Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz

Planning a day out on Tenerife and want to see a different side of the island? This 8-hour guided tour to Puerto de la Cruz offers a mix of scenic drives, cultural highlights, and free time in a charming seaside town. Priced at just $27 per person, it’s an accessible way to experience one of Tenerife’s most historically significant locations without the hassle of planning transportation or logistics.

One of the things we love about this tour is its round-trip transfer service from the south of the island. It takes away the stress of finding your own way and ensures you’ll arrive comfortably in Puerto de la Cruz. Plus, the free time allotted in the town gives you flexibility to explore at your own pace — whether that’s shopping, relaxing at the black sand beaches, or wandering through lush botanical gardens.

A small but notable drawback is that the coach journey can take around 2.5 hours each way, which might be a long ride for some. If you’re short on patience or prefer more active sightseeing, this could be a bit of a stretch. But if you’re happy to enjoy the scenery from the bus and value the ease of door-to-door transport, this trip can be a great fit, especially for those wanting a taste of local culture and natural beauty without breaking the bank.

This tour suits travelers who are interested in a relaxed, cultural day away from the busy southern resorts, and who appreciate good value and authentic sights. It’s perfect for those who love discovering small towns with unique charm, and who want a straightforward way to explore without the hassle of rental cars.

Key Points

• Comfortable round-trip transfers from the south of Tenerife make logistics simple.
• Flexible free time in Puerto de la Cruz allows for personalized exploration.
• Cultural and natural highlights include the Botanical Gardens, Playa Jardín, and Plaza del Charco.
• The scenic coach journey offers beautiful views, though it’s quite lengthy.
• Tour costs are very reasonable, making it a great value for budget-conscious travelers.
• The tour is ideal for those interested in local culture, scenic landscapes, and relaxed sightseeing.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pick-up from the south of Tenerife, with the exact location tailored to your hotel or nearby point. The transportation is included, which is a huge convenience—no need to worry about navigating the island or arranging your own transfers. The journey to Puerto de la Cruz takes about 2.5 hours each way, which travelers have noted can be quite scenic, especially if you enjoy mountainous vistas and coastal views.

One reviewer mentioned that the longer journey on the way there is balanced by a shorter, more direct return route, making the overall experience smooth. While some might find the bus ride a tad lengthy, many appreciated the comfort and simplicity it provided.

Arrival and Free Time

Once in Puerto de la Cruz, the group is typically dropped off at a convenient central location around 11:00 am, leaving ample time until 4:30 pm for exploration. This flexible free time is one of the key highlights: you can choose to stroll through the streets, browse shops, or relax at the black sand beaches.

Tourists frequently mention that the town boasts a charming mix of beaches, lively restaurants, and lush parks. For example, one review highlighted the Compostelana Club Café, famous for its homemade chips and steak, as a favorite spot for a relaxed meal. This kind of authentic local dining experience adds to the appeal of a self-guided wander.

Key Attractions

• Lagos Martiánez: Designed by the celebrated Canarian artist César Manrique, this large sea-water pool complex offers stunning views and a refreshing dip. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in innovative seaside architecture and relaxing by the water.

• Plaza del Charco: The heart of the town, filled with cafes and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in local life.

• Botanical Gardens: For nature lovers, the Jardín Botánico showcases an impressive collection of orchids, dragon trees, and other unique flora. The gardens are a peaceful retreat and boast a long history, with visitors like Agatha Christie having visited in the past.

• Sitio Litre: This historic mansion from the 18th century features beautiful orchids and offers insight into the local history. Visitors have noted that guides and staff are knowledgeable, adding depth to the experience.

• Playa Jardín: The black sand beach is a striking sight and a great place to relax after a morning of sightseeing. The beach’s volcanic sand makes it stand out from typical Caribbean-style beaches, offering a more rugged, natural environment.

Additional Notes from Reviewers

One traveler shared that, despite some initial confusion about the meeting point, the quick resolution made the day enjoyable. Others appreciated the scenic coach ride and felt it was a worthwhile part of the trip, offering views of Tenerife’s mountainous terrain and lush coastline.

The cost of $27 per person is widely viewed as excellent value considering the transportation, entry points, and the opportunity to explore a new area. While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, so eating out is easy and affordable.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: The tour runs approximately 8 hours, but check the availability for specific starting times. It’s best to plan your day accordingly, especially if you prefer mornings or afternoons.
• Language: The tour hosts or guides are available in Spanish, English, French, and German, ensuring travelers from various backgrounds feel comfortable.
• Pick-up: The pickup is at a point close to your hotel in the south of Tenerife, simplifying logistics.
• Cancellation & Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Because the trip involves a relatively long coach ride, it’s better suited for those who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a little travel time. If you’re looking for a full day that combines culture, nature, and relaxed exploration, this trip checks many boxes.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers keen to see a distinctive local town without the hassle of figuring out transportation. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences, from strolling through botanical gardens to sampling local cuisine. If you’re interested in architecture, beaches, and local culture but don’t want a packed schedule, you’ll find this trip offers a nice balance.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Tenerife who want a taste of the island’s history and natural beauty without extensive planning. However, if you prefer a more active or guided experience, this self-paced option with optional exploration could be a better fit.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife trip to Puerto de la Cruz offers remarkable value for just $27, combining scenic drives, cultural sites, and free time in one of the island’s most historic seaside towns. The round-trip transportation from the south takes the hassle out of logistics, making it an accessible option for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

You’ll get a good sense of Puerto de la Cruz’s unique charm, with highlights like the Lagos Martiánez pools, botanical gardens, and black sand beaches. The flexibility to explore at your own pace means you can tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s shopping, dining, or simply relaxing by the sea.

While the long coach ride might not suit everyone, many travelers find the scenery and comfort well worth the journey. The reviews demonstrate that the tour’s knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and authentic sights make it a memorable and worthwhile experience.

If you’re after an easy, affordable way to see a different side of Tenerife, this trip offers a practical and enjoyable solution. It’s best for those looking to combine cultural discovery with a relaxed pace and scenic views.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the south of Tenerife is included, making it easy to get to and from Puerto de la Cruz without extra hassle.

How long is the coach journey?
The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way, which travelers note can be quite scenic but long for some.

Can I explore Puerto de la Cruz at my own pace?
Absolutely. The tour provides free time from around 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, so you can explore the town, relax, or grab a meal whenever you please.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. However, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Puerto de la Cruz, including local favorites like Compostelana Club Café.

What languages are available for hosts or guides?
Guides or hosts speak in Spanish, English, French, and German.

How far in advance should I book?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What is the price of this tour?
It costs approximately $27 per person, offering good value for transportation, entry to attractions, and a day of exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with the long coach ride, this trip can be enjoyed by all ages who appreciate scenic drives and relaxed sightseeing.

To sum it up, this day trip to Puerto de la Cruz provides an authentic taste of Tenerife’s northern charm without breaking the bank. With scenic drives, cultural sights, and flexible free time, it appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed, value-packed day that highlights the natural beauty and history of this seaside town.