Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, and sits on the island's northeastern coast. The port is important for commercial and passenger traffic as well as a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. It functions both as a turnaround port where many cruises begin and end, and as a port of call on longer voyages, making it a busy arrival and departure point for vessels from multiple cruise lines.

The harbour is one of the world's deepest natural harbours, which allows large ships to dock without significant tidal restrictions. A free shuttle bus service links the cruise terminal with downtown, where the city spreads within easy reach on foot. The port opened a stunning new cruise terminal in 2016, an ultra-modern facility designed to handle contemporary ocean liners. The walkable city centre, just a short distance from the docks, offers plenty to explore on foot, whether you have hours or a full day ashore.

Santa Cruz itself has grown into a vibrant city with distinct character. The Auditorio de Tenerife is considered one of the greatest exponents of contemporary architecture and stands as an iconic landmark visible from the port. The Plaza de España is the nerve centre of the city, and the port area is full of brightly painted buildings and rich, historical architecture, as well as plentiful shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Palmetum is a thirty-acre botanical garden with the most pristine palm tree collection in Europe, as well as over two hundred more tropical and subtropical plant species.

The island itself reveals dramatic contrasts. Teide is a volcanic peak that is the highest mountain in Spain and the highest point in the Atlantic islands, and day trips inland take you from sea level to high mountain scenery within an hour's drive. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is held each February to March and is considered the second most important carnival after the one held in Rio de Janeiro, drawing crowds from around the world and giving the city an electric atmosphere at that time of year. For those interested in local food, traditional island cooking centres on simple, well-prepared dishes using fresh local ingredients.