Puerto de la Cruz , a charming and picturesque town on the north coast of Tenerife , is a perfect destination for those seeking to combine relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. One of the oldest tourist centers in the Canary Islands, this town offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comforts.
The town of Puerto de la Cruz is the eighth largest municipality on Tenerife and the tourist hub of the north coast. Here, Canarian traditions blend seamlessly with the tourism sector, resulting in a wide variety of hotels and holiday apartments. In contrast to the dry and arid south, the north is characterized by the influence of the trade winds, which create a lush, green landscape.
Puerto de la Cruz is therefore surrounded by extensive banana plantations, vineyards, and other agricultural areas. The city attracts many visitors due to its numerous highlights and attractions. From the charming old town and fascinating museums to idyllic beaches, Puerto de la Cruz offers a wide range of sights to see.
The beaches of Puerto de la Cruz are known for their black volcanic sands , which offer a fascinating contrast to the blue Atlantic Ocean. Playa Jardín is particularly popular and famous for its extensive gardens designed by the renowned Canarian artist César Manrique
Painted wall of a park by César Manrique, Fundación César Manrique, Tahiche, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain Image source: H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Here you can not only enjoy the sun and the sea, but also admire the impressive plant life.
Activities on the beach
Besides classic sunbathing and swimming, the beaches of Puerto de la Cruz also offer numerous water sports. Whether surfing, diving or stand-up paddleboarding – there are plenty of options for adventure seekers.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, boat trips and dolphin watching tours available, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the marine wildlife .
Cultural highlights and sights
Puerto de la Cruz also boasts a rich culture and history. A visit to the historic old town, with its cobbled streets and traditional Canarian houses, is a must. The Plaza del Charco , the heart of the city, is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. Here you can relax in one of the many cafes and watch the lively scene unfold.
Plaza del Charco in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife Image source: The Fossil Maniac, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Plaza del Charco, also known by its full name “Plaza del Charco de los Camarones,” forms the vibrant heart of Puerto de la Cruz, together with the modern fishing port. For many locals, this square is a true highlight of the old town. Its name, “Plaza of the Shrimp Pool,” dates back to earlier times when the square was regularly flooded during high tide, and shrimp settled in the stagnant pools of water.
Standing with your back to the sea, a fascinating sight unfolds before you on the right side of Plaza del Charco: Here, some of the oldest buildings in Puerto de la Cruz's old town bear witness to a rich history. The planting of South American rubber trees in the 1830s marked the beginning of a significant development of the square.
With an area of approximately 7,350 square meters, the Plaza del Charco impressively embodies what a traditional Spanish plaza should be. Here, elderly locals enjoy their peace and quiet on the benches, while children play happily in the adjacent playground.
Around Plaza del Charco, you'll find a remarkable abundance of restaurants, cafés, and bars, complemented by charming little kiosks that enhance the square's vibrant atmosphere. This location is also ideal for easily reaching one of Puerto de la Cruz's largest taxi ranks – a perfect starting point for further exploration of the region.
The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia , an impressive example of Canarian architecture , is also well worth a visit. You'll find it just a few minutes from the impressive Ermita de San Telmo. Built in 1684 on the foundations of a hermitage, this church reflects the region's rich history. Inside, you'll find magnificent 18th-century statues of saints and works by the talented artists Luis de la Cruz y Ríos and Manuel de la Cruz, which enhance the spiritual atmosphere.
Exterior view of the Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia church in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife Image source: Maesi64, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
The impressive interior, with its elegant Tuscan semicircular arches, creates a harmonious structure and delights art and church lovers alike. Since May 12, 2003, both the church and its artistic elements have been protected as a historical monument, thus contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage.
In front of the church, a lovingly designed square with shady trees and benches invites you to linger – an inspiring place you shouldn't miss.
For art lovers, the following places offer an insight into the creative work of the Canary Islands:
Eduardo Westerdahl Art Museum
The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Eduardo Westerdahl (MACEW) , founded in 1953 by the important art critic Eduardo Westerdahl, is located in the picturesque Puerto de la Cruz on Tenerife.
Housed in the impressive Casa de la Aduana, the museum presents a diverse collection of contemporary art, closely linked to the Canary Islands Institute for Hispanic Studies. This cultural gem is a must-see, offering a chance to immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere and meticulously curated exhibits.
Castillo Espacio Cultural
Castillo Espacio Cultural impressively combines the history of an ancient fortress with the vibrant present of the art scene. Its walls, once witnesses to past battles, now provide an inspiring backdrop for exhibitions that captivate the senses and stimulate the mind. Here, contemporary visual art meets masterful sculptures and compelling photographs that immerse visitors in new worlds.
In this versatile space, classical music regularly fills the historic halls, creating a unique atmosphere. Lectures and discussion forums offer opportunities to gain deeper insights into cultural topics and exchange ideas with other interested individuals. The diverse range of events, spanning from traditional to contemporary art, makes the Castillo a vibrant center of cultural life.
For art lovers and culture enthusiasts, this offers the opportunity not only to admire works of art but also to discover new perspectives . At Castillo Espacio Cultural, history and modernity merge into a unique experience that encourages contemplation and reflection.
Another highlight is the Botanical Garden of Puerto de la Cruz, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Spain, which houses an impressive variety of exotic plants.
Archaeological Museum
The Museo Arqueológico del Puerto de la Cruz is a fascinating archaeological museum in the old town of Tenerife, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts and detailed replicas of the indigenous population. Since its reopening in 1991, it has delighted visitors with six beautifully designed exhibition rooms arranged around an inviting courtyard.
In the heart of the charming fishing village of La Ranilla, in a historic 18th-century building, the museum offers a deep insight into the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of Tenerife and takes you on an exciting journey through the past of this unique island.
Street art in the old town of Puerto de la Cruz
In 2014, Puerto de la Cruz experienced a significant cultural enrichment with the introduction of Puerto Street Art . This project comprises officially commissioned graffiti artworks that transform the walls of the old town into an impressive open-air museum. Most of the now 17 large-scale murals are located on the vibrant facades of the historic fishing quarter of La Ranilla , west of the bustling Plaza del Charco .
Graffiti in Puerto de la Cruz Image source: Lmbuga (Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Both lesser-known and renowned artists from various countries have left their creative mark on the walls of the old town, reflecting its international diversity and creativity. Puerto de la Cruz is also open to new talent, resulting in a constant stream of new artworks that enrich the cityscape.
Near each artwork, visitors will find an information card or a QR code. Scanning the code provides detailed information about the respective artists, their creative process, and the deeper meaning behind the images. This interactive experience invites visitors to discover and appreciate the story and emotions hidden within each composition.
Other hot spots for art and culture include:
The theatre hall “Teatro Timanfaya”
The art hall “Sala de Arte Cajacanarias”
The art hall “Fleming 4 Sala de Arte”
The art and culture center “La Ranilla Arte-Cultura”
Nature and wildlife
A visit to Loro Parque , a world-famous zoo, is a truly special experience. Here you can observe a wide variety of animals up close and enjoy impressive shows. The park is particularly renowned for its parrot collection and orca shows, offering an exciting experience for the whole family.
The botanical garden
The botanical garden in Puerto de la Cruz , founded in 1788 by order of the Spanish monarch Carlos III, represents a fascinating testament to the botanical science and colonial ambitions of his time. The king planned to acclimatize tropical and subtropical plants from overseas in order to subsequently cultivate them on the Spanish mainland.
The introduced plants quickly found their place in Tenerife's mild and nutrient-rich conditions, where they thrived. However, an unexpected challenge arose: after being transplanted to the mainland, many plants suffered greatly from the local climate. These unforeseen circumstances meant that the king's plan could not be implemented as intended.
Despite these setbacks, the garden has become a major attraction for the city of Puerto de la Cruz, offering visitors a rich diversity of flora from around the world. It invites you to discover the beauty and variety of botanical art and makes an important contribution to the research and conservation of rare plant species. Discover this extraordinary place, which not only breathes history but also embodies a passion for nature.
Orchid Garden Sitio Litre
The Sitio Litre Orchid Garden , also known as Jardín de Orquídeas Sitio Litre, is a hidden gem in Puerto de la Cruz, established in 1774 by a British merchant family and is one of the oldest gardens in Tenerife. The garden houses a mansion dating back to 1730 and was once the inspiration for Agatha Christie's novel "The Strange Mr. Quin ," which is why a special "Agatha Christie Corner" has been created.
Alexander von Humboldt also visited this place, and a monument was erected in his honor. Despite the nearby bustling Carretera Botanico, the garden offers peace and relaxation, enhanced by a fountain and a pond teeming with koi and goldfish. Visitors can admire an impressive collection of orchids, as well as the oldest dragon tree in the area, and enjoy refreshments in a small café.
Adventures and activities
For those seeking adventure, Puerto de la Cruz offers numerous activities. Hike through Teide National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide. The trails offer spectacular views and are suitable for hikers of all levels.
Also highly recommended is a visit to the impressive Orotava Valley , known for its breathtaking landscapes and traditional Canarian houses.
Family-friendly accommodations
Coral Travel , whose team kindly assisted us in our virtual exploration of the cultural highlights of Puerto de la Cruz, offers a wide variety of family-friendly hotels and resorts in Puerto de la Cruz that are specifically designed to meet the needs of families.
These accommodations offer spacious and comfortable rooms, often with separate sleeping areas for children, allowing parents to relax undisturbed. Many hotels have dedicated children's areas with pools, playgrounds, and kids' clubs where little ones are well looked after under supervision.
Affordable offers and all-inclusive packages
A holiday in Puerto de la Cruz doesn't have to be expensive. Coral Travel offers attractive deals and discounts specifically designed for families. Their all-inclusive packages allow you to make the most of your holiday without breaking the bank.
Flight, hotel and transfer are already included in the price, so you can fully concentrate on relaxation.
Owner and Managing Director of Kunstplaza. Journalist, editor, and passionate blogger in the field of art, design, and creativity since 2011. Successful completion of a degree in web design as part of a university study (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expressive painting, and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
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