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If you have done the things to do in Spain, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Nestled beside the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Santa Cruz de Tenerife beckons with its rugged volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and lively atmosphere.
From wandering the vibrant streets of the historic downtown to immersing yourself in the island’s lush natural beauty, there’s an endless array of adventurous and cultural delights awaiting you in this enchanting Spanish destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
1. Playa de las Teresitas
Playa de las Teresitas is a stunning man-made beach located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax on the golden sand beach, swim in the crystal clear turquoise waters, and enjoy water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss taking a walk along the promenade lined with palm trees, and visiting the nearby San Andres village for a taste of the local Canarian cuisine.
Insider Travel Tips: – Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
2. Teide National Park
Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
Towering over the surrounding landscape is Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in Spain, reaching over 12,000 feet.
What to see or do: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic rock formations to lush forests and colourful flora. Take the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide for panoramic views of the island and surrounding seascape.
Hike the park’s many trails, with options for all skill levels. Stargaze at night – the park’s high altitude and clear skies make it an excellent spot for astronomy.
Don’t miss: Catch a glimpse of rare and interesting wildlife, such as the endemic blue chaffinch and Tenerife lizard. Admire the Roques de García, a stunning collection of rock formations shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Visit the Parador Nacional de Las Cañadas del Teide, a hotel perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, for a unique and unforgettable stay.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning or during the off-season. Dress in layers – the park’s temperature varies significantly depending on altitude and time of day.
Book your cable-car tickets in advance to avoid long lines. And don’t forget to bring water and snacks – the park’s amenities are limited.
3. Auditorio de Tenerife
Iconic concert hall in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
What to see or do: Attend a concert or event at this architectural masterpiece designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. Explore the surrounding area and the nearby Parque Marítimo César Manrique.
Don’t miss: Admire the stunning exterior of the building that resembles a giant wave or a ship.
Insider travel tips: Book tickets in advance as this venue is popular among locals and tourists alike. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the building.
4. Plaza de España
Plaza de España is a bustling square located in the center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife island.
What to see or do: The Plaza is home to numerous landmarks and attractions, including the stunning 19th century Palacio de Carta, the striking bronze fountain of the Four Mares, and a beautiful lake with a massive sculpture of Tenerife’s famous volcano, Mount Teide.
There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops surrounding the square, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll and soaking up the local atmosphere.
Don’t miss: A boat ride on the tranquil lake is a must-do when in Plaza de España.
Designed with romantic bridges and lush vegetation, the gardens around the lake are a wonderful place to relax and take in the view.
You can also rent a paddle boat or have a picnic on the grassy area around the lake.
Insider travel tips: Visit the area in the evening when the square is beautifully lit and the fountain is lit up with colorful LED lights.
If you have a sweet tooth, try the delicious churros from one of the local vendors around the plaza. Also, keep an eye out for the street performers who add extra excitement, color, and vibrancy to this charming plaza.
5. Palmetum of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
A botanical garden with a vast collection of palm trees from all around the world.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and admire the diverse collection of palm trees. The garden is designed to showcase palm trees in different environments, such as arid desert regions and tropical rainforests.
Don’t miss: The centerpiece of the gardens is the stunning lake with a small island in the center. Take a walk along the wooden walkway around the lake and stop to take in the tranquil views.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
6. Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is a vibrant market located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. It is also known as Mercado de África or Merca Tenerife.
What to see or do: Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of local and exotic foods, fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, flowers, and crafts at the market.
It is a great place to immerse oneself in the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the famous cheese stand, which offers a variety of Canarian cheeses.
You should also try the local favorite, papas arrugadas, which are small, salted, wrinkled potatoes typically served with a spicy red or green sauce called mojos.
Insider travel tips: Weekday mornings tend to be the best time to visit the market, as it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
Don’t forget to bring some cash, as some vendors do not accept credit cards. Additionally, haggling is common at the market, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices to get a good deal.
7. Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre
A natural history museum located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore a wide collection of natural history and archeological artifacts, including exhibits on wildlife, geology, and human evolution. The museum also houses an extensive library and hosts temporary exhibitions.
Don’t miss: The Guanche mummies, the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of the Canary Islands who were mummified as a means of honoring the dead. Additionally, don’t miss the life-sized reconstruction of a Megalodon shark, the largest predator in history.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s schedule for special events, such as movie screenings, workshops, and guided tours. Plan your visit during the week to avoid large crowds on the weekends.
And, don’t forget to check out the museum’s rooftop garden for beautiful views of the city.
8. Parque García Sanabria
A stunning urban park located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the park’s winding paths, admire the many sculptures and fountains, and marvel at the colorful flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The beautiful greenhouse, which houses a variety of exotic plants, and the impressive dragon tree, a local icon that is over 200 years old.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park in the late afternoon or early evening to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and catch a beautiful sunset.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the park’s natural beauty, and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
9. Iglesia de la Concepción
A stunning church located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
What to see or do: Marvel at the beautiful colonial architecture and intricate details of the church’s exterior and interior. Attend a mass or religious ceremony to experience the spiritual side of this historic landmark.
Don’t miss: The church’s bell tower, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. Take a moment to admire the intricate carvings and artwork found throughout the church.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit on a Sunday morning to experience a traditional mass and see the church come alive with singing and worship.
Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the church, as it is a place of religious significance.
10. Casa de los Cáceres
Casa de los Cáceres is a historic house located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife Island in Spain.
What to see or do: Visit the beautifully restored house and admire its impressive architecture, which is a blend of Neo-Gothic and Modernist styles.
Explore the various rooms, which are furnished with charming antiques and vintage objects, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy families who lived here.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodcarvings, and ornate ceilings, which are the highlights of this historical house. Also, take a stroll around the lovely gardens, which offer scenic views of the city and harbor.
Insider travel tips: – The house is open for guided tours only, so make sure to book in advance.
11. Plaza del Príncipe
A historic square in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the Canary Islands.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the tree-lined plaza and admire the gorgeous architecture of the surrounding buildings. Visit the Iglesia de la Concepcion, a stunning 17th-century church that overlooks the square.
Grab a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the plaza.
Don’t miss: The stunning statue of the legendary Guanche warrior, Mencey Bencomo, located in the center of the square. This iconic landmark honors the indigenous people of the Canary Islands.
Insider travel tips: Head to the square early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Visit during the annual Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, one of the largest and most spectacular carnivals in the world.
12. Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a major art museum dedicated to showcasing the work of Canarian artists.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a range of permanent and temporary exhibits, featuring a variety of artistic styles from traditional to contemporary.
The museum has a particularly strong collection of 20th-century Spanish art, including works by famous names like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive pieces in the collection is the 1948 painting “The Wrestler” by surrealist painter Óscar Domínguez. Other highlights include the stunning sculptures of Martín Chirino, one of the leading artists of the Canary Islands.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and admission is free on Sundays.
Make sure to take some time to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum, which offer fantastic views of the city.
Also, don’t forget to try some of the traditional Canarian cuisine at the nearby restaurants and cafes.
13. Juzgados de Tenerife
The Juzgados de Tenerife is a courthouse complex located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the Canary Island of Tenerife.
It is where various legal proceedings take place, including criminal and civil cases.
What to see or do: There is not much to see or do for visitors as the courthouse is a working facility. However, the building itself is an impressive piece of architecture that can be admired from the outside.
Don’t miss: There are no specific attractions to see or activities to do within the courtyard of the Juzgados de Tenerife complex.
Insider travel tips: Unless you are involved in legal proceedings, there is no need to visit the Juzgados de Tenerife.
If you happen to be passing by the area, take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of the building from the outside.
14. Maritime Park Cesar Manrique
Maritime Park Cesar Manrique is a beautiful park located in the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in Spain’s Canary Islands.
Designed by the renowned artist and architect Cesar Manrique, the park is dedicated to the sea and features an impressive collection of sculptures and fountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the park’s many attractions, including a large seawater lake, a waterfall, and a replica of an old fishing village.
The park also includes several restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the local culture.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the park’s most iconic attraction, a massive monument called “Fecundidad” that stands atop a towering rock formation.
Guests can climb to the top of the monument for stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: The park can get very busy during the peak tourist season, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen as there is very little shade in the park.
A museum dedicated to the history of cartography and navigation, featuring antique maps, globes, and nautical instruments.
What to see or do: Explore the fascinating collection of maps and instruments, including a rare first edition of the famous Ptolemy’s Geographia. Learn about the evolution of navigation techniques throughout history, from ancient times to the present day.
Don’t miss: The replica of the HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s flagship during the Battle of Trafalgar. Visitors can climb aboard and experience what life was like on board a British naval vessel during the Napoleonic Wars.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum to fully appreciate the exhibits.
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