On Tenerife‘s north coast, Puerto de la Cruz immediately appealed to us for its unspoilt authenticity and enchanting setting. This pearl of the Canaries offers a skilful blend of history and modernity.
Its black sandy beaches are surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Its colonial architecture coexists with the sleek curves of buildings designed by local artist César Manrique. Dominated by the majestic Teide, the town invites you to stroll along its picturesque seafront promenade.
An ideal place to soak up the gentle Canarian lifestyle.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Is Puerto de la Cruz worth a visit?
Absolutely! Puerto de la Cruz is well worth a visit for its authenticity, lush gardens and colonial charm. Between volcanic beaches, a lively historic center and views of Mount Teide, this town offers the perfect balance between local culture and seaside relaxation.
In this article, we give you our 9 reasons to visit the city. You can also take a look at our selection of the city’s top attractions.
Reason 1: For its black sand beaches
The black sand beaches of Puerto de la Cruz offered us a unique experience. Their dark color contrasts beautifully with the blue of the Atlantic and the green of the tropical gardens. The result is a striking photographic landscape, particularly at sunset.
This volcanic sand is renowned for its therapeutic properties and ability to retain heat. It makes sunbathing particularly pleasant, except at the height of the heat when it becomes scorching hot. Better protect your soles! Playa Jimenez is our favorite, but Playa Jardín, designed by artist César Manrique, is well worth a visit.
Don’t miss our article on the city’s most beautiful beaches.
WHERE TO STAY IN Puerto de la Cruz
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Right in the center
Hotel AF Valle Orotava – Check photos and availability
Near the beach
Hotel AluaSoul Orotava Valley – Check photos and availability
On the heights
Hotel Botanica y Oriental Spa – Check photos and availability.
Atlantic Mirage Suites & Spa Hotel – Check photos and availability
Tigaiga Suites apartments – Check photos and availability.
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz.
Reason 2: For its lush gardens
The gardens of Puerto de la Cruz are true havens of peace, where tropical flora flourishes in all its splendor. The Botanical Garden created in the 18th century, is home to an exceptional collection of exotic plants, including rare species from all over the world and century-old trees that amazed us.
The Sitio Litre, the oldest orchid garden in the Canaries, enchanted us with its colorful flowerbeds and romantic atmosphere. As for the little Carolina Garden, we loved the silhouettes of its gooseneck agaves and its breathtaking view of the city and ocean. These green spaces are a perfect reflection of Puerto de la Cruz’s privileged microclimate, which is conducive to lush vegetation all year round.
We have devoted an entire article to the gardens of Puerto de la Cruz.
Reason 3: For its panoramic views
We were amazed by the spectacular views from Puerto de la Cruz. From many strategic points in the city, you can contemplate theAtlantic Ocean breaking over the black sands of the beaches, in a mesmerizing natural spectacle.
From the Mirador de la Paz in particular, we enjoyed a breathtaking view of the entire city, its rooftops and the infinite blue of the ocean. But the most impressive sight is the majestic silhouette of Mount Teide dominating the horizon. Its often snow-covered summit contrasts with the mild coastal climate. These vistas provide unique opportunities for memorable photos.
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.
Reason 4: For its waterfront promenade
We loved strolling along the Puerto de la Cruz waterfront. The Paseo Maritimo is one of the city’s liveliest thoroughfares. It’s a lively walk where we soak up theauthentic Canarianatmosphere, between palm trees swaying in the sea breeze and waves crashing against volcanic rocks.
Depending on the time of day, we’ve come across morning joggers or street performers who liven up the evenings. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the late-night lights at a café terrace, savoring an artisanal ice cream or a glass of local wine.
Reason 5: For its street art
We were fascinated by Puerto de la Cruz’s vibrant street art scene. It transforms the city into a veritable open-air gallery. As we wandered through the narrow streets of the historic center, we discovered impressive murals that tell the story of the Canaries’ history and culture.
The initiative “Puerto Street Art has enabled many local and international artists to embellish facades with colorful and committed frescoes. We particularly liked the area around the fishing port, where contemporary murals blend harmoniously with traditional architecture, creating a striking contrast that gives the town a unique character.
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Reason 6: For its old port
We were charmed by the authenticity of Puerto de la Cruz’s old port. It’s a place that has preserved its fishing village soul. From Playa del Muelle, we watched the colorful little boats gently bobbing on the water, as the local fishermen returned with the day’s catch.
The Casa de la Aduana, an old colonial house dating back to the 17th century, houses theTourist Office and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The atmosphere is particularly lively, especially as the port is very close to the Plaza del Charco, the heart of the city. You can easily feast on fresh fish in traditional restaurants.
Reason 7: For its historic center with its colorful facades
We admired the magnificent colorful facades that make up the unique character of Puerto de la Cruz’s historic center. From the low-slung houses in pastel hues to the more imposing buildings in vivid hues, this harmonious architectural ensemble immersed us in a typically Canarian atmosphere.
We wandered through the narrow streets, taking in the intricate balconies, charming stone-framed windows and carved wooden front doors. This traditional architecture has been perfectly preserved. It lends the old town an irresistible colonial cachet in this land of sunshine and color.
Why not take advantage of your stay to take a walking tour of the old town with a guide who will introduce you to Puerto de la Cruz and its history.
Reason 8: For its churches
We easily spotted the churches that dot the historic center of Puerto de la Cruz. The most emblematic is undoubtedly theChurch of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, with its imposing Baroque façade and soaring bell tower. Unfortunately we weren’t able to visit it, but we did spend some time admiring it from the small Plaza de la Iglesia.
On the other hand, we were able to visit theChurch of San Francisco, a little more modest, it seems. However, it is attached to the chapel of the San Juan Bautista Hermitage, and their double nave is rich in splendid altarpieces, all gilded and colorful. True jewels of the local heritage, these churches bear witness to the importance of faith in Canary culture.
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Reason 9: For its leisure parks
Puerto de la Cruz’s leisure parks offered us a complete change of scenery in the heart of the city. Our favorite is Lago Martianez, with its shaded green spaces and 7 seawater pools. It was designed by Canary Island artist César Manrique, who also designed the Playa Jardín jadin and other beautiful buildings with typical 60s curves, notably on the neighboring island of Lanzarote.
There’s also Loro Parque, a famous zoological park. We appreciated the space reserved for birds and the work done by the park to conserve species. However, we have more reservations about the rest of the park, and in particular the animal shows. We invite you to read our article on Loro Parque before planning your visit, so that you can form an informed opinion.
DISCOVER Puerto de la Cruz
Some disadvantages of a trip to Puerto de la Cruz
Tourists
During the high summer season, Puerto de la Cruz is prone to overtourism. Escessive crowds can therefore detract from your overall experience and make certain attractions less enjoyable to visit.
Traffic
Traffic and parking are also difficult in high season. Sometimes you have to look for places far from the center, which is inconvenient and involves more walking.
Aging infrastructure
Many tourist buildings date back to the 1960s, and some have not aged well. This can affect the aesthetics and comfort of your stay. Some modern structures are also to be regretted, as they do not harmonize well with the town’s historic charm.
Weather
The climate is generally pleasant, but the north of the island is cooler and wetter than the south. This may not be suitable for all travelers.
Black sand
In high season, when the sun heats up, it’s hard to stay on the sand, which becomes scorching hot. Don’t forget suitable footwear for swimming! Some beaches have paths made of mats or wood, so you can get into the water without burning yourself too much.
How to get to Puerto de la Cruz
From the port or airports, you can take public transport. The bus network is relatively well developed and offers good coverage of the island. Find out more here.
However, we strongly recommend that you have access to a car during your trip to Tenerife. If you want to explore the full beauty of the island, you’ll need a vehicle. It’s the quickest and easiest way to get around all our sites. Find out all our tips for renting a car in Tenerife.
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
