Planning a trip to Tenerife? We recommend you plan to spend a few days in San Cristóbal de La Laguna. It’s one of our favorite towns on the island. Its historic center is packed with treasures to help you relive the Spanish conquista. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let yourself be seduced by its colorful facades and thefestive atmosphere of its alleyways lined with lively terraces.
Here’s our guide to the must-see places in Tenerife’s La Laguna region, plus useful tips for planning your visit.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Is the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna worth a visit?
Yes, the historic center of La Laguna is well worth a visit. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic charm won us over. Its wide cobbled streets and colorful facades bear witness to a rich colonial past. Our stay was a real trip back in time.
The city is also home to numerous churches and convents, including the majestic Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. We also really enjoyed the city’sfestive atmosphere, with its lively squares and cafés.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is, in our opinion,one of the most beautiful towns on Tenerife, if not the most beautiful.
1. Discover La Laguna Cathedral
Nestled in the heart of the city, the majestic Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios Cathedral is a delight for fans of religious architecture. Its origins date back to the 16th century. It then underwent numerous modifications before being renovated in the 20th century. We were seduced by its neoclassical façade, its richly decorated chapels, and the treasure it contains. The cathedral was declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1983.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., closed Saturday afternoons and Sundays, except when attending mass.
- Price: €7. Book your admission ticket including audioguide
- See the latest news on the official website here
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2. Climb the Concepción Tower
We recommend climbing to the top of the Torre de la Concepción. Right next to the church of the same name, this bell tower is emblematic of the town. Built in the 17th century, it is a precious testimony to the colonial history of the Canaries. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 2012, it also offers breathtaking views of the city’s narrow streets and surrounding mountains. On a good day, you can see as far as the neighboring island of Gran Canaria.
- Opening hours: Mondays 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Tuesdays to Fridays 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Price: €2 (combined with a visit to one of the city’s other monuments)
- See the latest info on theLa Laguna Tourist Office website here
3. Visit the Church of La Concepción
Listed as a National Monument, the Church of La Concepción is the city’s oldest building. Since its construction in the early 16th century, the original church has undergone numerous extensions and transformations. It therefore reflects the Canaries’ rich historical heritage. In addition to its famous tower, we were captivated by the decorative motifs of its Mudéjar-style coffered ceilings and all its other Baroque ornaments, emblematic of thecraftsmanship of the Canary Islands.
- Opening hours: the church is open every day
- Price: €2 (combined with a visit to one of the city’s other monuments)
- See the latest news on the official website here.
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
4. Stroll through the Plaza del Adelantado
The square is a must-see on the edge of the historic center. We found several remarkable buildings, including the Hermitage of Saint Michael the Archangel, the Nava Palace, the Church of las Catalinas and the Town Hall. After admiring the magnificent facades and the trees lined up around the fountain, we ventured out to explore La Laguna’s busy streets.
- Price: free of charge
5. Spend a night in the historic heart of La Laguna
Sleeping in the heart of the old town of San Cristobal de La Laguna, on the island of Tenerife, can be a truly historic experience. We had chosen to stay at the La Laguna Gran Hotel. It’s an 18th-century house with elegant colonial architecture, offering a refined atmosphere that’s both modern and authentic. Its location offers easy access to the city’s main sights and nightlife.
- The hotel is a 4-star
- See current offers at La Laguna Gran Hotel
WHERE TO STAY IN San Cristobal de La Laguna
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Centrally located, with lots of historical charm
La Laguna Gran Hotel – Check photos and availability
Hotel Laguna Nivaria – Check photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in San Cristobal.
6. Marvel at the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church
Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church dates back to the 16th century. Its discreet appearance is deceptive, as its interior design is full of wonderful surprises. We really liked the dark bell tower with its 3 bells , which stands out from the sober facade and joins the adjoining Dominican convent. Inside, the walls are covered with impressive frescoes and murals, and the coffered ceilings are a thing of beauty.
- Opening hours: the church is open every day.
- Price: €2 (combined with a visit to one of the city’s other monuments)
- See the latest news on the official website here.
7. Stroll around the Casa de los Capitanes Generales
The Casa de los Capitanes Generales is also known as Casa Alvarado Bracamonte. It was built in the 17th century on the orders of Captain General Diego de Alvarado-Bracamonte, and was the residence of the island’s Captains General until the end of the 18th century. We loved this fine example of colonial architecture. The house now houses the town’s museum andtourist office.
- Opening hours: October to June (except public holidays), Monday to Friday, 9am to 4:30pm; July to September (except public holidays), Monday to Friday, 9am to 3:30pm.
- Price: free access
- See the latest news on the official website here.
8. Learning at Tenerife’s Museum of History and Anthropology
Still in the historic center, the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife gave us a fascinating insight into the island’s past. It is located in Casa Lercaro, a typical Canarian house with wooden galleries and pretty patios. Inside, archaeological finds and ethnographic objects trace the cultural evolution of Tenerife.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9am to 7pm, Sundays and public holidays 10am to 5pm
- Price: €5
- See the latest news on the official website here
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
9. Admire the Nava Palace
The Nava Palace is located in the Plaza del Adelantado. We weren’t able to visit it, as the building is not open to the public. But we didn’t miss the chance to admire its imposing façade. It’s a blend of Mannerist, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. It features the coats of arms of various families, carved in stone and framed by columns. A project could soon transform the palace into a parador.
- Price: free of charge
- More details here
10. Understanding at the Museum of Science and Cosmos
This museum is an interactive space dedicated to the popularization of science. We saw a planetarium, but there are also permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational workshops and lectures on a variety of scientific subjects. The approach to science is playful and suitable for all ages. It’s an ideal place for families and science enthusiasts who want to learn more.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9am to 7pm, Sundays and public holidays 10am to 5pm
- Price: €5
- See the latest news on the official website here
11. Stroll through the patios of Casa Salazar (Episcopal Palace)
We were surprised by the baroque façade of Casa Salazar. It bears a striking resemblance to the Nava Palace. It was built in the 17th century by the Counts of the Salazar Valley. In the 19th century, the palace was acquired by the diocese. In 2006, the building was destroyed by a terrible fire. It took three years to rebuild and complete the restoration.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Price: free of charge
- See the latest news on the official website here
12. Take a break at the Cayetano Gómez Felipe Museum
The house is a traditional 18th-century Canary home. It was the home of collector Cayetano Gómez Felipe. We found several thousand antiques fromAsia and the Americas. They gave us a better understanding of Tenerife’s importance in trade between Europe and the New World. You can extend your visit in the cafeteria.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 12pm to 6pm, Friday 1pm to 6pm, Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
- Cafeteria opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 9pm, Sunday from 11am to 4pm.
- Price: €5
- See the latest news on the official website here
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Other attractions in and around San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Want to see and do even more? Here are a few more ideas:
Hôtel Particulier Rodríguez de Azero
Just a stone’s throw from the PLaza del Adelantado, the building now houses the Casino de La Laguna. We gave it the allure of a Côte d’Azur palace. The tree-lined terrace is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink.
Hermitage of Saint Michael the Archangel
This is the town’s oldest hermitage. We liked its yellow façade and high wooden gate, on the edge of the Plaza del Adelantado. Today, it’s an exhibition space.
Anaga Rural Park
To the north of the city, Anaga Park is a veritable biodiversity sanctuary. Recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, its landscapes are absolutely spectacular. We’ve done some great hiking there, which will soon be the subject of a dedicated article.
How to get to La Laguna + parking
Where to find San Cristóbal de La Laguna
- North of the island of Tenerife, between the airport and the town of Santa Cruz
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 15min drive
- Tenerife North Airport: 6min drive
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is one of our 10 favorite towns and villages on the island of Tenerife. Here’s a map to help you locate La Laguna in relation to our other favorites:
How to get there
From the airport, you can reach the center of La Laguna:
- By car: take a cab or hire a car. Renting will enable you to visit sites further afield. Find all our practical tips for renting a car in Tenerife. They are based on our experience.
- By public transport: bus line 20 runs from the airport to La Laguna ( Intercambiador La Laguna stop). It’s a 13-minute walk to the historic center. Find out more here.
Parking in La Laguna
There’s plenty of parking in La Laguna. We had left our car at the Parking Aparcamiento Adelantado, just off the Plaza del Adelantado, on the edge of the historic center. It’s free and open 24 hours a day.
Useful tips for visiting the historic center of La Laguna
How long and when?
Although it’s possible to see the main sights of San Cristóbal de La Laguna in a day, we recommend spending at least 2 days. You’ll have the chance to soak up the city’s atmosphere and enjoy the best restaurants and nightlife. We’ve dedicated an article to our favorite hotels where to stay in La Laguna.
The island of Tenerife is pleasant all year round. However, it’s best to avoid midsummer. It’ll be less crowded and you’ll be able to move around more easily. We came in winter. Temperatures were cool in the evening, but still very pleasant – ideal, in fact, for a slightly sporty visit.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
All points of interest are located in the historic center, just a few blocks from each other.
- If you come by car, it’s very easy to follow a circuit. For example, if you leave from one of the parking lots near Plaza del Adelantado, you can visit, in order, the Cathedral, the Museum of the History of Tenerife, Casa Salazar, Casa Cayetano Gomez Felipe, the Church of La Concepción and its tower, and Casa de los Capitanes on the way back.
- If you’re staying locally, you can easily radiate around your place of stay.
Only the Museum of Science and Cosmos is a little off-centre. It takes 20 minutes on foot from the center, 5 minutes by car.
How to get around
There are several options for getting around San Cristóbal de La Laguna:
- By car: we recommend you leave your car in one of the city’s free parking lots and visit the historic center on foot.
- By bus: There is a bus network in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, but you’ll be more limited in terms of timetables and travel options. Find out more here.
- By streetcar: two lines connect the island’s main points of interest between Santa Cruz and La Laguna. Find out more here.
- On foot: this is the ideal option for enjoying the historic center to the full.
Visiting with children
The colorful facades of La Laguna’s colonial houses are a delight for children, especially as their walls often tell the stories of famous privateers and pirates. Many options are available to help them make the most of their stay. Among them:
- The town offers a number of free guided tours of the historic center, tailored to the needs of families. Find out more here.
- The Amaro Pargo Game: a gamified experience, alone or in a group, to solve riddles and discover the treasure of the privateer Amaro Pargo. Find out more here.
- The Museum of Science and Cosmos, an interactive space that makes science accessible and captivating for all ages.
- Why not take a hike in the Anaga Rural Park? The Sentier des Sens(Camino de los Sentidos) in the Laurisylva Forest is equipped with interactive terminals and accessible to all. Find out more here.
- If you come at Christmas, nativity scenes are on display at the Casa de los Capitanes Generales.
Restaurants
Restaurants are plentiful in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and there’s no shortage of good ones. We’ve selected a few addresses that combine personality and savoir-faire. Discover our selection of the best restaurants in San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
