Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, is an active coastal city with a rich cultural scene. Walk along the Rambla de Santa Cruz to admire the city's modernist buildings, relax in the lush García Sanabria Park, or join the lively crowds at the annual Carnival celebration.

About Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the largest city on Tenerife island and one of the capitals of the Canary Islands. The city center has wide avenues, squares, and landscaped areas. As you walk through the streets, you'll see both contemporary structures and buildings from earlier centuries.

Key Attractions

The Auditorio de Tenerife, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a symbol of the city's contemporary architecture. This avant-garde concert hall resembles a cresting wave. Performances range from classical music to modern dance. Daily tours give visitors information about the building's unique design and acoustics.

Plaza de España is the main square and a central meeting point. It has a large artificial lake and views of the Auditorio. Nearby, you'll see the Plaza de la Candelaria, home to the Triumph of Candelaria monument.

For a green escape, go to García Sanabria Park. This urban park contains plants from various climates and an open-air sculpture museum with works by artists like Henry Moore and Joan Miró.

Beaches and Nature

Playa de Las Teresitas, located about 7 km from the city center, is a golden sand beach with calm waters. Palm trees line the shore, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Both locals and visitors frequent this beach.

If you enjoy hiking, explore the nearby Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park's ancient laurel forests and rugged coastline have trails and scenic viewpoints.

Museums and Culture

The Museum of Nature and Archeology (MUNA) has an important collection of Guanche mummies and artifacts from the pre-Hispanic era of the Canary Islands. For contemporary art, visit the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA), which displays works by local and international artists.

Carnival Celebration

Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts one of the world's largest carnival celebrations, second only to Rio de Janeiro. For several weeks in February or March, the city fills with colorful parades, music, and dancing. If you visit during this time, you'll see the city at its most lively and festive.

Local Cuisine and Markets

To taste local flavors, go to the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, also known as La Recova. This market sells fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional Canarian products. You can sample regional specialties or buy ingredients for a picnic here.

Try local dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, gofio (toasted grain flour), and fresh seafood. For a quick snack, look for food stalls selling churros or local pastries.

Accommodation

Santa Cruz has various accommodation options. The Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey, located near García Sanabria Park, is a luxury option. Mid-range options include the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz, while budget travelers might prefer the centrally located Príncipe Paz Hotel.

Getting Around

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has an efficient public transportation system. Buses connect major points of interest within the city and to other parts of the island. If you're staying for a few days, a Bono bus card gives you discounted fares.

Day Trips

From Santa Cruz, you can visit other parts of Tenerife. The historic town of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a short drive away. For a more adventurous trip, go to Teide National Park to see Spain's highest peak and unique volcanic landscapes.