La Laguna Day Trip in Tenerife 

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, San Cristobal de La Laguna (commonly known as La Laguna) is one of the most beautiful towns in Tenerife. Unlike many towns on the island, La Laguna offers you a chance to wander pedestrian friendly streets while exploring the Spanish colonial architecture, culture, and cuisine. Moreover, it’s a gateway to the trails of Anaga Rural Park, with wonderful hiking through lush forests. Here’s how to make the most out of your day trip to La Laguna, which sits at the foot of the Anaga mountains on the north side of Tenerife.

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La Laguna’s History

Founded in the late 15th century, shortly after the Spanish conquest of Tenerife, La Laguna served as the capital of the Canary Islands until the 19th century. The town was named after a shallow lagoon, that was drained in the 1800’s. La Laguna has 2 distinct parts to its town. The upper town is the original town. The lower town has a unique layout, characterized by an open-grid plan rather than the more common radial structure of Spanish colonial cities. This became a blueprint for many colonial cities in the Americas, such as Havana and Cartagena, showcasing the city’s importance as a model for urban planning.

La Laguna was the seat of the first university in the Canary Islands and a pivotal point for the spread of culture and education in the region. Its historical significance is further underscored by its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is in recognition of its well-preserved colonial architecture and contribution to the cultural and historical landscape of the Atlantic world. Today, La Laguna is not just a window into the past but also a living museum, where visitors can walk through centuries-old streets and buildings.

How to Get to La Laguna

Getting to San Cristobal de La Laguna is straightforward, whether you’re coming from within Tenerife or traveling from further afield.

Driving

For those driving, it’s a quick journey on the TF-5 motorway, with parking around the city perimeter to preserve its historic center. If you need to rent a car, we had a great experience renting a car through Discover Cars in Tenerife.

Public Transport

Titsa, the public bus service in Tenerife, offers frequent and efficient routes that connect the cities in Tenerife. From Santa Cruz, it takes just 15 to 20 minutes by bus.

Air Travel

Tenerife has 2 main airports (north and south). Tenerife North Airport is conveniently located just a few kilometers from La Laguna. From the airport, taxis, buses, and rental car services provide easy access to the city center.

La Laguna Day Trip Itinerary

La Laguna Morning

Start your day early with a visit to the heart of La Laguna, taking time to admire the urban planning of the 15th century. Begin at the Plaza del Adelantado, a square surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes, perfect for a morning coffee or breakfast. After breakfast, explore the Chapel Of San Miguel, town hall, and Palacio de Nava, all around the square.

A short walk from the plaza is the stunning Iglesia de la Concepción. This church, with its iconic bell tower, offers not just spiritual solace but also a chance to see La Laguna from a different perspective. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops and beyond.  Scout out your preferred route from the bell tower. Take some time to wander through the streets, enjoying the historic buildings and stopping at the Cathedral. We admired the many old wooden doors on the buildings while exploring La Laguna.

If you have time before lunch, swing by the Mercado Municipal de San Cristobal de la Laguna. This local market has a wide variety of local fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish.

La Laguna Afternoon

For lunch, wander away from the busy areas into any of the local Tasca restaurants. These small eateries offer a cozy ambiance and an opportunity to indulge in Canarian cuisine. Try the “papas arrugadas con mojo,” a local specialty of small potatoes cooked in saltwater and served with a spicy pepper sauce. Pair it with a glass of local wine to truly savor the flavors of the island. We happened upon Bodegan Viana, which was busy primarily with locals, and would definitely recommend it. They offer a mix of traditional Canarian dishes, which were delicious. The goat cheese appetizer was some of the best we had on the island!

After lunch, dive into the local culture by visiting the Museo de Historia y Antropología de Tenerife. The museum is housed in the former Casa Lercaro. Here you can learn about Tenerife’s past and the Canary Islands’ significance in the Atlantic world. Take some time to explore some of the gardens such as the Gardens at Palacio Salazar and those at the Casa de los Capitanes Generales.

Make a visit to the Leal Theatre. This 19th-century neoclassical building is an architectural beauty and offers musical performances and plays. Check the schedule for any performances during your visit. 

Nearby Additions

There are many options if you would like to adapt or extend your La Laguna visit beyond a day trip. We’ve included a few recommended options below.

Anaga Rural Park Visit

The Anaga Park visitor’s center is a quick drive or bus ride from La Laguna. Here you can take an easy walk on the Sendero de los Sentidos (5 km if you hike all sections). After your hike, make a stop at the Túnel de las hadas. If you walk a short distance from the tunnel to the Mirador Pico del Inglés, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views over both coasts. There are many longer hikes in this area as well.

Playa de Las Teresitas

Just a short drive from La Laguna, Playa de Las Teresitas is a golden sand beach protected by barriers. This is a perfect spot for swimming in calm waters and relaxing after exploring town.

La Laguna Wrap-Up

End your day trip to La Laguna at one of the rooftop bars or cafes lining old town. The charm of La Laguna lies in its ability to blend the past with the present, offering you a unique experience that you’ll remember long after your holiday is over. 

La Laguna Accommodations