Things To Do
in Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is a charming coastal town located in the north of Tenerife, Canary Islands, known for its stunning gardens, black sand beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The town boasts a pleasant climate year-round, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun and relaxation. With its rich history and picturesque architecture, Puerto de la Cruz offers a blend of traditional Canarian culture and modern amenities.

It is also home to the famous Loro Parque, a renowned zoological park that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Lago Martiánez, a beautiful complex of seawater pools designed by artist César Manrique. Take a leisurely swim and enjoy the unique architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Botanical Gardens, where you can explore a vast collection of tropical plants and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, visit the nearby Playa de Martiánez for some sunbathing.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll along the promenade, soaking in the lovely ocean views and vibrant nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit Loro Parque, a world-class zoo and marine park, where you can see a variety of animals and enjoy entertaining shows.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical old town, including the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, and browse local shops for souvenirs.

evening
:

End your trip with a traditional Canarian meal at a local tapas bar, followed by live music at a nearby venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel (per night)$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Mild climate year-round
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some areas can be touristy
  • "¡Hola!" - Hello!
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Puerto de la Cruz

Visit one of these nice places.

Lago Martiánez

The unique seawater pool complex with stunning views and artistic architecture.

Playa de Martiánez

A beautiful black sand beach perfect for sunset photography.

Botanical Gardens

A lush garden filled with vibrant flowers and exotic plants, ideal for nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of Canarian cuisine. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, traditional stews, and a variety of local wines.

Puerto de la Cruz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Papas Arrugadas

Wrinkled potatoes served with mojo sauce, a staple dish in the Canary Islands.

Must-Try!

Gofio

A traditional flour made from roasted grains, often used in various dishes.

Sancocho

A fish stew made with salted fish, potatoes, and mojo sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and ready-to-eat meals.

Street food stalls

Various stalls offering quick bites like churros and empanadas throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto de la Cruz enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers (June to August) are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, averaging around 20°C (68°F), with occasional rainfall. Spring and autumn see comfortable temperatures and less tourist traffic, making these seasons ideal for visiting.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Punctuality

While punctuality is appreciated, a relaxed attitude towards time is common in social settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto de la Cruz is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas against pickpockets. Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers, and ensure your belongings are secure while exploring the town.

Tipping in Puerto de la Cruz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures make it a great time for outdoor activities and blooming gardens.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists; expect crowded beaches and lively events.

Autumn

Temperatures start to cool down, offering a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Winter

Mild winters are perfect for those looking to escape colder climates; still plenty of sunshine.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto de la Cruz at Night

Puerto de la Cruz offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy everything from laid-back beach bars to lively nightclubs playing the latest hits. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize and enjoy the local music scene.

Hiking in Puerto de la Cruz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Teide National Park

Home to the iconic Mount Teide, this park offers numerous trails with breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.

Anaga Rural Park

This area features lush forests and rugged coastlines, providing excellent hiking opportunities for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Puerto de la Cruz by plane.

Tenerife North Airport (TFN)

Located approximately 25 km from Puerto de la Cruz, this airport serves mainly domestic flights and some international routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto de la Cruz is a highly walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. The town is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it pleasant to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the scenic promenades along the coast are particularly enjoyable for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

A large portion of the population consists of tourists from various countries, especially during the summer months.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly Spanish, with a rich mix of cultures due to the tourism industry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a beloved sport in the region, with local teams attracting passionate fans.

Surfing

With excellent waves, surfing is a popular activity along the northern coast of Tenerife.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto de la Cruz is generally light, with most local travel being done on foot or by public transport. The town has a reliable bus system that connects to other parts of the island, making it easy to explore further afield. However, parking can be challenging in busy areas, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto de la Cruz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to ask for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but always confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Puerto de la Cruz is of high quality, with several clinics and a public hospital available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide