Plan a CruiseSanta Cruz de Tenerife is the vibrant capital and main port of Tenerife, the largest and one of the most scenically stunning of the Canary Islands. Dominated by the impressive 12,402 ft. high Mount Teide, the island offers a diverse landscape. Cruise ships dock at the port, which features a new, modern terminal. This facility boasts a 395-meter berth, a 10-meter depth, a spacious 8,473-square-meter terminal building with 50 check-in desks, and two state-of-the-art gangways. The new terminal is conveniently located, just a five-minute walk from the city center, Plaza de España, where many pedestrian shopping streets begin.
While taxis are generally available at the pier and free shuttle buses are provided by the Tenerife Port Authority to Plaza de España, it has been reported that both taxis and shuttles may not always be available. It is advisable to make arrangements in advance if you plan to rely on these options. Note that although some cruise companies might suggest the free shuttles are only for persons with walking disabilities, they are accessible to all passengers.
Getting Around from the Port
Walking: The new cruise terminal is very close to the city center, making the Plaza de España a pleasant five-minute walk away. If you prefer to walk, the town center with its shops and cafes is easily accessible on foot.
Port Authority Shuttles: Free shuttle buses are provided by the Tenerife Port Authority, dropping passengers directly at Plaza de España, the heart of the city. Remember, these shuttles are available to all passengers, not just those with walking disabilities.
Taxis: Taxis are usually available at the pier. However, as noted in the overview, there have been reports of limited availability at times, so consider making advance arrangements if needed. Cabbies also offer tours around the island; always negotiate the price clearly beforehand, specifying whether it's per party or per person. A taxi to the airport, located about nine miles from Santa Cruz, typically costs 15-20 Euro. For trips to El Corte Ingles, expect a fare of around 4 Euro.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: A convenient way to see the city's highlights is the Hop-On Hop-Off tour, which stops at 12 key locations around Santa Cruz.
Tram: To reach the historic city of La Laguna, take Tram Line #1 from a stop near Plaza de España. The tram ride takes about 40 minutes to the terminus at La Trinidad, which is the closest stop to La Laguna's old town, and costs just over 1 Euro one way.
Attractions and Activities
1. Explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
- Plaza de España: The city's main square and central hub, featuring an unusual four-sided cross tower. It's a great starting point for strolling through the city's pedestrian shopping streets and enjoying sidewalk cafes.
- Municipal Park: A pleasant spot for a leisurely walk, offering a unique collection of tropical flora.
- Museums: Santa Cruz has several museums worth visiting, though note that museums are generally closed on Mondays.
2. Mount Teide and Las Canadas National Park:
- Tenerife's Majestic Volcano: Mount Teide, at 12,402 ft., is Spain's highest peak and the island's most iconic landmark.
- Spectacular Landscapes: The surrounding Las Canadas National Park is renowned for its dramatic volcanic rock formations.
- Cable Car: From the parking lot, a cable lift can take you up to 3550 meters (11,647 ft.). Due to the distance from the port, an organized excursion is highly recommended for this trip.
3. Discover La Laguna:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Just a short distance from Santa Cruz, La Laguna is the island's oldest city and former capital. It holds a UNESCO World Heritage designation for its well-preserved colonial architecture.
- Easy Access by Tram: Take Tram Line #1 from near Plaza de España. The ride is approximately 40 minutes and costs a little over 1 Euro. The "La Trinidad" stop is the most convenient for reaching the old town.
Shopping
Tenerife enjoys a more or less tax-free status, making it an attractive place for purchases. You'll find numerous electronics and perfume stores. Tobacco products, in particular, are often significantly cheaper here than on board your cruise ship. Many shops observe a traditional siesta, closing between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. However, main stores in the city center and large department stores typically remain open throughout the day. For upscale shopping, head to El Corte Ingles, a large department store with an attached shopping center, located about a 15-minute walk or 4 Euro taxi ride from the port. For basic supplies without going into town, a few shops and a restroom are available along the pier in the direction of the city.
Dining
Santa Cruz has plenty of sidewalk cafes where you can relax and enjoy local cuisine. Many cafes also offer free Wi-Fi. McDonald's at the main square is a popular spot, especially among cruise crews, often for its reliable internet access.