Explore Puerto de la Cruz in One Day with Self-Guided Walking Tour + Photo and Video Gallery
Explore Puerto de la Cruz on this one-day walking itinerary, from La Paz and the historic center to Plaza del Charco, the fishing harbour and Playa Jardín.
Discover the best of Puerto de la Cruz in just one day! Go through our travel itinerary, which is perfect for travelers who love exploring at their own pace. Let's visit charming streets, enjoy stunning ocean views, visit botanical gardens, and find even more impressive sight of this city.
We live in Puerto de la Cruz, and this is one of my favorite walks in the city. I usually start in La Paz, walk down towards the town center and Plaza del Charco, and then continue along the coast to Playa Jardín.
Tip: This is a fairly long route, and walking all the way back to La Paz in the evening can be tiring, especially since part of the way is uphill. I recommend taking a taxi back. You can easily find taxis at Plaza del Charco, and a ride within Puerto de la Cruz usually costs around €5–7.
Start: Parking lot near Jardin Botánico;
Distance: approx 5-6 km (about 3 miles);
Time: Walking time: 4–5 hours (with stops)
Explore the interactive map
Find all the spots from this guide on our interactive Google Map — perfect for planning your trip.
Puerto De la Cruz Video Guide - Youtube
Puerto de la Cruz is a resort town in the north of Tenerife. This place combines charming nature, rich history, and a cozy atmosphere. You’ll see narrow streets, colonial architecture, and panoramic views of the Atlantic, which makes it an ideal place for strolls
Compare Car Rental Prices in Puerto De la Cruz
Compare rental cars from different companies in Puerto de la Cruz and find the best option for your trip. Check prices, rental conditions and available cars in one place.
1. Morning: Botanic Garden and Scenic Views
Jardín Botánico
Jardín Botánico was founded in 1788 by the order of King Charles III of Spain. It was conceived as an acclimatization garden for exotic plants from America and Asia before transplanting them to Madrid. The site occupies only about 2 hectares. Yet, it contains more than 4,000 species of plants from all continents.
One of the most impressive inhabitants of the garden is the Ficus macrophylla, also known as the banyan. Its roots look like columns, and its crown is a green cathedral. The garden operates not only as a tourist destination but also as a scientific institution associated with the Institute of Canary Studies. Many rare species are preserved and studied here.
You can spend 40-60 minutes here.
Walk along C. Retama and C. Aceviño streets to the next destination (~10 minutes).
Mirador La Paz & Ermita de San Amaro
First, you'll pass through the Ermita de San Amaro. It is the oldest chapel in the city, built in 1591. The chapel is dedicated to Saint Amaro, the patron saint of pilgrims. Its white walls and traditional Canarian architecture create an atmosphere of coziness and peace.
Mirador La Paz is a picturesque viewpoint located on a cliff in the La Paz area.
It offers breathtaking views of:
- The coastal area of the Orotava Valley (to the north);
- The Playa de Martianez beach, with its black volcanic sand;
- The Lago Martianez water and entertainment complex;
- The modern buildings of Puerto de la Cruz;
- And even the majestic Teide volcano.
Agatha Christie drew inspiration for her novel The Mysterious Mr. Keane from this place.
Want to explore Tenerife's nature further? Book a Quad Tour to Teide or La Orotava Valley — departs right from Puerto de la Cruz (€80).
Agatha Christie Painted Stairs
Don't miss a unique attraction - the Agatha Christie Painted Stairs. It's not only a colorful place for photos but also an exceptional cultural object associated with the famous writer's name.
The steps are located on Calle de Agatha Christie (formerly known as Paseo de los Cipreses) and are a staircase, each step of which is painted in bright colors and decorated with the name of one of Agatha Christie's works.
Then you should go down C. Aceviño and Av. de Colón (~15 min).
2. Daytime Walk by the Ocean
Playa Martiánez
Playa Martiánez is not just a beach but a whole cultural and natural complex. The beach is covered with black volcanic sand and surrounded by cliffs, creating a unique landscape.
It is a great place to walk and watch the ocean, especially during sunset. Due to the constant waves and the presence of surf schools such as La Marea, the beach is popular among surfers.
Complejo Turístico Municipal Costa Martiánez
The Complejo Turístico Municipal Costa Martiánez is a unique open-air leisure complex. The central element is an artificial lake of 15,000 m², surrounded by terraces, gardens, and seawater pools.
The complex has seven seawater pools, including children's areas and one heated pool. The area features original sculptures by Manrique, as well as restaurants, bars, terraces, and sunbathing areas.
Teide is visible from here — why not visit it? Book the Mount Teide Cable Car excursion with hotel pickup (€87).
San Telmo Shrine and Playa San Telmo
The San Telmo Shrine was built in 1780 by the Guild of Navigators. This small white chapel is dedicated to Saint Peter González Telmo, the patron saint of sailors. Inside is an original statue of the saint from the late 18th century. The chapel has survived fire, storms, and even a robbery, but has been restored and is in excellent condition today.
Walking down from the chapel, you will find yourself on Playa San Telmo, a small urban beach about 20 meters long with black volcanic sand and pebbles. Its special feature is the natural pools that form between the lava rocks at low tide. However, be careful: when the ocean is rough, swimming may not be safe.
Mirador de la Punta del Viento
Mirador de la Punta del Viento is ideal for those who want to enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast. The site offers impressive views of the ocean, black volcanic rocks, and San Telmo beach. It is a great place for photos, especially at sunset. The name "Punta del Viento" translates as "cape of the wind", and indeed, fresh sea breezes are often felt here, giving the place a special charm.
Paragliding Tenerife: Flight from Teide to Puerto de la Cruz. Fly from Teide taking off from Izaña at 2,200 m with our paraglider. Enjoy spectacular views and land in Puerto de la Cruz. A safe and exciting experience with expert pilots.
3. Lunch and Walk Through the Historic Center
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia
The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia is one of the oldest churches in the city, built in the 17th century. It is considered a spiritual center for locals and tourists. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Peña de Francia, the patroness of immigrants and sailors.
The cult came from mainland Spain, from the Castilla y Leon region. Inside, you will find a baroque altar, ancient wooden carved elements, and an amazing atmosphere of coziness and peace. It is a small but very soulful church.
Plaza del Charco
Plaza del Charco is not just the central square of Puerto de la Cruz but the real cultural and historical heart of the city. The name "Plaza del Charco" is translated as "Puddle Square". Previously, a sea puddle formed here, in which locals caught shrimp. Indian laurels, brought from Cuba in 1852, palm trees, and other exotic plants grow here. In the center, there is a decorative fountain with a taro.
Lunch: You can visit Bambi Gourmet or Restaurante Xauen 'Sabor Andaluz'. These places have 4.8 and 4.7 stars based on hundreds of reviews. Alternatively, choose the option nearby with good reviews on Google Maps.
Full Island Sightseeing Tour, with departures from the south and north. Private tour visiting the southwest or northeast of the island, visiting the most interesting and attractive spots such as Teide, Garachico, Los Gigantes, Masca, Icod de Los Vinos, La Laguna, and Anaga.
Playa del Muelle
Right next to Plaza del Charco, Playa del Muelle is a small historic beach beside Puerto de la Cruz’s old fishing harbour. It’s not really a beach for spending the whole day, but it’s one of the most atmospheric spots along this walk.
Stop here for a few minutes to watch the fishing boats, enjoy the ocean views, and see one of the oldest parts of Puerto de la Cruz. From here, continue along the waterfront toward the next stop.
Stop here for a few minutes to watch the fishing boats, enjoy the ocean views, and see one of the oldest parts of Puerto de la Cruz. From here, continue along the waterfront toward the next stop.
Mural: Granada, La fuerza está en las raíces, El niño de las pinturas
The mural's title "La fuerza está en las raíces" translates as "Strength in the Roots", reflecting the deep connection between a person and their origins. The mural "La fuerza está en las raíces" emphasizes the importance of our roots and cultural identity. Through the depiction of human figures and symbolic elements, the artist conveys the idea that a person's strength lies in their origins and connection to culture.
4. History and Beach Break
El Castillo San Felipe
El Castillo San Felipe was built in 1539 to protect against pirate attacks and now serves as the city's cultural center. The fortress has a pentagonal shape with two levels and was formerly equipped with a drawbridge, which has now been replaced by a permanent walkway. It hosts temporary art exhibitions, theater productions, and dance performances.
Playa del Castillo (Playa Jardín)
Playa Jardín is a famous black-sand beach complex in Puerto de la Cruz, designed by César Manrique. It includes Playa del Castillo, Playa Chica, and Playa María Jiménez — each with its own vibe but all surrounded by palm trees, volcanic rocks, and tropical gardens. These beaches offer everything you need: sunbeds, showers, lifeguards, beach bars, and cozy cafés — perfect for a relaxed day by the ocean.
However, it is important to take into account the environmental problems of the region. In recent years, Playa Jardín and other beaches of Puerto de la Cruz have faced increased levels of water pollution caused by wastewater discharge. This has led to a temporary ban on swimming due to the high concentration of harmful bacteria (in particular, E. coli). Therefore, before visiting, it is recommended to check the current state of the water.
Paseo Punta Brava
Paseo Punta Brava is ideal for strolls, enjoying the ocean views, and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a traditional Canarian fishing village.
Narrow streets with colorful houses built close to each other create a sense of coziness and remind you of the traditional way of life of the locals.
A walk along Paseo Punta Brava reveals breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and black volcanic rocks formed by ancient eruptions. Next to Paseo Punta Brava is the famous zoo and oceanarium Loro Park
5. Finishing the Day
You can stay on the beach and watch the sunset. Or return to the center for dinner at restaurant.
This route will allow you to enjoy the nature, history, and atmosphere of Puerto de la Cruz in one day!
6. My Faforite Photos of Puerto de la Cruz
Recommended Tours & Experiences
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Loro Parque and Siam Park Combined Admission Tickets. Book a combined ticket to Loro Parque and Siam Park, the main attractions of Canaries. See the animal shows at Loro Parque and a wide variety of sea animals in the water kingdom of Siam Park.
Teide: Guided Sunset & Stargazing Tour by Night with Dinner. Enjoy the sunset at Mount Teide National Park. Enjoy the dazzling colors, then explore the night sky with a guide using laser pointers and telescopes in this top stargazing destination.
Quad Tour to Teide or Off-Road Adventure in Puerto de la Cruz. Explore Teide National Park or Orotava Valley on a guided quad tour from Puerto de la Cruz. Choose your route and get your heart pumping with 30 minutes of off-road fun.
Compare Car Rental Prices in Puerto De la Cruz
Compare rental cars from different companies in Puerto de la Cruz and find the best option for your trip. Check prices, rental conditions and available cars in one place.