Things To Do
in La Laguna
La Laguna is a historic university town on Tenerife's north side, famed for its well-preserved colonial core and UNESCO-listed old quarter. It blends cobbled streets, colorful façades, and vibrant cultural life with proximity to lush volcanic landscapes. The city offers a cooler, more relaxed atmosphere than nearby Santa Cruz, and serves as a gateway to the Anaga mountains and the island’s traditional cuisine.
Expect charming plazas, lively cafés, and a welcoming Canarian scene that feels both historic and contemporary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Spanish pastries and a robust cup of coffee. Afterward, stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic center, marveling at the well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Don't forget to visit the iconic Cathedral of La Laguna, where the intricate details and history will leave you in awe.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at one of the charming restaurants, sampling Canarian dishes like 'ropa vieja' or fresh seafood. Post-lunch, visit the Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, where interactive exhibits will captivate both young and old. Take a leisurely stroll through the Parque de la Constitución, soaking in the sun and the lush greenery.
As the sun begins to set, head to a rooftop bar for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Indulge in tapas and local wines while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of La Laguna. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, where the lively spirit of the city comes alive.
Start your day at the Mercado Municipal de La Laguna, where you can experience the local culture and vibrant atmosphere. Browse through fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and local delicacies while chatting with friendly vendors. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and local pastries from one of the market stalls.
After the market, participate in a cooking class that focuses on traditional Canarian cuisine, learning how to prepare dishes that highlight local ingredients. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you've prepared, sharing stories with fellow participants. Post-lunch, visit the Convento de Santa Catalina, a historic convent with beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.
As dusk falls, attend a local wine tasting event where you can sample some of the best wines from the Canary Islands. Engage with the local winemakers and learn about the unique terroir and grape varieties. Conclude your day at a cozy tavern, enjoying live music while relishing more local delicacies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way local transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-preserved historic core and UNESCO designation
- Accessible base for exploring Anaga and northern Tenerife
- Can be busy with students and tourists at peak times
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Santa Cruz or the coast
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
Places to Visit in La Laguna
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic church with a striking façade and a quiet plaza; best for morning light and architectural details.
Historic cathedral with ornate stonework; interior shots reveal vaulted arches and atmospheric lighting.
Historic square with arcades, fountains, and pastel façades—perfect for evening photography and street life.
Narrow, winding street with colorful houses and traditional Canarian balconies; great for pedestrian-shot compositions.
Vibrant market interiors and fruit stalls offer dynamic colorful photos and candid market scenes.
Food in La Laguna
La Laguna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wrinkled potatoes served with roja or verde mojo sauces; a staple starter in Canarian eateries.
Must-Try!
Almond-based dessert often served as cake or ice cream topping; a Canarian classic to seek out in local pastry shops.
Gofio (toasted corn flour) mixed with broth to make a comforting porridge, frequently found at breakfast or as an accompaniment.
Fresh fish with garlic mojo sauce; often prepared simply to highlight the catch of the day.
A hearty stew of shredded meat with chickpeas and vegetables; a traditional option at long-standing taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, cheeses, gofio, mojo, and local seafood; great for sampling bites and picking up souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A civil handshake or brief greeting is common; addressing people politely with usted for older strangers is appreciated.
Siesta culture can affect shop hours; many places open late afternoons; dining typically begins around 20:30–21:00.
Smart-casual attire is standard in many venues; modest dress in religious sites and respectful behavior in churches is expected.
Safety
Tipping in La Laguna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; cash tips to front-line staff are appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common. Cash remains widely used in markets and small eateries; consider carrying euros and using mobile payments like Bizum where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming streets, and plenty of outdoor café seating; great for long walks and photography.
Warm days with cooling Atlantic breezes; expect scattered showers and long evenings; carry water and a light jacket for evenings.
Pleasant days with moderate temps; excellent for day trips to Anaga and for sunset photography.
Mild on average, cooler nights; layers recommended; some days can feel brisk near the coast and higher viewpoints.
La Laguna at Night
Hiking in La Laguna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and ridge trail in Anaga with access to scenic overlook points and traditional hillside settlements.
Rugged coastal path offering dramatic ocean vistas and rugged lava landscapes near the Anaga coast.
Airports
How to reach La Laguna by plane.
Located in Los Rodeos, about a 20-30 minute drive to La Laguna; serves domestic and some international routes. Accessible by car, bus, or taxi.
Located near Granadilla de Abona; larger international hub with frequent connections to Europe; typically a 60-90 minute drive to La Laguna depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of La Laguna, including long-term locals and families with deep ties to the area.
A large student population due to the University of La Laguna, bringing a youthful energy to cafés and bars.
Tourists from across Europe and beyond, attracted by the UNESCO town and natural surroundings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the Canary Islands, with local clubs and match days drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues and recreational play are widely available.
Coastal areas nearby offer surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding; great for active travelers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Laguna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetarian options at most taverns; look for goat cheese, roasted vegetables, papas arrugadas with mojo, and salads. Don’t hesitate to ask for mojo verde or alternative sides to keep meals meat-free.