If you are planning a visit to Puerto de la Cruz, one of the most iconic destinations in Tenerife, you have come to the right place. Here we provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your stay and explore the most outstanding places of this beautiful city.
Located in the heart of the Valle de la Orotava, with the imposing Teide as its guardian, Puerto de la Cruz has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once known as Puerto de La Orotava, this humble fishing village has become one of the main tourist hubs of Tenerife and is considered the cradle of tourism both on the island and in the Canary Islands. The arrival of foreign visitors attracted by the Canarian “eternal spring” initiated its development, positioning Puerto de la Cruz as one of the most comfortable and pleasant cities to explore Tenerife.
Wondering how much time to spend in Puerto de la Cruz? Generally, one day is sufficient to visit the main attractions of the city, unless you want to extensively enjoy its beaches. However, Puerto de la Cruz is an excellent base to explore the north of Tenerife and take excursions to emblematic places like Teide, Masca, or Los Gigantes. Therefore, you might consider a one-week stay to enjoy a variety of activities without repeating plans.
Based on our experience exploring the Canary Islands, we have selected the best places to visit in Puerto de la Cruz. Below, we present a detailed guide with useful tips and a map so you don’t miss any of these wonderful places. Let’s get started!
1. Lago Martiánez: A Must-Visit in Puerto de la Cruz
Dive into the waters of Lago Martiánez, a leisure complex of approximately 100,000 square meters designed by the renowned Lanzarotean artist César Manrique. This emblematic place is located by the sea, in the Llanos de los Martiánez, the same site that was the first bathing spot for tourists who arrived at the end of the 19th century.
The main attraction is an artificial lake of nearly 33,000 square meters, fed with seawater, featuring interior islands and an impressive emerald color. It also houses original sculptures such as “Los Alisios” and “La Jibia,” which enrich the landscape. Even if you don’t feel like swimming, it is worth visiting this space declared a Cultural Heritage Site. For those looking to relax, the complex also has several bar and restaurant areas.
- Entrance fee: €5.50 for adults (includes sunbed use), €2.50 for children under 10 years old. Discounts are available for residents of Puerto de la Cruz and passes for multiple visits.
- Opening hours: From July 1st to September 30th from 10 AM to 7 PM and the rest of the year from 10 AM to 6 PM.
2. Botanical Garden of Puerto de la Cruz
Also known as the Acclimatization Garden of La Orotava or simply El Botánico, this historic garden was created in the 18th century by order of King Carlos III of Spain. Its initial purpose was to acclimate exotic plants brought from Spanish colonies before relocating them to Madrid and Aranjuez. Currently, it is the second oldest botanical garden in Spain and the oldest in the Canary Islands, covering about two hectares with a wide variety of tree species, highlighting the majestic Lord Howe Ficus.
- Entrance fee: €3 for adults, €2 for residents and students, free entry for children under 14 years old.
- Opening hours: Every day from 9 AM to 6 PM, except January 1st, Good Friday, and December 25th.
The Botanical Garden is a perfect place for nature and botany lovers, but it is also ideal for those seeking a quiet and beautiful space to stroll and relax.
3. Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France
Immerse yourself in the historic center of Puerto de la Cruz and don’t miss the Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France, home to the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Built on an old hermitage in 1684, the church has been modified and expanded over the years, including the addition of the tower in 1898.
Inside, you can admire a spectacular Retablo of the Great Power of God, with canvases by the local painter Luis de la Cruz y Ríos, and an 18th-century Baroque-style Main Retablo. Visiting this church is free, making it a must-stop for those who want to learn about the history and religious architecture of Puerto de la Cruz.
The best way to visit Puerto de la Cruz is to start with this free tour. Thanks to it, you will gain a wealth of historical data and curiosities about the city and leave with the feeling that you have made the most of your time. Afterwards, you can take a leisurely walk through all the corners mentioned in the post.
4. La Paz Viewpoint: Spectacular Views of Puerto de la Cruz
Begin your tour of Puerto de la Cruz from the La Paz Viewpoint, located in Agatha Christie Square. This viewpoint is situated on the Martiánez cliffs, offering panoramic views of Lago Martiánez, the nearby beach, and the sea. On clear days, you can even spot the island of La Palma.
Agatha Christie Square is a lively place, surrounded by bars and restaurants, and is the starting point of the La Costa Trail, which will take you to some of the best beaches in Tenerife, such as El Bollullo, Los Patos, and El Ancón. This viewpoint is ideal for enjoying a quiet morning or watching the sunset.
5. San Telmo Beach and the Hermitage of San Telmo
Continuing your walk along Avenida de Cristóbal Colón and Paseo de San Telmo, you will reach the Hermitage of San Telmo, a small and simple religious temple built in 1780. This one-story rectangular-shaped building is painted in immaculate white, interrupted only by two basalto masonry porticos.
Inside the hermitage, you will find a beautiful wooden coffered ceiling with double beams carved with geometric motifs, as well as a 17th-century retablo featuring the image of San Telmo, the patron saint of sailors. Admission is free, and it is a perfect place to appreciate the city’s religious architecture.
The hermitage is located in the homonymous square, from where you can enjoy a complete panoramic view of San Telmo Beach. This beach consists of a small strip of sand and a succession of pools perfect for swimming during low tide. It is recommended to bring snorkeling fins and goggles to explore the local marine life, where you can observe various species of fish and crabs.
6. Jardín Beach: One of the Best in Tenerife
Undoubtedly, one of the main attractions of Puerto de la Cruz is Jardín Beach, considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife. This group of three black sand beaches is connected by a charming seafront promenade designed by César Manrique, decorated with native plant species, benches to enjoy the scenery, and playgrounds.
The beaches that make up Jardín Beach are Castillo Beach, Charcón Beach, and Punta Brava Beach. All of them have breakwaters that calm the waves, making the sea ideal for swimming. Additionally, access is easy, and the beach offers all necessary services, including restrooms, lifeguards, and sunbeds.
The orientation of Jardín Beach makes it a perfect place to enjoy the sunset. On clear days, you can also admire Teide from the beach, adding a magical touch to the experience.
7. Charco Square and the Historic Center of Puerto de la Cruz
Although we have already mentioned some places within the historic center, you cannot miss thoroughly exploring Charco Square, the nerve center of Puerto de la Cruz. Start your tour at the Puerto de la Cruz Pier, a 16th-century structure that played a crucial role in the city’s commercial prosperity, especially in the banana and wine trade.
The pier consists of two arms and a breakwater that protects the fishermen’s boats and the city streets. It is a popular place for swimming, with a small sandy cove and lively promenades. Here you can also admire the old Customs House, a building with typical Canarian architecture that houses the Contemporary Art Museum, a tourism office, and souvenir and craft shops.
From the pier, walk towards Charco Square, where you will find a wide variety of bars and restaurants, such as the Compostelana Club Café, which replaced the emblematic Bar Dinámico. The square is adorned with Canarian palm trees and laurels from India, brought from Cuba in 1852, and in its center is a spectacular fountain with a beloved ñamera (colocasia esculenta). Charco Square is the main stage for events such as the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the Mueca Festival, and Carnival.
Next, we recommend strolling through the picturesque Quintana Street, where you can visit the Church of San Francisco and Victor Pérez Square before returning to the aforementioned Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France. For a more enriching experience, consider joining a free tour that will provide you with historical data and curiosities about the city.
If you plan to visit Puerto de la Cruz by car, we suggest parking at the Pier Esplanade, a large free parking lot close to the center, conveniently marked on our Puerto de la Cruz map at the end of the post.
8. Taoro Park: A Natural Space to Relax
If you have additional time during your visit to Puerto de la Cruz, you cannot miss visiting Taoro Park. Located on the homonymous mountain, this space of approximately 100,000 square meters offers gardens, promenades, fountains, waterfalls, playgrounds, and a terrace perfect for resting in a natural environment.
One of the park’s highlights is the Dulce María Loynaz Viewpoint, located in the La Atalaya Gardens, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Puerto de la Cruz. Entrance to Taoro Park is free, making it an excellent option for families and nature lovers looking for a quiet place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
9. Martiánez Beach: Adventure and Natural Beauty
Located next to Lago Martiánez and surrounded by imposing cliffs up to 50 meters high, Martiánez Beach is a paradise for surfing enthusiasts due to its rough sea. With approximately 300 meters of black sand and rocky areas, this beach offers an impressive panoramic view and is an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts.
On calm sea days, the beach is perfect for swimming, although it is always recommended to wear snorkeling fins and stay alert to currents. Additionally, in the surrounding area, you will find several surf schools where you can learn or improve your skills in this exciting sport.
10. San Felipe Castle: Unique History and Panoramic Views
Another interesting stop on your visit to Puerto de la Cruz is San Felipe Castle, located at the mouth of the San Felipe Ravine, next to Jardín Beach. This castle, whose construction began in 1604, was built to defend the city from corsair attacks. Thanks to the renovations carried out over the years, the building is well-preserved and has served as a warehouse, infirmary, shooting club, restaurant, and cultural center.
Currently, San Felipe Castle hosts cultural events and art exhibitions, although it often remains closed to the public. However, its architecture and the panoramic view it offers of Jardín Beach and Teide make it worth visiting, even if only to admire it from the outside.
11. San Amaro Hermitage: A Journey into Religious Past
Located next to the La Paz Viewpoint, the San Amaro Hermitage is the oldest religious building in Puerto de la Cruz, built in 1591. Despite its simplicity and modest size, this hermitage was one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Valle de la Orotava, attracting numerous people from all over the island to celebrate the feasts of San Amaro every January 15th.
If you have the opportunity to visit it during one of these festivities, don’t miss it. Inside the hermitage, you can appreciate the image of San Amaro, a carving of Our Lady of Peace, and several 18th-century Mexican paintings that reflect the devotion and religious art of the time.
12. La Ranilla Neighborhood: Street Art and Local Culture
To end your tour of Puerto de la Cruz, we recommend exploring the colorful neighborhood of La Ranilla, an old fishing district that has been reborn thanks to the street art adorning its streets. Known as Puerto Street Art, this artistic initiative has transformed La Ranilla into a vibrant cultural space where you will find numerous craft shops, restaurants, and bars.
Stroll through the streets decorated with nearly 20 graffiti works by 17 different artists, starting at the intersection of Mequinez Street with Pérez Zamora, where the most well-known works are located. Use this map to guide you and discover every corner filled with creativity and artistic expression.
Excursions to Do in Puerto de la Cruz
Another strong reason to visit Puerto de la Cruz is that it is an ideal point on the island to take some of the best Tenerife excursions at a good price. Here are the most recommended ones:
- Explore Teide: From Puerto de la Cruz, one of the roads leads to Teide National Park, and therefore, there are many excursions such as this one, which includes entry to the cable car; this one, which takes you hiking to Pico del Teide (with the permit included); this one, which does not go up the cable car but includes Masca, Garachico, and Icod de los Vinos; or this astronomical tour of Teide. You can find more information about this part of the island in our post How to Climb Teide.
- Masca and Los Gigantes: This part of the southern island will surprise you with its brutal cliff landscapes and the Canarian village that many have dubbed the Canary Machu Picchu. To go comfortably from Puerto de la Cruz, we recommend this excursion to Masca and Los Gigantes (without hiking), this jeep safari through Masca, Icod de los Vinos, and Garachico, or this tour through Masca and the northern Tenerife viewpoints.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna, and Taganana: Explore with a guide and included transportation two of the island’s most important cities and the traditional village of Taganana, in the heart of the Anaga Massif. Book it through this link.
- La Gomera: Many travelers decide to visit the neighboring island on an excursion from Tenerife, as it is only 45 minutes from the port of Los Cristianos. If you want to worry about nothing, hire this excursion or this other one, which includes a 4×4 tour.
- Whale Watching: The channel separating La Gomera and Tenerife is one of Europe’s areas with the highest concentration of cetaceans. You can sign up for an excursion like this one, which will take you on a spacious schooner to see them in the Los Gigantes area.
- Gastronomy and Wine Tasting: Food and drink are an essential part of any trip, so signing up for this guachinches tour (the typical restaurants of northern Tenerife) or this wine tour through La Orotava promises guaranteed enjoyment.
If you prefer to explore on your own, from Puerto de la Cruz you can also visit nearby places like La Orotava, Icod de los Vinos, Garachico, La Laguna, or Santa Cruz de Tenerife. From our perspective, the best way to move around the island and not lose so much time with the buses (known here as guaguas) is with a rental car.
Where to Stay in Puerto de la Cruz
As one of Tenerife’s tourist hubs, you have plenty of options to stay in Puerto de la Cruz. You can choose between modest hostels and all-inclusive resorts, depending on your budget and the type of trip you plan to take. Additionally, due to its location, with many places to visit such as La Orotava, Garachico, or La Laguna just a few kilometers away, as well as excursions, we believe that Puerto de la Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife.
- Hotel Botánico y Oriental Spa Garden: possibly the best hotel in Puerto de la Cruz, located next to the Botanical Garden with spectacular green spaces that will convey the peace and rest you need. It features 3 pools and a spa with unlimited access, in addition to spacious rooms, some with views of Teide.
- Hotel Tigaiga: similar to the previous one but somewhat more affordable, located in the Taoro Park area. Ideal if you are visiting Puerto de la Cruz with family.
- Hotel Puerto Palace: unbeatable quality-price ratio, with 4 pools, including a children’s pool, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the island.
- Apartamentos Los Dragos del Norte: a good place to stay in Puerto de la Cruz cheaply, with the possibility to prepare simple breakfasts or meals and save money. It is perfect if you are planning to rent a car.
If the above are fully booked or do not suit you, there are many more alternatives on Booking, which is the accommodation platform we use on all our trips.
How to Get to Puerto de la Cruz
To get to Puerto de la Cruz and enjoy all the mentioned places, you should find a flight to Tenerife, with the closest one to the city being Tenerife North, specifically 28 kilometers from the center. Low-cost airlines like Ryanair or Vueling land there, so you can get very good prices by booking in advance.
Once in Tenerife, the best way to reach Puerto de la Cruz is by rental car, as you can then maximize your time on the island without having to depend on the buses (known here as guaguas). You can pick it up either at the airport or at the port.
If you don’t feel like or don’t want to drive, you can hire a transfer from the airport or take the bus on lines 30 and 343, which go to Puerto de la Cruz from the airport. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.
You can find much more information about transportation on the island and much more in this list of tips for traveling to Tenerife.
Map of Places to See in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife
Discover the location of all the mentioned corners on this Puerto de la Cruz map we have created:
Ready to visit Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife? If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments.
