Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz

If you’re looking to explore a different side of Tenerife beyond the usual beach resorts, the trip to Puerto de la Cruz is a solid choice. This organized tour offers a relaxing day out, taking you from the southern part of the island into the charming and historic northwest coast. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect—good value, scenic views, and a taste of local culture.

One thing we really like about this tour is the round-trip transportation from the south, which simplifies planning and helps you avoid the hassle of figuring out local transit. Plus, the free time in Puerto de la Cruz means you can tailor your visit—whether you want to shop, explore cultural sites, or just relax by the sea.

A possible consideration is the longer travel time—about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on stops. That means a good chunk of the day is spent in transit, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a bit of time on a coach bus. This trip is perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided experience with the flexibility to explore on their own, especially if you’re staying in the south and want a taste of the cooler, lively north without the stress of driving.

If you’re after an authentic taste of Puerto de la Cruz’s vibrant streets, gardens, and beaches—and you’re okay with a bit of a journey—this tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to do it.

Key Points

• Comfortable round-trip transport makes it accessible from the south of Tenerife.
• Flexible free time allows you to explore at your own pace.
• The scenic journey offers beautiful views of the island’s diverse landscapes.
• Cultural and natural sites like botanical gardens, historic plazas, and black sand beaches are highlighted.
• The tour is budget-friendly, at around $27 per person—especially considering the transportation and entry to attractions.
• No guide included, so you’ll need to explore independently or self-guide your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Trip

Starting from the South: Convenient Pickup

Most travelers will appreciate that your pickup is included, with the organization selecting the closest point to your hotel. Since pickups are only available from the south of Tenerife, it’s worth confirming your hotel’s location before booking. The journey begins with a comfortable bus ride heading north, offering an opportunity to enjoy the island’s scenic contrasts—mountains giving way to lush greenery and coastal views.

The Journey: Scenic and Relaxed

The approximate 2 to 2.5-hour ride is part of the experience. We’ve seen reviews mention the journey as “very scenic,” which is a bonus if you enjoy a good bus window view. Some travelers noted that the return journey can be quicker due to fewer stops or different routes, which helps make the long day feel more balanced.

Puerto de la Cruz: A Historic and Vibrant Town

Once in Puerto de la Cruz, the real fun begins. This town has been a destination since the early days of tourism in the Canary Islands, originally attracting Europe’s elite for its mild climate and healing properties. Today, it retains its charm as a lively, colorful place with a mix of beaches, parks, and bustling squares.

The Plaza del Charco is often considered the heart of the city—great for people-watching and grabbing a snack. The large sea-water bathing pools of Lagos Martiánez, designed by César Manrique, are a highlight and perfect for a quick dip or just enjoying the views.

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Gardens and Historic Sights

For those who love botany and history, the Botanical Gardens are a must-see, showcasing exotic flora, and sit at the top of many visitors’ lists. You might find yourself captivated by orchids, dragon trees, and other unique plants native or cultivated in the area. The Sitio Litre mansion, dating from the 18th century, adds a touch of elegance and history, with some visitors mentioning famous guests like Agatha Christie and Alexander von Humboldt.

Beaches and Relaxation

Puerto de la Cruz isn’t just about cultural sights. The Playa Jardín, with its distinctive black sand, offers a relaxed beach vibe amid scenic surroundings. If you’re into photography or just love the sound of the waves, this beach provides a nice escape from the more commercialized areas.

Free Time: Making the Most of It

Most reviews mention getting dropped off around 11:00 AM and being picked up again at 4:30 PM. That gives you roughly five hours for your own adventures—more than enough to wander through shops, relax at a café, or soak up the sun. The flexibility is a big advantage, especially if you prefer to avoid guided tours that rush you through sights.

Value for Money

At around $27 per person, this tour offers a lot, especially considering the transportation, entry to interesting sites like the botanical gardens, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup. You won’t find many similar excursions at this price that include so much free time and scenery.

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip a good value. One reviewer said, “good value for money” and called it an “excellent day trip,” while another appreciated that the journey and the destination exceeded expectations. A minor hiccup involved not receiving email updates initially, but that was quickly resolved, and most felt the organization was quite smooth.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers who want to see Puerto de la Cruz without renting a car or navigating public transit. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives and want some free time to explore independently. Since there’s no guide included, it works best if you’re comfortable wandering on your own or using a map.

Keep in mind that if you’re staying in the south of Tenerife and are willing to spend a few hours on the bus, this tour provides a convenient, inexpensive way to experience the vibrant north. It’s not a guided walking tour, so if you prefer detailed guided explanations or specific museum visits, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is pick-up included in the price? Yes, the tour includes pick-up from a location close to your south Tenerife hotel, making it easy to start your day.

Are there any additional costs? The tour price covers transportation and entry to the Botanical Gardens. Lunch and guides are not included, so plan to bring some money for food or snacks.

How long is the journey? Expect approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on stops and traffic, with the return possibly being quicker.

Can I explore Puerto de la Cruz on my own? Absolutely. The tour provides free time for you to walk around, shop, or relax, so you can customize your experience.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the sights—like beaches and gardens—are generally family-friendly. Consider your children’s patience with travel times.

What languages are spoken during the tour? The main languages are Spanish, English, French, and German, so you should be able to find assistance or information in those languages.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the trip to Puerto de la Cruz offers a practical, affordable way to see a historic and lively part of Tenerife. The combination of scenic travel, flexible free time, and access to key sights makes it a good pick for travelers who prefer a relaxed approach, without the pressure of guided tours. It’s particularly appealing if you’re staying in the south and want to avoid the hassle of complicated transport or expensive private tours.

While the journey may be a bit long, the scenery and the chance to explore at your own pace can make it worthwhile. Just remember, this isn’t a guided sightseeing tour—you’re mainly there to enjoy the city and its sights on your own terms.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, straightforward day trip with plenty of opportunities to experience the authentic charm of Puerto de la Cruz, this tour ticks many boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: