Santa,Cruz,De,Tenerife,,Canary,Islands,,Spain,-,Concepcion,Church,

What to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: a guide to discovering the island’s capital

15/ 04 / 25 Tenerife 5min
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a city that blends tradition and innovation in every corner. It offers a rich mix of architecture, historic streets, museums, tropical gardens, and lively markets.

In this guide, we suggest a tour of the key sights to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, perfect for a day trip or as a starting point to keep exploring the island.

Between history and modernity: architecture and iconic neighborhoods

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, history and modernity intertwine in a series of must-see places for any visitor.

Nuestra Señora de África Market

This colonial market with an Andalusian flair is one of Santa Cruz’s symbols. Beneath its pink arches unfolds a world of local flavors: tropical fruits, Canarian cheeses, homemade mojos, and fresh fish of the day. It also features gastro-bars where you can try creative tapas made with zero-kilometer products. An essential stop for those wanting to experience the island’s culinary essence.

Plaza de España and San Cristóbal Castle

Plaza de España, with its artificial lake and wide-open views to the sea, is the city’s nerve center. Just below it lies the Interpretation Center of San Cristóbal Castle, a 17th-century underground fortress whose remains allow you to imagine its past as a fortified city. From here, you can start a walk connecting to other nearby points of interest, such as the port or Calle del Castillo.

Calle del Castillo 

This is the city’s main commercial artery, where you’ll find everything from big-brand boutiques to Canarian craft shops, traditional jewelry stores, and typical pastries like rosquetes or batata truchas. A perfect stroll for anyone wanting to bring home a special souvenir from the island.

Traveler tip: From Santa Cruz, you can easily visit nearby towns such as Candelaria, famous for its seaside basilica, or La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, both less than 30 minutes away by car.

Old Town and Calle La Noria

Strolling through Santa Cruz’s old town is like stepping into a colonial atmosphere of colorful houses, wooden balconies, and peaceful squares. One of its most picturesque spots is Calle La Noria, bustling with nightlife and facades that evoke a fantasy world. Ideal for tapas or drinks on a terrace under the festive garlands that adorn it.

Frame 459
Frame 460
Frame 461

Museums and art: a cultural capital

The capital of Tenerife is much more than sun and sea. It boasts cultural spaces that impress with their quality, architecture, and programming. Here are some of the most notable places to immerse yourself in the island’s art, history, and identity.

Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA)

Housed in a former neoclassical hospital, MUNA is a museum gem that holds collections about the biodiversity of the Canary Islands and, especially, a valuable collection about the Guanches, the island’s ancient inhabitants.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00h to 19:00h, Sundays and holidays from 10:00h to 17:00h.

TEA (Space for the Arts) and its library

Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, TEA is Tenerife’s center for contemporary art. Its library, open and bright, is also a key spot for those looking to read, work, or simply find inspiration. It also offers independent cinema and exhibitions that connect with both island and global identity.

david-dvoracek-vN3oTFSZurY-unsplash

Auditorio de Tenerife 

The Auditorio de Tenerife, an iconic work by architect Santiago Calatrava, stands as a modern symbol of the city. Its design, inspired by a frozen wave facing the ocean, is remarkable for its bold architecture that has made the building one of Tenerife’s main attractions. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting prestigious events such as operas, concerts, and international dance performances. Its unique structure stands out not only for its aesthetics but also for its functionality, adapting to the demands of large-scale artistic events.

Some of the best views of the building can be enjoyed from the César Manrique Maritime Park. Within walking distance is also the Castillo de San Juan Bautista, a 17th-century fortress declared a Site of Cultural Interest. This historic fortress, located on the coast, perfectly complements a visit to the Auditorio, offering a rich historical and cultural contrast in the same setting.

Urban nature: parks and gardens to breathe

García Sanabria Park

Located in the heart of the city, this 67,000 m² botanical garden combines sculptures, fountains, and lush tropical vegetation. Perfect for walks as a couple, with family, or alone, this park is also a common setting for fairs, outdoor exhibitions, and concerts.

Palmetum of Santa Cruz

What was once a landfill is now one of the most impressive botanical gardens in Europe. Spanning 12 hectares, the Palmetum houses one of the most complete palm collections in Europe. Along with viewpoints offering sea views, lakes, and waterfalls, there are benches to sit on and public restrooms.

Opening hours: Every day from 10:00h to 18:00h.

César Manrique Maritime Park

A perfect place to enjoy the sun in the city. This complex of saltwater pools, designed by Lanzarote artist César Manrique, blends nature, art, and architecture. It features garden areas, bars, and children’s spaces. Entrance includes a sun lounger with mattress; umbrellas are optional and paid separately.

Opening hours: 10:00h to 19:00h in summer, 10:00h to 18:00h in winter.

Volcanic pools near the city

If you’re looking for a wilder swim, around Santa Cruz you will find natural pools and tidal pools perfect for a different bathing experience among volcanic rocks. Some of these are included in our guide to seeing Tenerife in 4 days.

Frame 463
Frame 464
Frame 465

Santa Cruz de Tenerife: a starting point to a thousand landscapes

Santa Cruz is not just the capital of Tenerife; it is an open door to the island’s diverse landscapes. Its urban rhythm, museums, gardens, and lively streets invite you to stay… or to keep exploring: from the laurel forests in Anaga, the golden beaches of the south, to the historic villages in the north.

Whatever your plan, starting in Santa Cruz means starting off on the right foot. Because here, between city and sea, every great adventure in Tenerife begins.

If you’re looking for accommodation well connected both to the capital and the rest of the island, Kora Nivaria Beach is an excellent choice. From here, you can easily reach the north to discover Santa Cruz, La Laguna, or the Anaga Rural Park, and the south to enjoy beaches, cliffs, and volcanic landscapes.

More
Gazette

  1. nicole-arango-lang-pf-Elso3qFA-unsplash
    Top places to visit during your trip to Tenerife
    Tenerife is much more than just sun and beaches. It's an island of contrasts, where volcanic nature merges with historic towns, dreamlike beaches, and a vibrant culture that invites you to live unique experiences.
    Lifestyle
  2. spanish-local-meals-901005706-5a99890ceb97de0036ae6f00
    What to eat in Tenerife: a journey through its cuisine
    Discover the most authentic flavors of Tenerife with our guide to must-try culinary experiences.
    Gastronomía
  3. Vistas_de_Candelaria,_Tenerife,_España,_2012-12-12,_DD_04-3
    What to see and do in Candelaria, one of the most charming towns in Tenerife
    Just 20 kilometers south of Santa Cruz de Tenerife lies Candelaria, a picturesque coastal town regarded as the spiritual capital of the island.
    Lifestyle

Book

Withus

Only if you book on our website

  • Best Price Guarantee.

  • Early Check-in. For those who can’t wait (subject to availability).

  • Late Check out. Make the most of the day.

  • Free weekly cleaning. For your comfort.

  • Welcome surprises specific to each Kora

Stay with us for a few days in any of our KORA accommodations. Beach or city? Disconnection or Flex Living?

Only on our website

  • All included: electricity, water, WIFI and weekly cleaning.

  • Flats with fully equipped kitchens, maintenance equipment and parking (optional).

  • Yoga and Pilates classes, swimming pool, solarium, gym, workshops, events and networking.

  • Stay more, save more.

Fill the form. Our team will contact you to inform you of everything. We will send you a questionnaire to find out what your concerns are and to live the Kora Living experience with similar people.