Things To Do
in Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is a charming coastal town located on the northern coast of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Known for its beautiful beaches and stunning ocean views, it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The town is also home to the famous Lago Martianez, a complex of seawater pools designed by renowned Spanish architect César Manrique.
With its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and abundance of restaurants and shops, Puerto de la Cruz offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure for visitors to enjoy.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll through the stunning Botanical Gardens of Puerto de la Cruz. Enjoy the lush greenery and diverse plant species that transport you to a tropical paradise.
After lunch, head to the nearby Lago Martianez for a refreshing swim in the beautiful seawater pools. Take in the scenic ocean views while lounging around the pools.
As the sun sets, wander through the charming streets of the town. Stop for dinner at a local restaurant to savor traditional Canarian dishes.
Begin your day at Playa Jardin, a beautiful black sand beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
After some beach time, explore the nearby promenade lined with shops and snack bars. Take a leisurely walk or partake in some water sports for a bit of fun.
At sundown, find a beachfront restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as local musicians often perform in the evenings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and volcanic formations.
- Mild climate year-round, making it a great destination for sun-seekers.
- Rich in cultural heritage with historic architecture and local festivals.
- Abundant recreational opportunities such as hiking, water sports, and wildlife watching.
- Family-friendly attractions like Loro Parque, a famous zoo and oceanographic park.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, impacting the experience.
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of the Canary Islands.
- Public transportation options may be limited in some areas.
- Infrastructure can be challenging in certain regions due to the hilly terrain.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Santa Cruz.
Best Activities in Puerto de la Cruz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular zoo and amusement park with a wide variety of animal species and entertaining shows.
A beautiful beach with black sand, surrounded by lush gardens and featuring excellent facilities and coastal views.
Explore a diverse collection of tropical and subtropical plant species, including a gorgeous orchid garden.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastal promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and picturesque views of the sea.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puerto de la Cruz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puerto de la Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the town and the coast along with an impressive collection of tropical plants and flowers.
A beautiful black sand beach with great views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.
The town's harbor area with picturesque views of the marina and the Atlantic Ocean.
Food in Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Canarian dish of wrinkled potatoes boiled in salt water and served with Mojo, a spicy pepper or garlic sauce. Can be found at most local restaurants and beachside kiosks.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew made with shredded beef, chickpeas, and potatoes, seasoned with local spices. Best enjoyed at family-run restaurants in the town center.
Soft and creamy goat cheese produced in the region, often served with honey and almonds. Available at specialty cheese shops and local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puerto de la Cruz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, wines, and traditional snacks like empanadas and churros. Open daily except Sundays.
A bustling square with numerous food stalls offering a variety of street food, from fresh seafood to tropical fruit smoothies. Open daily and especially lively in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puerto de la Cruz, it is important to respect the personal space of others, especially when interacting in public spaces. Keep an appropriate distance and avoid invading someone's personal space.
Puerto de la Cruz, like many other Spanish towns, observes the tradition of siesta, a period of rest in the afternoon. It is respectful to keep noise levels low during siesta time and to plan activities around this cultural practice.
Greetings are an important part of Spanish culture. In Puerto de la Cruz, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puerto de la Cruz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto de la Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Puerto de la Cruz, Spain, is not obligatory, but it is appreciated. It is common to leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants if the service has been satisfactory. In bars and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is customary.
In Puerto de la Cruz, Spain, credit and debit cards are widely accepted for payment, especially in restaurants, hotels, and larger stores. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puerto de la Cruz.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Puerto de la Cruz is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and colorful due to blooming flowers. The temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities, and you can also experience traditional spring festivals and events.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in Puerto de la Cruz with warm weather perfect for beach activities and water sports. However, it can get crowded and prices may be higher. Festivals, concerts, and cultural events are also common during the summer months.
Autumn (September to November) brings pleasant weather and is a great time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings and lower accommodation rates. The temperatures are still warm enough for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy local food festivals and harvest celebrations.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season with milder temperatures compared to other parts of Europe, making it an attractive winter sun destination. There are fewer tourists, and you can experience traditional Christmas and New Year's celebrations along with cultural events.
Puerto de la Cruz at Night
Hiking in Puerto de la Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful valley with numerous trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastal scenery. Perfect for hikers of all levels.
Home to Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide, this park offers a variety of trails that showcase breathtaking volcanic landscapes and unique flora.
A picturesque hiking route that leads to natural formations resembling organ pipes, providing a unique sight and a rewarding hike.
Located a bit further from Puerto de la Cruz, this park features lush forests and dramatic cliffs, offering a network of trails for adventurous hikers.
A scenic coastal area with trails along cliffs overlooking the ocean, providing stunning views and the opportunity to explore natural beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puerto de la Cruz through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puerto de la Cruz by plane.
The nearest major airport located approximately 25 km from Puerto de la Cruz, serving as a hub for domestic and international flights.
Located about 90 km from Puerto de la Cruz, this airport mainly serves international flights and is one of the busiest airports in the Canary Islands.
Approximately 60 km away, this smaller airport primarily offers domestic flights within the Canary Islands.
About 150 km from Puerto de la Cruz, it serves as a major international airport for flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, primarily from various regions of Spain, including the Canary Islands.
Includes residents from other EU countries, such as Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands, often retirees or tourists.
Includes immigrants from Latin American countries, bringing cultural diversity to the city.
A smaller group primarily comprising immigrants from Morocco and other North African nations.
Includes individuals from various other countries and regions, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
The Soul of Puerto de la Cruz
Discover the essence of Puerto de la Cruz through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Puerto de la Cruz, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.
Basketball has a significant presence in the community, with local clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Due to its coastal location, surfing is a popular activity, attracting both locals and tourists to its beaches.
Tennis is enjoyed by many in Puerto de la Cruz, with various courts available and clubs offering lessons and tournaments.
A variety of water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, are popular due to the area's coastal attractions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto de la Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including creative salads, vegetable paellas, and plant-based tapas. Look for 'platos vegetarianos' or 'platos veganos' on the menu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at various restaurants, with some offering dedicated gluten-free menus or indicating gluten-free choices on the main menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puerto de la Cruz with these cultural adventures.
