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Santa Cruz is Tenerife’s capital city and is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for sun seekers looking for a beach resort holiday.

But there are so many things to do in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, that simply visiting for the beach and not checking out the city would be a huge shame.

City and mountain view of residential houses or buildings in serene hill valley in Santa Cruz, La Palma, Spain
Santa Cruz

From historic landmarks such as San Cristolbal castle to gorgeous nature parks, you’ll find there is something for everyone in Santa Cruz Tenerife.

As part of our city guides series, we interviewed Linda Wainwright who has lived in Santa Cruz for over 25 years.

Linda shared with us her insider tips on what to do do in Santa Cruz, plus recommendations on where to stay, eat, drink, and explore.

Is Santa Cruz de Tenerife Worth Visiting?

historic building
Circulo de Amistad

Because Tenerife is very much a tourist destination, I inevitably have to point out to tourists thinking of visiting that there is more to the island than sun, sea and sangria, and part of what’s here is Santa Cruz and neighbouring La Laguna.

Both are full of history, lovely old buildings and stunning modern ones (the older parts are often compared to South America), and both have lots of good restaurants and bars where you can eat al fresco.

Very much cities with hustle and bustle, but still a laid-back vibe. There are also museums, art galleries and churches to visit.

Yet ten minutes outside of Santa Cruz is the island’s prettiest beach, Las Teresitas, and ten minutes outside La Laguna and you are in rich, verdant farmland.

For all these reasons and more, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is definitely worth visiting.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Below you will find some of the top attractions in Santa Cruz, one of the most bustling places in the Canaries. Whether you’re looking for museums, beaches, nature or parties, there’s something for everyone on this list.

1. Visit the Auditorio de Tenerife

curving sail shapes of the tenerife auditorium
Tenerife Auditorium designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.

The contemporary Auditorio de Tenerife (often compared to the Sydney Opera House) and home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra, annual Heineken Jazz Festival, a short opera season in Autumn and year-round music and dance performances of every type.

The Tenerife Auditorium is one of the most iconic sites in Tenerife because of its impressive modern architecture. It was designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, and was completed in 2003.

It’s one of the finest examples of contemporary architecture in the Canary Islands, and was even included on the local stamps and on commemorative 5 Euro coins in 2011!

As well as admiring the building, you can also catch a show, from operas to ballets, to orchestras, jazz musicians and classical musicians.

Be sure to check out the what’s on calendar to see what is happening at the time you visit!

2. Admire the Local Architecture

One of the top things to do in Santa Cruz is to wander around the neighborhoods and take in the architecture. A stroll around the docks is a great way to see some beautiful buildings and is also a frequent stopping off point for cruise ships.

a town street
Classic La Laguna

Don’t miss the plazas which are lined with amazing buildings and feature water fountains and classical architecture.

The most notable onces are Plaza de España which has a stunning artificial lake, Plaza de la Candelaria, Plaza Weyler, and Plaza Adelantado.

Don’t skip the tiny, underground museum of San Cristóbal castle, a part of the city’s original fortification and home to the canon which shot off Lord Horatio Nelson’s arm when he tried to invade Tenerife in 1797.

The most iconic architecture though can be found in the centre of old town La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and walking its streets is like a journey back in time. It’s worth climbing the tower of La Iglesia de la Concepción to take a look over the valley in which it sits and the beautiful Anaga Mountain range behind.

A statue of a man
Teatro Guimera

Teatro Guimerá also has incredible architecture but also has some excellent performing arts productions sometimes, depending what’s on. The plays will be in Spanish, but there are often music or dance performances too.

Even the tourist information office which is housed in a gorgeous, renovated building, la Casa de los Capitanes, and where you can pick up information about museums and walking tours.

3. Check out the Santa Cruz Museums

courtyard of museum in santa cruz

The Museum of Man and Nature (also known as MUNA or the Museum of Nature and Archaeology) is a great place to learn about how the volcanic Canary Islands exploded from the sea bed, and to see the display of mummified bodies of the original inhabitants, the Guanches, who used to mummify their dead.

It’s also set in the Old Civil Hospital and has stunning neo-classical architecture.

For art lovers, don’t miss the Tenerife Espacio de Artes (Tenerife Arts Center) for photography and art exhibitions.

The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) is also worth a visit to see incredible sculptures and artwork from Flemish artists from the 16th century to 19th century. 

Some of his most notable pieces are the Tríptico de Nava y Grimón by Pieter Coecke and the San Andrés by José Rivera.

And there’s also the Museum of History and Anthropology, which is set inside a stunning Spanish colonial villa.

4. Visit the Convent of Santa Catalina

One of the top attractions in Santa Cruz is the Convent of Santa Catalina, which is one of the oldest buildings in the city.

The monastery was established in 1611 in what used to be the house of Los Adelantados. Its architecture resembles that of a baroque style, which is best seen in the Main Chapel where you will see a Baroque altarpiece, as well as a silver exhibitor.

The monastery is now a fine arts museum, and features many examples of religious artwork and decoration. Inside the church, be sure to check out the sculpture representing Santa Rosa de Lima by Rodríguez de la Oliva, the most precious item in the museum.

5. Taste the Local Cuisine

Canarian wrinkly potatoes (Papas arrugadas) in Las Palmas
Canarian wrinkly potatoes (Papas arrugadas) in Las Palmas

No trip to Tenerife is complete without trying the local cuisine, specifically, Papas Arrugadas with Mojo.

Papas arrugadas translates as wrinkled potatoes, which may sound like a bland thing to recommend, but done right they really are delicious! These are no ordinary potatoes but special varieties of floury tubers, grown in the Canary Islands.

They are served with mojos, Canarian sauces made with cilantro or red peppers.

When it comes to finding places to eat in Santa Cruz, I don’t even have to think about this!

Calle Noria, which extends from La Plaza de la Iglesia de la Concepción is the place to eat, night or day, with its brightly-painted buildings it will remind you of Habana. It’s full of cafés, bars and restaurants, some quirky and all excellent.

palm trees on a sidewalk
Calle Noria houses

My favorite is El Bulan, where they do extraordinary tapas, tastes and combinations I’ve had nowhere else.

Half the street is lined with chairs and tables (it’s pedestrianized) and you can eat lunch outdoors all year round, though dining in winter might be a bit chilly.

people walking down a street
Calle Noria

Although it’s pleasant to sit around the city’s main square, Plaza de España, sadly I couldn’t recommend any of the eateries around there, get off the main tourist drag if you want better food.

I don’t know La Laguna’s centre from a foodie point of view, although I’ve had plenty of tapas and cakes in the places around the main streets and never been disappointed.

6. Enjoy the Nightlife of Avendia Anaga

Panorama of Santa Cruz at night
Panorama of Santa Cruz at night

When it comes to things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife at night, no one bar stands out. The area of Avendia Anaga after dark is alive with bars, clubs and party goers. It’s the place to be if you want to cruise the clubs and bars.

During the day, it’s shuttered up and the place looks abandoned, but it changes character completely when the lights come on.

La Laguna is a university town, so there are plenty of reasonably-priced bars all around.

7. Take a Walking Tour of Santa Cruz

spires and orange roof of Basilica of Candelaria,  overlooking water
Basilica of Candelaria

If you’re into history, inquire with the museums – they do themed walking tours, but they’re not well-known.

One takes in the length of the original fortification of the city (of which the Museum of San Cristóbal was once a part), and another La Laguna by night, beginning in the city’s museum after hours – now there’s an eerie prospect.

Tenerife’s history is on a similar timescale and has a similar background to the Americas, so it ties in with many places across the Atlantic as well as Europe.

You can also take a free walking tour with a knowledgable local, which is a great way to get to know the area and see the highlights.

8. Explore the Markets in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

an archway in a building
Market of Nuestra Señora de Africa

TheMarket of Nuestra Señora de Africa (Lady of Africa Market is one of the best places to buy the best of the island’s produce bananas, tomatoes, papaya and other fruit and vegetables, not to mention those tiny potatoes and yummy goats’ cheeses from the market stalls.

For souvenirs, there is one thing you should definitely take home. The Canary Islands has been famous for wine since the 17th century – Shakespeare was a huge fan, no kidding. He mentions “a cup of Canary” in several of his plays!

You can also buy artisan olive oils, those mojo sauces, local honey and jams, and lotions and other beauty products made from aloe vera, which grows all over the island.

The Canary Islands have a special status within the EU. They used to be duty free, and that’s not strictly true now, but you can certainly buy perfumes, booze and tobacco cheaper than on mainland Europe, though obviously you need to check how much you can take into wherever you’re going back to.

9. Enjoy a Festival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The carnival of santa cruz

No doubt what springs to my mind first when I think of festivals, the Santa Cruz Carnival. It’s claimed that Santa Cruz’s Carnaval in the couple of weeks leading up to Lent is second only to Rio de Janeiro in size. It’s one long, crazy, chaotic, fun-filled party. It would take me an entire post to do it justice.

The best I can say briefly is that it is the colourful, noisy, and vibrant event you imagine it to be! Think parades and costumes, loud music and a lot of drinking.

Other than that there is the Heineken Jazz Festival in July, which includes some free concerts.

person playing guitar on stage at Sant aBlues
Santa Blues

Santa Blues – a free blues festival one weekend in June.

August is a bit like one long fiesta too, when terrazas de verano (summer terraces) open. These are temporary bars which set up just for hottest weeks of the year, outdoors and with long opening hours to while away those sleepless nights.

>romeria a traditional fiesta which is something like a cross between a harvest festival and May Day celebrations.

Folk groups, singers, dancers, farmers with their huge-eyed oxen, herds of goats, the odd goose or puppy take part, and everyone in traditional dress, including many of the onlookers.

family dress in traditional romeria
family trad dress Romeria

10. Take a Day Trip to Teide National Park

mount teide peak
Mount Teide a volcano on Tenerife in the Canary Islands

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Santa Cruz, then a visit to The Teide National Park is a must. It’s my favourite day trip from Santa Cruz!

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Park is site of the world’s third largest volcano measured from the ocean bed, at 3,713 m Mount Teide is the highest mountain in Spain and in winter you will often find it covered in snow, despite this being a sub-tropical climate.

The park’s volcanic landscapes are sensational, and although it’s pretty barren-looking, there is flora which grows nowhere else on earth in the wild. I love to see the expressions on people’s face when I take them up there. The most-used adjectives are lunar or surreal.

The scenery is stunning and you’ll find plenty of hiking trails for those who like to get out and explore. Another popular hiking spot is Anaga Rural Park, if you have more time to spare.

It’s also an interesting drive, through pine forests. Often you emerge above cloud level, to look down on clouds as you would from a plane, and see Mt Teide rising above it all – impressive.

11. Enjoy Water Sports at Costa Adeje

blue waters of costa adeje

Just outside the city of Santa Cruz is the coastal town of Costa Adeje. It’s known for its beaches and untamed, natural beauty.

If you’re looking for beaches, this is it. It’s also the perfect place to do water sports since the wind makes it a great spot for sailing, parasailing and more.

Yet in the bays, you can find softer waves, which are perfect for ambling along on a sea kayak or whizzing around on a jet ski.

If you visit at the right time of year (November to February), you can also see whales migrating in the waters.

12. Visit Palmetum (The Botanical Garden Santa Cruz de Tenerife)

plam trees on cliff edge next to water

For visitors to Tenerife who enjoy nature and botany, a visit to the Palmetum is a must!

The Palmetum of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a 12-hectare botanical garden with a particular interest in palm trees.

It has two big lakes, a stream, and three cascading waterfalls, a lovely green space, as well as areas with the Canary Island’s iconic volcanic rocks.

The botanical garden is built on a former waste dumping ground and is now bursting with plant life. It is the work of several dedicated people from around the world who bought this innovative garden to life.

The gardens are home to more than 3,000 species of plants from around the world, including more than 600 species of palm trees.

Another relaxing park you might want to visit is the García Sanabria Park, a lush garden park that’s perfect for a picnic and relaxation.

13. Have a Beach Day at Playa de las Teresitas Beach

sweeping view of Playa de Las Teresitas
Playa de Las Teresitas, Canary Island Tenerife, Spain.

One of the best beaches in Tenerife is Teresitas Beach, which is an artificial beach famous for its soft and clean golden sand and calm waters.

The beach is around 1.5km long so you won’t have a problem finding a spot. It also has a breakwater, which means the beach gradually slopes into the water and the bay is protected, which makes the currents calm and peaceful, like a glistening swimming pool.

For that reason, it’s one of the most popular beaches on the island, especially for those with kids.

The beach has all the facilities you would need, including toilets, showers and changing rooms, plus there are some great restaurants lining the promenade.

It’s a great place to visit for sunset, too.

14. Splash About at Cesar Manrique Maritime Park

view overlooking city and Maritime Park of Cesar Manrique on water
Maritime Park of Cesar Manrique

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with kids, then a visit to César Manrique Maritime Park is a must!

The resort is 22,000 square meters big and features several swimming pools, waterfalls and other elements of nature, including volcanic rocks and palm trees.

It has three swimming pools with water drawn from the ocean, an artificial waterfall as well as a children’s play area and games room.

For mom and dad, there’s a gym, sports ground and hot spring hot tub. It’s fun for all the family!

Best Time of Year to Visit Santa Cruz, Tenerife

In one sense – any time is a good time to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Winters are very mild, shirt-sleeves by day, a jacket by night.

Although La Laguna is cooler because it’s much higher, even so, the worst it gets is like an Autumn day in England, for comparisson.

If you don’t want all the noise of Carnaval avoid Shrove Tuesday week at all costs.

Low season here is May/June and November/early December and there are cheap flights around, but the trouble with low season is that sometimes you find restaurants have taken the month off.

Hottest time is late July/August/early September when temperatures can get up to 40ºC so if you don’t like it hot avoid summer. It’s also the busiest time, of course, during the school holidays.

Getting To and Around Santa Cruz

From Europe is pretty easy. Several low-cost airlines serve the islands now, including Easyjet, from UK. From further afield it means flying into a main hub, like Madrid and then onwards to Tenerife.

When it comes to getting around, Santa Cruz is very walkable. Although this is a mountainous island, slopes are fairly gentle, even in La Laguna, which is around 2,000 ft above sea level.

There are excellent bus services to other parts of the island, and a zillion taxis.

The two cities are connected by a modern tramway which blends surprisingly well with the historical surroundings when it passes through those areas.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Of course, when you live in a place, you don’t often get to stay in hotels or hostels.

The only hotel I’ve stayed in is the very chic Iberostar Grand Mencey, which somehow blends modern, luxury minimalism with a colonial feel, and which I loved! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it. A friend stayed in city-center hotel Silken Atlantida said it was excellent too.

Scroll through the list below for more accommodation options

For more ideas about things to do on that road trip, planning information, beautiful photos, and practical maps to help you plan your travels, check out ZigZag On Earth’s eBook: Explore and Photograph Lanzarote

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Santa Cruz, Tenerife

I love Santa Cruz de Tenerife because it has a city feel but island charm, and it blends the historic with the contemporary beautifully.

I hope this guide helped you decide on what to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and helped you map out your itinerary.

Even with so much to see in the city, I would definitely hire a car and visit the mountains, vineyards and villages outside Santa Cruz. There are some marvellous, bars and restaurants to be found in the countryside.

Bio: Linda left the flat and damp of north west England with her family for the warm and mountainous Canary Islands over 20 years ago, and blogs her experiences at islandmomma. Now in her “third age” she is doing her best to make some of her dreams come true, writing and messing about with her camera. She can found on facebook and tweets as @madreislena

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16 Unmissable Things To Do In The Canary Islands https://www.ytravelblog.com/things-to-do-in-the-canary-islands/ https://www.ytravelblog.com/things-to-do-in-the-canary-islands/#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2023 20:31:00 +0000 https://www.ytravelblog.com/?p=19954 16 Unmissable Things To Do In The Canary Islands Read More »

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With rich forests, rugged cliffs, an archipelago of untamed islands, volcanoes, tropical weather on one island and snowfall on another – there is so much diversity in The Canary Islands it blows my mind.

Flight of steps to amazing Playa Papagayo beach in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Playa Papagayo beach in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of eight islands that belong to Spain, located just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa – 100 km west of the border between Morocco and the Western Sahara. The islands were formed by ancient volcanoes and shaped by the winds from the Sahara desert.

The Canary Islands are most recognized by the island of Tenerife, which is a hot destination for British tourists running from the horrors of English weather to soak up the sun and party. But there are more things to do in the Canary Islands than hit the beaches of Tenerife.

There are so many more places to discover and explore. In this guide, we’ll share with you the top Canary Island attractions and places to visit. Let’s get started.

Things to Do in the Canary Islands

I didn’t know much about the Canary Islands aside from Tenerife before I visited, but I’m kinda happy that I was able to discover all the great things to do in the Canary Islands that not many people know about.

Here are some unmissable attractions to add to your Canary Islands itinerary.

For more ideas about things to do on that road trip, planning information, beautiful photos, and practical maps to help you plan your travels, check out ZigZag On Earth’s eBook: Explore and Photograph Lanzarote

1. Experience Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote

red dirt and peaks of the mountains of fire timanfaya canary islands

The lunar landscape of the Timanfaya National Park was created by a volcanic eruption that covered about a third of the island in the 1700s. The park is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is full of hiking trails, lava fields and incredible sites.

You can hike through the Fire Mountains (Mountains del Fuego) and experience the heat of the dormant volcano.

At the beginning of the park, guides will demonstrate the power of the heat by setting a bush on fire and creating artificial geysers shooting up into the air.

An interesting way to see the park is by taking a 25-minute camel ride.

2. Catamaran sail to Papagayo Beaches, Lanzarote

Lanzarote, white sand beaches Playas de Papagayo filling with people in the morning
Playas de Papagayo

Go luxury catamaran sailing to the golden beaches of Papagayo on Lanzarote and across the Atlantic Ocean.

You can relax with drinks and fresh fruit as the boat sails to Papagayo. The Captain and crew are happy for you to help trim the sails and take the helm – could be interesting to see where I end up taking us.

Lunch is served on board at the beaches and coves where the anchor is dropped for swimming, snorkelling, and Jet Ski rides. If you are lucky you may see a dolphin or two, and pilot whales on the sail back.

I love the sound of this relaxing day on the water and it reminds me of sailing around the Greek Island of Paros in the same way.

3. See The Volcanoes at Mount Teide National Park and Las Canadas National Park, Tenerife

Mount Teide a volcano on Tenerife in the Canary Islands
Mount Teide a volcano on Tenerife in the Canary Islands

Mount Teide is one of the largest volcanic peak in the world and the highest peak in Tenerife. You can walk to the summit through the National Park exploring pine forests, giant craters, and a lunar landscape.

Kalyra is mad about volcanoes so I think she will love getting this close to one.

We may have to get the cable car up to the summit with her though! If it is a clear day you will get to see some of the other Canary Islands.

4. Marvel at The Maspalomas Dunes, Grand Canaria

Tourists walk over the Maspalomas dunes. This is a very big area of famous dunes
Maspalomas dunes.

Enter a different part of the world through a spectacular 400 hectares stretch of sand dunes along the coastline of the island of Grand Canaria.

The sand dunes were designated a National Park in 1994 and you can only cross by foot or camel.

The dunes also provide a habitat for a number of rare plant species, some of which can only be found in the Canaries – somehow they manage to survive in this arid environment alongside lizards and rabbits.

5. Head Over to Island of Lobos, Fuerteventura

curving beach and brilliant blue water of Isla Lobos
Photo:  guillenperez

Tranquillity and natural beauty are how this island off the coast of Fuerteventura, a short boat ride from Corralejo, is described.

The island of Lobos is a nature reserve and offers the chance to spot plants and birds not found anywhere else on the planet, surprising given its desert and volcanic landscape. It’s popular with day trippers and families and you can camp on the island for three nights with authorization. It’s an escape to crystalline waters and beautiful hidden bays and corners of serenity.

6. Check Out Santa Cruz, La Palma

City and mountain view of residential houses or buildings in serene hill valley in Santa Cruz, La Palma, Spain
Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz in La Palma is a beautiful seaside town with palaces, manor houses, churches, and colourful balcony homes dating from the 16th and 17th centuries.

This is the main port of the island and the capital city and is surrounded by rugged and steep topography. Just outside the city is the stunning beach of Playa de las Teresitas which is calm and gentle, and ideal for families.

If you’re looking to surf, head to Playa de las Américas on the south coast of Tenerife.

Santa Cruz has been declared a Cultural Asset (historical-artistic site) and the island of La Palma is a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

I’d enjoy a day discovering why as I wander through its narrow cobbled streets, stopping at holes in the walls for lunch and maybe doing a little shopping.

7. Explore Garajonay National Park, La Gomera

path in garanojay national park

I love to take my children to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. I think it’s important they get to understand our planet and why it needs to be protected.

The Garajonay National Park, in La Gomera has one of the largest continuous areas of Laurel forest, a habitat that has almost disappeared from southern Europe and North Africa.

The park has streams and springs which help give it lush vegetation that is not typical of the Canaries.

8. Try Local Canary Cuisine

Canarian wrinkly potatoes (Papas arrugadas) in Las Palmas
Canarian wrinkly potatoes (Papas arrugadas) in Las Palmas

Food is a big part of any destination you experience. Of course, the Canaries will have much of the Spanish influence but they also have their own unique dishes.

A Canary Island favourite is Sancocho Canario, a salted fish, usually white, in a “mojo” sauce a spicy sauce that has a red and a green version. Of course, I’m all about the mojo.

Papas Arrugadas – “Wrinkled potatoes” are a popular side dish consisting of small potatoes boiled in salt water until soft, leaving the potatoes with wrinkles and with a salty crust.

What is it about islands and rum? Trust me I am not complaining, I can often be found with a mojito in my hand, particularly at sunset.

So it seems as if the Canary Islands will cater to my rum obsession with their own specialty honeyed rum. I may even live it largely a little and try the banana liqueur and see how high the mojo goes then!

Want to get a feel for the local food? Check out this full day food and wine tour of Tenerife!

9. Hike in Caldera de Taburiente National Park, Tenerife

jagged mountain peaks in lush forest in Caldera de Taburiente National Park

If you’re not tired of volcanoes, then be sure to check out the protected landscape of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, which is home to gigantic volcanoes, surrounded by lush pine forest, rivers, and waterfalls.

You can hike up to the highest peak, Roque de los Muchachos, to see the observatory at the summit. Check out the Mirador de Los Brecitos viewpoint and admire the beauty of the Barranco de Las Angustias gorge along the way.

The park also extends into a rocky coastline offering incredible coastal views.

10. Hike on El Hierro Island

Fallen trees of El Hierro on edge of cliff behind stoned wall
Fallen trees of El Hierro

El Hierro is the second-smallest island in the Canary Islands and is also the farthest south so it has that beautiful, warm weather that you find in Africa.

The island is simply stunning, with rocky landscapes, dramatic cliffs with sea caves, and craggy peaks formed by its volcanic base, the best way to see this island is to hike around it.

Be sure to check out El Hierro Sabinar, protected trees that have been blown over by the wind, and the Mirador de Isora for some incredible views.

If you want to hike the whole island, it will take around 5 days, but you can easily do sections of it and take in the highlights.

11. Check out the Beautiful Old Town of San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife

balcony and windows on colorful building in San Cristobal de La Laguna,

One of the best things to do in The Canary Islands is to get to know the locals and the local way of life. You won’t find a more authentic and traditional town than that San Cristobal de La Laguna, which is located in the Province of Santa Cruz on Tenerife.

It’s the third-most populous city in the Canary Islands and the historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 1999.

As the ancient capital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna is famous for its architecture and historic landmarks. However, its Old Town is most famous for being awash with colour. Everywhere you look, bright and vibrant colourful buildings fill your eyes.

It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing that day, the vibrancy of the buildings in the Old Town are a pleasure to witness.

12. Take the Kids to Siam Park, The Best Water Park in Tenerife

The kids playing in water attractions in Siam waterpark in Tenerife, Spain
The Siam is the largest water theme park in Europe

If you’re looking for things to do in The Canary Islands with kids, then you cannot skip Siam Park. This fun-filled water park is the biggest waterpark in Europe, with a space of 185-square-kilometres.

Relax on the 1.6km Lazy River, surf over the highest artificial waves in the world in the wave pool, or get your thrills on the many waterslides. Mum and dad can kick back on Siam Beach, or take the little ones to the Lost City, where they can play in its waterfalls and slides that were built for younger kids.

One of the highlights of the park is The Tower of Power waterslide, a 28 meter high waterslide that passes through a shark-infested pool.

If you think one day isn’t enough to explore it all, then stay in one of the private Thai-style cabins. Be sure to check out Siam Park’s other attraction, the Loro Parque Zoo.

13. See the Dramatic Cliffs of Acantilados de Los Gigantes, Tenerife

high cliffs on edge of water

Although Los Gigantes is a resort town on the west coast of Tenerife, it’s well known for its giant rock formations, known as the Acantilados de Los Gigantes.

These incredible cliffs rise to a height of 500-800 metres which makes it easy to see why the town has its name Los Gigantes, which translated to “The Giants”.

The cliffs are best seen from three viewpoints in the village. The main viewpoint is on the main road towards Tamaimo, and the other two can be found above the sports club and on the coastal path around the Hotel Barcelo.

Be sure to come at sunset for an awe-inspiring scene.

14. See The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

woman in yellow costume with feathered headdress and wings

Every year in February, visitors from all over the world come to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, to see the incredible Carnival.

If you’ve ever heard about or seen carnivals in Rio de Janeiro, the Carnival in Tenerife is second only to this one. For two weeks, the town is alive with parades, dancing, parties, costumes and drag queen contests.

It attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year and has been held every year for hundreds of years.

If you love music, dancing and entertainment, be sure to visit Tenerife in February.

Another great festival in February is the Mardi Gras Carnival in New Orleans.

15. See the Amazing Cave Jameos del Agua, Lanzarote

people standing in cave entrance looking at pool of water

The Jameos del Agua is a volcanic tunnel and cavern that has been turned into an underground concert hall.

Many years ago, the cave, like many others on the island, was used as a shelter by the locals. It is said that more than 3,000 years ago, the cave was created when the roof of a volcanic tube collapsed. Now, instead of lava flows, there is music and serenity.

The entrance to the cave is like a garden of native plants and fauna, including palm trees and cacti.

The natural lake inside adds to the natural beauty of the area, and its the perfect backdrop to enjoy some music whilst dining at the restaurant.

16. Take a Night Sky Stargazing Tour in La Palma, Tenerife

The best thing about Tenerife is that there are plenty of spots to do some star gazing without the disruption of light pollution.

Learn about the stars and constellations, planets, and more on a stargazing tour in Tenerife.

Led by a professional astronomer and his telescope, you can learn about the beauty and science of the night sky.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in The Canary Islands

So there you have it, those are the top attractions in the Canary Islands and as you can see, there’s so much more to see and do here than just beaches.

Hopefully, this guide showed you the natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique aspects of The Canary Islands that are perhaps less well known.

Whatever you choose to do on your trip to The Canary Islands, we hope you have the best time!

Check out these top selling tours and attractions in the Canary Islands and book before you go!

Accommodation in the Canary Islands

Use the map below to help you navigate hotel and VRBO options in the Canary Islands

More Canary Islands and Northern Africa Tips

Are you planning on visiting other parts of the Canary Islands or North Africa? Then you might enjoy these other resources…

Have you been to The Canary Islands and have some hidden gems you want to share? Let us know in the comments!

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