Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz in the north-east of the island is the capital of Tenerife and a lively, cheerful city right by the sea and at the foot of the Anaga mountains. Historic buildings stand alongside modern architecture, pedestrianised streets invite you to shop and the extensive parks are the perfect place to relax or enjoy a coffee in one of the many plazas. The most famous market is the Mercado Nuestra Señora de África, where over 200 traders sell their wares. Just outside the city, there are beautiful beaches such as the palm-fringed Playa de las Teresitas and the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, a large public swimming pool. The Palmetum botanical garden is also wonderful, with the largest collection of palm trees in Europe covering an area of 12 hectares.