Did you know that discovering Santa Cruz de Tenerife is about much more than just sun and sand? This Atlantic city combines history, colonial architecture, nature and a vibrant cultural life. From the Tenerife Auditorium “Adán Martín” to the corners of the old town, there is plenty to explore.
To experience the city from a local perspective, join a tour with guides who know its secrets. Book your spot on a free tour of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and get ready to be surprised. Santa Cruz is waiting for you!
Teide
Teide, the highest peak in Spain at 3,718 metres, is a volcano that not only defines Tenerife’s landscape but is also a symbol of Canarian nature. This stratovolcano rises in the heart of Teide National Park, a protected area with unique biodiversity.
The ascent of Teide can be done via several hiking routes of different difficulty levels. For a more comfortable option, the Teide Cable Car goes up in a few minutes to La Rambleta (3,555 m), around 163 metres below the summit, with marked panoramic trails.
The cable car goes up to La Rambleta (3,555 m). Timetables vary by season (approx. 09:00–17:00/18:40) and it may close due to wind. To reach the summit via the Telesforo Bravo trail you need a free permit with an assigned time slot (from 1 September 2025, managed through Tenerife ON).
| How to get to Teide | Details |
|---|---|
| Car (TF-21/TF-24) | Limited parking at the cable car and viewpoints; arrive early in high season. |
| TITSA bus | Lines 342 (Costa Adeje) and 348 (Puerto de la Cruz) to Cañadas/Parador/Cable Car. |
| Organized excursion | Pick-ups in the north/south and option to include the cable car. |
Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes, an impressive cliff rising above the Atlantic, is one of Tenerife’s main attractions. With heights of up to 600 metres, these basalt walls create a spectacular landscape and a habitat for seabirds.
From the Port of Los Gigantes you can spot bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales all year round in the Teno‑Rasca SAC (area certified as a Whale Heritage Site). Book in advance in high season.
La Laguna
La Laguna, in the north of Tenerife, stands out for its history and architecture. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it preserves buildings from the 16th to 18th centuries. Among its cobbled streets, highlights include the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, the main parish church with Mudejar coffered ceilings and Baroque elements, and the Former Convent of Santo Domingo, now an exhibition space.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna has been a World Heritage Site since 1999. You can get there by tram (Line 1) from Santa Cruz in about 40 minutes.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a cultural crossroads with festivities such as the Santa Cruz Carnival, known for its parades and music. The city is home to museums such as the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA) and the contemporary art of TEA (Tenerife Espacio de las Artes).
The capital lies close to Teide National Park, with marked trails and viewpoints. Nearby beaches such as Las Teresitas, with light-coloured sand and calm waters, complete the sun-and-sea experience.
Playa de las Américas
Playa de las Américas is one of the best-known destinations in the south of the island for its golden-sand coastline, entertainment options and nightlife. Bars, clubs and restaurants are concentrated along the seafront promenade and the surrounding streets.
El Médano
El Médano, a coastal spot in the south, stands out for its golden-sand beach stretching alongside a seafaring atmosphere. It is a meeting point for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to its steady trade winds.
La Orotava
La Orotava, in the north of Tenerife, preserves traditional Canarian architecture with wooden balconies and historic houses. The Casa de los Balcones, dating from the 17th century, showcases local crafts and typical products such as honey rum.
Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz combines tradition and modernity. Plaza del Charco is packed with terraces and cafés, while the seafront brings together landmarks such as Lago Martiánez, designed by César Manrique, and the Botanical Garden.
Lago Martiánez (designed by César Manrique) reopened after renovation work on 28/03/2024. Admission is paid and opening hours depend on the season.
Botanical Garden
The La Orotava Acclimatisation Garden in Puerto de la Cruz is a botanical refuge founded in the late 18th century. It is home to between 2,000 and 3,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants, with collections of palms, aroids and members of the Moraceae family.
Usual opening hours 9:00–18:00; closed 1 January, Good Friday and 25 December. Approximate standard admission: €3.
Cueva del Viento
Cueva del Viento, in Icod de los Vinos, is a system of volcanic tubes with more than 18 kilometres mapped, making it the fifth longest lava tube in the world. Its lava flows and internal structures allow you to read the island’s recent geological history.
A guided tour is compulsory (≈2.5 h); places are limited and booking online is recommended. Children under 5 are not allowed; adult price: €25; card payment only.
Best free tours in Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife begins its history with it´s founding, on May 3, 1494. Since then, the port of Santa…
Enjoy our Free Tour inside the Teide National Park , one of the most visited in all of Spain.
* Price, schedule and access information is current as of November 2025 according to official sources. This data may change at any time due to public holidays, works, or changes in regulations. Always check the official websites or phone numbers of each place before your visit.
