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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Tenerife, Canary Islands

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 shows and conservation efforts.
  • Lago Martiánez: Stunning saltwater pool complex designed by César Manrique.
  • Jardín Botánico: One of the oldest botanical gardens, impressive tropical plant collection.
  • Plaza del Charco: Bustling main square 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 people-watching, outdoor 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 and artifacts 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 museums and cultural venues, as times can vary.

Historical Sites Beyond the Museums

  • Archaeological Context: While no major ruins are within Puerto 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 street art and traditional 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 La Paz:

    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 (1 hour drive). 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 beaches like Playa Jardín are striking.

Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

Discover lesser-known spots that offer unique charm and photo opportunities.

Local Favorites & Unique Photo Spots

  • La Ranilla Street Art:

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

  • Ermita de San Amaro:

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

  • Mirador de San Pedro:

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

  • Parque de la Sortija:

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

  • Charco del Viento (La Guancha):

    Natural volcanic swimming pool (20-30 min drive west) popular with locals, a more rugged experience.

  • Emerging Destinations:

    Increased interest in northern coast towns like 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 against the promenade wall during high tide at Ermita de San Telmo or Punta Brava.

Old Town Charm

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

Attraction Accessibility

Many attractions are reachable by foot or public transport.

  • Walkable Areas: Old Town, Martiánez, and parts of La Paz are enjoyable on foot.
  • Bus System: The local TITSA bus network connects various points within the city and surrounding areas, including Loro Parque.
  • Rental Car: For destinations like Mount Teide National Park or distant viewpoints, a rental car offers flexibility.

Planning Your Visits

These places provide a glimpse into 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 Mirador de 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 shows 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

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

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Excursions from southern ports offer opportunities to see pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

Find Whale Watching Tours

Mount Teide National Park

Spain's highest peak 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 parish church with altarpieces, dating to the 17th century.

Park & Garden Strolls

Enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty of the city's green spaces.

Green Escapes

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

Travel Tip

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

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months or when exploring outdoors.