Things to do in San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Tenerife
The Canary Islands in Spain are a acclaimed destination for travelers, especially Europeans, who visit throughout the year. Among all the islands, Tenerife is particularly popular. Several points of interest are accessible to all those who wish to enjoy the region’s climate. Find out the things to do in San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a city located in the north of the island and a perfect alternative to beach tourism.
Things to do in San Cristóbal de la Laguna :
- Plaza del Adelantado
- Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe
- Palacio de Nava
- Catedral de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios
- Exconvento e Iglesia de San Agustín
- Palacio Salazar
- Museo de Historía y Antropología
- Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Concepción
- Santuario del Cristo
- The city center
Other useful information:
San CristÓbal de la Laguna in a nutshell
Situated at an elevation of 600 meters, its cool climate may surprise tourists who think that in the Canary Islands, it is always very hot. As the former capital of the island, the city once held significant economic, political, and cultural power. Today, it is mostly known for being one of the most beautiful cities in the Canary Islands.
Irrefutable proof of this beauty is its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Its original layout from the 15th century subsequently served as a model for many colonial cities in Latin America, earning notable recognition.
10 THINGS TO DO IN San Cristóbal de la Laguna
Here are 10 places to visit San Cristóbal de la Laguna, the perfect city for a beautiful getaway!
1. Plaza del Adelantado
This is one of the most popular squares in the city. A charming green space where locals gather. It takes its name from the island’s conquistador: el Adelantado Alonso Fernández de Lugo. The lovely fountain in its center is made of marble.
2. Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe
Located in a traditional 18th-century Canarian house, which was the residence of the collector Cayetano Gómez, this museum exhibits a collection of over 60,000 antiques. Originating from Asia and the Americas, they highlight the island’s significance as a strategic point on the trade routes between Europe and the New World.
3. Palacio de Nava
The construction of this palace began in the 16th century and underwent several modifications over the years. Its style oscillates between the Baroque and Neoclassical. It is one of the landmark buildings of Tenerife. Its unique black facade, constructed with volcanic stone, will catch your eye.
4. Catedral de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios
It is the main religious monument of the city. The cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin of los Remedios, the Holy Patroness of the island. While the neoclassical facade captures attention, the interior of the building is dominated by Baroque and neoclassical styles. Visit the cathedral with an audio guide here.
5. Exconvento e Iglesia de San Agustín
Convent and church, educational center, library… This monument, founded in 1506 by the Order of Saint Augustine upon the arrival of the Conquistadors, has experienced several lives since its construction. The convent served as the first university of the archipelago. In 1964, the church suffered a fire. Since then, tourists can admire its sublime ruins.
6. Palacio Salazar
Built around the middle of the 17th century, the Palacio Salazar experienced a devastating fire in 2006. Only its black facade could be saved. However, after years of restoration, travelers can visit this house with an eclectic architectural mix.
7. Museo de Historia y Antropología
If you have to visit only one museum during your stay, it should be the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife. Located in the beautiful Casa Lercaro built in the 16th century, it hosts a collection spread over 3 floors that allows you to learn more about the history of the island and the city.
8. Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Concepción
Impossible to miss during your city strolls, this building is one of the oldest churches in Tenerife, capturing attention with its 28-meter-high tower. Its modest interior is worth a visit, especially to admire the altar.
9. Santuario del Cristo
This religious building houses the Cristo de la Laguna, a Gothic image of the crucified Jesus, considered one of the most important symbols of the city.
10. The city center
Visiting San Cristóbal de La Laguna inevitably involves strolling through its small, colorful colonial-style city center. With your head up, you can admire the charming facades of the mansions and the unique balconies of traditional houses at your own pace.
What excursions to do from San Cristóbal de La Laguna?
Visiting San Cristóbal de La Laguna in slow travel mode won’t take more than 2 days. However, the city is an excellent starting point to explore other must-visit destinations in Tenerife in just 1 day:
- The rural park of Anaga for a breath of fresh air.
- Teide to enjoy the highest peak in Spain on a guided tour.
- The exotic village of Masca.
- The tranquil town of Puerto de la Cruz.
- The island’s capital, Santa Cruz.
How to get to San Cristóbal de La Laguna?
From Puerto de la Cruz or Santa Cruz, the easiest way to get to San Cristóbal de La Laguna is to take a bus, called “guagua” in the Canary Islands. Be sure to check the routes and schedules on the corresponding websites.
If you have a rental car, you can also access it very easily.
How to get around in San Cristóbal de La Laguna?
There are several bus lines to get around the city. However, if your visit is limited to the historic center, you can do everything on foot.
When to visit San Cristóbal de la Laguna?
The city enjoys a mild climate throughout the year. Nevertheless, it’s not uncommon to experience rain, and the nights can be quite cold. From June to November, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather and slightly warmer temperatures.
Be a digital nomad in San Cristóbal de la Laguna
The Canarian city is not renowned as a hotspot for remote workers. It can be challenging to find a community, there is no coliving, and cultural activities are limited. However, the Wi-Fi is relatively good, and there are a few coworking spaces in the city. Therefore, it can be a good destination for digital nomads who prefer off-the-beaten-path travel and want to spend a few days in a peaceful environment.
Travel responsibly in San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Like the rest of Tenerife, it is important to travel responsibly in San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Here are some eco-friendly practices to adopt during your stay:
1. Bring a reusable bag for your shopping.
2. Limit water consumption by taking shorter showers, for example.
3. Shop at local markets to support the local economy.
4. Dine in restaurants that use only seasonal products.
5. Familiarize yourself with local waste disposal guidelines.
These are just a few ideas to be a responsible traveler during your stay. There are, of course, many more!
I hope this article has answered the question of what to do in San Cristóbal de La Laguna? Personally, I loved my stay of a few days in this charming city. I can only recommend it for its beauty and the kindness of its inhabitants.
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