Tenerife: Santa Cruz La Laguna and Candelaria

Planning a day trip in Tenerife that hits both the historical and modern sights can be a challenge. This tour, offered by La Excursion, promises a full 8-hour journey exploring Tenerife’s capitals and its most significant historic town, all with comfortable transportation and insightful guides. It’s designed for travelers who want to get a taste of the island’s diverse character without overextending.

What makes this experience appealing? First, we love how the tour combines visual delights—from Santa Cruz’s bustling cityscape to the quaint charm of La Laguna and the spiritual allure of Candelaria. Second, the inclusion of detailed guide explanations enriches the visit, making each stop more meaningful. The possible drawback? The tour’s length and pace may be a bit rushed for those wanting a more leisurely, in-depth exploration. Still, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded snapshot of Tenerife.

This tour works best for visitors with limited time who are eager for a structured, guided introduction to Tenerife’s key sites. If you’re interested in architecture, local culture, and scenic coastal views, this day trip offers a practical and engaging way to see the highlights.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Hotel pick-up and air-conditioned bus make the day smooth.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Santa Cruz, La Laguna (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and Candelaria.
• Insightful Guides: Professional explanations enhance understanding of each location.
• Flexible Exploration: Ample time in each town for photos, browsing, and soaking in the atmosphere.
• Historic Significance: Candelaria’s basilica and the Virgin of Candelaria are central to the island’s identity.
• Cost-Effective: At $44, it offers good value for a full-day guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Northward Journey

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in the south of Tenerife, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or finding meeting points. The bus is air-conditioned, making the early morning start more comfortable, especially if you’re traveling during warmer months. Expect to wait outside hotel receptions or designated bus stops about 5 minutes before the scheduled time, so a little punctuality goes a long way.

First Stop: Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz, the island’s modern capital, offers a vibrant blend of architecture, shopping, and gastronomy. As the largest city on the island, it’s a window into contemporary Canarian life. You’ll have plenty of time here to stroll through the city center, admire the city’s modern buildings, and perhaps grab a coffee or a snack. The official explanations from guides help make sense of the city’s layout and history, giving context to the bustling streets.

Travelers have noted that Santa Cruz is stunning in its coastal setting, with impressive architecture and lively streets. It’s a city that balances urban energy with scenic views, making it a compelling stop for those fascinated by modern urban environments mixed with seaside charm.

Second Stop: La Laguna — The Colonial Charm

Next, the tour takes you to La Laguna, the former capital of Tenerife, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This town is a visual feast of stone buildings, wooden balconies, narrow streets, and churches that tell stories of the island’s colonial past. Its laid-back vibe contrasts nicely with Santa Cruz’s vibrancy.

Visitors often comment on La Laguna’s authentic charm. The architecture is especially noteworthy, and plenty of opportunities exist to explore at your own pace. Some reviews mention that La Laguna is “a bustling town full of bars, pubs, and restaurants,” making it ideal for a quick lunch or coffee break.

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Final Stop: Candelaria — The Spiritual Heart

The last leg of the tour brings you to Candelaria, a historic town famed for its basilica housing the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. According to local tradition, a mysterious statue was found here in 1390, and its significance grew to make Candelaria a place of pilgrimage.

The basilica stands as a symbol of local faith and culture, and the town itself provides a peaceful atmosphere after the busy cities. Visitors have appreciated the opportunity to explore this religious site with plenty of time to take photos and absorb the spiritual ambiance.

The Value of This Tour

When evaluating the price—$44 per person—we find it offers good value for an 8-hour guided experience. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guides, and air-conditioned transportation. These amenities mitigate typical travel stresses, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

The guided explanations are a highlight, providing context and background that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The emphasis on architecture, local culture, and historical significance helps make this tour a meaningful introduction to Tenerife.

However, some travelers note that the duration might feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger longer at each site. The tour’s structure is designed for efficiency, which suits visitors wanting a broad overview without spending the entire day on each town.

Visual and Experiential Highlights

Santa Cruz offers a dynamic cityscape with beautiful architecture and lively streets—perfect for photos and people-watching. Expect to see coastal views and the chance to explore shops and cafes at your own pace.

La Laguna provides a step back in time with its colonial buildings and narrow streets. The UNESCO designation underscores its architectural importance, and many find walking through its streets akin to stepping into a living museum.

Candelaria presents a spiritual experience, with the basilica and the Virgin statue serving as focal points. The town’s peaceful ambiance is a refreshing change after the busier cities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at your pickup point to avoid missing the bus.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll walk through cobbled streets in La Laguna and Candelaria.
• Bring a camera—the scenic views and historic architecture are worth capturing.
• Prepare for weather; Tenerife’s climate is generally mild, but sun protection is advisable.
• Check your email for the exact pickup location and time from La Excursion.
• Allocate time for quick snacks or meals in La Laguna or Candelaria if you want to extend your experience.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but those with mobility challenges should be able to easily get on and off the bus.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife tour offers a thoughtfully curated look at the island’s urban and historical centers. It balances guided narration with free time, helping you appreciate the architectural beauty and cultural richness of the towns. The scenic coastal views and historic basilica in Candelaria are highlights that remain with travelers long after the day ends.

If your goal is to get a broad but meaningful overview of Tenerife’s key towns in a manageable, affordable package, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer organized travel with local insights, and who appreciate a balanced mix of sightseeing and free exploration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the south of Tenerife, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, Italian, and French.

How much time do we spend at each location?
You’ll have plenty of time to explore Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and Candelaria, though the exact time varies depending on the schedule.

What transportation is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned bus is used throughout the day.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but users must be able to get on and off the bus independently.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any lunch included?
The tour doesn’t include lunch, but there are stops where you can purchase food or snacks.

This guided day trip is a solid choice for those seeking a rundown of Tenerife’s urban, colonial, and spiritual sites. It balances value, comfort, and authentic sights, making it a worthwhile addition to any Tenerife itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: