Puerto De La Cruz

When planning a stay in Puerto De La Cruz, historic buildings, museums, landscaped gardens, and cultural activities offer different points of interest. Which of these themes you choose to include in your trip can shape the focus of your stay.

Historic Buildings and Museums

The historic center was designated a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Conjunto Histórico category in 2006. It includes more than 140 protected buildings. The protection categories of individual sites also reflect different distinctions: the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia is protected as a Monumento. Its three naves are separated by Tuscan-Roman columns and round-arched arcades; it also features wooden Mudéjar coffered ceilings. The Ermita de San Telmo is protected as well. It stands on the Roca de la Caleta, atop an Atlantic cliff, at one end of the Puerto De La Cruz seafront promenade.

The Museo Arqueológico is housed in a 19th-century Canarian house in the fishing district of La Ranilla. Its collections include pottery from the Indigenous people of the Canary Islands, mummified remains, and 17th-century maps. Themed exhibitions explore the history and culture of the Canary Islands. This extends the focus beyond individual buildings to the archipelago’s archaeological and historical themes.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Eduardo Westerdahl was established in 1953 as a pioneering initiative in the history of Spanish contemporary art. It presents 20th-century Canarian art, including works by Óscar Domínguez, César Manrique, Manolo Millares, Juan Ismael, Lola Massieu, and Pedro González; the presentation may change. Educational visits combine an introduction to the Casa de la Aduana’s context with an explanatory tour of the collection and a workshop or related activity. If you are planning such a visit, check the booking arrangements in advance.

Landscaped Gardens and Coastal Scenery

Lago Martiánez opened in 1977 and is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Jardín Histórico category. César Manrique designed the complex as an emerald-shaped lake with several islands. The central island is used for cultural, festive, and leisure activities; the program may vary. Its expanse of water and island design give the site a different focus from the historic buildings and museums.

The green spaces also differ in their design. Playa Jardín was created on the coast of San Felipe with paths, gardens of Canarian plants, waterfalls, and stone caves. Parque de Taoro covers approximately 100,000 square meters and consists of three main areas: La Atalaya, the Camino de La Sortija, and the Jardines de Taoro. Its features include gardens, walking paths, viewpoints, illuminated fountains, and waterfalls. Playa Jardín combines coastal landscaping with Canarian planting, while Taoro is divided into several named park areas.

The Jardín Botánico de La Aclimatación de La Orotava was founded in 1788 by royal decree of King Charles III. Its extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants includes species from different continents, including large trees, palms, and exotic ornamental plants. Visitors can stroll among plants from various continents.

Activities and Regional Planning

Loro Parque is an attraction in Puerto De La Cruz and describes itself as an animal reserve with more than 400 species. As admission rules may change, check the latest visitor information before making plans. Loro Parque also operates a free train through Puerto De La Cruz from Plaza de los Reyes Católicos; departures are every 20 minutes. Check the current frequency before your trip.

The date and program for San Juan Night may vary. It is characterized by symbolic bonfires and a festive atmosphere by the sea; check event dates for your trip. The Valle de la Orotava and Mount Teide lie in the wider region and can be visited as natural landscapes. Specific excursions and access conditions may vary.

Discover more destinations: El Durazno, Guaza, El Tanque, Arico Viejo, Las Palomas, Vilaflor, Buen Paso, Chamorga.

For the broader travel overview: Tenerife.