Santa Cruz de Tenerife Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and what to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.


Introduction to Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital city of the Canary Islands, located on the northeastern coast of Tenerife, the largest of the seven Canary Islands. The city is known for its historical landmarks, cultural richness, and stunning natural sceneries. With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, warm climate, and friendly people, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a perfect destination for tourists from all over the world looking for a remarkable travel experience. Here is a comprehensive tour guide for Santa Cruz de Tenerife to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museo Nacional de Historia Natural de Tenerife
  2. Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Eduardo Westerdahl
  3. Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre
  4. Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion
  5. Parque Garcia Sanabria
  6. Palacio de Carta
  7. Palacio de la Capitanía General
  8. Castillo de San Juan Bautista

Natural Attractions of Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Anaga Rural Park
  2. Teide National Park
  3. Las Teresitas Beach
  4. Rambla de Santa Cruz
  5. Playa de las Gaviotas
  6. Mirador de Jardina
  7. Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

  1. Anaga Mountains Hiking Trail
  2. Teide Volcano Hiking Trail
  3. Las Raíces Forest Hiking Trail
  4. Orotava Valley Biking Trail

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the city’s theater and opera house.
  2. Visit Malpaís de Güimar Natural Monument.
  3. Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour.
  4. Spend the day at the Siam Park.
  5. Enjoy a stroll around the city center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Day 1
Morning: Visit the Anaga Rural Park
Afternoon: Walk around the city center and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 2
Morning: Visit the Teide National Park
Afternoon: Relax at the Playa de las Gaviotas
Day 3
Morning: Visit the Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park
Afternoon: Take a stroll in the Rambla de Santa Cruz
Day 4
Morning: Explore the city’s theater and opera house
Afternoon: Visit the Palacio de la Capitanía General
Day 5
Morning: Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Eduardo Westerdahl
Afternoon: Relax at Las Teresitas Beach
Day 6
Morning: Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour
Afternoon: Spend the day at the Siam Park
Day 7
Morning: Visit Malpaís de Güimar Natural Monument
Afternoon: Go souvenir shopping at the local shops

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes)
  2. Mojo rojo (red sauce)
  3. Almogrote (cheese spread)
  4. Gofio (toasted grain)
  5. Escaldón de gofio (mashed gofio)
  6. Ropa vieja (stewed meat)

Local Beverages

  1. Ron miel (honey rum)
  2. Cerveza Dorada (local beer)
  3. Barraquito (coffee drink)
  4. Horchata de Trigo (wheat-based drink)

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz
  2. Hotel Adonis Capital
  3. Hotel Taburiente S.C Tenerife
  4. Hotel Nautico
  5. Adán Hostel

What to Buy in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Pottery and ceramics
  2. Guanche aboriginal art
  3. Aloe vera products
  4. Mojo sauce in a jar
  5. Gofio flour
  6. Ron miel (honey rum)

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The locals in Santa Cruz de Tenerife are friendly and welcoming to visitors. They take pride in their traditions and are known for their vibrant carnivals. The city boasts a diverse cultural heritage, which is evident in the art, music, and cuisine. It is recommended to dress conservatively when visiting religious places and to take care of the natural environment.

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The best time to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife is from October to May when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is pleasant. The summertime can be hot and busy with many tourists visiting the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately when visiting religious places.
  2. Respect the locals and their culture.
  3. Try the local cuisine. 4.Visit the markets for a unique shopping experience.

Don’t:

  1. Litter the beaches and parks.
  2. Interrupt or mock carnival traditions.
  3. Touch or disturb the wildlife.
  4. Ignore safety warnings while hiking or swimming.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a relatively safe city for tourists. But it is advisable to take care of your belongings and avoid deserted areas at night.

Health in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The standard of medical care in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is high, and there are several hospitals and clinics for visitors to choose from. It is recommended to have insurance and to carry any necessary medication.

Getting to Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santa Cruz de Tenerife

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

Bus Stations Near Santa Cruz de Tenerife

  1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Coach Terminal
  2. Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Other Options

  1. Taxis
  2. Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The best way to get around Santa Cruz de Tenerife is by walking or using public transportation. There are several bus lines that connect different parts of the city, and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. La Laguna
  2. Puerto de la Cruz
  3. Masca

Conclusion

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a fantastic travel destination with a lot to offer visitors. From natural beauty to historical landmarks, cultural richness, and delicious cuisine, the city has something for every type of traveler. Plan your trip carefully and explore the best of this vibrant city.