SDR Airport Insights & Guide
Key SDR Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Santander Airport (SDR) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SDR-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Santander Airport is compact with a single terminal, making it easy to navigate. However, during peak hours, it can get crowded. Arrive early to get through security without stress." — Javier M., Santander, July 2023
"The terminal layout is straightforward, but if you're unsure, the information desks are very helpful. They can guide you to your gate or any amenities you need." — Marta R., Torrelavega, August 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is just 5 kilometers from Santander city center. The best way to get there is by the airport shuttle bus, which runs every 30 minutes. It's affordable and convenient." — Luis G., Camargo, September 2023
"If you prefer a more private ride, taxis are available right outside the terminal. They are a bit more expensive but can save you time, especially if you have a lot of luggage." — Ana P., El Astillero, October 2023
Parking
"For long-term parking, P2 is your best bet. It's a short walk to the terminal and offers reasonable rates. Book online in advance to secure your spot and get a discount." — Carlos V., Maliaño, November 2023
"Short-term parking in P1 is perfect if you're just picking someone up. It's right next to the terminal, so you won't have to walk far." — Elena F., Santa Cruz de Bezana, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"The airport has a few good dining options. I recommend grabbing a bite at the café near the departure gates. They have great coffee and pastries." — Pedro S., Astillero, January 2024
"For shopping, there's a small duty-free shop with a decent selection of local products. It's a good place to pick up last-minute souvenirs." — Laura T., Santander, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the wait times for security online before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during busy travel periods." — Roberto L., Torrelavega, March 2024
"If you have a long layover, the VIP lounge is worth the extra cost. It's quieter and more comfortable than the main terminal area, plus they offer complimentary snacks and drinks." — Maria J., Santander, April 2024
iFly Tip: Pack smarter and travel easier with tips from our airport info page.
Getting to Know SDR Airport
Embark on your Cantabrian journey through Santander Airport (SDR), a modern gateway nestled in northern Spain. Known for its unique coastal views that passengers can enjoy right from the terminal, SDR offers a seamless start to your adventure. Our concise guide simplifies your airport experience, covering everything from flight tracking to dining and shopping. Dive into our resources for a hassle-free transit, including terminal information and parking details.
Explore more about global travel hubs with iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide.
Navigating SDR's Terminals
SDR Airport has one terminal building with a total of 14 gates. The terminal is divided into two levels, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the upper level. The terminal offers a variety of services and facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and ATMs.
Major airlines that operate at the airport include Ryanair, Vueling, and Iberia. Ryanair operates flights to destinations such as London, Dublin, and Berlin. Vueling offers flights to Barcelona, while Iberia operates flights to Madrid.
When navigating the terminal, passengers should check their boarding pass for their departure gate number. The gates are located on the upper level, and passengers can reach them via escalators or elevators. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Santander Airport has only one terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. All the facilities and services are located within the same building, making it easy for passengers to navigate and find what they need. The terminal is small, so walking times are short, and there are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get around.
iFly Tip: Get an insider's look at the flight process with our flight explanation guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Santander Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are strict restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for more than a few minutes. This is to ensure smooth traffic flow and avoid congestion at the terminal entrance. Violators may be fined or have their vehicle towed away.
For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located near the terminal building. This area is free of charge and allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers arrive and are ready to be picked up. It is important to note that drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended in the cell-phone waiting area, and should only proceed to the curbside when their passengers are ready to be picked up.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Santander Airport, travelers have a few options to choose from. There are both on-airport and off-airport parking facilities available to suit different needs and budgets.
On-airport parking options include both covered and uncovered parking garages, as well as open-air lots. The parking garages are located within walking distance of the airport terminal, while the open-air lots require a short shuttle ride. There are also designated handicapped parking spaces available in all parking areas.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking facilities are available nearby. These facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and often have lower rates than on-airport parking.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just a few minutes away from the airport. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.
Overall, there are plenty of parking options available at SDR to suit different needs and budgets.
Transportation Options
SDR Airport, located in the north of Spain, offers several transportation options to get to your final destination:
- Car Rentals: Several car rental companies, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz, are located in the airport terminal. You can book your car rental in advance or upon arrival at the airport. This option provides flexibility and convenience for travelers who prefer to drive themselves.
- Taxis: Taxi stands are located outside the terminal building. The fare to the city center is approximately 20 euros, and the ride takes around 15 minutes. Taxis are a quick and direct way to reach your destination.
- Ride-Share Services: Services such as Uber and Cabify are available for a more budget-friendly option. The pickup area is located outside the terminal building. Be aware of potential restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for direct transfers to hotels and other destinations. The pickup area is located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on your destination. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: A bus stop is located outside the terminal building, providing a connection to the city center and other nearby towns. The fare is approximately 2 euros, and the ride takes around 30 minutes. This is an affordable option for travelers who do not mind a slightly longer journey.
Airport Hotels
When traveling, the convenience of your accommodation can make all the difference. That's why we've compiled a list of hotels near the airport that offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and proximity to local attractions. Whether you're looking for a hotel with a 24-hour front desk, a cozy shared lounge, a lively bar, or even a wellness center complete with a sauna and fitness center, there's something to suit every traveler's needs. Many of these hotels are also situated within a short distance of key attractions, making them ideal choices for those looking to explore the local area during their stay. Ready to book now? View all the airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
At Santander Airport, travelers can enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several cafes and snack bars located throughout the airport. One recommended option is Café & Té, which offers a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. It is located in the main terminal, near the check-in counters.
For a sit-down meal, there are a few restaurants to choose from. One popular option is Restaurante La Barra, which serves traditional Spanish cuisine such as paella and tapas. It is located in the departures area of the main terminal. Another recommended restaurant is La Tagliatella, which serves Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta. It is located in the arrivals area of the main terminal.
When it comes to shopping, SDR has a variety of stores to choose from. One recommended option is Divers, which offers a selection of souvenirs, gifts, and travel essentials. It is located in the departures area of the main terminal. Another popular store is Relay, which sells books, magazines, and snacks. It is located in both the departures and arrivals areas of the main terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at SDR Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: The airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, there are designated children's play areas throughout the airport.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the departures area. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As a traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At Santander Airport, there are several ways to get up-to-date information about your departure.
One of the most convenient ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These screens are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight number on the display to see the most current information.
Another way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. Make sure to download your airline's app before you travel to Santander Airport.
In addition to mobile apps, you can also receive flight status updates via text, email, or push notifications. Check with your airline to see what options they offer and sign up for alerts before your flight.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at SDR by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Santander Airport (SDR) is located in the northern region of Spain, serving the Cantabria region.
- Terminals: The airport features a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines operating at the airport include Ryanair, Vueling, and Iberia. For a complete list of airlines, visit the SDR Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Santander Airport handles approximately 2,500 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 25 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SDR are London, Dublin, Brussels, Madrid, and Barcelona.
- Hub Status: Santander Airport is a hub for Ryanair and Vueling, offering connections to various destinations across Europe.
Airport History
SDR, located in the northern region of Spain, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1929 - SDR Airport was officially opened to the public, making it one of the first airports in Spain.
- 1937 - During the Spanish Civil War, the airport was used as a military base by the Nationalist forces.
- 1950s - The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
- 1980s - The airport saw a significant increase in passenger traffic, leading to the construction of a second terminal building.
- 1990s - The airport began to offer international flights, connecting Santander to destinations throughout Europe.
- 2000s - The airport continued to expand, adding new airlines and destinations to its roster.
- 2010s - the airport became a hub for low-cost carriers, attracting budget-conscious travelers from around the world.
Today, Santander Airport remains an important transportation hub in northern Spain, serving millions of passengers each year.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Santander Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: SDR
- Airport Website
- Phone: +34 902 404 704
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Aeropuerto de Santander, 39600 Maliaño, Cantabria, Spain
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Santander Airport Q&A
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