We have collected the most interesting places to see in the city.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife can be rightfully called the gateway to the island and the main cultural center of the archipelago. The main attractions here are of a natural nature, but for lovers of architecture and history there is also something to see, go and visit. In this guide we will tell you more about what the island gem has to offer.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife's main attractions
Santa Cruz de Tenerife allows you not only to enjoy the warm climate and sea breeze. Here you can fully immerse yourself in the unknown history and culture of the Canary Islands. Let's tell you about the best sights that you should see with your own eyes!
Auditorio de Tenerife
One of Spain's most recognizable buildings, a famous symbol of the city and an outstanding piece of modern architecture. The first thing to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is also the headquarters of the island's main symphony orchestra.
Address: Av. la Constitución, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Plaza de España
The center of the city and its main square with a large artificial lake and fountains. It is also the largest square on the islands. If you want to explore the city in 1 day, start here.
Address: Plaza de España
Monument to the Fallen
The centerpiece of Plaza de España in the form of a cross-shaped tower. There is a viewing platform at the top and an old underground chapel at the base of the monument.
Address: Plaza de España
Torres De Santa Cruz Twin Skyscrapers
Giant towers 120 meters high look especially monumental against the background of standard island buildings. One of the symbols of the city. Curiously, the twin buildings were built by different companies and in different years.
Address: Urbanizacion Poligono Cepsa, 1I, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
One of the most important churches of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which has a huge importance in the history of the spread of Catholicism in the Canary Islands. The square around the temple is where the town began to take shape. Although technically it is not a cathedral, it is often called as such.
Address: Pl. de la Iglesia, 2, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Museum of Nature and Man
Archaeological museum and the most important museum of the whole of Macaronesia. The main find is the mummies of the Guanches. And in general the exposition is dedicated to geology, archaeology, flora and fauna of the Canary Islands. An informative place for adults, for young people, for teenagers and for children.
Address: C. Fuente Morales, s/n, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Palmetum Botanical Garden
The unique Palm Grove is located on an elevated position with stunning views of the surrounding area. It is hard to believe that it is artificial. And even harder to believe that once there was a dump on the site of this natural wonder.
Address: Av. la Constitución, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Garcia Sanabria Park
A wonderful and spacious urban garden in the heart of the city. A favorite place for locals, because this region of Tenerife is rocky and such green oases are especially valuable here.
Masonic Temple
The best example of Masonic temple art in Spain and for a long time was the main Masonic center of the country. There were only 4 similar buildings in Spain and this is the only one that survived.
Address: C. de San Lucas, 35, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Teresitas Beach
Not just a beach, but a landmark because it is the only beach with yellow sand on the island. All the others are black volcanic. The sand was brought here from the Sahara itself.
The most interesting places of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Of course, people go to Santa Cruz de Tenerife mainly for resort and beach vacation. But why not combine useful with pleasant? Especially if you have not 1 and not 2 days to spare.
Streets and squares
The best way to get a closer look at the distinctive Canarian style is to simply stroll the streets.
The historic San Sebastian Street connects the old part of the city with the modern neighborhoods.
La Noria Street is the best place to enjoy the authentic atmosphere and architecture of the city. Traditional cafes and souvenir shops can also be visited here.
Among the main tourist spots are the Purification Square and the Maritime Avenue, adjacent to the port and Plaza de España.
Nuestra Señora de África Market is an authentic colonial-style market for buying local specialties and souvenirs.
Museums and exhibitions
Here's a list of cool historical and modern museums to visit during your tour:
Municipal Museum of Fine Arts;
Military History Museum of the Canary Islands;
TEA Contemporary Museum of Art;
Carnival Museum;
Museum of Illusions;
El Tanque Cultural Space;
Ecomuseum;
Iristellar Art Gallery;
ATC Contemporary Art Gallery.
Temple architecture
The Church of San Francisco was built in the Baroque style and has retained some of its original architecture. The San Jose Catholic Church is notable not only for its exterior but also for its interior decoration. St. Michael's Church is known for its frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows.
Parks
Santa Cruz de Tenerife has many beautiful green spaces throughout the city, but some popular parks can be explored up close. Especially since they are free.
La Gallega Park is a small, cozy green park with lakes and walking paths. It is ideal for secluded walks.
Jardin de Begoña - romantic, picturesque and peaceful, with historic buildings all around.
Parque Los Lavaderos - a historic park on the site of an old washing complex.
Monuments
The original monument is the sculpture "Handprint" by Josep Maria Subirax. In 2021, the original 5-meter high, 450 kg stainless steel sculpture Lo llevo bien was installed in the center of the Plaza de España. Another groovy sculpture is Chicharro, a sculpture of a mackerel fish. And nearby is a sculpture of fishermen with a boat, also dedicated to the locals. And finally - monuments to the milkmaid and the water carrier.
Theaters
Looking for something to see or show your loved ones? Santa Cruz de Tenerife has several theaters to visit!
The Adan Martin small halls are adjacent to the Auditorio De Tenerife, but have their own playbill.
The Guimera Theater is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands.
Espacio La Granja is a modern cultural space with theater performances and exhibitions.
Teatro Victoria is a small experimental contemporary theater.
Castles
Fragments of the walls of San Cristobal Castle, the first and main defense structure of Santa Cruz Bay, remain in the underground passages under the Plaza de España. San Juan Castle is one of the oldest and best preserved forts on the coast.
Viewing platforms
Tenerife's observation decks are called miradores, and they make for some of the coolest and most atmospheric photos! Here's a list of interesting places for tourists:
Mirador Cruz del Carmen;
Mirador del Jardín Botánico;
Mirador Las Teresitas;
Mirador Los Campitos;
Mirador de Igueste;
Mirador de La Esperanza;
Mirador de San Andrés.
The extraordinary sights of Santa Cruz de Tenerife will help you better understand the culture and charm of this unique city. And at the same time - get the most out of your long-awaited vacation.
