Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island, not to be confused with Santa Cruz de La Palma. To see the centre, the 2 h free tour starts at Plaza de Europa with an English-language guide. If you would rather have a garden, the Palmetum covers 12 hectares devoted to palm trees, and from the south there is a 9 h day trip that adds La Laguna and Anaga.
Booking options
Santa Cruz de Tenerife free tour
On site · Voluntary tip
Santa Cruz, La Laguna and Anaga
Paid separately · Meal
La Laguna free tour
On site · Voluntary tip
Civitatis prices, ratings and conditions checked on . Check the price for your date on the listing.
What changes from one option to another
A guided walk through the centre
The free tour lasts 2 h, starts at Plaza de Europa and is free to book, with a voluntary tip for the guide. The guide speaks English. Arrive 15 minutes early and make sure your booking is for the Santa Cruz de Tenerife tour.
A garden instead of streets
The Palmetum is a 12-hectare botanical garden on the site of a former landfill. The listing mentions more than 500 palm species and asks you to show your voucher at the ticket office.
Capital, La Laguna and Anaga in one day
If you stay in the south, the 9 h day trip picks you up in your area, stops at Santa Cruz, Anaga and La Laguna, and includes transport and a guide. The guide speaks English. Lunch is not included.
Just La Laguna on foot
If you are already in the metropolitan area, the La Laguna free tour lasts 2 h, starts at Plaza del Adelantado and has an English-language guide. You can pair it with a visit to Santa Cruz on another day.
Frequently asked questions
What can I see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in one day?
The centre, with the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África and Plaza de España, under which lies the Castillo de San Cristóbal Interpretation Centre. Outside the centre, there is Santiago Calatrava's Auditorio de Tenerife and the Palmetum.
When is the Santa Cruz Carnival?
Usually between February and March, and it is a Festival of International Tourist Interest. It includes the Burial of the Sardine. Check this year's dates on the official Tenerife Tourism website.
Where does the Santa Cruz free tour start?
At Plaza de Europa, at the time of your booking. The listing recommends arriving 15 minutes early.
What is the Palmetum?
A 12-hectare botanical garden specialising in palm trees, on the site of a former landfill. Check opening hours and prices on its official website before you go.