Searching for the best things to do and see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife? This blog post is for you.
If you’re visiting Tenerife, you will surely spend at least one day in the island’s capital. Additionally, if you’re coming by a cruise, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is your cruise port, so you’ll surely want to explore all this city has to offer.
Keep reading this blog post to find out what exactly you need to do and see to experience Santa Cruz de Tenerife the best you can!
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WHERE IS SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital city of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. The Canary Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa but politically, they belong to Spain.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located on the northeastern coast of Tenerife. It’s known for its busy port, cultural attractions, and proximity to many natural wonders on Tenerife. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also only 20 minutes away from the Tenerife North Airport, and only a 15-minute walk from the cruise port.
IS SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE WORTH VISITING?
While Santa Cruz de Tenerife definitely isn’t the most exciting part of the island, it is absolutely worth visiting. Santa Cruz has several great landmarks and attractions worth checking out. It also has incredible natural wonders you can explore if you have a car.
Whether you’re into history, hiking, or just relaxing, Santa Cruz offers something for everyone, so you definitely won’t be bored!
WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
If you’re staying for more than a day, there are plenty of different types of accommodation you can choose from in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Whether you’re into luxury hotels and boutique stays or budget-friendly options, you’ll find a place to stay.
I would highly recommend staying in the city center if you don’t have a car. If you do have a car, and you’re staying for a longer period, you can stay anywhere on the island and just visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Here are some of the great hotels in the city center where you’re sure to have a great time:
THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
Here are some of the key landmarks and attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife you cannot miss.
Auditorio de Tenerife
The Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín is one of the most iconic buildings in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and you definitely must visit it. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava, and it has become a symbol of Tenerife.
The shape of the building resembles a wave or a wing, and it goes perfectly with the ocean surrounding it. You can reach it easily from Plaza de España, it’s only a 20-minute walk.
If possible, try and grab tickets to experience an event in this incredible landmark. Whether it’s a concert, opera, or something else, you’ll surely enjoy it.
Plaza de España
The Plaza de España is the largest square in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and it serves as a central gathering place in the city. It is situated near the port, so it’s often visited by both locals and tourists.
The most famous feature of the plaza is the large, circular lake designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. Additionally, there’s a Monument to the Fallen, dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Spanish Civil War.
Around the Plaza you’ll find shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, so make sure you spend time here!
Palmetum of Santa Cruz
The Palmetum of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the most special botanical gardens, maybe in the world. It’s located on a hill overlooking the ocean and the city, and it specializes in palm trees. This garden has one of the largest collections of palms in the world, with more than 2,000 species of plants, including over 500 species of palms from different parts of the world.
To make it easier to navigate, the garden is divided into geographical zones, so you can explore areas like the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, experiencing diverse ecosystems.
Along with the zones, the Palmetum has many waterfalls, ponds, and streams, which enhance the beauty of the botanical garden. The entrance tickets are 6 euros, which is more than affordable for this kind of attraction!
Las Teresitas Beach
If you want to enjoy yourself by the beach, find your way to the Las Teresitas Beach. This beach is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches on the island of Tenerife, located near the village of San Andrés. It’s just a short drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and you can reach it easily by bus or car.
Las Teresitas Beach is special for its golden sand, which was imported from the Sahara Desert in the 1970s. Additionally, a large breakwater protects the beach, making it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for families with children.
Read more >>> BEST TENERIFE BEACHES YOU MUST VISIT
There are quite a few amenities on the beach, from showers and restrooms to sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. There are also several beach bars along the shore, serving drinks, snacks, and traditional Canarian dishes.
The best thing is the large free parking area, which means you can come by car an easily stay the whole day, without having to pay a penny for parking!
Parque García Sanabria
The Parque García Sanabria is one of the most stunning parks I’ve ever seen! It’s located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and it is the largest urban park in the Canary Islands. It truly is a green oasis in the crowded and lively city of Santa Cruz, so whenever you feel like escaping the crowds, this is where you should go.
The park is HUGE, covering an area of approximately 67,000 square meters, and it combines natural beauty with artistic and architectural elements. In this gorgeous park you’ll stumble upon winding paths, fountains, flowerbeds, and open spaces ideal for relaxation.
There’s a wide variety of plant species, including exotic trees, palms, and colorful flowers all over the park. Along with beautiful plants, in the park you’ll find the Fountain of the Hearts of Stone, as well as the Monument to García Sanabria, after whom the park is named.
Read more >>> VISITING MASCA, TENERIFE: A GUIDE
While walking, you must find the floral clock which was a gift from Switzerland and remains a popular attraction.
Calle del Castillo
Calle del Castillo is one of the most prominent streets in Santa Cruz. If you like shopping, this is where you need to go! This street serves as the city’s main commercial hub, so here you’ll find a mix of international brand stores, local boutiques, and souvenir shops. It’s pedestrian-only, so you can relax and stroll in peace.
There are street performers and vendors who often add to the charm, and there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering Canarian specialties, coffee, and tapas, making it a great spot to take a break from shopping.
These are the best things to do and see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. I hope you include at least some of them in your itinerary.
