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Famous Landmarks in Puerto De La Cruz

Famous Landmarks in Puerto De La Cruz

Tenerife Canary Islands Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks of Puerto de la Cruz

These attractions rank among the most famous and provide a good starting point for your exploration.

A full day is recommended for Loro Parque. Lago Martiánez is best on a sunny day.

Must-Visit Highlights

  • Loro Parque: World-renowned zoo with animal presentations and conservation efforts.
  • Lago Martiánez: Stunning saltwater pool complex designed by César Manrique.
  • Jardín Botánico: Amidst the most ancient botanical gardens, impressive tropical plant collection.
  • Plaza del Charco: Bustling main squcan be found in the Old Town, a lively hub day and night.

Detailed Landmark Information

Top Attractions Overview

  • Loro Parque: World-renowned zoo with animal shows (orcas, dolphins). Adult €42, Child €30. Open 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM. Arrive early, plan around show times.
  • Lago Martiánez: Saltwater pools, artificial islands, sunbathing areas. Designed by César Manrique. Adult €5.50. Open approx. 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Bring towel or rent.
  • Jardín Botánico: Established 1788, impressive tropical and subtropical plant collection. Adult €3. Open 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Tranquil escape, 1-2 hours to explore.
  • Plaza del Charco: Bustling main square in the old town. Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, shops. Central meeting point. Good for individuals-watching, alfresco seating.
  • San Felipe Castle: 17th-century coastal fortress. Hosts cultural events and art exhibitions. Located at western end of Playa Jardín, offers coast views.
  • Ermita de San Telmo: Charming 17th-century chapel on the promenade. Picturesque landmark, good photo spot, especially at sunset. Waves crash nearby.

Museums & Cultural Sites

  • Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Eduardo Westerdahl (MACEW): Located in Casa de la Aduana. Showcases modern/contemporary art, mainly Canarian artists. Focuses on Eduardo Westerdahl.
  • Museo Arqueológico del Puerto de la Cruz: Houses ceramic plus relics found on the island, including Guanche mummies and pottery.
  • Casa de la Aduana: Historic 17th-century building, houses MACEW, hosts temporary exhibitions.
  • Teatro Timanfaya: Hosts local plays, concerts, and cultural events. Sala Andrómeda also hosts events.

Check local listings for specific opening hours and entrance fees for visiting museums and cultural venues, as times can vary.

Historical Sites Beyond the Museums

  • Archaeological Context: While no major ruins are within Port de la Cruz, the Archeological Museum provides context on Guanche civilization.
  • Casco Antiguo (Old Town): Explore Calle San Juan, Calle Quintana, Plaza del Charco for charming streets, Canarian balconies, colonial architecture.
  • La Ranilla: Revitalized old fishermen's quarter with colorful public art and old-style houses.
  • Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia: Main parish church (17th century) with altarpieces. Ermita de San Telmo is another serene spot.

Natural Attractions Near Puerto de la Cruz

  • Parque Taoro:

    Large tiered park with walking paths, waterfalls, panoramic views of the city. Old Casino building is at the top.

  • Jardín Botánico:

    A peaceful retreat for plant enthusiasts. Hijuela del Botánico is a smaller annex garden.

  • Mirador de Chuqi Yapu:

    Excellent panoramic views of the city, coastline, and Lago Martiánez. Great photo spot. Punta Brava offers dramatic sea views.

  • Mount Teide National Park:

    Spain's highest peak, UNESCO site (A drive of one hour). Dramatic volcanic landscapes, unique flora, stargazing. Permits for summit are necessary. Roques de Garcían are iconic rock formations.

  • Whale and Dolphin Watching:

    Tours from southern ports see pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins in natural habitat. Volcanic black sand shores such as Playa Jardín are striking.

Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

Discover lesser-well-known places that offer distinct appeal and photo opportunities.

Local Favorites & Unique Photo Spots

  • La Ranilla Street Art:

    Explore colorful murals & artistic interventions in the old fishermen's quarter.

  • Ermita de San Amaro:

    A small, picturesque hermitage in a raised part of town, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

  • Mirador de San Pedro:

    A viewpoint west of The harbor de la Cruz with stunning coastal views and the historic Hacienda del Marqués.

  • Park of la Sortija:

    A lesser-known hillside park with tranquil walks and good views, popular with locals for exercise.

  • Charco del Viento (La Guancha):

    Natural volcanic swimming pool (20-30 -minute car ride west) popular with locals, a more wild experience.

  • Emerging Destinations:

    Increased interest in northern coast towns such As la Orotava and Garachico as authentic cultural hubs.

Mount Teide Sunrise

Capture the sunrise over Mount Teide from a northern viewpoint, like Mirador Humboldt, for a spectacular natural light display.

Dramatic Coastline

Capture dramatic waves crashing compared to the promenade wall during high tide at Ermita de San Telmo or Punta Brava.

Old Town Charm

Stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town for picturesque pictures of traditional Canarian architecture and balconies.

Attraction Accessibility

Many attractions are reachable by foot or public transport.

  • Walkable Areas: Old Town, Martiánez, and sections of Chuqi Yapu are enjoyable on foot.
  • Bus System: The local TITSA bus the network joins various points within the city and surrounding areas, including Loro Parque.
  • Rental Car: For places such as Mount Teide A State park or distant viewpoints, having a rental car allows for flexibility.

Planning Your Visits

These places provide a look at local life away from the main tourist routes.

Ensure a smooth experience at major attractions.

Local Insights & Experiences

Experience local life and lesser-known spots.

Authentic Discoveries

  • La Ranilla Street Art: Explore the , artistic murals in the old fishermen's quarter.
  • Natural Swimming Pools: Seek out "Charco del Viento" for a rugged, local swimming spot away from the crowds.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Discover Viewpoint of San Pedro for coastal views and historic haciendas.

Visitor Information

Ensure a smooth experience at major attractions.

Planning Your Visits

  • Advance Tickets: Purchase Loro Parque tickets online to save time. Combo tickets with Siam Park are available.
  • Check Hours: Verify opening times for museums and cultural venues, as they can vary seasonally.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Wear appropriate footwear; many attractions involve walking, hills, and cobblestones.

Attraction Highlights

Loro Parque

A world-renowned zoo and animal park with spectacular animal displays and conservation efforts.

Book Loro Parque tickets

Lago Martiánez

A stunning complex of saltwater swimming pools designed by César Manrique, blending art with leisure.

Explore Lago Martiánez

Jardín Botánico

Set up in 1788, this garden houses an impressive collection of tropical and subtropical plants.

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Day trips from southern ports offer opportunities to see pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment.

Find Whale Watching Tours

Mount Teide National Park

Spain'the highest point of and an UNESCO World Heritage site, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique flora.

Visit Mount Teide

Cultural Insights

Explore the artistic and historical heritage.

Museums & History

  • MACEW: Museum of Contemporary Art Eduardo Westerdahl in Casa de la Aduana.
  • Archaeological Museum: Houses Guanche mummies and pottery, insights into pre-colonial past.
  • Iglesia de Nuestra Señora: Main the city of lightsh church with altarpieces, dating to the 17th century.

Park & Garden Strolls

Enjoy the tranquility and attractive views of the city's green spaces.

Green Escapes

  • Parque Taoro: Large tiered park with strolling paths, waterfalls, panoramic city views.
  • Jardín Botánico: Oldest botanical garden, impressive collection of tropical plants.
  • Hijuela del Botánico: Smaller annex garden with remarkable dragon trees.
  • Playa Jardín: Black sand beach complex created by César Manrique, with gardens and playgrounds.

Travel Tip

Wear comfortable shoes. Many of The port de la Cruz's attractions are walkable, but involve hills and cobblestones.

Stay hydrated, particularly in the warmer months or when exploring outdoors.