The historic centre of Puerto De La Cruz comprises more than 140 protected buildings and was designated a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Conjunto Histórico category in 2006. Anyone looking for a hotel can tailor their stay to their interests, whether protected architecture, contemporary art or landscaped outdoor spaces. The following places show how varied these interests can be.

Historic Centre and Protected Buildings

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monumento category. Its three naves are separated by Tuscan-Roman columns and round-arched arcades, above which are wooden Mudéjar coffered ceilings. These architectural details make the church a specific place to visit for anyone interested in architectural forms and historical heritage.

The Ermita de San Telmo is also protected. It stands on the Roca de la Caleta on an Atlantic cliff and is located at one end of Puerto De La Cruz’s seafront promenade. This makes it a protected site with a precisely defined location by the sea, without implying any particular route along the promenade.

Lago Martiánez and Playa Jardín

Lago Martiánez was inaugurated in 1977 and designed by César Manrique as an emerald-shaped lake with several islands. The complex is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Jardín Histórico category. Its central island is used for cultural, festive and leisure activities; the programme may vary. The design, protected status and current use offer different perspectives on the site: it can be viewed from both architectural and cultural standpoints.

Playa Jardín offers a different kind of landscaped setting. It was developed on the coast of San Felipe with paths, gardens of Canarian plants, waterfalls and stone caves. Those who want to experience coastal spaces not only as natural landscapes but also as designed environments will find a clear contrast here with the historic buildings in the centre.

Art and Archaeology

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Eduardo Westerdahl was established in 1953 as a pioneering initiative in the history of Spanish contemporary art. It presents 20th-century Canarian art, including works by Óscar Domínguez, César Manrique, Manolo Millares, Juan Ismael, Lola Massieu and Pedro González. The collection thus offers a regional focus, while the artists named represent different strands of Canarian art history. The works on display may change.

The museum’s educational visits combine an introduction to the context of the Casa de la Aduana with an explanatory guided tour of the collection and a workshop or related activity. As booking arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before planning a visit.

The Museo Arqueológico is housed in a 19th-century Canarian house in the fishing district of La Ranilla. Its holdings include pottery made by the Indigenous people of the Canary Islands, mummified remains and 17th-century maps. Thematic exhibitions also explore the history and culture of the Canary Islands; exhibition content may change. In Puerto De La Cruz, 20th-century art and archaeological evidence with different historical focuses can therefore be found side by side.

Gardens and Parkland

The Jardín Botánico de La Orotava was founded in 1788 by royal decree of King Charles III. The Jardín Botánico de La Aclimatación de La Orotava contains an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants from different continents, including large trees, palms and exotic ornamental plants. Visitors can stroll among plants from different parts of the world. Its botanical diversity offers a different focus from the city’s architectural and art history.

The Parque de Taoro covers approximately 100,000 square metres and features gardens, walking paths, viewpoints, illuminated fountains and waterfalls. It is divided into three main areas: La Atalaya, the Camino de La Sortija and the Jardines de Taoro. The approximate area and this division give an indication of the park’s size and layout; individual features may change.

In the wider region around Puerto De La Cruz are the Valle de la Orotava and Teide, which can be visited as natural landscapes. They complement the cultural and landscaped sites with a regional perspective. Excursions and access conditions may vary.

Visiting and Getting Around

Loro Parque welcomes visitors from Monday to Sunday and describes itself as an animal reserve with more than 400 species. Access arrangements may change. For travel around Puerto De La Cruz, Loro Parque operates a free train from Plaza de los Reyes Católicos, with departures every 20 minutes. Check departure information again before your trip.

The Night of San Juan also offers a seasonal occasion: in 2026, the celebration will be marked by symbolic bonfires and a festive atmosphere by the sea. Dates and programme details vary from year to year. When planning your stay, the options described therefore differ not only in theme, but also in whether they concern buildings and collections described as permanent, changing uses or a time-specific celebration.

Discover more destinations: El Durazno, Tacoronte, Almáciga, Buen Paso, Los Rechazos, Acojeja, Arafo, Teno.

For the main travel overview: Tenerife.