San Cristóbal de La Laguna Travel Guide

Plan your trip to San Cristóbal de La Laguna with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations and excursions.


San Cristóbal de La Laguna, commonly known as La Laguna, is a charming town located in the northern part of Tenerife, the largest and most populated of the Canary Islands. Despite being the former capital of Tenerife, it is relatively less known compared to other parts of the island. But, once you visit, you’ll realize that it’s the gem of Tenerife that you shouldn’t miss out on. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

Introduction to San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Founded in the late 15th century, San Cristóbal de La Laguna is steeped in history and culture. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural heritage. You’ll find cobbled streets, grand mansions, and colorful buildings adorned with wooden balconies, all of which add to the town’s charm. The town is also home to the University of La Laguna, making it a vibrant and dynamic center of education and culture.

List of Places to Visit in San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna has something for everyone, from museums and historical places to natural attractions and scenic views. Here’s a list of all the places you can’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna
  2. Casa del Corregidor
  3. Palacio de Nava
  4. Casa Lercaro
  5. Museum of Science and the Cosmos
  6. Museum of Anthropology of Tenerife
  7. Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife

Natural Attractions of San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Anaga Rural Park
  2. Jardines del Rey
  3. Las Mercedes Forest
  4. Cruz del Carmen
  5. Mirador de las Teresitas
  6. Playa de las Teresitas

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is surrounded by natural parks, making it an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  1. The Trail of Senses
  2. The Mercedes to Anaga route
  3. The Barranco del Agua Route
  4. The Coastal Pathway
  5. La Caldera Loop

Best Things to Do in San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Activities and Tours

San Cristóbal de La Laguna offers plenty of activities for tourists to make memorable experiences. Here are some of the best things to do:

  1. Go on a walking tour of the old town
  2. Visit the flea market (Rastro) on a Sunday morning
  3. Learn about local traditions and crafts in the rural park of Anaga
  4. Visit the archaeological site of San Cristóbal de La Laguna
  5. Experience stargazing at the Teide Observatory

Week-Long Itinerary for San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Here’s an itinerary to make the most of a weeklong trip to San Cristóbal de La Laguna:

Day 1: Arrive, settle in and explore the old town. Day 2: Visit the Cathedral and Museums in the morning, and then take the Trail of Senses in the afternoon. Day 3: Hike through the Anaga Rural Park in the morning and relax at the Playa de las Teresitas in the afternoon. Day 4: Take a bicycle tour of the wine region of the Tacoronte Valley. Day 5: Go for the Barranco del Agua Route in the morning and enjoy a cultural evening hosted by the music association of La Laguna in the evening. Day 6: Take an excursion to the Teide Observatory and then explore the Museum of Science and the Cosmos Day 7: Take the La Caldera Loop and then enjoy a wine tasting in La Laguna’s historical town center.

Food and Drink Scene of San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna has a vibrant culinary scene, featuring local dishes and drinks that will leave you wanting more. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Potaje de Berros
  2. Conejo en salmorejo
  3. Garbanzas
  4. Papas Arrugadas

Local Beverages

  1. Wine from the Tacoronte-Acentejo Denomination of Origin
  2. Tenerife beer
  3. Barraquito

Where to Stay in San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Cristóbal de La Laguna offers diverse accommodations that cater to all types of tourists. Here are some of the best:

  1. MC San Agustín Hotel
  2. La Asomada del Gato
  3. La Laguna Gran Hotel
  4. NH Tenerife
  5. La Luisiana

What to Buy in San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The town is known for its traditional crafts, local wines, and sweet treats. Here are some local products to bring home:

  1. Tenerife wine
  2. Local cheese
  3. Guayaba liqueur
  4. Traditional pottery and ceramics
  5. Almond sweet treats

Local Culture and Customs of San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a melting pot of local traditions and customs. Respect for the religious and cultural diversity of this town is highly appreciated.

Best Time to Visit San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna has a mild climate all year round, making it an excellent destination to visit any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is between March and May and October and December when the temperatures are more pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Do:

  1. Respect the religious and cultural customs of the town
  2. Try the local food and drinks
  3. Learn about the history and traditions of San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public spaces
  2. Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites
  3. Show up late to appointments

Safety and Health

Safety in San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is relatively safe, but tourists should still be cautious of pickpockets and petty thefts. It’s always good to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when exploring a new town.

Health in San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna has good health facilities for tourists. The nearest hospital is the University Hospital of the Canary Islands. Tourists should make sure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near San Cristóbal de La Laguna

  1. Tenerife North Airport (TFN)
  2. Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

Bus Stations Near San Cristóbal de La Laguna

  1. La Laguna Bus Station
  2. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Intercambiador

Other Options

  1. Car Rental Companies
  2. Taxis and Private Transfers

How to Get Around in San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a walkable town, and visitors can explore most of the sites on foot. However, there are also several options for public transportation such as buses and taxis to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is an excellent base to explore the rest of Tenerife’s attractions. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth a visit:

  1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife
  2. Anaga Rural Park
  3. Teide National Park
  4. La Orotava
  5. Garachico

Conclusion

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a charming town filled with a rich history, culture, and diverse attractions worth exploring. With this travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this little piece of paradise in Tenerife.

Colonial Spanish architecture in the streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Colonial Spanish architecture in the streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Tram connecting San Cristóbal de La Laguna with Santa Cruz de Tenerife Tram connecting San Cristóbal de La Laguna with Santa Cruz de Tenerife ''Plaza del Adelantado'' in the pedestrian zone. ''Plaza del Adelantado'' in the pedestrian zone. Interior of the San Cristóbal de La Laguna#Q34562 Interior of the San Cristóbal de La Laguna#Q34562 ''Casa Salazar'' ''Casa Salazar'' Courtyard of the former convent of San Agustín, now the arts school IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto Courtyard of the former convent of San Agustín, now the arts school IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto Facade of the Leal theatre in eclectic style. Facade of the Leal theatre in eclectic style. Mercado Municipal Mercado Municipal