Free walking tours in Puerto de la Cruz and what to see

Must-sees

Puerto de la Cruz was one of the first tourist destinations in the Canaries and keeps a centre with a life of its own. Start at Plaza del Charco, the heart of the town, and walk down to the fishing quay. Very close by are the church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia and the Casa Iriarte. La Ranilla, the old fishermen’s quarter, has streets with murals.

On the coast, Lago Martiánez is a complex of seawater pools designed by César Manrique. At the other end, Playa Jardín has black volcanic sand and gardens. Next to it is San Felipe castle. And at the top of the town, the Botanical Garden, founded in the 18th century by order of Charles III, brings together tropical plants from all over the world.

Free tours and guided visits

There are pay-what-you-like free walking tours of the historic centre. They usually cover Plaza del Charco, the quay, La Ranilla and the old houses, and tell how the port went from trading post to tourist destination. Some focus on street art. Among the paid visits, the highlights are trips to Teide National Park and tours of the town of La Orotava, with its wooden-balconied houses. There are also outings to Icod de los Vinos and Garachico, and hikes in the Anaga massif.

How long to spend

You can see the town in one or two days: the centre, La Ranilla, Lago Martiánez and the Botanical Garden. As a base for exploring the north, four or five days are ideal, especially if you do not want to rush. That way you add La Orotava, Teide, Anaga and a day for Icod and Garachico.

Where to stay

The most practical area is the centre, between Plaza del Charco and Lago Martiánez. The promenade, restaurants and shops are within walking distance. Avenida de Colón and the Martiánez area have many hotels with sea views. If you prefer calm, La Paz, higher up, is more residential and has good views, although you will have to drive or take the bus down.