Tenerife: Santa Cruz, La Laguna and Anaga Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and want to get a taste of its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes, a guided tour like the Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and Anaga tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a full day of discovering the island’s cultural gems and natural beauty, all in one go. As someone who loves sharing honest insights, I’ll give you a detailed rundown of what this tour involves—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Two things that stand out about this experience are its diverse itinerary and the beautiful viewpoints in Anaga. You get to walk through lively city streets, admire UNESCO-listed architecture, and then step into some of the most breathtaking natural scenery on Tenerife. However, a possible downside is that the tour can feel a bit rushed—especially if you’re hoping to spend more time exploring each spot thoroughly.

This tour is ideal for anyone who appreciates a mix of history, culture, and nature in a manageable, day-long format. If you’re someone who wants to see several key highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this could work well. That said, travelers with limited mobility or those wanting a more relaxed pace might find it a little too compact.

Key Points

• Diverse experience: Combines city exploration with natural scenery.
• Cultural insights: Visits to Santa Cruz and La Laguna showcase Tenerife’s heritage.
• Breathtaking views: Anaga offers stunning landscapes and viewpoints.
• Time management: The tour is quite structured, which can feel rushed.
• Value for money: At $53, it’s an affordable way to see some top sights.
• Language options: Guided in multiple languages including English, French, German, and more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tenerife Tour

This day trip offers a balanced blend of urban exploration, cultural discovery, and scenic nature, making it a good choice for those who want a rundown of Tenerife’s highlights. We’ll walk through each part of the itinerary and reflect on what makes each stop special—and what you might want to keep in mind.

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with pickups from 38 different locations, including hotels, apartments, and popular landmarks across Tenerife. This logistical detail is quite handy, as it offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you’re staying in a busy area like Costa Adeje or Playa de las Americas. You’ll be informed of your exact pickup time via email, and the guide will coordinate the meeting spot closest to your accommodation.

The transportation is by air-conditioned bus, making the long day more comfortable. The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, which is fairly standard for full-day excursions, but be prepared for a full schedule.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife: The Vibrant Capital

The first stop is Santa Cruz, the lively capital of Tenerife. Here, you will stroll through bustling streets, starting at the Plaza de España, which is the city’s central hub. You’ll also visit the Plaza Weyler and the Market of Nuestra Señora de África, often referred to as one of the best places to experience local life and sample some Canarian products.

What we love about Santa Cruz is how energetic it feels, with a mix of modern buildings and historic sites. The walk gives you a taste of Tenerife’s contemporary vibe while also appreciating its history. You’ll learn about its cultural patrimony, and it’s a great way to feel the pulse of the island’s social life.

However, a common critique from travelers is that there’s not enough free time here. Some feel that a quick walk doesn’t fully do justice to the city’s charm, especially if you’re interested in exploring more shops, cafes, or museums on your own.

La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, you’ll visit San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the first city founded after Tenerife’s conquest. Walking through its streets, you’ll notice the well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic monuments like the cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna and Plaza del Adelantado.

This part of the tour really shines when it comes to culture and history enthusiasts. La Laguna’s designation as a UNESCO site reflects its importance and beauty. We loved the way the city’s historic buildings create a charming, timeless atmosphere, perfect for photo opportunities.

You’ll also get a chance to have lunch in one of the local restaurants. Exploring Canarian cuisine here is a treat, with options to enjoy traditional dishes in a cozy setting. It’s a good opportunity to recharge before heading into the natural landscapes.

Some reviews mention that the visit here is a bit rushed, with limited free time to explore on your own. Still, most appreciate the guided walk and the chance to see the city’s key sights.

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Anaga Rural Park: Breathtaking Natural Views

The highlight for many is Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve declared in 2015. This natural area is famous for its dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and panoramic viewpoints. You’ll visit spots like Mirador de la Jardina and Cruz del Carmen, where the vistas stretch over the rugged coast and wild terrain.

This part of the tour is especially appealing if you’re a fan of outdoor scenery and photography. The viewpoints offer incredible photo ops, and the drive through the mountain roads is an experience in itself—twisting, scenic, and filled with breathtaking vistas.

The tour provides a bus tour through Anaga, stopping for photo breaks, but don’t expect extensive hikes here. If you’re into longer walks or trekking, this might feel a little limited. Still, the viewpoints make for memorable moments and some of the best scenery on the island.

Final Return and Drop-Off

After a full day of exploring, the bus will return you to your original pickup points. There are 38 drop-off locations, simplifying your logistics and allowing you to relax after the busy day.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $53 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the transport, guided commentary in multiple languages, and the chance to see three of Tenerife’s most notable areas. You’ll get an overview that might take several days to piece together on your own, especially if you prefer guided insights and structured itineraries.

That said, some travelers feel that the limited free time in Santa Cruz and La Laguna means they couldn’t explore as much as they’d like independently. Plus, if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, this could feel a bit rushed.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback is mixed but generally leans towards appreciation for the scenic viewpoints and cultural highlights. One reviewer called it a “good discovery of the north,” while others note it’s a quick trip that covers a lot without going deep into any one place.

A key point is that views are consistently praised. Travelers love the photo opportunities and the chance to see Tenerife from different perspectives—urban, historic, and natural.

However, there’s a mention of trip cancellation issues from one reviewer, who was disappointed that their trip was canceled last minute due to museum closures during a public holiday. This underscores the importance of double-checking current conditions and being flexible with plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Tenerife’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It’s especially good if you enjoy cultural walks and scenic viewpoints in a manageable timeframe.

Travelers who like guided commentary and want to learn about Tenerife’s patrimony will find this tour enriching. However, if you’re after a slow-paced, in-depth exploration or a longer hike, you might find it too hurried.

For those with limited mobility, be aware that walking is involved in city stops, and the bus terrain in Anaga can be a bit winding.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical way to see the essence of Tenerife’s northern highlights. You’ll visit lively cities, stumble upon UNESCO-listed architecture, and enjoy some of the most spectacular views on the island. The price is reasonable, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and multilingual guides adds convenience.

While it’s not a tour for those wanting extensive free time or deep dives into each location, it’s a good introduction for curious travelers who want a broad look at what Tenerife has to offer. The landscape and viewpoints alone make it worthwhile, especially if you’re keen to capture stunning photos.

If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and enjoy a guided experience, this tour could be a smart pick. Just be aware of the possible rush and consider your own pace preferences before booking.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to eat in La Laguna at your own expense, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or plan to dine at one of the local restaurants.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours. Expect a full day with structured stops and guided commentary.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak Spanish, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, and Russian. Check availability for your preferred language when booking.

Are the viewpoints accessible for everyone?
The viewpoints are accessed via bus stops, so they are generally accessible, but walking or standing at viewpoints might be limited for those with mobility issues.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The description doesn’t specify family-friendly features, but the pace and stops are generally suitable for adults and older children. Always consider your children’s comfort with walking and bus rides.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and a jacket—the mountain areas can be cooler and windy. Sunscreen and water are also recommended.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into Tenerife’s city life and natural beauty, perfect for travelers wanting a guided, scenic, and cultural day out. While it’s not overly leisurely, if you’re after a snapshot of the island’s north, it’s a pretty good option.

You can check availability for your dates here: