The 13 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: One Day Itinerary

Getting around Santa Cruz de Tenerife is relatively easy. The city’s compact size means you can easily reach all the main attractions on foot.

Tenerife Auditorium / Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martin

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Santa Cruz’s auditorium. This eye-catching structure was designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.

Set against the Atlantic Ocean, its distinctive silhouette, reminiscent of a colossal crashing wave or a full-blown sail, renders it incredibly photogenic.

The auditorium hosts a variety of top-level artistic performances.

Address: Av de la Constitución, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Portraits of musicians on the rocks

As you walk around the Tenerife Auditorium, you will come across large black boulders that form a breakwater system, shielding the area from the Atlantic waves.

Stoyko Gagamov, a Bulgarian artist, decorated them with portraits of well-known musicians. It’s quite fun to search for your favourite composer, be it Mozart or Beethoven, among these creative artworks.

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África

Head toward Avenida de la Constitución. At the roundabout, turn left onto Calle de José Manuel Guimera. Continue straight and navigate through the next roundabout to Calle José Hernández Alfonso. You will find the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa on your left-hand side.

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, also known as La Recova, is the epicentre of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s food market scene. You will find here stalls brimming with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and artisanal goods.

The market is more than just a place to fill your shopping bag; it’s a perfect spot to get a sense of the local culture.

Address: Av. de San Sebastián, 51, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Canarian Milkmaid Sculpture / Escultura Lechera Canaria

At the main entrance to the market, on the right-hand side, you’ll see the ‘Canarian Milkmaid Sculpture.’ The statue honours the hardworking milkmaids of the Canary Islands, who were essential to the local dairy industry.

People of Santa Cruz Sculpture / Homenaje Al Chicharrero

On the left-hand side, you will find the ‘Homenaje Al Chicharrero’, a sculpture serving as a tribute to the inhabitants of Santa Cruz, affectionately known as ‘Chicharreros.’

TEA Tenerife Arts Centre / TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes

TEA Tenerife Arts Centre is a contemporary art hub, located just across the market. It was designed by the renowned Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, known for their design of London’s Tate Modern. Its bold and striking facade is a masterpiece in its own right.

Inside, the TEA Tenerife Arts Centre hosts diverse art exhibitions. Its centrepiece is a modern library, ideal for work or study. There is also a cozy café and a lovely gift shop that sells designer products, anything from jewellery and designer bags to cards and posters.

Address: Av. de San Sebastián, 10, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Serrador Bridge / Puente Serrador

Head west on Avenida de San Sebastián and take the exit at the roundabout that leads onto Puente Serrador.

Serrador bridge spans across the Barranco de Santos ravine, offering scenic views of Santa Cruz. It’s a perfect spot for capturing panoramic photos of the city.

For a taste of urban culture, go under the bridge, where you’ll find interesting graffiti art.

Lunch in Calle de Antonio Dominguez Alfonso

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the vibrant Calle de Antonio Dominguez Alfonso, a picturesque street dotted with restaurants serving international cuisine and traditional Canarian dishes.

Don’t miss the chance to try delicious local food such as papas arrugada (traditional Canarian wrinkled potatoes) or puchero canario (traditional stew). With many restaurants offering outdoor seating, you can enjoy your meal while taking in the lively atmosphere of this colourful locale.

Guimerá Theatre / Teatro Guimerá

As you continue north on Puente Serrador, take a right onto Calle de Miraflores. From there, turn left onto Calle Marcos Redondo, then make a right onto Santo Domingo.

On your left, you’ll see the Guimerá Theatre. It is the Canary Islands’ oldest theatre, dating back to the nineteenth century. It plays a significant role in the local artistic community.

Right in front of the theatre, you will notice ‘Per Adriano‘, a sculpture by Polish artist Igor Mitoraj, portraying a woman’s face. Nearby stands a monument in honor of playwright Ángel Guimerá.

The area around the theatre is a lively spot with several bars, restaurants, and shops.

Calle del Castillo

Head east on Santo Domingo, continue towards Calle Imeldo Seris, and then proceed onto Nicolás Estévanez. Take a left onto Calle del Castillo.

Calle del Castillo is a popular shopping destination, with a variety of boutiques, souvenir shops, and department stores. If you need a pick-me-up, stop by Café Palmelita and try a barraquito, a layered coffee drink popular in the Canary Islands. It typically combines condensed milk, liqueur, coffee, and milk.

Plaza de España

Continue along Calle del Castillo towards Plaza de España.

You’ll traverse Plaza de la Candelaria, a lively square where locals frequently gather during festivals.

Eventually, you will reach Plaza de España, a significant landmark in the city centre, surrounded by important buildings, including the headquarters of the island’s government.

Plaza de España is renowned for its expansive artificial lake and the imposing Monument to the Fallen (Monumento a los Caídos), which is a tribute to the soldiers who died during the Spanish Civil War.

You’ll also find here the remains of San Cristóbal Castle, a historical fortress that once served as a defence for Santa Cruz.

Avenida de Anaga, which runs along the seashore, is right next to the plaza. It’s a fantastic area to go for a stroll at sunset, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Square of the Prince of Asturias / Plaza del Principe de Asturias

Head back to Calle del Castillo and continue walking straight until you come across Calle de Valentin Sanz. Stroll down this street until you reach the picturesque Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias.

Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias was built in the garden of the Franciscan monastery in the nineteenth century.

As you step into the square, you’ll notice two sculptures representing Spring and Summer. In the center, a cozy pavilion shaded by beautiful fig trees offers a perfect place to relax. And if you’re thirsty, there’s a café right there in the square where you can stop for a drink.

García Sanabria Park

Make your way to Calle el Pilar and continue straight, which will lead you directly to García Sanabria Park.

García Sanabria Park is the largest urban park in the Canary Islands and serves as an idyllic escape for those seeking a touch of nature in the city.

Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens dotted with sculptures, or choose a seat near the fountain to relax and appreciate the wide variety of local and exotic plants. The park is also perfect for a morning run.

Plaza Veintincinco de Julio

Leave the park via Calle General O’Donnell and in about five minutes, you’ll reach Plaza Veinticinco de Julio.

Plaza Veintincinco de Julio, or as the locals call it, Plaza de los Patos (Duck Square) stands out as one of the most charming spots in Santa Cruz. Built in the early 20th century, its most notable feature is a fountain with statues of eight frogs and a goose.

Now, what makes this square even more attractive? The benches! They catch the eye with their colourful Sevillian ceramic tiles inscribed with the names of the companies that contributed to the square’s construction.

Dinner at Noi or la Verduleria

If you’re feeling hungry after your long walk around the city, there are some excellent dining options nearby. For a memorable meal, head over to Noi, located at Santa Teresita, 3. This top-rated restaurant is known for its inventive fusion cuisine.

Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for vegetarian options, Verduleria at Santiago, 4 is just a short walk away and offers a variety of lacto-ovo vegetarian dishes.

Fast Facts

Getting there

By Air

The most common way to reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife is by flying into Tenerife North Airport (Los Rodeos – TFN) or Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofia – TFS). Tenerife South is the larger of the two and serves more international destinations. Once you land, you can hop on a bus, take a taxi, or rent a car to reach Santa Cruz.

By Sea

Santa Cruz is a bustling port. You can catch a ferry from other Canary Islands, such as Gran Canaria, La Palma, or Fuerteventura. There are also ferries from mainland Spain, but the journey is much longer.

By Public Transport

If you are already on Tenerife Island, you can use the public bus system (TITSA) to reach Santa Cruz from various towns and resorts on the island.

By Car

Renting a car is a convenient option if you want the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.

By Taxi or Private Transfer

For a more comfortable and direct route, you can book a taxi or a private transfer from the airport or other locations on the island. I would recommend booking your transfer in advance.

What’s the best time to visit Santa Cruz De Tenerife?

No matter the season, Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s sub-tropical climate means hot summers and very mild winters. Whenever you decide to go, the weather here rarely disappoints.

If you enjoy beach activities and love spending time by the sea, the summer months are ideal. For those who prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are great times to visit.

Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife safe?

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is generally a safe place for travellers. The Canary Islands, including Tenerife, have a friendly vibe and lower crime rates than many other tourist hotspots. Still, it’s smart to watch your belongings in crowded places and tourist areas.

The Canary Islands are volcanic. The volcanic activity of each island is monitored without interruption throughout the year to ensure people’s safety.

Where can I go to the beach in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?

Just up north from Santa Cruz, you’ll find Playa de Las Teresitas, a hotspot for beach lovers thanks to its golden sands and cool dining spots right by the shore.

As an alternative, nearby Taganana offers a rugged black sand beach, while Benijo beach, with its stronger tides and currents, is a well-known spot for surfers.

What are some day trips to take from Santa Cruz de Tenerife?

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a great starting point for various day trips and excursions. Here are some recommended day trips:

Teide National Park

Discover Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, and its surrounding national park. Whether you prefer driving or joining a bus tour, you’re in for awe-inspiring views. Once there, take a cable car ride to the upper station for breathtaking vistas of the island and beyond.

Anaga Rural Park

Put on your hiking boots and explore the natural beauty of Anaga Rural Park. It is home to sharp peaks, lush laurel forests, and charming villages, offering spectacular hiking trails and coastal panoramas.

Garachico

Experience the serene beauty of Garachico, a picturesque town on the northwest coast of Tenerife. It is known for its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava and its historical centre.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?

Here are some popular areas to stay in the city:

City Center (Downtown Santa Cruz)

It’s perfect if you are interested in shopping, culture, and dining. Staying here puts you close to most tourist attractions.

Rambla de Santa Cruz

If you enjoy being near green spaces, the area around the Rambla de Santa Cruz is perfect for you. This charming avenue stretches from Plaza de La Paz to Avenida de Anaga and is adorned with trees, flowers, and sculptures, making it a very picturesque spot.

Parque Marítimo César Manrique

If you prefer to be close to the sea, consider staying near Parque Marítimo César Manrique. This area offers a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere with swimming pools and stunning ocean view. Plus, you’re right next to the Palmetum—a botanical garden with different kinds of palm trees.

El Cabo/Las Teresitas

For beach lovers, accommodations near Playa de Las Teresitas in the El Cabo area provide easy access to the sandy shores.

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