Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers

Discover the Comfort of a Hassle-Free Day in Puerto de la Cruz for $27.75

For just $27.75 per person, this 8-hour Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers offers a straightforward way to see the highlights of this charming northern Tenerife town. Departing from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from select hotels), making your day stress-free. You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach, enjoying the scenic ride and the convenience of round-trip transport, which many reviews praise for its reliability compared to public options.

This tour is ideal for those who want a flexible exploration experience. It does not include a guided tour but provides ample free time to wander and discover at your own pace, focusing on key attractions such as Plaza del Charco, Lago Martianez, and Playa Jardín. Keep in mind that admission tickets are not included, so visiting the pools or gardens involves additional costs if you choose to enter.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Priced at $27.75, with hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers good value.
• Round-trip transport: Enjoy air-conditioned coach travel from Santa Cruz, avoiding the hassle of local buses or taxis.
• Ample free time: The free periods at Plaza del Charco, Lago Martianez, and Playa Jardín let you explore or relax as you prefer.
• Highlights include: The lively Plaza Charco, the Lago Martianez complex created by César Manrique, and the lush Playa Jardín beaches.
• Some drawbacks: The lack of guided commentary and additional costs for attractions may be less appealing for travelers wanting a fully guided experience.
• Review insights: While some find the trip well-organized and enjoyable, others note long waiting times and discomfort on the coach.

Starting Point and Transportation Details

This tour departs daily from Santa Cruz de Tenerife between 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Pickups are available from selected hotels in the south area, though pick-up from Los Gigantes and Puerto Santiago is only on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The round-trip transfer is provided via air-conditioned coach, which many reviews highlight as a key benefit for comfort and convenience. The group size typically caps at 55 travelers, ensuring a manageable and social atmosphere.

Exploring Plaza del Charco: Puerto de la Cruz’s Main Square

The first stop is Plaza del Charco, a lively square known as the “Puddle Square” because of its history of seawater flooding. Today, visitors find a central fountain, palm trees, and Indian laurels surrounding a rejuvenated space. Although admission is free, visitors often spend about 30 minutes exploring local shops or grabbing a quick drink. The square is a hub of activity, perfect for leisurely strolling or just soaking up the local vibe.

Lago Martianez: The Iconic Swimming Complex

A major highlight of this tour is Lago Martianez, an artificial seawater lake designed by César Manrique. The complex features 27,000 cubic meters of seawater and multiple pools, including four large adult pools and three children’s pools, each with unique designs. The complex’s architecture blends traditional Canarian style with native flora and sculptures, creating a visually stunning environment.

Visitors are encouraged to spend around two hours here, enjoying the swimming pools, bars, and restaurants that add a lively, inviting atmosphere. Entry requires an additional ticket, which is not included in the tour price, so planning for this expense is recommended. Many appreciate the well-maintained grounds and beautiful setting, making Lago Martianez a top spot for relaxation.

Playa Jardín and the Beaches of Puerto de la Cruz

Playa Jardín is one of the most emblematic beaches in Puerto de la Cruz, designed by César Manrique. The beach complex includes Playa Jardín, Playa Chica, and Punta Brava, all of which meld into lush gardens filled with local plants, waterfalls, and rocky caves.

The tour allocates about two hours for visitors to walk along the promenade, relax on the sand, or explore the gardens. The beaches are free to access, making this stop particularly appealing for those wanting a scenic and peaceful spot to unwind. The design and natural beauty of Playa Jardín make it a favorite for many, despite potential crowds in peak season.

Additional Stops and Repeated Visits to Lago Martianez

The itinerary includes multiple visits to Lago Martianez, each lasting around two hours. These repeated stops allow visitors ample opportunity to relax, swim, or enjoy a meal at the complex. Since all pools and amenities are additional paid options, visitors often choose to enter after their initial exploration, adding flexibility to their day.

The Unique Gardens at Parque Infantil de Playa Jardín

In the late afternoon, the tour features Parque Infantil de Playa Jardín, where visitors can stroll through beautiful gardens filled with lush native plants, waterfalls, and rock formations. The free access to this area provides a quiet environment to relax or take photos. The emphasis on natural beauty and César Manrique’s design efforts are clear here, making it an attractive spot for leisurely walks.

Practicalities: Pacing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The overall schedule balances free exploration time with transport logistics. The bus driver has received praise for being pleasant and helpful, though some reviews mention long waiting times during pick-up and return. The tour is stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.

Travelers should consider the lack of a guided tour—the experience relies on independent exploration during free periods. For those interested in guided commentary or organized activities, this may be a limitation. However, for visitors confident with maps and independent sightseeing, this setup offers flexibility.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits budget-conscious travelers looking for an affordable way to explore Puerto de la Cruz with easy logistics. It’s ideal for those wanting free time at iconic sites like Plaza del Charco, Lago Martianez, and Playa Jardín, rather than a fully guided experience.

Those who enjoy walking around at their own pace and visiting attractions without added costs will find this tour a good fit. However, travelers expecting guided commentary or organized activities may find the lack of a guide a downside.

Final Thoughts on the Puerto de la Cruz City Tour

The Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers offers valuable convenience at a modest price, especially for those who prefer independent exploration. The hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and ample free time are its biggest strengths, enabling a relaxed experience.

While some reviews highlight discomfort on the coach and long waiting times, the overall value remains solid for those wanting a cost-effective way to see the main attractions of Puerto de la Cruz. The cost of entry tickets for Lago Martianez and other attractions is not included, so plan accordingly.

This tour is particularly suited for active, independent travelers who enjoy walking, sightseeing, and relaxing at their own pace. It provides a good foundation for discovering Puerto de la Cruz without the complexity or expense of guided tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels, with schedules provided at least 48 hours in advance.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure in the late morning to early evening.

Are tickets to Lago Martianez included?
No, admission tickets for Lago Martianez and other attractions are not included. Visitors should budget extra for entry.

Can I explore the beaches freely?
Yes, Playa Jardín, Playa Chica, and Punta Brava are free to access during your allocated time.

Is there a guided commentary during the tour?
No, this is an independent exploration tour. There is no guide commentary, so visitors rely on maps or personal exploration.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 55 travelers, offering a balance of social atmosphere and comfort.

Is this tour accessible for families with children?
Yes, the stroller-friendly nature and free access to parks make it suitable for families.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, there are bars and restaurants at Lago Martianez and other locations.

What should I bring for the free time?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, cash or cards for extras, and a map or guide if you want to maximize your independent exploration.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a alternative date or full refund.