Things To Do
in La Orotava
La Orotava is a historic town on Tenerife's north coast known for its lush gardens and well-preserved colonial architecture. Its steep, cobbled streets wind between whitewashed facades, wooden balconies, and colorful patios that cascade down into the valley. The town serves as a gateway to the Orotava Valley's botanical riches, offering panoramic views of volcanic landscapes and the Atlantic.
Visitors enjoy a calm, culturally rich atmosphere with traditional Canarian crafts, cafés, and timeless charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through La Orotava's historic center, where you'll admire the stunning architecture of 16th-century buildings. Visit the Casa de los Balcones, a beautiful example of traditional Canarian architecture adorned with wooden balconies. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional pastries and coffee.
After lunch, explore the lush gardens of the Jardines Victoria, where you can unwind amidst the vibrant flowers and manicured hedges. Take some time to visit the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Canary Islands. As the afternoon progresses, enjoy a walk along the charming streets, stopping to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to indulge in a traditional Canarian dinner, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you dine, perhaps accompanied by local music. Afterward, take a stroll through the town square, where you can soak in the ambiance and appreciate the illuminated historic buildings.
Embark on an early morning adventure to Teide National Park, home to Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide. Take a cable car ride to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Atlantic Ocean. Spend your morning exploring the unique volcanic formations and hiking trails that showcase the park's natural beauty.
After a picturesque morning, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning scenery of the park, surrounded by the striking geological features. Continue your exploration with a guided nature walk, where you can learn about the flora and fauna unique to the region. Capture the stunning vistas as you hike through the diverse terrain.
As you return to La Orotava, unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local tavern, savoring traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. If the sky is clear, consider ending your night with stargazing, as the area is known for its minimal light pollution and incredible views of the night sky. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a nightcap at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $1-3 |
| 🧀Local snack or cheese | $5-8 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or small gift | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm and lush gardens
- Walkable historic center with authentic Canarian culture
- Gateway to Teide and northern Tenerife scenery
- Steep streets and uneven pavements in places
- Limited late-night nightlife in the town center
- Weather can be variable in the hills and north
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in La Orotava
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden balconies and traditional Canarian architecture provide classic photo opportunities.
A striking church with a distinctive bell tower and ornate façade set against blue skies.
Terraced, well-tended gardens offering lush greens and colorful blooms, perfect for serene portraits.
Terraced streets and viewpoints overlooking the town and coastline, especially golden hour.
Charming, winding street with arches, flowers, and whitewashed walls ideal for street photography.
Food in La Orotava
La Orotava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potatoes boiled in salted water and served with green mojo (parsley-based) or red mojo.
Must-Try!
Gofio mixed with warm broth or milk to form a comforting, grainy porridge or side dish.
Salt cod with potatoes and onions, often accompanied by gofio.
Shredded meat (or chickpeas) stewed with vegetables, a hearty staple in Canarian households.
Almond, sugar, and lemon dessert often served with ice cream or pastry.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, cheeses, seafood, and ready-to-eat bites that showcase local flavors.
Try gofio pastries and other quick Canarian snacks from bakeries and small cafés around the historic center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días' when entering shops or cafés; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious spaces; remove hats and speak softly inside sanctuaries.
Some shops may close briefly in the afternoon; plan accordingly.
Safety
Tipping in La Orotava
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. Round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service in restaurants and bars.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also common, especially in smaller venues. Contactless payments are increasingly standard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with coastal breezes; expect sunny blue skies, with cooler evenings. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for morning or late afternoon.
Milder days and pleasant evenings; occasional showers possible. Great time for garden visits and photography in softer light.
Mild temperatures with more rain in the north. Rain gear is useful, but daytime warmth allows pleasant outdoor exploration.
Blooming gardens and comfortable temperatures; ideal for long walks and scenic hikes without crowds.
La Orotava at Night
Hiking in La Orotava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Valley paths with greenery and scenic overlooks suitable for varied fitness levels.
Iconic volcanic landscapes with long or short hikes and occasional cable car access seasonally.
Gentle to moderate hillside routes offering panoramic views of the town and coast.
Airports
How to reach La Orotava by plane.
Los Rodeos; serves the northern part of Tenerife with regional and some international flights. Access to La Orotava by car or bus takes roughly 20–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Reina Sofía; major international gateway for southern Tenerife. Transfer to La Orotava typically takes about 60–90 minutes by car or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-established residents who keep traditional crafts and seasonal markets vibrant.
People visiting for culture, gardens, and day trips to Teide and the north.
A notable presence due to the mild climate and relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region embraces soccer at both amateur and community levels; many locals attend matches in nearby towns.
Popular among both locals and visitors for island road routes with varied terrain and scenic views.
Widely enjoyed for exploring volcanic landscapes and lush valleys across Tenerife.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Orotava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Canarian dishes are naturally vegetarian-friendly. When ordering, ask for mojo without fish stock, choose gofio-based plates, vegetable stews, and fresh cheeses. If cross-contamination is a concern, request clearly labeled vegetarian options.