Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town: 2025 ULTIMATE Guide
Are you planning a trip to Tenerife and curious about what Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town has to offer?
Look no further! This historic area is brimming with charm, history, and vibrant local life.
We know that finding solid, concise info about the best spots to visit in Santa Cruz can be tough. That’s why we’ve compiled all you need to know in one place.
We’ve spent extensive time exploring Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town, chatting with locals, and finding its best-kept secrets. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a casual traveler, or a family looking for a fun day out, our guide is designed for you.
We will cover the best spots to visit, share a bit of the Old Town’s history, and provide practical tips like where to stay and where to eat to make your visit unforgettable!
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town History
Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town, as seen today, was founded in 1494 by Spanish conquistadors. The town quickly became an important port due to its strategic location in the Canary Islands.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Santa Cruz de Tenerife grew as a key trading hub, connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
The town faced several pirate attacks and invasions, including attempts by the famous British admiral, Horatio Nelson, in 1797.
Despite these challenges, Santa Cruz de Tenerife thrived and became the capital of the Canary Islands in 1833. By decree in 1927, the capital was shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and that title persists to this day.
Walking through the Old Town today, you’ll find many historical buildings and landmarks from past centuries, like the Church of the Immaculate Conception, the Plaza de España, and the Palacio de Carta.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town Map
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town is primarily the area south of Garcia Sanabria Park, north of Barranco de Santos, and between TF-11 and Calle Galceran.
18 BEST Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
There are a ton of great things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town. We have listed our favorites below, but we encourage you to check out the *FREE* walking tour of Old Town.
The guides do a great job bringing Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town to life! While the tour is “free”, be sure to tip your guide 10-15 Euros.
Plaza de España
The largest square in Tenerife is the main square in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town, Plaza de España. The square is by the water and the port so you can see the ferries and boats.
We think Plaza de España is a perfect spot to relax. You’re surrounded by historical buildings, a cool pool with a water fountain, the “Santa Cruz” big letter sign, and a cool restaurant with outdoor seating.
Palacio de Carta
Palacio de Carta is an 18th-century colonial-style building that is a great example of the architectural heritage of the city.
The patio through the gate is gorgeous – check it out! Nowadays, the Tourist Information is here, so it is also a helpful place to stop for information. They also often host events and exhibitions.
Garcia Sanabria Park
Garcia Sanabria Park is a large park filled with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and fountains. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.
The gardens are quite the spectacle! Be sure to find the flower clock – it is stunning. We thought it was just as beautiful as the famous flower clock in Geneva, Switzerland.
Church of the Immaculate Conception
Church of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest churches in Tenerife. We noticed the beauty of the church from a distance with its striking bell tower.
The inside is rustic and beautiful as well, especially the stunning ceiling decoration. We recommend stopping by for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Teatro Guimerá
Teatro Guimerá is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands. The theater hosts a variety of performances, from plays to concerts every week.
Its beautiful interior and historic charm make attending a show here a special experience.
Museum of Nature and Archaeology (Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre)
The Museum of Nature and Archaeology is a fantastic place to learn about the indigenous Guanche culture of the Canary Islands.
They do a great job of bringing the history of the Canary Islands to life. Additionally, your ticket includes an audio guide (available in multiple languages) that truly enhances the experience of viewing the artifacts.
Calle del Castillo
Calle del Castillo is the main pedestrian street that runs from Plaza de España to Plaza Weyler. It is known for its wide range of shops and cafes.
It’s a good place to do some shopping, enjoy a coffee, or grab something to eat at one of the many outdoor terraces.
Plaza de la Candelaria
Plaza de la Candelaria is a historic square that features the beautiful Candelaria monument. The monument is dedicated to the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands.
The plaza is at the entrance to the pedestrian street Calle del Castillo. Many of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town festivals take place in this plaza.
Our Lady of Africa Market (Market of Nuestra Señora de Africa)
We believe one of the best ways to explore a new culture is through food, and food markets are a great way to do that! On the edge of Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town is the Our Lady of Africa Market.
It was started in 1943 as a traditional venue to sell produce, meat & seafood. You can try out local flavors, find unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy the environment!
Castillo de San Cristóbal
Located near Plaza de España, Castillo de San Cristóbal is the remnants of an ancient castle.
The small museum is free to enter and provides historical context and artifacts in both Spanish and English. It is worth stopping by for 30-45 minutes to check out the exhibit.
Casa del Carnaval
While technically a bit outside of Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town, we wanted to bring Casa del Carnaval to your attention. Casa del Carnaval is a museum dedicated to the history and costumes of Tenerife’s famous Carnival.
Carnival in Tenerife is arguably one of the largest in the world and is a HUGE part of the culture. If you are not able to experience Carnival when you visit, Casa del Carnaval does a great job capturing the festival. Plus, it is free!
Noria District on Calle de Noria
The Noria District on Calle de Noria is known for its chic chill-out bars and lively rooftop terraces, making it a favorite spot for the hipster crowd.
During summer, this area becomes an open-air venue for the annual Santa Blues Festival, attracting top Blues musicians from around the world. The dynamic music scene makes the Noria District a unique and exciting place to hang out.
Parish of St. Francisco de Asís
The Parish of St. Francisco de Asís was originally established as a Franciscan convent and was converted to a church in 1680. This historic church features a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with three naves that showcase the intricate artistry of the era.
One of the highlights of the church is the tapestry on the ceiling near the altar. You can enter and explore the church free of charge outside of its regular service times.
Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias
Plaza del Príncipe, formally known as Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias, was created in 1857 by Manuel de Oraá y Arcocha.
The plaza was built on the former garden of the San Pedro de Alcántara convent. Notable features include two statues representing Spring and Summer from Genoa, a central kiosk from 1929, and large laurels planted in 1860.
General Serrador Bridge
The General Serrador Bridge was built in the 1940s and spans the Barranco de Santos. The bridge is a vital transportation link.
We enjoyed it for the view and the striking contrast it creates between the historic and modern parts of the city.
Centro de Arte La Recova
Centro de Arte La Recova is an art venue housed in a former municipal market. It hosts a wide range of art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural events.
Its unique architecture and historical significance are why we recommend walking by to see if there is an event going on!
TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes
TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes is a cutting-edge art complex. The striking modern architecture of the building is very cool next to the other old town buildings.
TEA hosts a variety of contemporary art exhibitions, film screenings, and activities. The center also has a library and a café.
Plaza Weyler
Plaza Weyler is a central square named after Spanish general Valeriano Weyler. It features a striking marble water fountain imported from Italy in 1899.
The square has beautiful gardens, benches, and kiosks to grab a drink at.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town Festivals
If there is 1 thing that Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town does right, it is throw a great festival!
If you can plan your trip to overlap with one of these epic festivals, do it! They are an absolute blast and a great way to experience the true culture of Tenerife.
Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Held annually in February or March, this is one of the world’s largest and most vibrant carnivals. It features parades, music, dance, and elaborate costumes, transforming the city into a massive party.
The carnival includes events like the Queen’s Gala, street parties, and the Burial of the Sardine. It’s deeply rooted in Canarian culture, showcasing the community’s spirit and creativity.
You can grab the details on the next Carnival here.
Santa Blues Festival
Taking place every June, the Santa Blues Festival is a highlight in the Noria District. The festival attracts Blues musicians from around the globe, turning the area into a lively open-air music venue.
This event celebrates the Blues genre, drawing both locals and tourists for an unforgettable musical experience .
Día de la Cruz
Celebrated on May 3rd, Día de la Cruz (Day of the Cross) honors the founding of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The city is adorned with floral crosses, and various religious and cultural activities take place, including processions and traditional music.
This festival highlights the city’s historical and religious heritage, bringing the community together in celebration.
Fiestas de Mayo
Throughout May, Santa Cruz de Tenerife continues to celebrate its rich traditions and founding with the Fiestas de Mayo.
There are parades, traditional Canarian music, dancing, and the famous flower crosses. It’s a vibrant celebration that showcases local culture and community pride.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town Shopping
Calle del Castillo
Calle del Castillo is the main shopping street in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town. It’s a pedestrian street filled with a wide range of shops, from international brands to local boutiques.
You’ll find everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and souvenirs here. We found that there are often street performers in this area which adds to the shopping experience here!
Mercado Nuestra Señora de África
This market is a great place to experience local culture and shop for fresh produce, traditional Canarian products, and unique crafts.
Opened in 1944, it features beautiful architecture and a lively ambiance, making it fun for shopping.
Plaza de España Area
The area around Plaza de España is home to several high-end shops and boutiques.
This central square is surrounded by streets with a variety of stores offering luxury goods, jewelry, and designer clothing. It’s perfect for those looking for more upscale shopping options.
Parque Bulevar Shopping Center
Located near the Old Town, Parque Bulevar offers a mix of retail stores, cafes, and restaurants.
It’s a convenient spot to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some shopping in a modern setting. The shopping center includes both local and international brands.
Calle de la Noria
Known for its cool nightlife, Calle de la Noria also has unique shops and boutiques that are worth exploring during the day.
This street offers a more eclectic shopping experience with its mix of trendy stores and local artisans.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town Nightlife
There are many bars, clubs, and cafes to hang out at night in Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town. There are 2 main areas where the best places are concentrated: the Noria District and Plaza de España.
Calle de la Noria
The Noria District is the heart of nightlife in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this street is lined with trendy bars, lively clubs, and rooftop terraces.
Popular spots include La Guiri Bar, a fun bar with a great selection of drinks, and Zabanikoo GastroBar, known for its live music and energetic crowd. The area attracts both locals and visitors.
Plaza de España
Around Plaza de España, you’ll find a variety of nightlife options ranging from relaxed cafes to bustling bars. Cine mas Copas and Real Casino de Tenerife are 2 good places to check out.
This area is also perfect for those looking to start their night with a drink while enjoying views of the square.
How to Get to Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
Getting to Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town can be pretty easy!
By Car
Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace. While you can stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town, there are also a lot of great places to stay in North Tenerife.
Parking is available in the big underground garage by Plaza de España. You do have to pay to park, but you do so with a credit card on exiting.
By Public Bus
TITSA, the local bus service, offers regular routes to Santa Cruz de Tenerife from various parts of the island.
From Tenerife North Airport, you can take bus line 102 or 108 directly to the city center. To find the best route from wherever you’re coming from, check out the TITSA route planner.
By Ferry
For those traveling from other Canary Islands to Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town, ferries operated by companies like Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen connect Santa Cruz de Tenerife with ports such as Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, and Huelva.
The ferry terminal is located right by the old town, making it easy to walk or take a short taxi ride to the Old Town.
Getting Around Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
Walking is the best way to explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town. The area is compact, making it easy to stroll from one attraction to another.
The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian zones. Key sights like Plaza de España, Calle del Castillo, and the Church of the Immaculate Conception are all within walking distance of each other.
For longer distances or to give your feet a break, the local bus service operated by TITSA is a great option.
Key routes include:
- Line 14: Connects the city center with important areas like Plaza de España and Avenida Tres de Mayo.
- Line 910: Runs along the coast, offering easy access to the maritime park and other coastal attractions.
Bus stops are well-marked, and the TITSA website provides a handy route planner to help you find the best bus for your journey.
Where to Eat Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
There is no shortage of fantastic places to eat in Old Town Santa Cruz de Tenerife. We recommend giving yourself enough time to have at least 1 or 2 meals in this area!
In addition to great Canarian food, there are many international options as well. Our top picks of places to check out are:
- Ghio’s Burger Crafters – fantastic burgers right by Plaza de España (online reservations)
- Restaurante Guannabí – lovely neighborhood restaurant with a patio and great Canarian food
- Bodeguita Canaria – a no-frills local place with Canarian food
- Con Limón y Sal Santa Cruz – delicious Mexican food right by Plaza de España
- Etéreo by Pedro Nel – upscale restaurant with modern takes on Spanish food
- D’Tapas 26 – great tapas restaurant a bit off the main drag
- Chubu 17 – dive bar style beer and burgers
- Kiki – fantastic Japanese food with high-quality sushi (online reservations)
- Cacio e Pepe – delicious Italian food right by Plaza de España (online reservations)
Where to Stay Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
Our #1 place to stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town is AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife.
AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife has comfortable rooms, a fantastic rooftop with views and a pool, a good breakfast, a hotel bar, free bikes, and a fitness center. Plus, the location is amazing – right by Plaza de España.
A few other hotels we would recommend checking out are:
If you’re interested in staying outside of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, take a took at our top recommended places to stay in North Tenerife and South Tenerife.
FAQs for Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
Does Santa Cruz de Tenerife have an old town?
Yes, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has an old town area rich in history and culture.
Known for its colonial architecture, it features key landmarks like Plaza de España, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, and bustling streets like Calle del Castillo. It’s a hub for both locals and visitors.
Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife worth a visit?
Yes, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is definitely worth a visit. The city offers a mix of historical sites and fun activities.
You can explore the charming old town with its colonial architecture, visit museums like the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre, and enjoy some of the best food on the island. The city’s lively festivals, such as its famous carnival, add to its appeal!
What is the best part of Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
The best part of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is its Old Town. This area is rich in history and culture, with charming colonial architecture, plazas like Plaza de España, and pedestrian streets such as Calle del Castillo.
Key landmarks include the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Mercado Nuestra Señora de África, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
In Conclusion: Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town
Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town is a must-visit for anyone exploring Tenerife.
With its rich history, stunning colonial architecture, and exciting local culture, it offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past and present.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to this captivating part of Tenerife. Happy exploring!
We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”
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Canary Islands Travel Planning Guide
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in the Canary Islands?
Yes! Renting a car is a necessity in the Canary Islands if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in the Canary Islands.
📲 Will my phone work in the Canary Islands?
Maybe, but it will be expensive! Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in the Canary Islands and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in the Canary Islands, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.
🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in the Canary Islands?
While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my the Canary Islands?
Our go-to for Canary Islands hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to the Canary Islands?
For finding cheap flights to the Canary Islands, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling and Iberia are usually our airlines of choice to get to the Canary Islands. Air Europa and Binter Canarias are the main inter-island airlines.
🚐 Should I book tours in the Canary Islands? Do the guides speak English?
We LOVE taking tours in the Canary Islands. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.
🚑 Should I buy Canary Islands travel insurance?
100% YES! Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents in the Canary Islands! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!
💧Can you drink the water in the Canary Islands?
The water in the Canary Islands is safe to drink. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.
🎫 Do I need a visa for the Canary Islands?
Likely Not! US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months. If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa.
