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Edible goods and gourmet treats created by artisans can also be found here, so you can snack while shopping. That said, the Flea also organizes Smorgasburg, a food market in Williamsburg that’s accessible every Saturday from April to October. As for the Brooklyn Flea, it’s open every weekend (April – December) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additionally, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the island’s capital city, so you shouldn`t worry if you`ll be here without a vehicle. Some of the best excursions in Tenerife depart from here, so you can experience the entire island without having to drive yourself.
As soon as we arrived, we participated in this complimentary tour, which I recommend if you want to rapidly become familiar with the city before self-guiding exploration. Once you’re prepared to explore, here is a list of the 15 top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Table of Contents
1. Adán Martín Tenerife Auditorium, a popular attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Also known as the Tenerife Auditorium, this is one of the top spots to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The modern construction is one of the most iconic structures in Tenerife and all the Canary Islands.
Its avant-garde architecture makes it one of my favorite attractions located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Designed by the renowned (and controversial) architect Santiago Calatrava, the auditorium’s suggestive structure is instantly recognizable and one of the main points of interest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
This performance hall serves as home base for the prestigious Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and hosts musical events like Tenerife Dance, Atlantic Jazz, World Music, and Great Interpreters. You can browse the event listing to see if anything appealing matches up with your visit.
2. Palmetum, another place to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Exploring the Palmetum is among the most rewarding experiences in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It houses the most pristine collection of palm trees across Europe, and potentially worldwide. It is unbelievable that this 30-acre botanical garden originated as a waste dump site, particularly considering this distinctive place is one of the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The laurel forests are the primary attractions of Anaga Rural Park, but there are some stunning Tenerife beaches here too. If you want to swim in the Atlantic Ocean after your hike, or you’d simply like to see the cliffside beaches, I’ll tell you which ones are the best.
3. Castle of San Cristóbal, one of the places of interest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The San Cristóbal Interpretation Center is an engaging historical attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife where visitors can explore. Here, remnants of the fortified wall remain and insightful exhibits shine light on the defensive mechanisms once utilized on the island. Moreover, entrance is gratis.
Upon entry, the legendary bronze cannon, El Tigre, comes into view. This 18th-century armament measures nearly 10 feet in length and weighs over 4,000 lbs. Lore dictates that it was the very one that wounded the renowned English Admiral, Horacio Nelson during his attempted invasion of the city in 1797.
Nelson lost his arm after one of El Tigre’s musket balls struck him, which is why this cannon and castle remain an important attraction.
4. Our Lady of Africa Market, the best place to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
If visiting a traditional marketplace is to your liking, going to Our Lady of Africa Market is one of the finest things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. More popularly known as La Recova, this Neo-Colonial style bazaar was named one of the Top 10 markets globally by theThe Guardian newspaper.
The building itself is beautiful and surrounded by flowers and statues. However, what makes it one of the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
Furthermore, the marketplace acts as a symbol of resistance since it nearly closed in the 1980s and 1990s when supermarkets and mass-produced junk food were introduced to the island. While several merchants left their stalls, many others resisted and formed a cooperative. In this manner, they sustained the marketplace and boosted its popularity.
In 2018, Our Lady of Africa received a gold medal from the Government of the Canary Islands, solidifying its reputation as a Santa Cruz de Tenerife tourist site. If you come here during one of the tasting nights, I’m certain this marketplace will become one of your favorite places in the city.
5. Playa de Las Teresitas, one of the best beaches in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
It is constantly 84° within this major NY indoor water park, yet nearby, you can find the Northwoods pool and hot springs, which stay heated and open all year round. Also, if you head over to Greek Peak Mountain Resort, you can participate in other activities for example skiing, snow tubing, mountain biking, and ziplining .
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Playa de las Teresitas is one of the top rated beaches in Tenerife according to travelers, so exploring it during your trip to Santa Cruz de Tenerife is highly recommended. It’s located in the town of San Andrés, roughly 4 miles from the city center.
Curiously, this is one of the few beaches with white sand found in northern Tenerife. Originally, the beach was characterized by black sand, volcanic rocks, and strong waves that made swimming difficult. In the 1970s, the City Council installed a large breakwater and white sand from the old Spanish Sahara.
Therefore, Playa de Las Teresitas is among the beaches in Santa Cruz de Tenerife that are considered the best. It’s particularly popular with families accompanying young children, so you can’t miss it if you’re visiting with kids. Some of the facilities available include showers, toilets, changing rooms, accessible walkways, boat rentals, umbrellas, and hammocks.
6. Visit Anaga Rural Park, the best thing to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
One of the highest rated sights near Santa Cruz de Tenerife is Anaga Rural Park. Requiring just a brief trip from the city, it boasts one of the most magnificent laurel woodlands in the Canary Islands across an expansive area of over 37,000 acres, presenting a natural fairy tale environment.
If you’re uncertain what to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, I strongly recommend adding this park to your plans. This location fascinated us, as I discussed in our guide to Anaga Rural Park. There are multiple walking routes here, although the Trail of the Senses is one of the most popular hikes in Tenerife.
I would also advocate taking the “Enchanted Forest” route, which our group traversed using this guided excursion
7. Plaza de España, another cool thing to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Another fantastic location to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is Plaza de España, the largest square in the city. It was constructed in 1929 at the Castle de San Cristóbal, while it underwent renovations later on to add an ocean water lake and pavilions.
The focal point of the square is the Memorial to the Fallen, a cross-like tower with an observational deck at its peak. It was constructed following the Civil War and is somewhat controversial today as some argue it violates Spain`s Historical Memory Law.
In any case, if you visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you should visit this plaza, as it`s peaceful, lovely, and a great portrait of everyday life in the city.
8. Museum of Nature and Archeology, another place of interest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Visiting the Museum of Nature and Archeology (MUNA) stands out as one of the premier activities in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in the Old Civil Hospital of Our Lady of the Forsaken dating back to 1745, it exemplifies the neoclassical architectural heritage of the island.
Nearly three centuries later, the structure now houses a contemporary museum and is one of the premier destinations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to explore the archaeological heritage of the Canary Islands.
By visiting there, you can uncover Tenerife`s natural riches and the largest collection of Guanche culture, signifying the original inhabitants who lived on the island before the first European conquerors came.
9. García Sanabria Park, another tourist site in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
One of the most visited attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife involves enjoying the natural surroundings at García Sanabria Park. Established in 1926, the park was created to provide additional green areas for residents of the city to appreciate.”
Today, the park covers an area of 17 acres and features plant species from many different countries within its collection. Among the plants found are tropical and subtropical flowers like peacock flowers and bougainvillea, Mediterranean species like the olive tree, and, of course, Canarian palm trees.
As such, if uncertain about activities in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, one can always enjoy a pleasant walk through García Sanabria Park. Furthermore, the park holds a distinguished cultural designation from the Canary Islands, warranting a visit.
10. Castle of San Juan Bautista, a historical place to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Also referred to as Castillo Negro, the Castle of San Juan Bautista is among the most visited attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Built in the first half of the 17th century, this fortification facing the sea underwent renovations over time to address some water damage issues. Today, it remains the best-preserved castle on the island and is considered a National Heritage Site.
Every July 25th, the Recreation Gesta takes place to commemorate the failed attempt by British Admiral Horacio Nelson to invade the city. The event is a great thing to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife if visiting during this time.
11. Àngel Guimerá Theater, one of the best tourist sites in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Àngel Guimerá Theater is another important attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with lots of background. Opened in January 1851 under the rule of Elizabeth II, the theater is a possession of Cultural Interest in the Canary Islands.
Its name honors the writer, poet and playwright Àngel Guimerá Jorge, who is also commemorated with a bronze statue outside. For those who enjoy theater, this is one of the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Renowned actors such as Margarita Xirgú and María Guerrero have graced its stage, among others.
The facility has also hosted performances including ballets, orchestras, musical groups, and lyrical Spanish plays known as zarzuelas. Furthermore, it has served as a focal point for the famous Santa Cruz Carnival, an occasion designated as a Festival of International Tourist Significance.
12. Church of La Concepción, another Santa Cruz de Tenerife point of interest
In 1500, Father Juan Guerra founded a church and dedicated it to Santa Cruz. It was named Church of Our Lady of the Conception in 1638 and remains one of the most impressive churches to visit in the city.
The church was rebuilt following a fire that destroyed it in 1652, and its current tower was built in 1786. Even so, the church remains one of the most beautiful attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, thanks to its artistic heritage.
13. Visit César Manrique Maritime Park, a fun thing to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
César Manrique Maritime Park is a 236,000ft2 recreational zone and one of the premier locations to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with children. The park features three seawater pools, a hot tub, a gym, eateries, sports amenities, kids` areas, and a small beach.
The park serves as a posthumous work by the renowned Lanzarote artist César Manrique and was inaugurated in 1995. It incorporates the architect`s signature designs that blend natural elements such as volcanic rocks, palm trees and ornamental vegetation. There are even several of Manrique`s famed wind-powered sculptures found within the park
Without question, this is one of the coolest spots in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It’s open year-round, although I suggest avoiding weekends and holidays because it gets very crowded.
14. El Chicharro, another famous attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
El Chicharro is a bronze statue that’s become a local symbol of Tenerife. Visiting this work of art is one of the best activities to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The sculpture is located in the Plaza del Chicharro and is a 1,320-pound replica of the original artwork, which was created by students at the Caracas School of Industrialists.
Regrettably, the original piece was damaged, necessitating a replica. However, the new sculpture remains equally lovely, so be sure to view this famous bronze fish.
15. Parish of San Francisco de Asís, another point of interest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Another beautiful church worth seeing in this city is the Parish of San Francisco de Asís. It’s located in Plaza del Príncipe and was originally part of the Franciscan Convent of San Pedro de Alcántara.
The ecclesiastical seizures closed most of the convents, including this church, in 1823. It reopened 25 years later and, today, it’s a grand historical and artistic monument. As you experience this location in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you’ll see the influence of the island’s 17th and 18th-century baroque design.
Where to stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
We have already created a guide on where to reside in Tenerife, but if you want to know where we dwelt in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, I will provide some details about our experience there.
We spent one night at the Iberostar Heritage Grand Mence, which was an outstanding hotel. It’s not the most affordable hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, but we were celebrating our anniversary and wanted something unique. The colonial-style hotel has a spa and a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner.
For the remainder of our trip, we lodged at the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz. While cheaper, it was nearly as elegant as the Iberostar. I loved this hotel’s rooftop terrace because it offered gorgeous ocean views. Also, our room had a hydromassage shower, and the gastro-bar served local wines and tapas.
If you have a tight budget, the Príncipe Paz Hotel is one of the finest hotels located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is right in the historic center, allowing you to conveniently walk to the majority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s attractions and points of interest. The hotel also boasts a restaurant featuring magnificent plaza views and an extensive menu featuring tapas, sandwiches, and salads.
Other important information about Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Along with recommendations for hotels, I`d also like to provide information about how to travel to and around Santa Cruz de Tenerife as well as dining options in the city
At the end of this article, a map of the city highlighting points of interest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, lodging, and restaurants is included, allowing for trip planning.
The best restaurants in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
This city has great food, and one of the top places to eat is Etéreo by Pedro Nel. This establishment is considered one of the highest rated restaurants in Tenerife and serves innovative, high-caliber dishes.
Another good selection is El Porrón Tasca Andaluza, which provides quality cuisine, gracious service, and a pleasing atmosphere. Likewise, D’Tapas, 26 is an excellent choice and, while its outward appearance is understated, its menu is extraordinary. Ultimately, if wanting to enjoy an impressive dinner with friends, check out Guannabí’s superb offerings and ambiance.
How to get to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
If you’re flying into the Tenerife North Airport, there are a few options to reach the capital city.
Traveling by public transit:
- Bus 20 towards the Santa Cruz Interchange will take you to the city center in under 30 minutes.
By means of car rentals in Tenerife North Airport:
- Take TF-5 towards Avenida Reyes Católicos in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
You may also prefer to book a transfer from the airport to your lodging. Cars for 4 people and mini-buses for 10-15 people are available.
Map of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
To help you plan your trip to Tenerife, here is a map of the city with all the hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites in Santa Cruz de Tenerife that I mentioned.
That concludes my input! If still having inquiries regarding sights to witness in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, or wanting to discuss your journey to the capital city, leave a comment. As always, travel safely!
