Palacio de la Diputación
A stunning example of eclectic architecture, offering free guided tours and a glimpse into regional history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Palacio de la Diputación
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning example of eclectic architecture, offering free guided tours and a glimpse into regional history.
"A true gem with stunning architecture and a fascinating history, definitely worth a visit!"
🎯 Free Guided Tours Available
Take advantage of free guided tours to discover the palace's history and stunning interiors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens surrounding the palace offer beautiful views and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palace Exterior Architecture
Exterior of the Palacio de la Diputación
Admire the stunning eclectic architecture, a blend of monumental, baroque, and medieval styles.
Interior Guided Tours
Palace Interior
Explore opulent rooms, galleries, and learn about Bizkaia's rich history on a free guided tour.
Stained Glass and Portraits
Palace Interior
Marvel at intricate stained glass windows and captivating portraits of former council heads.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Getting There: Walk, Train, or Bus?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Guided Tours Available
Take advantage of free guided tours to discover the palace's history and stunning interiors. 
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens surrounding the palace offer beautiful views and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The eclectic architectural style makes for fantastic photo opportunities both inside and out.
📅 Check for Events
The palace hosts various events, from dance performances to historical celebrations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Guided Tours Available
Take advantage of free guided tours to discover the palace's history and stunning interiors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens surrounding the palace offer beautiful views and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The eclectic architectural style makes for fantastic photo opportunities both inside and out.
📅 Check for Events
The palace hosts various events, from dance performances to historical celebrations.
📍 Convenient City Center Location
Easily accessible from Bilbao's Gran Vía, near Plaza Moyua.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Palacio de la Diputación for its stunning architecture and the value of its free guided tours, offering a fascinating glimpse into regional history. The surrounding grounds are also highlighted as beautiful spaces for relaxation and photography. While interior access is primarily through tours, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical and aesthetic appeal.
"A true gem in Santander! The palace is an architectural marvel with a fascinating history—it served as the summer residence of King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenie. The grounds are stunning, perfect for a peaceful walk, picnic, or just enjoying the views. There’s also a small zoo and playground, great for kids.
We walked there (about 35 minutes from the city center), but there’s also a tourist train available. Access to the gardens is free, and guided tours of the palace interior are available and absolutely worth it. Facilities are clean, and there’s a nice café on-site.
A must-visit for anyone coming to Santander—beautiful, historic, and family-friendly!”"
Unique Patios & Pools
"I would definitely recommend visiting Palacio de la Magdalena. There are 2 options to get here. You can get the train which is part of the Hop on Hop off bus tour. It is included when you buy the ticket for €26pp. or if you were feeling active you could walk it in about 30-40 mins. Beautiful views of the coast once you get the top and of course the huge Palace which was constructed between 1909-1911."
Josh Mahon
"I enjoyed going to see it but I didn't want to visit inside the palace. I found the outside space very pleasant to walk around and the exterior of the palace is really very beautiful and for those who saw the series Grand Hotel it is really cool to go there."
Luciana Côrtes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palacio de la Diputación in Bilbao is conveniently located on Gran Vía, near Plaza Moyua. It's easily accessible by public transport and is a pleasant walk from many city center attractions.
While there might not be dedicated parking directly at the palace, there are several public parking garages in the vicinity of Gran Vía and Plaza Moyua. It's often easier to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city center.
Yes, the area around Plaza Moyua is well-served by Bilbao's metro and numerous bus lines, making it very easy to reach the Palacio de la Diputación via public transportation.
No, there are multiple 'Palacio de la Diputación' buildings in Spain. The one in Santander is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal summer residence. The Palacio de la Diputación in Bilbao is the seat of the provincial government.
You can walk from Santander's city center (approx. 35 mins), take a tourist train, or use the hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Guided tours of the interior of the Palacio de la Diputación in Bizkaia are generally free of charge, but booking in advance is often recommended due to limited spots.
Opening hours can vary, especially for guided tours. It's best to check the official website or contact the Diputación directly for the most up-to-date information on tour times and public access.
Access to the gardens and grounds of Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander is typically free.
The guided tours of the Palacio de la Diputación in Bizkaia are usually free.
You can freely explore the gardens and exterior of Palacio de la Magdalena. Interior visits are typically by guided tour only.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire beautiful stained glass, impressive galleries, and portraits of former council heads, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
Yes, free guided tours are offered, providing insights into the building's architecture and the history of Bizkaia.
Around Palacio de la Magdalena, you can enjoy walks in the park, visit the beach, see sea lions, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. +1
Accessibility information can vary. It's advisable to contact the specific Diputación office or check their website for details on accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
Photography policies can differ. Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas, but professional shoots or flash photography might be restricted. It's best to inquire upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand facade, the ornate interiors with stained glass and portraits, and the surrounding gardens offer excellent photo opportunities.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's wise to confirm specific rules regarding flash or professional equipment with staff.
Visitors often capture the palace's exterior against the sea, the expansive gardens, and the resident sea lions.
Drone usage is typically regulated in urban areas and around historical buildings. Always check local aviation regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the architectural details and create a more dramatic effect for your photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Palacio de la Diputación in Bilbao focuses more on history and architecture, its accessible location and the possibility of free guided tours can still be engaging for older children interested in history and grand buildings. The surrounding park areas also offer space for recreation.
+1🚶 Budget Travelers
+1 Similarly, the gardens and grounds of Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander are free to access, offering beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities without any cost. Many other attractions in Santander, like viewpoints and certain walks, are also free, making it an affordable destination.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1 In Santander, the Palacio de la Magdalena provides a glimpse into early 20th-century royal life and architectural trends. Both locations offer guided tours that delve into the historical context and architectural details, making them must-visit sites for those who appreciate the grandeur and stories embedded in historical buildings.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Inside, visitors can marvel at the stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the halls and admire stunning portraits of former heads of council, each telling a silent story of the region's political past. The building's design aimed to embody the splendor and importance of the Diputación Foral de Bizkaia, making it a significant piece of regional heritage.
+2Other Palacios de la Diputación, like the one in Guadalajara, showcase Neomudéjar styles, while the Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander is a distinct example of early 20th-century royal architecture. Each building offers a unique architectural journey through Spain's diverse history and regional identities.
Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
+1These tours typically cover the main halls, galleries, and significant rooms, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship of the stained glass and the artistry of the portraits. The experience is designed to be informative yet engaging, making history accessible to all. It's advisable to check the schedule and potentially book your spot in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you don't miss out.
For those visiting the Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander, the experience is different but equally rewarding. While the interior tours are also valuable, the expansive gardens, the beach, and the resident sea lions offer a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Beyond the Palace: Exploring Santander
For families, the presence of sea lions and a small playground adds to the appeal of the Palacio de la Magdalena area.
When planning your visit to Santander, consider incorporating a trip to the Palacio de la Magdalena as part of a broader exploration of the city's historical sites and natural beauty. The combination of architectural grandeur and scenic surroundings makes it a memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit