Puerto de la Cruz: What to See and Do

Puerto de la Cruz: Complete Guide to Northern Tenerife

Puerto de la Cruz is the jewel of northern Tenerife, a city with over four centuries of history that blends Canarian tradition with a first-class tourist offering. Unlike the south of the island, here you will find a more authentic atmosphere, lush vegetation and a landscape defined by the proximity of Mount Teide and the Orotava Valley.

What to See in Puerto de la Cruz

• Lago Martiánez: a saltwater swimming pool complex designed by César Manrique. A unique spot for bathing with Atlantic views.
• Botanical Garden: founded in 1788 by order of King Carlos III, it houses over 3,000 tropical and subtropical species.
• Playa Jardín: a black volcanic sand beach surrounded by tropical gardens also designed by Manrique. Free access.
• Historic centre: cobbled streets, traditional wooden Canarian balconies and squares such as Plaza del Charco, the social heart of the city.
• Loro Parque: one of Europe's most renowned zoos, with orca, dolphin and sea lion shows. Check current prices on its official website.

Local Gastronomy

Northern Tenerife has an exceptional gastronomic tradition. Be sure to try the fresh fish at restaurants by the fishing port, papas arrugadas with mojo at any guachinche and wines from the Orotava Valley at nearby wineries. Calle San Felipe and the area around Plaza del Charco have the best restaurants.

Accommodation and Transport

Puerto de la Cruz offers hotels of all categories, from budget apartments to luxury hotels like the Botánico. The city is connected to Santa Cruz via the TF-5 motorway (about 35 minutes) and to the south via the TF-1 (approximately 1 hour to Los Cristianos). Local buses cover the entire metropolitan area.

Day Trips from Puerto de la Cruz

• La Orotava: 10 minutes away, one of the prettiest towns in the Canary Islands
• Teide National Park: 45 minutes via mountain road
• Icod de los Vinos: 30 minutes away, home to the famous Millennial Dragon Tree
• Anaga laurel forest: 1 hour away, hiking through cloud forest