Santa Cruz de Tenerife, one of the co-capitals of the Canary Islands, combines avant-garde architecture, historical heritage, and green spaces just a stone’s throw from the waterfront. We found it to be more family-friendly than one might think: the downtown area is easy to explore on foot, there are plenty of museums, and several attractions offer facilities specifically designed for children. Check out our ideas for things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with kids, illustrated with photos. Bonus: useful tips for organizing your family holiday.
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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Visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife with kids: Is it a good idea?
For what age group is this city suitable?
In our opinion, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a good choice for families with children aged 5–6 and older. At this age, children may be interested in interactive museums such as the Museum of Nature and Archaeology, exploring historic squares, or discovering the costumes at the Carnival Museum. Young children can enjoy the many green spaces and playgrounds scattered throughout the city. However, we recommend planning ahead when traveling with a stroller: while the main paths in García Sanabria Park and the waterfront promenades are accessible, some streets in the city center are still cobblestone and have narrow sidewalks.
Teenagers will also find plenty to enjoy in Santa Cruz. The Tenerife Auditorium, the TEA, and the Museum of Military History offer enough engaging content to hold their attention. We also noted that the shopping malls, shopping districts, and beaches in the northern part of the city offer useful alternatives for varying the itinerary to suit everyone’s preferences.
Why visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife with your family?
The city offers a wide variety of activities within a compact area. The historic center is largely accessible on foot, public transportation—TITSA buses and trams—provides good service to all the sites, and several museums are free. We appreciated the fact that you can put together a well-balanced itinerary combining cultural visits, outdoor breaks, and trips to the beach without needing a car in the city itself.
In addition, Santa Cruz enjoys a mild climate year-round, which makes traveling with children easier. Temperatures remain pleasant even in winter, and there is generally enough sunshine to enjoy the outdoor spaces. The northern beaches—notably Playa de Las Teresitas—are accessible by bus or car from downtown, making it possible to combine a city break with a beach vacation during the same trip.
Our Tips Before Traveling with Your Family to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
If you have children, we don’t recommend planning days that are too packed. Ideally, you should alternate between a cultural outing and a more relaxed break—in one of the city’s parks, along the waterfront, or on your way to the northern beaches. The tram and TITSA buses are the most convenient options for getting around without a car. For locations further away, such as Playa de Las Teresitas in San Andrés, the 910 or 945 bus works well. If you rent a car, keep in mind that parking in the city center can be difficult: opt for paid underground parking garages or the large free parking lots at the Palmetum and the Parc Maritime.
Also, be sure to check the hours for each site before you go: several museums are closed on Mondays or have reduced hours outside of peak season. We also recommend visiting the beaches on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, especially at Playa de Las Teresitas, which attracts both locals and tourists. Finally, several of the city’s museums are free or offer reduced admission for children—a significant advantage when planning a family trip without excessive financial constraints.
WHERE TO STAY in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
The old town of Santa Cruz
AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife – Check photos and availability
North of downtown
Hotel Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – Check photos and availability
The Park Suites by IRES LAR – Check photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Santa Cruz.
1. Exploring the César Manrique Maritime Park with Children
Why visit with children?
The César Manrique Maritime Park is undoubtedly the most family-friendly attraction in Santa Cruz. Designed by the Canarian artist of the same name, this water park makes up for the lack of a beach in the city center with three saltwater pools, landscaped terraces, and dining options. For families who want to enjoy the water without going to the beach, this is the most convenient and comprehensive option in town. We recommend it for children of all ages, provided that you supervise the youngest children around the pools. Children can alternate between swimming, playing in the water, and taking breaks on the terraces, without the constraints of a traditional beach. For parents, the site is reassuring because everything is located in one well-organized area: pools, lounge chairs, restrooms, and dining options.
What we liked
We appreciated the aesthetic vision that underlies the entire site: the Maritime Park blends harmoniously into the landscape, combining natural elements with thoughtful design, in the tradition of César Manrique. A kinetic sculpture by the artist is installed nearby, at the Castillo de San Juan Bautista—it moves with the wind, which usually fascinates children. This little detail turns a trip to the beach into a mini artistic adventure, without any extra effort.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on your preferences
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during peak season, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during off-season (hours may vary depending on the season; please check the official website here before your visit)
- Accessibility and Challenges: Accessible (dedicated parking spaces, elevators, access ramps, accessible restrooms, amphibious chair available)
- Prices: Adults €7.50; children under 12, €4
- Directions: “Intercambiador” tram stop, a 10-minute walk away
- Food: On-site dining options
- Book your admission ticket now to save time!
2. Recharge Your Batteries at García Sanabria Park
Why visit with children?
García Sanabria Park is one of Santa Cruz’s main green spaces, along with the Palmetum. It’s a great park to take a breather: kids can run along the paths, look at the fountains, search for the sculptures, and enjoy the playground. This place works especially well between two more urban outings, when the kids need to run around without having to follow a set route. With its paths lined with tropical plants, sculptures, and fountains, it makes for a pleasant stop, especially a welcome break during a day of cultural sightseeing. The playground in the park is well suited for toddlers and elementary school-aged children. While they play, you can take advantage of the benches and tall trees to take a break in the shade. La Rambla de Santa Cruz, which runs alongside the garden, adds to the atmosphere of the place with its rows of palm trees and bustling traffic.
What we liked
We appreciated its free admission and its central location, which makes it easy to stop by between sightseeing trips. This is a place we especially recommend to families traveling with children under 6, for whom a long day at museums can be tiring. The on-site restaurant is also convenient if you want to have lunch without going far.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 30min to 1h
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: Most trails are wide and paved, with benches available; some areas are less accessible with a stroller
- Admission: Free
- Directions: downtown, along the Rambla de Santa Cruz
- Dining: On-site restaurant
- Explore the heart of Santa Cruz and García Sanabria Park with a local guide!
3. Discover Carnival culture at the Carnival Museum
Why visit with children?
The Santa Cruz Carnival is one of the most famous in the world and has been designated a “Festival of International Tourist Interest” since 1980. If your visit doesn’t coincide with the festivities, the Carnival Museum—also known as Casa Carnaval—lets you explore its history all year round. Children will react spontaneously here: the extravagant costumes, the small performance stage, and the costumes available on site make for a lively and accessible visit, even for the youngest visitors. We were thoroughly entertained by the outlandish outfits on display, especially the Queen of Children’s costume. This is probably one of the most kid-friendly museums in Santa Cruz: the colors, the voluminous costumes, and the chance to dress up immediately capture the imagination of young children. The tour is short, visually engaging, and fun, which helps avoid the “museum is too long” feeling.
What we liked
We appreciated the short duration of the tour—30 to 60 minutes—which was well suited to the children’s attention spans. Admission is free, and the venue is clearly marked as family-friendly, with a smooth floor and ground-floor access. It’s one of the most spontaneously fun things to do in Santa Cruz, and it doesn’t require any special preparation.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 30min to 1h
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
- Accessibility and Access for People with Disabilities: accessible (ground floor, smooth flooring)
- Admission: Free
- Directions: “San Sebastián” bus stop, an 8-minute walk away; west of downtown, near the Puente Galcerán
- Food and Beverage: Snack vending machines on site; no dining options
- Visit the official website for more info here
- Take a guided tour of downtown that includes the Maison du Carnaval!
4. Explore the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA)
Why visit with children?
The Museum of Nature and Archaeology, also known as MUNA, is one of the city’s most family-friendly attractions. It’s one of the best museums in Santa Cruz. Its interactive exhibits, screens, and educational models make the visit accessible to children ages 6–7 and up. The remarkably well-preserved mummies are a major attraction for older children—some still show traces of scalp, which is sure to spark reactions and questions. The museum also explores the geological history of the archipelago, as well as the local flora and fauna. We appreciated the interactive approach, even though it’s not always clear which way to go.
What we liked
When visiting with children, it’s best to frame the tour as an exploration of the island: volcanoes, animals, the island’s first inhabitants, ancient artifacts, and Guanche mummies. Visual aids help keep children engaged, but we recommend selecting a few rooms based on the children’s ages rather than trying to see everything.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1h30 to 2h
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays and holidays
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: accessible (wheelchair and stroller rentals, accessible restrooms, access ramps)
- Admission: €5 for adults; free for children under 8; free on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 4 p.m. (free admission times may vary on holidays)
- Directions: “Fundación” tram stop, a 2-minute walk away; downtown along the Barranco de Santos
- Dining: MUNA’s El Gastro Cafeteria on site
- Visit the official website for more info 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.
5. Go swimming at Playa de Las Teresitas and in the coves to the north
Why visit with children?
For a day at the beach, families should head north of Santa Cruz: the city center does not have an accessible sandy beach, with the exception of the Valleseco (Los Charcos) swimming area on the waterfront, which is suitable for a quick dip in the city. Las Teresitas Beach, a 15-minute drive away in the San Andrés area, is the most accessible and best-equipped beach for families: golden sand, calm waters, a wheelchair-accessible ramp, and a pier on the sand. This is the beach we recommend most highly for families with young children, thanks to its safe swimming conditions. For families, this is the easiest beach to visit from Santa Cruz: sandy shores, generally calm waters, plenty of space to walk, plenty of places to set up camp, and nearby restaurants in San Andrés. Children can play in the sand without having to deal with the pebbles or the more rugged beaches in the northern part of the island.
What we liked
We were captivated by the setting of Playa de Las Teresitas, framed by theAnaga Mountains and offering a panoramic view of the city on the horizon. For families looking for more secluded coves, you can head toward Igueste: the scenery there is unspoiled, but the hike is more challenging and less suitable for strollers or young children who aren’t used to walking. Las Gaviotas Beach has a more rugged atmosphere, but it’s not the best choice for young children and may be frequented by naturists depending on the time of year.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: depending on your itinerary, from 2 hours to a full day
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Accessibility and Challenges: Las Teresitas Beach is accessible (access ramp, boardwalk on the sand); the coves at Igueste are difficult to reach with a stroller
- Rates: free access
- Directions: by car or bus 910/945 — more info here
- Parking: parking lot near Playa de Las Teresitas (paid parking during high season)
- Dining: Several restaurants and cafés along Playa de Las Teresitas in the village of San Andrés
6. Visit the Palmetum with the family
Why visit with children?
The Palmetum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of palm trees. For families, this is an interesting outing for children ages 6–7 and up, especially if the children are curious about the natural world. The garden was built on a former landfill site—a fact we thought was worth mentioning to raise the children’s awareness of real-world environmental issues. The views of the ocean, Santa Cruz, and the Anaga Mountains make the walk even more enjoyable, even for those who aren’t particularly interested in botany. If you’re visiting with children, the tour can turn into a game of observation: spot the tallest palm trees, the most unusual leaf shapes, birds, or views of the ocean. The fact that the garden was created on a former landfill site also makes it easy to explore the transformation of a damaged site into a natural space.
What we liked
We loved strolling through this lush park, which offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The site’s educational focus—informational signs, a stated commitment to conservation, and sustainable practices such as the use of recycled water—gives the visit an educational dimension without being overly didactic. Inclusive guided tours are available for people with disabilities. However, there isn’t a real place to eat on site—just snack vending machines—so be sure to bring something to snack on.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1h30 to 2h
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (last admission at 5 p.m.)
- Accessibility and Challenges: Accessible (elevator, wheelchair rental, accessible restrooms, inclusive guided tours—find out more here)
- Prices: adults €6; children €2.80 (prices are approximate—check the official website)
- Directions: south of downtown, next to the Tenerife Auditorium; a 12-minute walk from the “Intercambiador” tram stop
- Food and Beverage: coffee corner with snack vending machines only
- Visit the official website for more info here
- Book your admission ticket now to save time!
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
7. Sample local products at the Notre-Dame d’Afrique Market
Why visit with children?
The Notre-Dame d’Afrique Municipal Market—also known as La Recova—is a great introduction to Canarian cuisine and daily life. For families, the main attraction is the market’s visual and sensory atmosphere: the colorful stalls, the smells, the small black potatoes typical of the islands, and the freshly caught fish. We recommend this tour for children ages 5–6 and up, especially those who are curious and open to culinary discoveries. The on-site playground is an added bonus for families with young children. For children, the appeal is mainly sensory: watching the fish, comparing tropical fruits, smelling the spices, choosing a juice, or trying a simple local specialty. It’s a short, lively tour that’s easy to fit in before lunch.
What we liked
We were captivated by the building’s neo-colonial-inspired architecture and its local atmosphere. The fact that there is free parking for customers for one hour is useful information if you’re coming by car. The on-site dining options let you enjoy lunch in a local atmosphere, which can be a great way for the whole family to explore.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 1h to 1h30
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday
- Accessibility and Challenges: Partial access (escalators available)
- Rates: free access
- Directions: downtown
- Parking: Free parking for customers for 1 hour
- Food: On-site dining options
- Discover Santa Cruz and its traditional market on a guided tour!
8. Immerse Yourself in Art at TEA — Tenerife Espace des Arts
Why visit with children?
TEA, Tenerife Espace des Arts, has a space specifically dedicated to children: MiniTEA. This is why it makes sense to include this venue in a family-friendly program, since contemporary art generally requires a level of maturity that not all children have yet attained. We recommend this tour for children ages 6–7 and up for the MiniTEA, and for children ages 10–12 and up for the temporary exhibitions. MiniTEA offers a way to explore contemporary art through play and creativity rather than through a traditional tour of exhibition halls. This is a great place to start with kids; for temporary exhibits, it’s best to check the theme before you go.
Admission is free, so you can stop by without any obligation, and the on-site cafeteria is a great place to take a break.
What we liked
We were captivated by the building’s bold architecture, which blends harmoniously with the historic neighborhood. The TEA also houses a photography center dedicated to the archipelago’s visual heritage. Temporary exhibitions change regularly: from film screenings to creative installations and live performances, art takes on many forms here. Check the program in advance to see if the current exhibits are appropriate for your children’s ages.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 1h to 1h30
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (closed on Mondays)
- Accessibility and Challenges: accessible (elevators, level flooring, spacious exhibition areas)
- Prices: Free (€4 for movie screenings)
- Directions: downtown
- Dining: TEA Cafeteria on site
- MiniTEA Area, specially designed for children — view the 3D map of the venue
- Visit the official website for more info here
9. Explore the Canary Islands Military History Museum
Why visit with children?
In our opinion, it’s one of the best museums in Santa Cruz, and it’s especially great for kids who are interested in military vehicles and history. Housed in the Fuerte de Almeyda, a fortification completed in 1884, the museum displays armored vehicles, tanks, and other equipment in its inner courtyard—the sheer size of which usually impresses children. Admission is free, making it a visit that won’t break the bank. We recommend it for children ages 7–8 and up, especially those who are curious about history or fascinated by machines. Children who love machines, models, and large exhibits will find it easier to engage here than in a museum that relies heavily on text. The vehicles on display outdoors, the bunkers, and the military equipment provide concrete points of reference, but some sections may require guidance to explain the historical context.
What we liked
We were particularly impressed by the armored vehicles on display outdoors, which give the visit a tangible and immersive feel. The richness of the collection—flags, weapons, military decorations, maps, and models—allows visitors to explore the archipelago’s military history from various perspectives. Some bunkers have been converted to accommodate visitors, which enhances the experience. Please note that these areas are difficult to access for strollers and people with limited mobility.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 1h to 1h30
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends and holidays
- Accessibility and Challenges for People with Disabilities: largely accessible (access ramps, restrooms); the casemates are difficult to access for strollers and people with disabilities
- Admission: Free
- Directions: “Almeyda” bus stop across from the entrance; north of downtown, next to the Rambla de Santa Cruz
- Dining: La Pérgola Cafeteria on site
- Visit the official website for more info here
10. Explore the Old Town and its historic squares
Why visit with children?
The old town of Santa Cruz is easy to explore on foot. For families, this offers a real advantage: no need to arrange transportation, the chance to take breaks at the many cafes and restaurants in the city center, and places where children can move around freely. Plaza de España is the centerpiece of the promenade, with its large reflecting pool—designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. Beneath the square, San Cristóbal Castle houses a small underground museum showcasing the remains of the ancient fortress; it is easily accessible and short, making it suitable for children. We were also charmed by the Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias and the Plaza Veinticinco de Julio de Los Patos, two squares with a distinct character. To make the walk more fun, you can turn it into a series of little challenges: spot the reflecting pool at Plaza de España, look for the fountains, admire the colorful facades, or head down to see the ruins of San Cristóbal Castle. It’s a good option when you want to explore without setting a schedule that’s too strict.
What we liked
We loved wandering around the city and stumbling across these random squares. This type of outing—with no time constraints and no tickets to buy—is ideal for families who want to take things at their own pace. In the evening, the squares come alive and offer a different atmosphere—one that’s cooler and more welcoming, and pleasant even with young children.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for the full tour
- Hours: Seats are available at any time
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: Largely accessible; some cobblestone streets with narrow sidewalks, which can be difficult to navigate with a stroller
- Rates: free access
- Directions: downtown, within walking distance of the main tram and bus stops
- Dining: There are many restaurants, bars, and cafes nearby
- Explore the city center and its historic squares with an expert guide!
11. Visit the Tenerife Auditorium with the family
Why visit with children?
The Tenerife Auditorium is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Its unique shape—often compared to a wave or a crescent moon—immediately catches the eye, even that of children. For a family, the appeal isn’t necessarily attending a show, but rather taking a guided tour behind the scenes. Even without a guided tour, the Auditorium makes for a great visual stop with children: its spectacular shape invites comparisons—a wave, a sail, a seashell, a crescent moon—and the surrounding area offers a short walk before heading to the Palmetum or the Maritime Park.
What we liked
We were captivated by the building’s futuristic lines as it faced the ocean. Even without going inside, the Auditorium is a worthwhile stop on a walk to the Palmetum or the Maritime Park, both of which are right nearby. If you’re planning a guided tour, reservations are required—by phone or email—so it’s best to plan ahead. Guided tours are paid for adults and free for children under 12. We recommend them for children ages 8–10 and older, who are able to follow a guided tour.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: as per the itinerary (guided tour or outdoor visit only)
- Guided tour hours: Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — please book in advance by calling +34 922 568 600 or emailing visitas@auditoriodetenerife.com
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: accessible (various entry points)
- Prices: guided tours €5; free for children under 12
- Directions: South of downtown, near the Palmetum; the “Intercambiador” tram stop is a 7-minute walk away
- Dining: Alisios Café – Cafetería del Auditorio on site
- Visit the official website for more info here
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
Where can you eat in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with kids?
Downtown Santa Cruz offers many places to eat with the family. We’ve selected three restaurants that cater well to different tastes: Restaurant Etéreo by Pedro Nel for its creative cuisine with local influences, Restaurant El Aguarde for its traditional Spanish and Canarian dishes, and Restaurant Sagrario for its gourmet regional specialties. If you visit the market in the morning, the food stalls at La Recova are also a good option for a simple, local meal. Check out our article on the best restaurants in town to discover more family-friendly spots.
Where can families stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
For a family vacation, we recommend choosing your accommodations based on your itinerary. If you plan to visit mainly the historic center, museums, and parks, a hotel in the city center will be the most convenient—it will save you the trouble of arranging additional transportation. If you’d like to combine city life with the seaside, staying south of downtown, near the Palmetum and the Parc Maritime, is a good option. The free parking lots at the Palmetum and the Parc Maritime are a real advantage if you have a car, provided you don’t mind walking at least 15 minutes to reach the city center.
If you’re traveling with children, be sure to check with the accommodations directly about family-friendly amenities: extra beds, cribs, and bus service to the beach. We recommend that you avoid hotels that are too far out of the city center if you don’t have a car, as distances within the city can quickly become a hassle when traveling with young children.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in the Canaries a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Children, Depending on the Season
Spring (March–May)
This is the time of year we recommend most highly for families. The temperatures are pleasant, the crowds at the attractions remain manageable, and the days allow you to combine cultural visits and trips to the beach without any hassle. Children find it easier to get around on foot under these conditions, and the chance of rain is low.
Summer (June – August)
Summers in Santa Cruz are hotter, but the coastal location moderates the heat compared to the island’s interior. Las Teresitas Beach is at its best, and the Maritime Park is very crowded. We recommend scheduling cultural visits for the morning and reserving the afternoons for outdoor activities near the water. Be prepared for large crowds on the beaches on weekends.
Autumn (September – October)
September is still warm, and the water is still a good temperature for swimming. Starting in October, the temperatures become milder and the city returns to a more relaxed pace, perfect for strolling and visiting museums. We find this time of year particularly well-suited for families who want to avoid the high season.
Winter (November–February)
Winters are mild in Santa Cruz—with temperatures hovering around 21 °C (69.8°F)—making it a pleasant destination even outside the European tourist season. Museums are seeing fewer visitors. On the other hand, lodging rates may remain high during periods of high demand. The sky may become cloudier, and the chance of rain will increase. In February, the Santa Cruz Carnival is a wonderful event for families: spectacular, festive, and suitable for all ages.
DISCOVER Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Kids
Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife stroller-friendly?
Partly. The historic district features cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks, which make it difficult to navigate with a stroller in some places. On the other hand, the paths in García Sanabria Park, the waterfront, the piers, and the entrances to the main museums are generally accessible. For outdoor activities, Playa de Las Teresitas features an access ramp and a pier on the sand, making it the most accessible beach in the area. We recommend bringing a baby carrier in addition to the stroller for cultural outings in the city center.
How many days should you plan to spend in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with your family?
Two to three days are enough to see the main sights without overloading the itinerary. You could spend your first day visiting the Maritime Park, García Sanabria Park, and taking a stroll through the historic center. On the second day, plan to visit Playa de Las Teresitas along with either the Carnival Museum or the MUNA. On the third day, you can explore the Palmetum, the TEA, or the Museum of Military History, depending on your children’s interests.
When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife with children?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) are the best times for a family visit. The temperatures there are mild, the crowds are smaller, and the conditions are ideal for combining cultural sightseeing with a trip to the beach. Winter is also a good option thanks to the mild climate, especially in February for Carnival.
What can you do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife when it rains?
Several museums in Santa Cruz are great places to visit on rainy days: the MUNA with its interactive exhibits, the TEA and its MiniTEA space, the Museum of Military History, and the Carnival Museum. The El Corte Inglés and Meridiano shopping centers offer a relaxed alternative for families who want to take a break from shopping or enjoy a movie. The two parishes in the city center—San Francisco de Asís and Notre-Dame du Pilar—are also worth a visit for their remarkable interior architecture.
What’s an easy day trip to take from Santa Cruz with kids?
From Santa Cruz, the Anaga Mountains offer one of the most beautiful family outings if your children love nature. We recommend choosing a short, easy outing rather than a long hike: a scenic overlook, a stroll through a laurel forest, or a stop in a village like Taganana is enough to give you a completely different atmosphere. The roads are winding, so it’s best not to pack too much into the day when traveling with young children. For families, the best option isto take a guided tour. For a first visit, combine a view of Anaga with a stop at Playa de Las Teresitas on the way back. Find all our excursion ideas here
Should you rent a car in Santa Cruz de Tenerife as a family?
Not necessarily to sightsee: the tram and TITSA buses provide good service to all the main tourist attractions. A car comes in handy if you’re planning trips to the Anaga Mountains, Playa de Las Teresitas, or more distant destinations like Teide National Park. In that case, plan ahead for parking in the city center, which is difficult and requires payment. The free parking lots at the Palmetum and the Parc Maritime are an option if you don’t mind a 15-minute walk. Read our article to find out where to park in Santa Cruz here
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best excursions in Tenerife
- 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
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
SHE MADE THE TRIP Elisa
