Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town

Centuries of history of one of the Canary Islands’ two capitals

Located in the north-east of the island of Tenerife, the capital bears the marks of the passing of time and a history spanning more than five centuries. Founded on May 3, 1494 by the Castilian, Alonso Fernández de Lugo, it soon became a key port on the trade route between Europe and the Americas. Lined with churches and historic buildings, the plazas Principe, Weyler, San Francisco and Candelaria are picturesque spots to visit.

Tenerife’s most important bay, with churches, markets and historic streets

The bay of Santa Cruz de Tenerife reflects its maritime past with historical buildings such as the Concepción Church and the Palacio de Carta. Dating from the early 20th Century is the García Sanabria Park, which borders the Toscal neighbourhood. The market of Nuestra Señora de África with its graceful colonial ambience, attracts visitors every Sunday, keen to explore its popular antiques market. Traditional bars and eateries can be found in the popular Calle de la Noria, which is also home to the headquarters of some of Tenerife’s most important groups of carnival street musicians.