THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

Lovers of museums, culture and cutting-edge architecture will find plenty of things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Take time to really explore this bustling Spanish town, which sits below the striking Anaga Mountains.

From its intriguing art galleries, colourful grand architectural buildings and laid-back parks. To quality eateries, friendly locals and historic Plazas. When you’ve discovered the charms of this vibrant city, head along the coast to an unspoiled beach with palm trees dotted around the large expanse of golden sand.

Santa Cruz’s main beach is ‘Las Teresitas’ , and considered the most beautiful beach on Tenerife. Then head north, to explore the sublime landscapes of the island’s northeast, and Anaga Rural Park.

But before dashing off, let’s check out the best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS ARTICLE:

TOP THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

To help you plan your time in Tenerife Santa Cruz, we have shown all the attractions, hotels, and restaurants, mentioned in this article, on a map, shown below.

1. ADÁN MARTÍN TENERIFE AUDITORIUM

Adan Martin Tenerife Auditorium — Walk around the whole building for different viewpoints

Address: Avenida Constitución | Guided Tours: 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays (except holidays) | Alisios Cafe: Open 9am-8pm Wednesday to Sunday. Plus days when there is an event in the Auditorium.

The contemporary soaring white wave design will be one of the first things you see, as you approach the city from the south, and serves as an orientation point.

This impressive building, designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, is striking in design and one of the most popular things to see in Santa Cruz Tenerife.

The unique building is wrapped in brilliant white with irregular pieces of tiles arranged like a mosaic.

Designed on the premise of connecting the land and water, the total area of 23,000 square meters forms a magnificent public space. The Auditorium is currently the main production center for shows in the Canary Islands.

With superb acoustics, the stage space hosts both the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and Ópera de Tenerife , and a top-level music and dance program.
Check program listings with the dates of your visit.
Guided 45-minute tours take place from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am-2pm Saturdays (except holidays). Cost is €5.00 and should be reserved in advance.

If you don’t have time to attend a performance or take a guided tour, enjoy a drink in the cafe, located in the sweeping main entrance. We can highly recommend the cakes! Finally, be sure to walk around the entirety of the building to get different view points.

2. TENERIFE ESPACIO DE LAS ARTES (TEA)

exterior of TEA building in Santa Cruz Tenerife — Things to do in Santa Cruz Tenerife – TEA library and café

Address: Avenida de San Sebastián 10 | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am-8pm | Price: General admission is free

Don’t be put off by the expansive concrete structure of this contemporary arts centre, located in the rehabilitated historic centre of the city.

On closer inspection you will understand why the TEA is one of the best free Santa Cruz Tenerife attractions to explore.

The concrete is pierced by thousands of tiny glass squares which combine to serve as small windows. Through these, you can get a peek view of the inside creative space, which has displayed works by up-and-coming Spanish artists.

Inside, three galleries display works by up-and-coming Spanish artists, photography works and temporary exhibitions of art.

Families will love MiniTEA, a free space created for children and families, where they can develop their creativity through art projects.

A wonderfully designed library on the ground floor is open from 6am-11pm.
Next door to the library is a popular café and well-stocked gift shop.
Free guided visits are available
A cinema shows independent films and documentaries with Spanish subtitles. Screenings are shown at 7pm, Friday to Sunday and cost €4.

3. MUSEO MUNICIPAL DE BELLAS ARTES

Outside Museo Municipal De Bellas Artes in Santa Cruz de Tenerife — Top things to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Museo de Bellas Artes

Address: José Murphy, 12. | Open: Tuesday to Friday, 10am-8pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3pm

Are you an art lover? Then for you, one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is visit the Municipal Museum of Fine Arts. An added bonus is that admission is free!

The classic design building, built in 1929 by architect Eladio Laredo is decorated on its façade, with ten busts of Tenerifian thinkers and intellectuals, including musicians, poets, writers, historians, painters, engineers and playwrights.

The first objects to be kept here were the flags won in 1797 in the battle against Nelson. However, in 1840 the Ayuntamiento de Santa Cruz Tenerife ordered them to be preserved in a special place: Hence the introduction of National Museum of Fine Arts, as you see today.

Inside, the fourteen exhibition rooms display works from the 16^th to 20^th century. Exhibits by mainly Canarian painters, sit alongside temporary exhibitions. Of particular note are:

“Tríptico de Nava y Grimón” by Flemish painter Pieter Coecke.
“The entry of Christ into Jerusalem“ , by the Canarian painter Juan de Miranda.
“Immaculate” by Gaspar Afonso de Quevedo.

The galleries are accessed via several flights of stairs

After you have visited the museum, take the steps opposite, to Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias.

Built in the garden of a now disappeared Franciscan convent, its design by architect Oraá y Arcocha in 1860, served as a model for other 19th century squares. It makes a lovely peaceful place to sit amongst mature Indian Laurel trees.

With a central pavilion and two sculptures symbolizing spring and summer, it makes a great spot in summer, when there is also a kiosk serving drinks.

4. IGLESIA DE SAN FRANCISCO

Church of San Francisco in Santa Cruz Tenerife

Address: Calle José Murphy

This pretty Baroque Catholic Church was initially part of the now, disappeared Franciscan Monastery built in 1860. Hours vary, but if you do get chance to go inside, some notable aspects include:

The Baroque temple has a Neo-Corinthian portico and three carved stone columns.
The richly carved ceiling is beautiful.
An Andalusian style altarpiece, dates from the 18th century
A collection of ornate sculptures include a figure of El Señor de las Tribulaciones who has been worshipped in the city since 1893.

5. PLAZA DE ESPANA SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

An extensive revamp of the waterfront area included the city’s main square, Plaza de España. Renowned Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron transformed the space and the new design has a huge circular artificial lake as its main focus.

Built in 1929, the city’s largest square is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike.

A fountain spouts water four times a day, which rises and falls with the tide. Most of Santa Cruz Tenerife attractions can be reached on foot from the Plaza, while pedestrianized Calle Castillo, is to the west of here. The buildings you see from here include:

Monumento a los Caidos: an imposing 25-foot monument honouring all those who gave their lives for Spain during the civil war. It is adorned with four crosses.
Cabildo Insular: the art-deco buildings at the southern end of the Plaza are the headquarters of the post office.
Castillo de San Cristobal: Underground remains of a historic 1500s castle & museum with a cannon said to have injured Nelson.
Alameda del Duque Santa Elena Promenade: Built into Plaza de España square, the portico with three arches, a replica of the original one, is beautiful.
Escultura “Lo llevo bien” de Julio Nieto: “I Wear it Well” is a beautiful sculpture by Julio Nieto. The piece of art made of stainless steel, is five meters high and 450 kilos in weight. The appearance of a man in the shape of a tree, symbolizes “the optimism of the human being, who, despite all his thoughts, gets along well”.

You can get some lovely photos either early morning or late afternoon, of the surrounding buildings reflections in the water.

6. IGLESIA DE NUESTRA SENORA DE LA CONCEPCIÓN

Address: Plaza de la Iglesia

The oldest church in Santa Cruz Tenerife, was originally built as early as 1498 after Tenerife was conquered. Outside, its bell-tower is the most notable feature, designed by the military engineer, Antonio Samper in 1786.

The church you see today, was rebuilt after a fire in the 17th and 18th centuries. This catholic church has five naves, the only church in the Canaries to do so. several impressive features.

Externally, a large cobbled square adjacent to the church allows you to view the church from several angles. Inside, look out for the following stand-out features:

Traditional Mudéjar ceilings
A mix of Baroque and Tuscan style architecture
A stunning silver altar holding the Holy Cross of the Conquest, that gave rise to the founding of the city.
The Capilla de Carta Chapel’s altarpiece was made by French carpenter, Guillaume Veraud.
The organ was sourced in London and fitted in 1862.

7. PALMETUM

Address: Avenida Constitución | Hours: Daily, including Sundays and Holidays, 10am-6pm (last entry at 17:00) | Parking: Large car park next door

Wondering what to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife if you love being in nature? Why not head to a 12-hectare botanical garden that specialises in palm trees.

A unique project has seen a municipal rubbish dump transformed into a spectacular space brimming with over 200 tropical and subtropical plant species.

Palmetum Gardens are home to the greatest diverse collection of palm trees in Europe, perhaps even the world. Specimens are imported from worldwide institutions, and the space is a relaxing haven for nature lovers.

Pick up a park map and explore the different flora around the gardens. Trees can be identified via signs and a detailed leaflet.

Save time and book your entrance ticket online before your visit.

8. MUSEO DE LA NATURALEZA Y EL HOMBRE

Address: Calle Fuente Morales | Check current Opening Times | Cost: €5

This modern and informative museum, is set inside the former Old Civil Hospital of Our Lady of the Forsaken (1745). It is one of the top places in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to learn about the archaeological heritage of the Canary Islands.

Museum of Nature and Archeology (MUNA) combines knowledge of natural science and archaeology in one place.

There are three floors to explore, with a highlight being mummified Guanches and skulls. Other highlights are:

Learning about currents, winds and volcanoes, including a audiovisual presentation on El Teide and its eruption.
Displays on flora and fauna and wildlife.
Displays on how the indigenous population lived.
The museum also houses a café and bookshop.

Each exhibition room has laminated sheets in English to read, as most of the signs are in Spanish.

The museum has a free audio guide service in 6 languages, accessible from your own mobile devices (smartphones and tablets).

9. WANDER AROUND SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE OLD TOWN

One of the best ways to discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife hidden gems, is to simply wander around the city’s historic quarters and old town.

It may not have the balconied mansions of La Laguna or La Orotava, but there is rich history in it’s buildings.

From being founded in 1494, the city bears centuries of history, with its bay reflecting its rich maritime history. Stroll around the picturesque Plazas of Principe, Candelaria, San Francisco and Weyler, to discover historic buildings and churches.

Many shops and stores are now housed in these buildings, but the exterior architecture is still a testament to their historical importance.

Popular Calle del Castillo is home to traditional bars and eateries and headquarters to groups of carnival street musicians.

10. GARCÍA SANABRIA PARK

Address: Calle Méndez Núñez | Hours: All Year | Cost: Free

If you are ready to escape the bustle of the city, one of the popular things to do in Santa Cruz Tenerife, is to head to this delightful park.

Located on the city’s northern fringe, the park’s 17 acres has a wonderful collection of tropical and subtropical plants and trees.

Look out for Canarian palm trees, olive trees, Indian Banyan trees, and of course Canaries’ flower, bird of paradise.

Wander along the wide paths which are interspersed with sculptures, fountains, and a large clock made of flowers. There is also a small cafe.

If you are looking for some green space to enjoy a picnic, this park is one of the most emblematic symbols of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

If you have more than one day in Santa Cruz Tenerife, here are some more places for you to check out:

11. NUESTRA SENORA DE AFRICA MARKET

If you are staying in Santa Cruz Tenerife why not visit this historic traditional market with over 140 stalls. Established in 1943, this bustling venue is one of the best local Santa Cruz de Tenerife sights.

Know locally as “La Recova”, the entrance to the building is crowned with an imposing clock-tower. In front of the entrance are bronze figures of a milkmaid and two fishermen who are bringing a rowing boat ashore or lowering it into the water.

Built in Moorish-style with arches and patios, the two floors of stalls sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to fish, picnic fare, and local wines. Wondering where Santa Cruz Tenerife restaurants purchase their produce? Here at this local market.

The Nuestra Señora de África Market is part of the history of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and in 2018 received a gold medal from the Government of the Canary Islands.

Look out for tasting nights held at the market.

Address: Avenida de San Sebastián | Hours: Monday to Saturday 6am-2pm, Sunday 7am-2pm | Free parking for customers for an hour and a half.

12. ERMITA DE SAN TELMO

One of the oldest temples in the city and indeed on the island of Tenerife, the hermitage dates back to the 16th-century. If you are lucky to go inside, you will see an image of San Telmo, the local fishermen’s patron saint.

The temple is open every Sunday from 9.30am-1.30pm, and Mass is celebrated at 6pm, on the last Wednesday of the month.
Address: Av. Francisco la Roche

13. PARQUE MARITIMO CÉSAR MANRIQUE

Address: Av. la Constitucion | Hours & Tariff

If you are looking for fun things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the place to visit is this 22,000 square meter Aquatic Park. Featuring 3 saltwater swimming pools, waterfalls, volcanic rocks, and palm trees, plus a sun terraces, kids will love spending hours here.

GET YOUR TICKET HERE

Popular with locals, weekends and holidays can be very busy. Although you won’t find slides and the like here, there are eateries, changing rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

Without a doubt, this is one of the coolest attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It’s open year-round, although I recommend avoiding weekends and holidays because it gets very crowded.

Santa Cruz Tenerife offers has many alternative attractions, if you want to pass on the museums and churches.

14. CARNIVAL SANTA CRUZ

Each year in February or March, Santa Cruz turns into party mode with the arrival of carnival. For weeks the plazas and streets celebrate this event, in great style. If your visit coincides with this festival, you can expect singing, dancing, a parade and people dressed in colourful costumes.

This carnival celebration is considered to be one of the largest in the world, and deserves a place on your Tenerife Itinerary.

SHOPPING IN SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

shopping street in Santa Cruz De Tenerife

Plaza Candelaria is the start of the main pedestrianised area, where cafes spill out onto the pavements. The main shopping street is Calle del Castillo, which has a good mix of local shops, including ZARA and MANGO.

Centro Comercial Meridiano is home to popular store Primark, food court and free parking.
El Corte Inglés is a huge, prominent department store, situated on the main Avenida Tres de Mayo in Santa Cruz. It sells well-known fashion brands, homeware, food and drink.

BEST HOTELS IN SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

If you are planning an overnight visit, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has a good selection of accommodation.

LUXURY HOTELS

Hotel Taburiente S.C.Tenerife: great location next to García Sanabria Park
Urban Anaga Hotel: stylish rooms 600 yards from Tenerife Espacio de las Artes
Hotel emblemático Hi Suites: lovely suites for an at home feel

MID-RANGE HOTELS

Hotel Colon Rambla: an elegant hotel in the heart of the city
AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife: popular location 750 yards from Tenerife Espacio de las Artes.
Hotel Escuela Santa Cruz: attractive rooms with classic décor, and a great rooftop terrace.

BUDGET HOTELS

Hotel Principe Paz: good location and close to all attractions.
Occidental Santa Cruz Contemporáneo: modern hotel with classic rooms and a sun terrace.

LOOK AT OTHER HOTELS IN SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

BEST RESTAURANTS IN SANTA CRUZ TENERIFE

Whether you are looking for cafes, restaurants, or bars in Santa Cruz Tenerife, you will find a great choice. For great quality, good service and a lovely atmosphere, check out the following options:

Etéreo by Pedro Nel – Innovative takes on classic Spanish dishes (MICHELIN)
El Porrón Tasca Andaluza – Spanish cuisine & local wines in a colorful space with outdoor seating, and great atmosphere.
Taberna Ramón – great choice of tapas and authentic canarian cuisine, in a traditional Spanish tavern.
Wine & Cheese Bar – an extensive selection of wines by the bottle and reasonable number by the glass.

HOW TO GET TO SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE SPAIN

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located in the northeast area of Tenerife. By plane, the closest airport is Tenerife North, however most people fly into Tenerife South.

While you’re here, be sure to check out the best things to do in North Tenerife, including Anaga Rural Park and Mount Teide.

BY CAR – Both TF-1 and TF-5 take you to the city centre.

We hope that we’ve shown you some of the best attractions of this wonderful city. If you have any questions on which things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, please leave a comment below.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS