaring past. The menu features hearty North Sea fish and Holstein meat dishes, alongside creative vegetarian versions of labskaus, a traditional German hash, reflecting both tradition and modern tastes.

Regrettably, we were unable to visit Buddenbrookhaus, the museum dedicated to Thomas Mann’s novel, as it is currently undergoing extensive renovation. It is anticipated to reopen in 2030, which provides ample time to embark on the journey of reading Mann’s impressive 864-page doorstopper. Like Lübeck itself, the novel, with its deep portrayal of merchant life and generational change, is an effort truly worth making, offering rich rewards for those who delve into its depths. Lübeck is not just a city; it’s a living testament to a glorious past and a vibrant present, waiting to be discovered.
The trip was provided by germany.travel and luebeck-tourismus.de. Accommodation was provided by Liho Lübeck, doubles from £73 room-only.

Parma, Italy: A Symphony of Art, Opera, and Gastronomy

Parma, Italy, a city of understated elegance and profound cultural richness, is strategically located just far enough off Italy’s beaten tourist paths to deter the overwhelming crowds that flock to more famous destinations like Venice and Florence. Most travelers reach this tranquil Italian gem by flying into Milan or Bologna, followed by a convenient hour-long train ride. This modest extra effort is unequivocally rewarded, as I discovered a city that perfectly ticks every box for an ideal weekend getaway: magnificent museums and frescoed churches enjoyed without the usual long queues or the need for advance timed bookings; friendly, affordable trattorie and osterie showcasing an abundant feast of local food and wines; and, for those fortunate enough to time their visit correctly, the magical chance to experience an opera composed by the locally born maestro Giuseppe Verdi in the intimate and historic Teatro Regio.

The historic center of Parma is compact and wonderfully walkable, allowing for leisurely exploration past an array of architectural masterpieces. My journey commenced at the grand Piazza Duomo, a captivating square dominated by the imposing 900-year-old Romanesque cathedral. Within, all eyes are inexorably drawn upwards to the ornate cupola, adorned with a captivating illusionist fresco, "Assumption of the Virgin," by the local Renaissance master Antonio da Correggio. His pioneering use of perspective creates a breathtaking sense of divine ascent. Adjacent to the cathedral stands the early Gothic Battistero (Baptistery), a striking octagonal structure whose bare, minimalist exterior of pink Verona marble starkly contrasts with an incredible explosion of vibrant colors from the 13th- and 14th-century paintings that completely cover its interior walls and dome, depicting biblical scenes and a celestial host. Tucked away behind the Duomo, I stumbled upon the serene entrance of the medieval Monastero di San Giovanni Evangelista, whose tranquil cloisters and peaceful garden offer a true oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Remarkably, entry to both the monastery and the cathedral is free, making these cultural treasures accessible to all.

Parma’s undisputed must-see attraction is the monumental Palazzo della Pilotta, a sprawling Baroque complex that serves as a cultural powerhouse. It encompasses a remarkable collection of palatial museums, an extensive library, and the awe-inspiring 400-year-old Teatro Farnese, all accessible with a single, affordable €18 entry ticket. Situated gracefully by the Parma River, which bisects the city, the palazzo was originally constructed by the powerful Farnese family, whose generous patronage was instrumental in shaping many of the city’s Renaissance monuments. The Teatro Farnese, built almost entirely of wood, is a marvel of Baroque engineering and artistry. While rarely used as a performance venue today, a visit to its grand, horseshoe-shaped interior remains an incredible, immersive experience, transporting one back to the grandeur of 17th-century court life. I dedicated most of my sightseeing time within the Pilotta to the landmark Galleria Nazionale di Parma, a veritable treasure trove of Old Master paintings. While it may not rival the sheer scale of the Uffizi, I profoundly appreciated the opportunity to simply arrive without advance booking and quietly appreciate exquisite works by Leonardo da Vinci, Fra Angelico, Canaletto, and Tintoretto, without being jostled by crowds, allowing for a more intimate and reflective encounter with art.

However, sightseeing is only one facet of Parma’s irresistible attraction, for this city is proudly recognized as one of Italy’s undisputed food capitals. Its culinary heritage is deeply intertwined with its landscape and history, producing world-renowned delicacies. I ventured into the rustic, convivial OsteMagno bar, where locals and visitors alike were enthusiastically tucking into tagliere – generous wooden boards piled high with razor-thin slices of cured ham, the celebrated prosciutto crudo di Parma, exquisite artisan salami, and crumbly, aged Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. These delectable offerings were, of course, accompanied by a glass of the local’s favorite tipple, fizzy red Lambrusco wine, a surprisingly refreshing and food-friendly beverage that proved far more drinkable than I had anticipated.

This is not a city where one seeks out overly chic, avant-garde gourmet restaurants, but rather one that celebrates the enduring charm and authenticity of its many traditional trattorie. Establishments such as Da Antonia, where the eponymous owner has overseen the cucina with unwavering dedication for over 50 years, or the venerable 120-year-old Trattoria Corrieri, are where the true heart of Parmigiana cuisine beats. Here, diners are served generous plates of homemade pasta, often featuring local specialties like tortelli d’erbetta (pasta filled with ricotta and Swiss chard) or anolini in brodo (small pasta parcels in broth), all for less than a remarkable €15. Parma offers an authentic Italian experience, a delightful fusion of artistic grandeur, operatic passion, and unparalleled gastronomic pleasure, inviting all to savor its quiet magnificence.
Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati has doubles from €80 room-only.

Santander, Spain: A Renaissance on the Cantabrian Coast

Often unfairly dismissed as little more than a ferry terminal – a convenient overnight stop for those bringing their dogs to Europe or seeking to lower their carbon footprint – the port city of Santander is, in fact, undergoing a remarkable cultural renaissance. Already blessed with a spectacular natural bay facing the majestic Cantabrian mountains, wide sandy beaches that invite relaxation, grand, colonnaded plazas echoing with history, and superb regional cuisine, the imminent opening of new art spaces and museums promises to firmly establish the Cantabrian capital on the coveted weekend-break map.

Leading this cultural transformation is the Faro Santander, which opened its doors on September 8th. This new cultural center is housed within a magnificent historical building, formerly the headquarters of Banco Santander, and now showcases a breathtaking 1,000-piece art collection belonging to the bank. The collection is a veritable treasure trove, featuring masterpieces by Spanish grandees such as Velázquez, Goya, and Picasso, alongside international legends like Titian and Rubens. Different thematic selections from this extensive collection will be displayed on a rotational basis, ensuring fresh perspectives with each visit.

With its ornate white façade elegantly facing the bay, the Pereda building has been meticulously transformed into a striking, 21st-century museum space by the Pritzker Prize-winning British architect David Chipperfield. His design skillfully merges historical grandeur with contemporary functionality, creating a fitting home for such a significant collection. Santander’s moment in the cultural spotlight is set to extend well into 2027, when Madrid’s renowned Reina Sofía Museum will open its first external outpost in the city. This new branch, situated in a similarly grand neo-Renaissance building just a few meters from Faro Santander, will house the Archivo Lafuente. This extensive archive comprises a significant collection of paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts, including major holdings on Dadaism and art from the Spanish Civil War, alongside works from Spain, North America, and Latin America. This expansion underscores Santander’s growing importance as a nexus for modern and contemporary art.

Faro Santander and the future Reina Sofía outpost will collectively form two points on what is being dubbed an "art triangle," complementing the already established Centro Botín. Designed by the celebrated Italian architect Renzo Piano and opened in 2017, the Centro Botín is a striking contemporary art center. With a bijou but impressive permanent collection, featuring works by luminaries such as Matisse, Juan Gris, Joaquín Sorolla, and Mark Rothko, the Centro Botín sits on the waterfront like a giant, stilt-mounted, 1960s alarm clock sawn in half. Its innovative design and strategic location make it a beacon for modern art and a focal point for the city’s regenerated waterfront.

Spaniards, particularly the well-heeled Madrileños, cottoned on to Santander’s charms long ago. The city’s seafront is adorned with elegant fin-de-siècle villas, built when the Spanish elite discovered that the refreshing Atlantic breezes offered a perfect respite from the infernal summer heat of the Spanish capital. More than a century later, following their discerning lead, I too sought refuge in Santander during a British heatwave. Temperatures hovered in the balmy high 20s as I ambled past toddlers diligently building sandcastles and teenagers frolicking in the surf on El Sardinero beach, a mere 15-minute bus ride from the city center. This expansive urban beach, famed for its golden sands, offers a quintessential Spanish seaside experience.

The city center itself is wonderfully walkable, exuding an unhurried, laid-back vibe that permeates its grand plazas and the narrow, historic alleys near the gothic cathedral. These lanes are lined with inviting bars serving pinchos – the Cantabrian equivalent of tapas, offering an array of small, delicious bites that showcase local ingredients and culinary traditions. After indulging in tender, perfectly grilled squid, generously laced with gutsy garlic and olive oil, at Mesón Rampalay on a leafy square, I spent a fascinating couple of hours at Mupac – the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria. Located just a few minutes’ walk from Faro Santander, Mupac houses one of Spain’s most important prehistoric collections, offering excellent interactive displays that bring the region’s ancient past to life. Cantabria is renowned for its prehistoric cave art, and Mupac provides crucial context to this rich heritage. In 2027, the museum is set to relocate to a brand-new, multi-million-euro building, further enhancing its capacity to educate and inspire. By next year, it seems, Santander will not merely be the capital of Cantabria; it will stand proudly as a burgeoning capital of culture, an exciting destination where history, art, and natural beauty converge.
The trip was provided by Faro Santander. Abba Santander, near the Centro Botín, has stylish doubles from €66 room-only.