La Laguna: Walking the UNESCO Heritage City

La Laguna: The City That Inspired Latin American Capitals

San Cristóbal de La Laguna was Tenerife's first capital, and its urban layout from the late 15th and early 16th century served as a model for colonial cities in the Americas such as Havana and Lima. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, its historic centre is an open-air museum easily explored on foot.

Essential Route Through the Historic Centre

• La Laguna Cathedral: with a neogothic body (rebuilt and inaugurated in 1913) that preserves its neoclassical main facade. Houses the remains of conquistador Alonso Fernández de Lugo. Entry: €7 (€6 over-65s; €5.50 students/young people/unemployed), includes audio guide.
• Church of La Concepción: the oldest on the island (1511). Its tower is La Laguna's symbol. Tower climb: €3 with panoramic views.
• Palacio de Nava: architectural gem blending baroque, neoclassical and mannerist styles. The interior is not usually open to visitors (closed or under restoration); it's best admired from the outside, with no documented paid entry.
• Calle San Agustín: the most stately street, lined with mansions featuring traditional Canarian tea-wood balconies and interior courtyards.
• Plaza del Adelantado: the main square with the municipal market where you can buy local products.

Tapas and Gastronomy

La Laguna is Tenerife's tapas capital thanks to its university atmosphere. Calle Herradores and surrounding streets have dozens of bars with tapas from €2.50. Try smoked cheese tapas, gofio croquettes and cochino negro (black pig) mini sandwiches. Local beer from €1.80.

Cultural Scene

As home to the University of La Laguna (the oldest in the Canary Islands, founded in 1792), the city has a youthful, cultural vibe. Concerts, exhibitions and theatre year-round. Teatro Leal offers varied programming with tickets from €10.

Practical Tips

• The tram connects La Laguna to Santa Cruz in about 30 min (check the official website for the current fare)
• Visit the market in the morning for fresh produce and crafts
• The historic centre is pedestrianised: perfect for walking
• The climate is cooler than the south coast: bring a light jacket
• Thursday and Friday nights are the liveliest for bar hopping