What to see in Puerto de La Cruz de Tenerife
Introduce yourself to El Puerto de la Cruz, considered a place of National Tourist Interest, and discover many of its most significant landmarks, through the wide variety of landscapes that it will introduce you to.
Without a doubt, this municipality located in the Orotava Valley, in the northern part of Tenerife, belonging to the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, will provide you with a lot of transcendental information about this charming and historic place; and it will also guarantee you a sublime experience and pleasure that will break all your expectations during your stay here.
So, what are you waiting for to unveil them?
What do you need to know before visiting the municipality of Puerto de la Cruz?
Puerto de la Cruz, formerly known as Puerto de La Orotava, was a small fishing village where it later became a commercial port: exporting and importing products and European Illustration.
As you may know, Puerto de la Cruz was the first tourist city in the Canary Islands, which is why it is still one of the main attractions for many visitors today.
It is worth noting that this coastal municipality has received renowned visitors such as Alexander Von Humboldt, Agatha Christie, William Wilde, Michael Jackson, André Breton, The Beatles, among others.
This area will also give you the opportunity to mingle with the Canary Islanders, to take part in all kinds of sporting activities (surfing, diving, climbing, mountain biking), cultural, gastronomic (wine tasting) and leisure activities (paragliding).
You can also enjoy and disconnect from nature, taking walks along trails and volcanic routes, and enjoying the splendid views of the starry sky from this part of the island.
These are more than enough reasons for you not to think twice and visit this magical city, excellent for cultivating the mind, body and love.
Therefore, I invite you to immerse yourself in the Archaeological, Historical, Artistic and Cultural Heritage that Puerto de la Cruz has to offer. Below is a list with information on the most outstanding sites, should you decide to venture there.
What to see in Puerto de La Cruz
Botanical Garden
It is also known as the Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava (Acclimatisation Garden of La Orotava).
This was created by order of King Charles III in the 18th century, with the aim of conditioning plant species that came from distant and different parts of the world, before their entry into mainland Spain.
It is the jewel in the crown of the city. The Port is known for many attractions: cultural, gastronomic, and entertainment... but how the botanical one surpasses expectations!
Today, the Botanical Garden has a surface area of 2 hectares, where you can find a collection of two thousand five hundred exotic species of plants, flowers and trees from the five continents, including, for example, palms, bromeliads, araceae and moraceae.
The entrance fee is 3 euros, which is definitely worth it, as the experience is very rewarding.
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
San Amaro Chapel
It is worth mentioning that the Ermita de San Amaro is located next to the sea and is surrounded by beautiful narrow streets.
This chapel was built in 1591, making it the oldest in Puerto de la Cruz and one of the oldest on the island.
Nowadays the area is occupied by hotels, bars, restaurants...Make the most of it and try the ice cream!
Therefore, be sure to visit this beautiful building, as both its surroundings and the interior of the hermitage itself are splendid.
The Goat Path
Strolling along the well-known and historic Camino de las Cabras, we have the opportunity to stop and taste a local delicacy, the famous "zaperoco" or its version without liquor, the "barraquito".
You can't miss it, you have to try it!
Zaperoco is the typical coffee of the Canary Islands. It contains Licor 43, coffee, condensed milk, natural milk, lemon and cinnamon. A delicacy for coffee lovers.
Viewpoint of La Paz
An obligatory stop is the Mirador de La Paz, considered to be one of the most emblematic balconies in Puerto de la Cruz.
It offers views of the Atlantic Ocean, Martiánez Beach and Martiánez Lake, which will leave you completely perplexed.
And, of course, if you want to relax, you're in the perfect area, as there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby where you can recharge your batteries.
Likewise, if you want to escape, spend some quiet time in peace and quiet, you must visit and contemplate this marvellous spot.
Las Palmeras Promenade
The Paseo de las Palmeras (Avenida Aguilar y Quesada) is a century-old promenade that runs 300 metres in a straight line parallel to the bed of the San Felipe ravine.
It is worth noting that numerous slender Canary Island palm trees (Phoenix canariensis) will escort you to another significant landmark of this municipality, Martiánez beach.
The Martiánez Shopping Centre is also located here, together with a number of hotels.
Martiánez Beach
It is worth bearing in mind that the sea is not usually calm.
This beach is located next to its own cliffs(50 metres high), of great geological and ecological value.
What's more, Playa Martiánez has several schools where you can take part in various water activities, such as surfing, through its campuses and beginners' classes. It's the ideal beach for learning this sport!
Martiánez Lake
The Martiánez Lake is a work of art built by the multifaceted artist from the island of Lanzarote, Cesar Manrique.
It is worth noting that this coastal complex was one of the city's major tourist landmarks in the 1970s.
It comprises a complex of artificial pools, namely 4 for adults and 3 for children.
It also has numerous bars and restaurants that make the visit a pleasant experience for the tourist.
Ticket price is €5.50 for adults and €2.50 for children (27/04/2022)
Opening hours: 10:00 to 20:00 in summer and 10:00 to 18:00 in winter
Hermitage, promenade and beach of San Telmo
Next to Lago Martiánez is the small and cosy beach of San Telmo, as well as its promenade and hermitage (founded in 1780).
It should be noted that from the back of the chapel you can get majestic views of several of the pools of the lake and San Telmo.
This beach is also known as the Bajío de San Telmo and is considered a very popular place for locals almost all year round.
San Telmo has a small beach and several natural pools around it, which will guarantee you a magnificent experience, as you will have the chance to enjoy yourself and, at the same time, get to know the seabed and the marine fauna.
Grab a pair of diving goggles and discover the secrets of the sea!
Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia
It was created in 1684, although the tower was added in 1898. It is located in the Plaza de la Iglesia.
In this square is located the patron saint of the city: the Virgen del Carmen, where every year on the Tuesday before the 16th of July she is taken in procession in a festivity called La Embarcación (The Embarkation).
As far as the exterior is concerned, its bell tower stands out, which can be seen from various points in the city.
Inside, there are certain images worshipped by the inhabitants of the port, such as the Virgen del Carmen and the Gran Poder de Dios.
There is also a beautiful Mudejar coffered ceiling, a traditional feature of Canary Island religious buildings. It is also notable for its baroque altarpiece.
La Peña de Francia is the most important church in the municipality.
Historic Fishing Dock
This is undoubtedly the most traditional area of this municipality.
The Muelle revolutionised the city from the 17th century onwards, as it was used for commercial activity linked specifically to bananas and wine.
At this landmark, you will be able to take the most typical photographs of Puerto de la Cruz, where you will see the quay beach, the Royal Customs building and the popular sculpture of the fisherwoman.
All of this is part of the historic centre of Puerto de la Cruz, where the domestic architecture stands out. Make the most of it and try some good local seafood!
Traditional fishing quarter of La Ranilla
Take Calle Mequinez to Barrio de La Ranilla, where you can find a variety of colourful and eye-catching murals, thanks to the street art that adorns facades and walls that were once lifeless.
It is recommended to wander through its charming streets full of life, such as the so-called "Calle de La Verdad", which is one of the most beautiful streets in the municipality with its cosy restaurants.
And, in turn, reveal the contrast of colours between the houses on Calle Mequinez and Calle El Lomo.
San Felipe Castle and Garden Beach
It is worth mentioning that this castle (17th century) was one of the first defensive fortifications in Puerto de la Cruz, located some 900 metres from the town centre.
It has gone through other modes of use, such as: infirmary, citadel and restaurant. It is currently used as a cultural centre for exhibitions and musical concerts.
From this landmark, you will have the chance to appreciate the panoramic view of the Garden Beach.
Plaza del Charco
This square is traditionally one of the most popular corners of Puerto de la Cruz, as it has numerous bars and restaurants that fill the area with life.
It is also a meeting and party place for many of the inhabitants of this municipality.
If we venture into its history, we realise that its name comes from a pool of sea water that was at the centre of it.
It is worth noting that in recent years it has been renovated, but it still conserves the basin with a "ñamera", Indian laurels and some amazing palm trees.
Loro Parque
The Loro Parque, according to the experience of its visitors, has been named the Best Zoo in the World by the TripAdvisor portal.
This place offers you a quality experience, giving you the chance to see more than 10,000 exotic animals, such as bamboo sharks, male gorillas or penguins, representing more than 500 species and subspecies from all over the planet.
It is worth mentioning, characteristic aspects of the park, which make it the "must" of the Canary Islands, such as: its incredible facilities, an excellent recreation of the natural habitats and more than 1 million satisfied visitors every year.
Archaeological Museum
It was created in 1953 and was located in a 19th-century Canarian mansion in the seaside neighbourhood of La Ranilla.
It is worth mentioning that here you can find relics of immeasurable value, coming from the aboriginal Guanches of the islands, with unique pieces, such as a collection of pottery, a collection of maps from the 17th century, some mummies, an anthropomorphic clay figure known as Guatimac and some thematic exhibitions on different historical and cultural aspects of the Canary Islands.
Church of San Francisco
It was built in 1599 and is considered to be the most archaic building in the city.
It is worth mentioning that this church has an ecumenical character, i.e. it belongs to all people of the world, all countries and all times.
Inside, you will have the opportunity to distinguish between different works of art of great value, in different styles, from the 15th century to the present day.
Europa Square
This square was built around the sea in 1992 and historically appears as a balconied fortress with 6 cannons located next to the palisade, giving it a solemn appearance.
It is worth noting that it is located in front of the Puerto de la Cruz Town Hall, which has the city's heraldic coat of arms on its façade.
Bollullo Beach
This 400-metre longbeach of volcanic sand, with its tranquil atmosphere, stands out because it is perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
Access on foot is not complicated at all, as it is located in an uncrowded area.
Los Patos Beach
It is worth mentioning that the black volcanic sand beach of Los Patos is 1 kilometre long, and there are no buildings in the surrounding area.
Access is difficult, due to the risk of falls and landslides, but it is nevertheless worth the effort to reach it because of its great beauty.
This beach is chosen for nudism because it is not overcrowded.
Ancón Beach
This beach of fine black sand is a total of 160 metres long. Nudism can be practised here.
As with Los Patos beach, extreme caution should be taken, both on the way to the beach and in the sea, due to the strong waves.
Taoro Park
A beautiful spot in Puerto de la Cruz, where you can choose from a variety of activities, such as a stroll with the family, or do some sport, as it is a popular place for running enthusiasts, due to the perfect conditions of the park.
It is worth mentioning that Taoro Park witnessed the birth of one of the first large hotels in this municipality.
It is also the site of the 19th-century neo-Gothic Anglican Church.
Sitio Litre Orchid Garden
This garden is known as the oldest in Tenerife, and at more than 220 years old, it already has a private mansion dating back to 1730.
In addition, the owners finally decided to open this magical place to the public, with curiosities such as the largest collection of orchids on the island, the largest and oldest dragon tree in Puerto de la Cruz, and reminiscences of important visitors such as the famous German botanist, explorer and discoverer Alexander von Humboldt or Agatha Christie.
It is also worth mentioning that it has a café and boutique specialising in local products and an exhibition of various paintings transferred from the Royal Botanic Gardens in London at Kew, with which a collaboration agreement has been established.
The entrance fee is 4.50 euros. So, don't wait any longer, break the mould and enjoy its splendour!
Do you want to enjoy more amazing places in Tenerife?
If you are visiting Tenerife, you will be interested in more spectacular places to see around this Canary Island:
- What to see in La Villa de La Orotava
- What to see in Candelaria
- What to see in San Cristóbal de La Laguna
- What to see in Icod de Los Vinos
- Seafaring village
