This selection of the best places to see in La Laguna will help you make the most of what is possibly the most beautiful city to see in Tenerife.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 due to its network of cobbled streets filled with stately houses and religious buildings, La Laguna stands out as the only example of a walled colonial city. As the first and ancient capital of the island, it undoubtedly surprises travelers who discover it. Therefore, we encourage you to continue reading this article to obtain all the necessary information and discover a place that, we are sure, will become one of your favorites on the island.
How much time is needed to visit La Laguna? In reality, with a couple of hours you can take a fairly complete tour of its historic center. However, if you have an additional one or two hours, you will feel more relaxed, especially if you wish to visit the various museums or points of interest mentioned in this article.
Additionally, La Laguna is a very comfortable and pleasant city to settle in and explore the northern area of Tenerife. It offers a wide range of hotels and restaurants at affordable prices, as it is not as touristy as the southern part of the island. Moreover, being the quintessential university town, you will always find a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
We hope we have convinced you with this introduction. If so, keep reading to discover the best activities in La Laguna, Tenerife. Additionally, you will find useful tips and a map to help you navigate more easily. Let’s get started!
1. Free tour or guided tour of La Laguna
Upon arriving in this city, you will immediately notice the colonial atmosphere that characterizes it. Strolling through San Cristóbal de La Laguna, popularly known as La Laguna, is like stepping back in time to the historical beginnings following the conquest of the islands.
Founded between 1496 and 1497 near the ancient lagoon of Aguere, inland on the island and protected by mountains to prevent pirate attacks, it had enough water to sustain what quickly became the most populated city in the Canary archipelago.
Here the elite, the aristocracy of the time, and religious power were established. Additionally, it was the favorite place of intellectuals, becoming the cradle of the Enlightenment in the Canary Islands. For all these reasons, visiting La Laguna is exploring the remnants of such a significant historical period and a prosperous city that is still considered the university and religious seat of the island.
Given its fascinating past, we believe the best way to get to know it is with a local guide who can provide you with interesting facts and curiosities. Therefore, we recommend joining one of the following free tours or guided visits available in La Laguna:
- Free tour of La Laguna
- Free tour of the legends and folklore of La Laguna
- Tour of the mysteries and legends of La Laguna
- Guided tour of La Laguna
- Private tour of La Laguna
2. Plaza del Adelantado
The best starting point for your visit to La Laguna is the Plaza del Adelantado. Located in the heart of the city, it is named after the first Adelantado or high dignitary in charge of a public enterprise, Alonso Fernández de Lugo, who led the conquest of Tenerife and La Palma and resided in the early 16th century in what is now part of the Convento de Santa Catalina de Siena.
The plaza was designed to be the main square of La Laguna, hosting the most important public events such as festivities, markets, processions, and even executions. One of its most distinctive elements is the central fountain, the oldest in La Laguna, made of marble from Marseille, which arrived by ship from France and is still preserved.
As the main square, it is surrounded by significant and beautiful buildings. Among them stand out the Casa del Santo Padre Anchieta, the 16th-century Ermita de San Miguel, the Palacio de Nava, and the Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena, which we will discuss later.
Finally, if you plan to arrive in La Laguna by car, right next to this plaza you will find the guarded parking “Las Quinteras”, very economical.
3. Palacio de Nava, a must-see in La Laguna
One of the most outstanding buildings in Plaza del Adelantado is the Palacio de Nava, located at the northwest corner of the plaza, which features two spectacular facades.
Although you cannot currently visit its interior, its exterior is a clear example of Canary architecture, combining Baroque, Neoclassical, and Mannerist elements due to the two centuries it took to construct. Begun in 1585, the building underwent modifications during the 17th century and was completely renovated in 1776 by Tomás de Nava y Grimón and Porlier, covering it with stone as seen today.
Declared a Cultural Interest Property, there is a restoration project to convert it into an interpretation center for La Laguna.
4. Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena
Another must-see place in La Laguna is the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, located in Plaza del Adelantado. Part of the land belonged to Alonso Fernández de Lugo, the Adelantado. Inaugurated in 1611, it initially housed four nuns from Seville and over time became one of the richest on the islands, accommodating up to 100 nuns. However, with the Mendizábal’s Confiscation, it lost much of its heritage.
Its most striking feature is the carved wooden biforas influenced by the Mudéjar style, which allowed the nuns to observe the outside without being seen.
It is possible to visit the interior of the church, where you will find a single nave and a 17th-century screen that separates the cloistered area. In the Main Chapel stands out a 17th-century altarpiece with images of the Virgin of the Rosary, Saint Dominic de Guzmán, and Saint Catherine of Siena, as well as several 18th-century paintings by Canarian artists.
Interestingly, the monastery houses the body of María de León Bello y Delgado, known as «La Siervita», very beloved in the Canary Islands. This Tenerife nun is in the process of beatification, and her coffin can be seen through metal bars on February 15, the anniversary of her death, when the faithful throw papers with messages to ask for her help.
5. Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Also known as the Holy Church Cathedral of Our Lady of Los Remedios, the Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a must-visit.
Dedicated to the Virgin of Los Remedios, patron saint of Tenerife, it houses the remains of Adelantado Alonso Fernández de Lugo. Its stone facade in Neoclassical style is inspired by the Cathedral of Pamplona and is the only cathedral in Spain built with concrete and polypropylene fibers.
The construction faced multiple problems, remaining closed for 12 years, resulting in three construction phases: the Neoclassical facade, the 20th-century Neo-Gothic body, and the dome completed in 2014.
The Cathedral can be visited for free during worship hours. However, to appreciate all its details, it is recommended to do so with the audio guide included in the ticket price, which you can book from this page.
Ticket Price:
- Adults: €6
- Over 65 years: €5
- Groups of more than 15 people: €3.50
- Young people from 13 to 18 years, university students up to 25 years, and unemployed: €4.50
- People with disabilities (≥33%): €4.50
- Free for residents of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, people with disabilities (>63%), and children under 13 years (without audio guide).
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
6. Church of La Concepción
We continue with the Main Parish of Our Lady of Concepción, simply known as the Church of La Concepción. It was established in 1511 by the Adelantado, being the first church on the island.
Located in Villa de Arriba, where the artisans resided, it contrasts with Villa de Abajo, where you find Plaza del Adelantado and the Cathedral of La Laguna, the center of political and religious power.
The most notable feature of this temple is its tower 28 meters high, built in the late 17th century, with a Tuscan-style bell tower similar to that of the Cathedral of Turin, Italy. Additionally, it houses the largest bell in the Canary archipelago.
It is worth entering to admire the interior, especially the baptismal font where the Guanches are believed to have been baptized. We also recommend climbing the bell tower to enjoy spectacular views of the city.
Ticket Price:
- €2
- Free for residents of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Includes access to the bell tower.
Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
7. Casa Salazar, one of the most beautiful palacettes to see in La Laguna
Strolling through the streets of La Laguna, you will notice the abundance of stately houses and palaces. One of the must-see buildings is the Casa Salazar, considered one of the best examples of Canary architecture combining Baroque, Neoclassical, and Mannerist elements.
Built in the 17th century by Cristóbal Salazar de Frías, first Count of Salazar, its stone facade features a family crest in marble and gargoyles.
Unfortunately, in 2006 it suffered a fire, leaving only the facade. However, it was restored and currently houses the episcopal seat of the Nivarian diocese. Inside, besides a charming patio, there is the Obispado Chapel, considered a jewel of modern religious art in the Canary Islands.
8. House of the General Captains or Casa Alvarado Bracamonte
The House of the General Captains, also known as Casa Alvarado Bracamonte, is another prominent mansion in La Laguna. Built in the first half of the 17th century, it was the residence of Diego de Alvarado-Bracamonte, Governor, Corregidor, and War Captain of La Palma and Tenerife, and home to six General Captains of the Canary Islands between 1705 and 1723.
Its exterior stands out for the intense yellow color of the facade and the use of red volcanic tuff stone in the doorway and corners. Inside, a spectacular Canarian-style patio with a wooden balcony and a central fountain will captivate you.
Currently, it houses the Tourism Office and several rooms for temporary exhibitions. Entrance is completely free.
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
9. La Laguna Market
If you enjoy exploring markets and observing the daily life of the locals, a visit to La Laguna Market is a must. Although it does not occupy a particularly photogenic building, it is a very lively commercial area with numerous stalls and possibly the best prices on the entire island.
You will find a wide variety of potatoes, Canarian mojo sauces, gofio, and tropical fruits. Additionally, it is an excellent place to buy souvenirs.
Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Monday and Sundays: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
10. Visit Casa Lercaro (Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife), a must-do in La Laguna
Continuing with the stately houses of La Laguna, Casa Lercaro is a must-visit. Like Casa de La Orotava, it belonged to the influential Lercaro family, of Genoese origin, during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Its facade will captivate you with an impressive portico and the family crest. The interior is a true gem, with a patio where wood predominates in the decoration.
However, before visiting, you should know a legend: Catalina Lercaro, a family daughter, not wanting to marry the man chosen for her, threw herself into the patio well. Since then, there are numerous testimonies claiming to have seen her wandering the corridors.
Since 1993, it has housed the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife, where you can learn about the island’s history from the 15th to the 20th centuries, as well as temporary exhibitions and events.
Ticket Price:
- Adults: €5 (€3 for residents in the Canary Islands)
- Students, retirees, over 65 years, large families, and groups of more than 8 people: €3.50 (€2 for residents in the Canary Islands)
- Children under 8 years, ICOM members, teachers, guides accompanied by groups, or schoolchildren from the Canary Islands: Free
- Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 PM until closing: Free
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sundays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
11. Royal Sanctuary of the Most Holy Christ
Located near the market, in Plaza del Cristo de La Laguna, the Royal Sanctuary of the Most Holy Christ is another place to see in the city. Although its exterior may seem modest, it houses one of the most revered images in Canary Islands: the Most Holy Christ of La Laguna. This 16th-century Gothic statue, made by Louis Van Der Vule, represents Jesus nailed to the cross and is considered a symbol of the city.
It is believed that the image arrived on the island in 1520 from Santiago de Barrameda, Cádiz, although some argue it was acquired by Adelantado Alonso Fernández de Lugo.
Ticket Price: Free
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sundays: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
12. Church and Former Convent of San Agustín
Thanks to the support of the Augustinian Order during the conquest, the Adelantado ceded this land to build the Church and Convent of San Agustín in the 16th century. Over the years, it has had multiple uses: educational center, first weather station, provincial library, social dining hall, and even a Falange prison during the Civil War.
Today, you can visit several exhibitions for free and enjoy one of the best Renaissance cloisters in the Canary Islands.
Ticket Price: Free
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
13. Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe
A few steps from the bell tower of the Church of La Concepción, we recommend including the Cayetano Gómez Felipe Museum House in your list of visits in La Laguna. It is an 18th-century traditional Canarian house, with a beautiful patio full of vegetation.
It was owned by Cayetano Gómez Felipe, a 20th-century collector who amassed the largest collection of antiques that reflect the art, daily life, and customs of the Canary archipelago. Here you can delve into the history of the islands and admire the mansion’s architecture.
Ticket Price:
- Adults: €5
- Canarian residents: €3
- Over 65 years and students: €3
- Children under 8 years: Free
Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sundays: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
14. Most beautiful streets to see in La Laguna
Although you may have already guessed, the best way to explore La Laguna is on foot. Much of the historic center is pedestrianized, making the walk very pleasant and comfortable.
In our opinion, the streets you must walk through are:
- Calle San Agustín: Here you will find the Church Hospital of Our Lady of Sorrows (currently the Municipal Library), Casa Salazar, Casa Lercaro, Casa Montañés, Casa Linares, and the Cristino de Vera Foundation-CajaCanarias Cultural Space, among other places.
- Calle Obispo Redondo (formerly La Carrera): Probably the most important of all, where you will find the Corregidor’s House, the House of the General Captains, Casa de La Alhóndiga, Casa Riquel, Casa de los Marqueses de Torrehermosa (now Hotel Aguere), and Teatro Leal.
15. Museum of Science and the Cosmos
If you plan to visit La Laguna with children or simply have a passion for science, we recommend the Museum of Science and the Cosmos. Although it is not in the center, it is easily accessible by car or bus.
This interactive museum is divided into several circuits: the Sun, the Human Body, “How It Works,” The Earth, The Universe, and the Microcosmos Children’s Room. In each, you will find projections and experiments. Additionally, it has a planetarium with numerous different projections.
Ticket Price:
- Adults: €5 (€3 for Canarian residents)
- Students, retirees, over 65 years, large families, and groups of more than 8 people: €3 (€2 for residents)
- Children under 8 years, ICOM members, teachers, guides accompanied by groups, or schoolchildren from the Canary Islands: Free
- Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 PM until closing: Free
- Planetarium Entry: €1
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sundays and holidays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Excursions to do in La Laguna
As one of the main cities on the island, there are numerous excursions you can undertake from La Laguna. With a rental car, you can easily tour the entire island thanks to the highway that almost surrounds all of Tenerife. If you prefer not to drive or wish to go with a guide, these are the best tour options from La Laguna:
- Hiking in Anaga Rural Park: Discover the impressive laurel forests with an expert guide who will take you through one of the park’s most interesting trails, providing you with all the details about the richness of the place.
- Tour of Masca and the northern viewpoints of Tenerife: On the way to the Masca ravine and its picturesque hamlet, you will enjoy the northern landscapes of the island from various viewpoints. Don’t miss the Rambla de Castro and Charco de La Laja.
- Tour of Isla Baja: Admire the most beautiful landscapes of northern Tenerife and visit two of the island’s most beautiful towns, Garachico and Icod de los Vinos.
- Private tour of Tenerife: Choose which part of the island you want to explore with your group and tour at your own pace with an expert guide. Includes transportation.
Don’t forget to check out this list of the best excursions in Tenerife to thoroughly explore the island.
Where to stay in La Laguna
Are you considering staying in La Laguna? It is an excellent option if you want to make the most of Tenerife’s cultural side. The city is located near the airport and has good bus connections with the rest of the island. Additionally, it offers a great cultural and gastronomic offer, as well as numerous bars, being the quintessential university town. In short, you will not lack opportunities to enjoy yourself.
One of the best places to stay in La Laguna is La Laguna Gran Hotel. Located in the center, in a stately house that was also the headquarters of the “Don Álvaro” Tobacco Factory, this modern hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, making your stay in Tenerife even more special. Although La Laguna’s microclimate maintains a cool temperature almost all year round, if you wish, you can relax in its beautiful rooftop pool, from which you can enjoy wonderful views of the city.
Another alternative is Il Sogno di Gio della Laguna, a cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms, some with views of a traditional courtyard. It is ideal for couples or families, as it also has a small apartment with a fully equipped kitchen.
If the above options are full or you are looking for different alternatives, we recommend visiting Booking.
For more details, you can read this article about where to stay in Tenerife.
How to get to La Laguna
If all of the above has interested you, you are probably wondering how to get to La Laguna. First, you need to find a flight to Tenerife, specifically to the Tenerife North Airport, as it is only 3 kilometers from the city center.
If you are already in Tenerife, the best way to get to La Laguna is by rental car, which will allow you to explore the island at your own pace. You can also hire a transfer to your hotel for greater convenience or take one of the buses (guaguas) that go to La Laguna. Being an important city, you will find connections from almost any point on the island. Check the schedules on the Titsa website.
For more information, you can check out this list of tips for traveling to Tenerife.
Map of places to visit in La Laguna
Plan your route through this wonderful city with this map of the best things to do in La Laguna that we have created:
We hope this list of must-see places in La Laguna has been helpful, but if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to write to us in the comments.
