Tenerife is a popular holiday destination for us Brits, and for many other nationalities too. The year-round sun, delicious food and short flight time make it an ideal getaway from most European countries. But while many tourists flock for the southern resorts of Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje, the northern gem of Puerto de la Cruz doesn’t get the attention it truly deserves.
With many companies offering affordable package holidays to the area, and plenty to see and do close by, it’s easy to see why this is a popular holiday spot in the north. And here you have it, the top things to do in Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife.
Visit the Black Sand Beaches
In contrast to the golden beaches of the south, Puerto de la Cruz in the north channels the volcanic island vibes with black sand beaches. Add the gorgeous sea views and clear blue skies Tenerife is famous for, and it really is a sight to see!
Loro Parque
Just a stone’s throw from the centre of Puerto de la Cruz, the world famous Loro Parque offers a great day out for everyone. This is a definite must do for anyone wanting to see animals in impressive and scenic surroundings, though it has been the site of some controversy surrounding animal welfare after documentaries like Blackfish aired.
If you’re a fan of waterparks, Loro Parque offers twin tickets – hello discount! – with Siam Park in Costa Adeje, an hours drive away. With the Thai scenery, numerous rides to please all adrenalin levels and it’s very own beach area, it’s no surprise that Siam Park is one of the most popular things to do in Costa Adeje.
Loro Parque and Siam Park are great for family fun, but I visited as an adult with
a travel buddy and we still had a great time, so it’s not just for the kids!
Explore Jardin Botanico
Spend an afternoon soaking up the Spanish nature as you explore the serene botanical gardens. Just a 20-minute walk from the centre of Puerto de la Cruz, the gardens were first opened in the late 18th Century on request of the then King of Spain, Carlos III, with the hope of bringing plants over from America before moving them on to Spain.
Whether the original intention was a success is a discussion for another time, but these days visitors can explore the 20,000m2 for the very reasonable entrance fee of €3*!
Check Out Parque Taoro
Another option for a relaxing afternoon stroll is Parque Taoro, much closer to Puerto de la Cruz city centre so an easy choice if you don’t want to make the walk/grab a taxi to the botanical gardens. Parque Taoro is more low key than Jardin Botanico, but you’ll be treated to waterfalls and mountain views as you wander around.
If you make it to the top of the park, you’ll find a cafe for a cold drink and stunning views over Puerto de la Cruz…perfect for a pit stop!
Learn About Tenerife’s History
Visitors to the island looking for a taste of Tenerife history can enjoy a visit to Batería de Santa Bárbara and Castillo de San Felipe. Both are within walking distance of the centre of Puerto de la Cruz, a short visit to either/both will provide an interesting insight into the old defence systems of the island.
Batería de Santa Bárbara is an old military fortification, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s defensive past. Built in the 18th century to protect against pirate and naval attacks, the site preserves the remnants of old cannons and stone structures. Tourists can enjoy panoramic coastal views while exploring its rich history.
Pamper Yourself With a Spa Visit
A holiday isn’t truly relaxing without a trip to the spa, right? Thankfully Puerto de la Cruz has multiple spas on offer, some catering to budgets while others are in-your-face-luxury. One such choice is The Oriental Garden Spa, an award-winning spa that’s been given the title of Best Hotel Spa in Europe!
Lago Martiánez
Right on the doorstep of the city, next to the black sandy beaches, is Lago Martiánez. Manmade pools filled with seawater sit alongside jacuzzis, kids’ pools, fountains and sunbathing areas. Top it off with stunning sea views, and it’s the ideal alternative to a day relaxing on the beach.
Go Shopping
Shopping, really? Yes, really! We all love venturing in to a supermarket when we visit a new country, wandering the aisles to see what the local biscuits and sweet treats are like. Puerto de la Cruz offers this kind of market experience, but also so much more with their city markets and shopping centres.
Markets are a great way to find bargains and shop as the locals do. Mercado Municipal is the perfect one-stop -fits-all kind of market, with stalls offering fresh produce alongside book shops and pharmacies. Stalls with jewellery, places for you to get your hair cut or to spend some time looking through the flea market-style stalls.
If shopping centres are more your cup of tea, you’ve got a few to choose from in Puerto de la Cruz, with two in easy walking distance of the centre. Centro Comercial Pirámides de Martianez and Canary Center both offer plenty of shopping choices to cover any shopping needs.
Celebrate Carnaval
February brings the lively Carnaval to the island, and the north is where the main processions are! Celebrations in Puerto de la Cruz rival those in the capital Santa Cruz, with music, processions and sardine funerals all taking place. Yes, a sardine funeral. A giant papier mache sardine is carried through the streets, before being set on fire as part of a fireworks display.
Visit Mount Teide
The first thing that pops to many minds when you mention Tenerife is Teide. Taking pride of place in the centre of the island, this still active volcano is described by UNESCO as the third tallest ‘volcanic structure’ in the world, and is surrounded by the Teide National Park, also an UNESCO World Heritage site.
It’s a popular spot to visit on the island, and cable cars can take you above the clouds high up on the volcano. On a clear day, you’ll be able to spot the neighbouring islands of La Gomera and Gran Canaria. Although not technically in Puerto de la Cruz, a visit to the island isn’t complete without a taste of Teide, and it’s an easy day trip from the city.
These are just some of the top things to do Puerto de la Cruz, and that’s not even mentioning the obvious attractions of reliably good weather, amazing food – hello tapas!– and relaxed Spanish holiday vibes!
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