Looking for the best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife? You’ve just landed in the beating heart of the Canary Islands. This colorful coastal capital mixes up urban buzz with beach-town chill, serving up a daily dose of culture, sunshine, and sea breeze. From the wave-shaped Auditorio de Tenerife to the lush Parque García Sanabria and the street art that splashes across entire buildings, Santa Cruz knows how to keep things interesting. Shop local at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, hit up a black-sand beach, or sip your way through a Canary Island wine tour, yes, volcanic wines are a thing and they’re amazing. Whether you’re here for a day or a lazy long weekend, Santa Cruz is full of flavor, flair, and unexpected fun.
Best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Marvel at the Auditorio de Tenerife
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this swooping wave of white concrete looks like it’s about to leap into the Atlantic. Snap a few photos by the sea, then check the schedule, you might just catch a world-class opera, a symphony, or a quirky cultural fest. It’s one of Santa Cruz’s coolest landmarks, even if you’re just there for the vibes.
Stroll through the Palmetum Botanical Garden
The Palmetum is a beautiful tropical garden just a short walk from Plaza de España in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Built on a former landfill, it’s now home to over 600 types of palm trees from all over the world. With waterfalls, quiet paths, and views of the sea, it’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
Soak up the vibes at Plaza de España
Plaza de España is where Santa Cruz really comes to life. Think of it as the city’s giant living room, complete with a chill water feature that looks like a lagoon, playful fountains, and nonstop people-watching. It’s the perfect spot to pause between museums, grab a snack, or catch a festival if you’re lucky. Everything’s just a few steps away, from monuments to charming old streets.
Shop like a local at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
Dive into the buzzing vibe of Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, Santa Cruz’s must-visit market where colors, smells, and flavors collide. From Canarian cheeses and local wines to juicy tropical fruits and handmade treats, it’s the ideal place to snack your way through the island’s culinary scene. Bonus: you’ll find great souvenirs that aren’t fridge magnets.
Sunbathe and swim at Playa de Las Teresitas
Playa de Las Teresitas is where locals and savvy travelers go to unwind. Just a quick drive from central Santa Cruz, this golden-sand beach (yep, the sand was imported from the Sahara) offers calm waves, palm trees, and killer mountain views. It’s the perfect spot to stretch out, dip your toes in the Atlantic, and forget what time it is.
Wander through parque García Sanabria
García Sanabria Park is one of the largest urban green spaces in the Canary Islands, and it’s right in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Opened in 1926, this tropical oasis mixes exotic plants, flowerbeds, and fountains with art deco sculptures and shaded paths. It’s a great place to slow down, let the kids run around, or enjoy a quiet picnic.
Experience the magic of the carnival
If you can time your visit right, plan to be in Santa Cruz de Tenerife during February or early March for one of the biggest and boldest Carnival celebrations in the world. Second only to Rio, this massive party takes over the city with glittering costumes, dance-offs, giant parades, and non-stop music. It’s colorful, loud, and unforgettable. Don’t forget your camera (or your sequins).
Relax in César Manrique Maritime Park
Designed by iconic Canarian artist César Manrique, this dreamy pool complex by the sea is where style meets splash. With saltwater lagoons, palm trees, sunbeds, and a chill bar, it’s the perfect place to swim, tan, sip, and soak up those Auditorio views. Locals love it, and you’ll see why as soon as you dive in.
Walk to Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias
Tucked between historic buildings and laid-back streets, Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias is where Santa Cruz slows down. Grab a drink, chill under the trees, and people-watch while surrounded by flowerbeds and old-school charm. It’s the kind of spot where doing nothing feels just right.
Best things to do around Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Raise a glass above the clouds
Bodegas Monje is not your average winery. Perched on a hillside in El Sauzal with jaw-dropping views of the ocean and Mount Teide, this family-run estate blends traditional Canary Island wine with bold, modern flair. Sip volcanic reds on the terrace, join one of their food and wine pairings, or sign up for their famously quirky events. It’s fun, local, and full of flavor, just like Tenerife itself.
Sip among the stars at an eco-winery
Feel the volcanic breeze at Bodegas Ferrera, perched at 1,000 m above sea level in Tenerife’s Arafo hills. This organic wine haven takes you on a stroll through regenerative vineyards, mingled with Canary pines and lava formations. Experience quirky tasting sessions, rosé, whites, reds, paired with Canarian tapas and even under-the-stars walks. It’s the sort of down-to-earth luxury that makes your glass feel like the summit of your holiday.
Explore San Cristóbal de La Laguna’s historical charm
Just a quick 15 km ride from Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal de La Laguna feels like stepping into an open-air museum, with a lively soul. This UNESCO World Heritage Site charms with colorful colonial houses, cobbled streets, and plazas buzzing with students and artists. It’s a perfect detour if you’re exploring things to do around Santa Cruz de Tenerife and want a slice of culture, cool cafés, and laid-back history in one stylish package.
Unwind in style at Costa Adeje
Costa Adeje is where Tenerife’s sunny south shows off its most glamorous side. Just an hour from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this coastal hotspot is packed with golden beaches, oceanfront promenades, and high-end resorts that know how to do luxury right. If you’re beach-hopping, shopping in sleek boutiques, or relaxing with a cocktail at Playa del Duque, Costa Adeje offers the perfect mix of chill and chic.
Don’t wait, visit Costa Adeje with our latest guide at Winalist!
Experience the best of Tenerife
Tenerife is the island that truly has it all, volcanoes, beaches, forests, food, and festivals. As the largest of the Canary Islands, it’s a playground for adventurers and sunseekers alike. You can hike through lunar-like landscapes in Teide National Park in the morning, then swim in a natural rock pool by sunset. Hop between vibrant towns like La Orotava, Santa Cruz, and La Laguna, and don’t skip a stop for local mojo sauce or a glass of volcanic wine. From epic views to street fiestas, Tenerife knows how to keep things exciting.
Ready to explore every side of the island? Dive into the top things to do in Tenerife and start planning your next unforgettable adventure.
Unlock the Canary Islands
Each island in the Canaries brings its flavor, literally and culturally. From the volcanic drama of Lanzarote to the lush forests of La Palma, and the beach-meets-city vibe of Tenerife to the dunes of Gran Canaria, there’s a corner of this Atlantic archipelago for every kind of traveler. Go hiking through lunar landscapes, sip your way through local vineyards on a Canary Island wine tour, or just relax under the sun with a barraquito in hand. With year-round good weather, rich food traditions, and friendly locals, the Canary Islands are your go-to for easy, unforgettable adventures.
Craving more? Here our tips to what to do in the Canary Islands!
Good to Know before visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife worth visiting?
Absolutely! Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re looking for unique museums, bustling markets, sandy beaches, or a jumping-off point for island adventures, Santa Cruz has something to offer every traveler. It’s also home to the world-famous Carnival of Santa Cruz, considered the second-best after Rio de Janeiro.
What are the best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
Top attractions include the Auditorio de Tenerife, a striking concert hall by architect Santiago Calatrava, the Palmetum botanical garden with exotic plants and ocean views, and the Plaza de España, the city’s central square. Don’t miss the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) contemporary art museum and Garcia Sanabria Park, an urban oasis ideal for relaxing walks.
How to spend a day in Santa Cruz, Tenerife?
Start with a morning walk through the Our Lady of Africa Market (Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África), then visit the nearby TEA art museum. Walk along the waterfront, enjoy lunch at a local tapas spot, and take a dip at Playa de Las Teresitas, a stunning beach north of the city. In the evening, watch sunset views near the Auditorio de Tenerife and enjoy a seafood dinner at a harbor-front restaurant.
Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife safe for visitors?
Yes, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is considered a very safe city for tourists. Like any urban area, minor incidents like pickpocketing can occur in crowded spaces, so basic precautions should be taken. The city boasts a relaxed atmosphere, and locals are generally welcoming and helpful.
What can you do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife if you’re arriving by cruise ship?
The cruise terminal is conveniently located close to the city center, allowing you to walk easily to main attractions. Within a short distance, you can explore Plaza de España, Garcia Sanabria Park, museums, and local markets. A short cab or bus ride can take you to Las Teresitas Beach, perfect for a quick escape to the sea. Many excursions tailored for cruise visitors are also available.
Are there any free things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
Yes, there are plenty of free activities. You can stroll through Garcia Sanabria Park, explore the local vibes at La Recova Market, admire contemporary street art throughout the city, or lounge on Playa de Las Teresitas, a free-access beach with golden sand and palm trees.
What are the best hotels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
For luxury, check out Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey, a 5-star colonial-style hotel with a spa and lush gardens.
Hotel Taburiente offers modern comfort right next to Garcia Sanabria Park.
If you’re on a budget, Hotel Adonis Plaza in the city center is a solid choice with great views and comfort.
For apartment-style stays, Casa Kilig is a charming boutique option near attractions.
What are the best restaurants in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
To taste Canarian specialties, try La Hierbita, popular for its gofio, papas arrugadas, and grilled meats.
El Cine is another favorite for fresh seafood and a local vibe.
For creative cuisine with local ingredients, visit Bulan Restaurante.
Don’t miss street food at the Our Lady of Africa Market for authentic bites like churros and Canarian cheese.
Where is Santa Cruz de Tenerife located?
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located on the northeastern coast of Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. It sits on the Atlantic Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Africa, and serves as one of two capitals of the Canary Islands (along with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria).
