Colonial buildings and 17th-century churches line the streets of this historic Tenerife town. The UNESCO-recognized city center includes a grand cathedral and active markets.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna sits 550 meters above sea level in northern Tenerife. Walk through its 15th-century streets, which later became the model for many Latin American colonial cities. Stop at Plaza del Adelantado to see the carved wooden balconies of Nava Palace, or climb the 1502 bell tower of Iglesia de la Concepción for city views. More than 600 buildings in the center have maintained their original wooden balconies and interior courtyards. You'll find university students filling the cafes along the pedestrian streets, while locals shop for fresh mangoes and avocados at the central market.
Exploring the City Center
Walk the grid-pattern streets of La Laguna's lower town to see Spain's first planned colonial city layout. The straight streets follow astronomical charts from the 15th century, lined with buildings painted in yellows, blues, and pinks. Look for the stone porticoes from the 16th and 17th centuries, which shelter pedestrians from rain and sun.
Religious Architecture
The Cathedral of La Laguna anchors Plaza de los Remedios with white columns and a symmetrical 1819 facade. Step inside to see the gilded baroque altarpiece from the 1500s and the detailed paintings by Cristobal Hernandez de Quintana. At Iglesia de la Concepción, climb the tower for panoramic views of red-tiled roofs and mountains. The church's wooden ceiling combines intricate geometric patterns from both Moorish and European designs.
Squares and Museums
Plaza del Adelantado serves as the city's main gathering point. The square includes the town hall, Nava Palace, and a convent with carved wooden balconies overlooking a stone fountain. Visit the Museum of History of Tenerife in Palacio Lercaro, where period rooms show how wealthy families lived in the 1500s. The exhibits include furniture, clothing, and household items from daily island life.
Local Festivals
Join the Romería Regional de San Benito Abad on the second Sunday of July, when groups from across the Canary Islands wear traditional dress and parade through the streets. During Holy Week, watch evening processions carrying centuries-old religious statues. The Cristo de La Laguna celebration on September 14 brings pilgrims from other Canary Islands.
Getting Around and Nearby Areas
Take the tram between La Laguna and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. From La Laguna, you can access Anaga Rural Park's network of walking paths. Visit the volcanic swimming pools at Punta del Hidalgo and Bajamar, carved directly into the black rock. For a challenging hike, follow the PR-TF 10 trail from Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo, passing through small villages and laurel forests along the four-hour route.
