la orotava tourist map

10 Best Things to Do in La Orotava, Tenerife + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Canary Islands | Tenerife | 10 Best Things to Do in La Orotava, Tenerife + MAP

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

La Orotava is one of the most beautiful towns on the island of Tenerife, and one of the best places to visit in north Tenerife . To this day, it’s the only place in the Canary Islands that has preserved most of its old town. For this reason, it was declared a National Artistic Historic Site in 1976.

We spent a day here during our trip to Tenerife and, honestly, that gave us enough time to walk through the cobbled streets and see the main sites in the historic center.

To make the most of our time, we took this free tour  (available in English and Spanish). That said, you’ll be fine if you explore the town on your own since I’m sharing the top 10 things to do in La Orotava.

1. Visit La Casa de Los Balcones, the best thing to do in La Orotava, Tenerife

The first thing on your list of what to see in La Orotava is the Casa de Los Balcones (House of Balconies) . It’s considered the most important example of old Canarian architecture, so it’s worth visiting.

The House of Balconies was built by an important local family in the 17 th century. The façade has three floors, but the most striking part is the series of balconies. There is also a carved interior patio where you can see lots of native flora.

You won’t find any other place in La Orotava, Spain that combines architecture, history, tradition, folklore, and handicrafts so well. Visiting this place is like taking a journey back in time, and you can do it as a family, couple, or group. Admission is free for kids and $6 for adults, although I recommend booking a ticket in advance since access is limited.

2. Plaza de la Constitución, one of the top sites in La Orotava

The Plaza de la Constitución is one of the most beautiful places to see in La Orotava, Tenerife. Its name is a tribute to the Spanish Constitution of 1812, and before that, it was named the Llano de San Roque since it’s near the Hermitage of San Roque.

The plaza is also known as Pavilion Square, and its central pavilion is lovely. It was built at the beginning of the 20 th century in the pneumudéjar style for municipal band performances. From this square, you can also see the Liceo Taoro, another cool place in La Orotava that I’ll mention next.

3. Liceo Taoro, another place in La Orotava, Tenerife that you’ll love

If you’re not sure what to do in La Orotava , check out the Liceo Taoro . It was built in 1928 and is now a centerpiece for the town’s cultural activities.

Since 1975, it has been the Liceo de Taoro Cultural Society headquarters. Here, you can see the Polyphonic Choir and take guitar classes.

The Liceo Taoro is also an event space for art exhibits, concerts, and conferences in La Orotava . In addition to cultural activities, the building includes sports facilities like tennis courts and swimming pools. That said, if you’re just passing through, check out the terrace café for a drink and garden views.

4. Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, a beautiful thing to see in La Orotava

Next to the Liceo Taoro and the Plaza de la Constitución, you’ll find the Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja . Visiting this lovely area is a wonderful thing to do in La Orotava as a couple.

This iconic garden has seven terraces full of flowers that form a landscape cascading to the sea. It’s a unique place in the Canary Islands and all of Spain, which is why the gardens have been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest .

Also known as the Victorian Gardens, this place has a great story behind it. Don Diego de Ponte, the Marquis de la Quinta Roja, and a mason, was prohibited from being buried in the holy cemetery. So, his mother, the Marchioness Doña Sebastiana del Castillo, had the gardens built.

At the top of the gardens is the masonic mausoleum, made of marble imported from Lyon. While the marquis didn’t end up being buried there, the mausoleum is a modern symbol against religious intolerance.

Stories aside, this garden was my favorite thing to see in La Orotava . Plus, it’s just a 5-minute walk from the Hijuela del Botánico Gardens, which are free and include a 200-year-old dragon tree.

5. Church of Our Lady of the Conception, another place to visit in La Orotava, Tenerife

The Church of Our Lady of the Conception is a temple that you must see in La Orotava, Tenerife . It’s considered the best example of Baroque art in the Canary Islands and dates back to 1516.

In fact, it has been a National Monument since 1948, making it an important point of interest, especially if you like architecture and art. The focal point of the church is its dome, which was inspired by the dome of the Cathedral of Florence in Italy.

You can see this beautiful red dome looming above the buildings in town from just about any viewpoint in the city. Along with its dome, the façade is worth seeing, too.

6. Casa Lercaro, something else you must visit in La Orotava

Casa Lercaro is an old 17th-century manor house that you must see in La Orotava . This charming 54,000ft² space combines the past and present, and it stands out for its architecture and gardens.

This place is so gorgeous that many production companies film commercials here. One of the best parts of Casa Lercaro’s architecture is the interior patio, which has a restaurant serving Canarian and Mediterranean cuisine. So, if you’d like to relax with some good local wine and food, check out this restaurant in La Orotava !

7. La Orotava Town Hall, another cool place to see in La Orotava, Tenerife

The Town Hall of La Orotava, Tenerife is a main point of interest you should check out. This municipal palace reflects the neoclassical architectural style and was the work of architects Maffiotte and Manuel de Oráa.

That said, what really stands out about the Town Hall is the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which belonged to the convent of San José until the 19th century. During the festivities of Corpus Christi , which usually occur in June, the 9,700ft² plaza is lavishly decorated with religious iconography made of flowers and volcanic sand from the Cañadas del Teide.

If you’re visiting Tenerife during this time, don’t miss this event. The natural carpet of flowers and natural sand are an Asset of Cultural Interest and hold the Guinness record for the largest floral carpet in the world.

8. Visit a banana plantation, an amazing thing to do in La Orotava

One of the things that the Canary Islands are known for is its banana production. In La Orotava , you’ll be able to see first-hand how the Canarian climate works its magic by visiting a banana plantation .

This is a fun thing to do in La Orotava , especially with children. During the tour (which is half-price for kids), you’ll learn the difference between a plantain and a banana, and the steps involved in Canarian banana production , from planting to marketing.

You’ll also learn the characteristics of the Canarian banana , the only variety of banana that has achieved the Protected Geographical Indication seal . And of course, you’ll end the tour with a tasting and a shot made with this fruit, so it’s an experience that’ll leave a good taste in your mouth!

9. Molino de Gofio La Máquina, a cultural place to visit in La Orotava

Gofio is a Canarian food made from toasted grain flour, and in Canarian cuisine , it’s widely used in desserts and stews. It’s also the main ingredient in dishes like gofio escaldado and gofio paella.

To this day, you can still find gofio mills throughout La Orotava , and visiting these mills is a great way to learn more about the town’s culinary history. After the conquest of Tenerife, the town developed around these mills and their aqueducts.

The La Máquina gofio mill, whose name comes from being the first traditional mill to use turbines, is something you must see in La Orotava. It dates back to 1634 and received the 10 th Villa de La Orotava Heritage Craft Award in 2008.

10. Ibero-American Craft Museum of Tenerife, a must-see in La Orotava

If you’re still not sure what to do in La Orotava , I recommend visiting the Ibero-American Craft Museum of Tenerife (MAIT). It’s in the former convent of San Benito Abad and displays Ibero-American handicrafts, including those from the Canary Islands.

Here, you’ll find some interesting things like the “Popular Art in American and the Philippines” collection and popular instruments from Spain and America. You’ll also see the popular Spanish alferería , a traditional form of pottery.

Where to stay in La Orotava, Tenerife

If you want to stay overnight, there are some wonderful accommodations in La Orotava , like the Hotel Rural Orotava . The décor is very Canarian, and since it’s in La Orotava’s oldest town, it’s surrounded by mountains. The hotel restaurant is on the patio and serves traditional home cooking and local wines. You can also visit the hotel’s cellar, which has stone floor stables.

Another traditional hotel in La Orotava is the Hotel Rural Victoria . This 16 th -century house is located between the sea and the mountains, in the Villa Monumental de La Orotava. The hotel’s facilities and original architecture have been carefully restored, and there are 13 double rooms and just one suite, so be sure to book in advance.

Finally, the Hotel Alhambra is an elegant mansion with an outdoor pool, sauna, large rooms , and satellite TV. There is also a game room with board games and TV, so it’s a good accommodation in La Orotava for kids. For the adults, there is free tea and coffee available throughout the day.

Where to eat in La Orotava

If you’re looking for a place to try some traditional Canarian cuisine, book a table at Bar Los Castillos , one of the best restaurants in Tenerife . Not only is it one of the most popular restaurants in La Orotava , but it’s also inexpensive. The homemade dishes there are carefully prepared, and the atmosphere is very pleasant.

The Haydée Restaurant raises the bar a bit and is a treat for all the senses. It’s more expensive, but the menu is exquisite, including the tasting menu, which is what we ordered.

Another top-rated place to eat in La Orotava is Bar La Duquesa . While we didn’t eat here, the menu seems good if you want to try traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas with mojo or a good Canarian stew.

La Orotava map

To make things easier for you, here is a map of La Orotava with all the places and things to do in La Orotava that I mentioned.

That’s it from me! If you still have questions about what to see in La Orotava , or you’d like to make a recommendation, leave me a comment. Until then, have a great trip!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

and the only one that pays all your medical bills upfront for you!

Ascen Aynat

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Things to Do in La Orotava, Spain - La Orotava Attractions

Things to do in la orotava, explore popular experiences, ways to tour la orotava.

6 Hrs Private Tour In Tenerife

From Puerto de la Cruz: Quad ride with snack and photos.

History and Tradition Tour of Local Products of La Orotava

Ecological Banana Plantation Tour

Entrance Ticket at La Casa de Los Balcones House-Museum

Essential Tenerife and Teide Shore Excursion VIP TOUR

Round The Island Trip Without Teide VIP TOUR

Teide Tenerife´s jewel

Day trip to the island of Tenerife

Wine tasting and Canarian products in La Orotava

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in La Orotava

Other Top Attractions around La Orotava

Historical Tours

Dining Experiences

Wine Tastings

Private sightseeing tours.

Full-day Tours

What travelers are saying.

Account Options

• Gran Canaria
• Fuerteventura
• Tenerife - Best Places to stay
• Gran Canaria - Top Places to stay
• Lanzarote - Best Accommodation
• Fuerteventura - Best Places to Stay
• La Gomera - Where to stay
• La Palma - Best Accommodation
• El Hierro - Best Areas To Stay
• Tenerife weather
• Gran Canaria weather
• Lanzarote weather
• Fuerteventura weather
• La Palma weather
• La Gomera weather
• Tenerife Events
• Gran Canaria Events
• Lanzarote Events
• Fuerteventura Events
• La Palma Events
• La Gomera Events
• El Hierro Events
• Tenerife Attractions
• Gran Canaria Attractions
• Lanzarote Attractions
• Fuerteventura Attractions
• Tenerife Tours
• Gran Canaria Tours
• Lanzarote Tours
• Fuerteventura Tours

7 Best Things To Do in La Orotava, Tenerife

La Orotava is probably the best place to visit in Tenerife if you're interested in seeing authentic Canary Islands architecture, with typical its wood balconies. The entire town of La Orotava almost feels like an outdoor museum and just walking its streets is a pleasant way to spend your time. 

How to get to La Orotava

What to do in la orotava, 1. casa de los balcones - the most popular attraction in la orotova, 2. plaza de la constitution, 3. plaza del ayuntamiento, 4. eat at a guachinche in la orotava, 5. visit the garden hijuela del botánico, 6. jardínes del marquesado de la quinta roja (victoria gardens), 7. admire the beautiful architecture in la orotava.

Almost every time we have visited La Orotava up until now it has been pouring rain, but even so, we loved discovering the town and just walking up and down on its narrow streets.

La Orotava is a town in the northern part of Tenerife, close to Puerto de la Cruz and less than 30 km away from the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the TF-5 motorway passes through the northern part of the city). We always rent a car for the duration of our stay whenever we are in Tenerife, so we always drive to La Orotava, as it's the fastest way to get there.

• All you need to know about driving in Tenerife : best routes and drives

Otherwise, from Los Cristianos for example, you would have to take a bus either to Puerto de la Cruz (line 343) or towards Santa Cruz (line 110) and change there for another bus line that goes to La Orotava. The journey will take at least 2 hours one way with all the bus changing, so this means that if you're staying in the South of the island you will have to travel for around 4 hours in total to go visit La Orotava.

If you're on holiday in Puerto de la Cruz , La Orotava is just a short bus ride away, so we highly recommend visiting this place for at least half a day.

La Orotava is a place full of history and old buildings, so it's a beautiful place to just walk around and admire the architecture. We really admired the town each time we visited and for us, it's like an open-air museum, with all the beautiful houses and wooden balconies. 

• Address: Calle San Francisco, 3, 38300 La Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
• Hours: open daily from 8:30 AM to 7 PM

Many visitors come to La Orotava just to see the famous Casa de los Balcones . It is the top attraction in La Orotava for many people, although the entire town is an architectural jewel. 

If you come by car, you have to know that parking may be difficult in the area, but there is free parking for visitors right across the street from Casa de los Balcones.

The house is a historic landmark and was built in 1632. The house features wooden balconies specific to the Canarian architecture, which you can see in the interior courtyard, where you can enter for free (even if you don't pay to visit the inside of the house). Inside you can see several works by the artist Eladia Machado.

The name “Plaza de La Constitución” dates back to the beginning of the 19th century, in homage to the Spanish Constitution of 1812, but nowadays the square is also popularly known as Kiosk Square. 

It's a very lively place to stop and grab a coffee and also admire the lovely view, surrounded by some of the most iconic beautiful buildings in La Orotava.

Plaza del Ayuntamiento is another beautiful square in La Orotava where you'll find yourself surrounded by iconic buildings with typical architecture for the Canary Islands!

During December, in this very plaza you'll be able to see one of the best Nativity Scenes in Tenerife (Belen de Navidad).

We always go to eat at guachinches in Tenerife whenever possible and this part of the island is filled with options.

In La Orotava, we can recommend Guachinche La Casona, where we had a full meal for two with water and a beer for the price of 18 Euros. The food was great, the service was friendly and the terrace also boasts a beautiful view.

Hijuela del Botanico is a public garden in La Orotava with many species of trees and flowers from all over the world, not just the Canaries.

It is free to visit and it's like a small botanical garden. It's lovely at every time of the year, even during the winter months, when we usually come to visit.

Hours to visit Jardin Hijuela del Botanico:

• From Monday to Friday: 9 am to 6 pm
• Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays (Festive Days): 10 am to 3 pm

As you can see, La Orotava is located in a green area of Tenerife, with lush vegetation and beautiful flowers and trees, as opposed to the south of the island. So it's really a pleasure to take a walk through the gardens of La Orotava during any season of the year. 

Until the beginning of the 20th century, the Victoria Gardens were part of the mansion of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, which would later be converted into the famous Hotel Victoria. This is the reason why the gardens are also known as Jardínes del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. 

Nowadays both the hotel and the gardens are municipal property and entrance to the gardens is free. 

Wondering what else to see in La Orotava? While walking through the city, you can look for these interesting places in La Orotava:

• Town Hall (Ayuntmiento La Orotava)
• Homenaje al Alfombrista (sculpture in La Orotava)
• Plaza Patricio Garcia
• Church of Our Lady of Conception
• Museo Sacro El Tesoro De La Concepcion
• The Carpet Museum
• Iglesia de San Juan Bautista
• Parque cultural Doña Chana
• Iglesia de San Agustin
• Latin American Craft Museum of Tenerife - MAIT (Museo de Artesanía Iberoamericana de Tenerife - MAIT)
• Best Apartments in Tenerife: Kn Aparthotel Columbus (Playa de Las Americas) • Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur   (Puerto Santiago) 
• Popular hotels in Tenerife: H10 Costa Adeje Palace 4* (Costa Adeje) • Iberostar Bouganville Playa 4* (Playa de Las Americas) • Barceló Santiago (Puerto Santiago)
• Luxury 5* hotels in Tenerife: Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria (Adeje) • Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur (Adeje)
• See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Tenerife .
• Best Excursions & Tours: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks & Snacks • Loro Parque Entry Ticket and Shows

16 Best Things To Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife - 2024 Guide

Driving in Tenerife - Practical Guide for Visitors - Updated 2024

13 Best Things To Do in Los Cristianos, Tenerife - 2024 Guide

15 Best things to do in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife - Top attractions

Visit Casa de los Balcones in La Orotava, Tenerife

Guachinches in Tenerife - Our favourite guanchinches for local food and wine

Travel Safe

Canary Islands

La Orotava is a historic town which sits in a beautiful valley of banana plantations.

Its old centre has been declared to be of National Historic-Artistic Interest. Some of the most outstanding buildings and monuments in the historic quarter are the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción and the Casas de los Balcones, a gem of popular island architecture which currently house the Eladio Machado handicrafts centre and the centre of archives and investigation of the handicrafts of Spain and America. La Orotava also has Hijuela del Botánico, - a garden which contains tropical plants from South America, Central Africa and Australia-, the Victoria gardens, and wonderful beaches of black sand. The mountains of La Orotava provide opportunities for excursions and to do sports which bring you into contact with nature.

What to visit

Select from the list or hover over the map to find out about points of interest.

Nuestra Señora de la Concepción Church in La Orotava

Travel plans for inspiring you

Holidays on the Canary Islands

Three cultural getaways in Tenerife

Shows, festivals, sports...

View some of the most relevant events you will be able to enjoy at the destination.

Corpus Christi and Pilgrimage of San Isidro

Orotava, La

06 June 2024 - 16 June 2024

Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

Visit La Orotava, Tenerife; a travel guide to the lovely town of La Orotava, Spain

Visit La Orotava

La Orotava is a pretty town which is well known for its attractive courtyards and lovely carved balconies. It is situated on the north coast of the island of Tenerife in the Western Canary Islands .

Explore La Orotava

La Orotava sits in a particularly fertile part of Tenerife and is surrounded by tropical fruit plantations and the majestic peak of La Teide dominates the scenery behind the town. It is considered to be one of the loveliest parts of Tenerife and definitely worth visiting.

La Orotava attracted wealthy residents from Spain and Italy in the 17th and 18th centuries and its elegant houses today give you a glimpse back to those days. Typical Canarian architecture with beautifully carved wooden balconies and pretty courtyards abound as you wander around the streets and squares of La Orotava. The Casa de los Balcones (House of the Balconies) and the Casa del Turista are both fine examples which are open to the public.

Casa Lercaro is particularly Canarian in style and is now a restaurant and a shop and so you can visit it and see the beautifully carved wooden balconies.

The old town of La Orotava has been declared a Site of National Historic and Artisitic Interest. Dominating the old part of town is the church of the Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion. It was built in the 18th century and it is Baroque in style and has attractive twin towers.

Garden lovers should be sure to visit the botanical gardens, Hijuelo del Botanico, which are packed with tropical plants from around the world. There are also dragon trees which are one of Tenerife's strangest plants. They resemble a giant cactus in the form of a tree. The sap is a reddish colour and was once thought to hava magical properties.

Another popular garden is the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, also known as Jardin Victoria which is a bit easier to remember! The 18th century gardens have a formal French style and are laid out in various terraces spreading downhill from a marble mausoleum.

As you leave La Orotava head for the viewpoint - the Mirador de Humboldt where you get fantastic views over the La Orotava valley towards Mount Teide.

A good time to visit is during La Orotava's main festivals which are the Corpus Christi festival in May/June and the Carnival in Feb/March. During the festivals carpets of flowers and volcanic sand are laid out along the streets adding to the beauty of the town.

What to see in La Orotava at a glance

• Casa de los Balcones
• Casa del Turista
• Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion
• Hijuelos del Botanico, botanic gardens
• Dragon trees

Places to visit nearby

La Orotava is close to Puerto de la Cruz . which has an attractive old centre and an excellent lido.

It is worth taking time off from the beaches to explore the beautiful Park Teide dominated by Spain's third tallest mountain, Mount Teide.

Garachico is a very pretty coastal town and well worth a visit.

You can find more local travel ideas in and the Western Canary Islands guide .

Photos of La Orotava

Click any picture to start the gallery

Map of La Orotava and places to visit

La orotava places to visit.

Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is a lovely little harbour town situated at the foot of Mount Teide. It has colourful stucco buildings and lots of attractions nearby.

Loro Park is one of the top attractions of Tenerife. It is a large zoo with a dolphin display and tree-tops jungle walkway.

In Park Teide is Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in Spain. The park is a treat and not to be missed.

Icod de los Vinos

Icod de los Vinos has an attractive main square and the oldest dragon tree of the Canary Islands.

La Laguna,San Cristobal de La Laguna,was originally the capital of Tenerife this inland town remains the cultural capital of Tenerife.

Garachico is a lovely jewel of a town, tiny but very elegant with colourful stucco buildings, elegant plazas, convents and mansions.

Select your language

Spain This Way - copyright 2009 - 2024

• privacy policy

• 1 Understand
• 3 Get around
• 9.1 Camping

La Orotava is a city of 42,000 people (2018) in Tenerife . Its historic centre is included in the Inventory of the European Cultural Heritage Protection, and much of the Teide National Park (a World Heritage Site) is in the municipality.

Located in the fertile Orotava Valley uphill from Puerto de la Cruz , La Orotava (from Guanche: Arautaba ) was established in 1504 by the Spanish following their conquest of Tenerife. As the area was blessed with a mild climate, many Spanish elite chose to settle here; most of the city's historic buildings from this early period have been preserved and now now fall under landmark protection.

The municipal boundaries of La Orotava encompass most of Teide National Park , making it the largest municipality in Tenerife. It can be a good base for hiking, with many trail heads just outside the city and easily accessible by bus.

• 28.39151 -16.52258 1 Información Turística ( Tourist Information ), C/ Calvario, 4 , ☏ +34 922 323 041 , fax : +34 922 334 512 . M-F 08:00-18:00 . Has information about various sights in Orotava and elsewhere on the island. ( updated Nov 2016 )
• 28.39026 -16.52422 2 Información Turística ( Tourist Information ). Tu-Th 09:00-11:00, 11:20-14:00 . A smaller tourist booth. ( updated Nov 2016 )

La Orotava lies just south of the TF-5 expressway, 26 km from La Laguna and 35 km from Santa Cruz . Parking spots in the city centre are very scarce (see transport map for options), and day-trippers will likely find it much easier to visit the city by bus.

• 28.39356 -16.51949 1 Estación de Autobuses ( Estación de Guaguas / Bus Station ), C/ San Juan Bosco, s/n , ☏ +34 922 332 702 . Information centre: M-F 06:00-12:30 13:30-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 06:00-10:15 13:00-15:00 . From Puerto de la Cruz , bus 345 runs daily 05:40-21:55 (€1.45, 20 min, leaves every ½ hr). From La Laguna , bus 101 runs 06:00-21:00 (€3.15, 54 min, leaves every ½ hr). From Santa Cruz , bus 108 is the most direct, running 06:15-22:15 (€4.30, 53 min, leaves every 1-2 hr). ( updated Nov 2016 )

If you're reasonably fit and able to walk up and down steep streets, most sights can be easily visited by foot. Otherwise, the long-distance Titsa buses are used as the local bus service. See above for bus details.

• 28.39119 -16.5227 2 Iglesía de San Agustín ( Church of St. Augustine ) ( NE corner of the plaza ). The 17th-century church was once part of a monastery which is now used as a music school. Especially noteworthy are its bell tower, built of black volcanic stone, and the elaborate Mudejar-style carved wooden ceiling. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.39004 -16.52239 3 Liceo de Taoro , C/ San Agustín, 6 ( SE corner of the plaza ). Built in 1925 as a private mansion, the building is now used for a school and also houses a café. The garden in front is freely open to passersby. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.38933 -16.52495 6 Plaza del Ayuntamiento . Facing the 19th-century neoclassical town hall, the square is the focal point of annual festivities including Carnival, Corpus Christi, and Christmas. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.38814 -16.52571 10 Museo de Las Alfombras ( Casa Jimenez Franchi ), C/ San Francisco, 5 . M-F 11:00-13:00 . Built in 1592, the museum has exhibits illustrating the tradition of alfombras , volcanic sand 'carpets' used in the Corpus Christi celebrations. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.39237 -16.52477 11 Museo de Artesanía Iberoamerica ( MAIT / Museum of Iberian-American Handcrafts ), C/ Tomás Zerolo, 34 ( next to the Iglesia de Santo Domingo ), ☏ +34 922 328 160 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-15:00 . Located in a former 17th-century convent, the museum is devoted to the exhibition of arts and crafts from the Canary Islands, as well as from Latin America and the Philippines. The building is worth seeing in its own right. €2.50 (adults), free (children) . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.40781 -16.5072 12 Mirador de Humboldt ( Humboldt's Viewpoint ), TF-21 Expressway . Named after the Prussian naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, the view today encompasses many more buildings than it did in his day when he passed through the valley and admired it in 1799. It's unclear whether this exact spot is the same visited by Humboldt (there is also a restaurant and another parking spot with the same name); from both spots however there are fantastic views from La Orotava to Puerto de la Cruz, and on clear days the peak of Teide is also visible. Take a moment too to look in the other direction – on the upper part of the mountain is the 28.40727 -16.50616 13 Cueva de Bencomo , where it is believed the Guanche king Bencomo once lived. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.39213 -16.52719 14 Telesforo Bravo Visitor Centre ( Centro de visitantes Telesforo Bravo ), Calle Doctor Sixto Perera Gonzalez 25 , ☏ +34 922 92 23 71 . Tu-Su 09:00-14:00, 15:00-18:00 . Visitor centre and ornamental garden displaying Tenerife's native flora. It houses an exhibition that journeys across the island in altitude and historically. Considering free admission, the Centre is worth exploring before climbing Mount Teide to learn about its history. Free . ( updated Jul 2019 )

• Festividad del Corpus Christi ( Feast of Corpus Christi ). 60 days after Easter, usually late May or early June . The Catholic Feast of Corpus Christi has been celebrated in the Canaries since the arrival of the Spanish in the 15th century. As in some other nearby parishes, street processions take place atop elaborate flower 'carpets' ( alfombras ), laid out the day before by neighbourhood groups, in a tradition practiced since the mid-19th century. Unique to La Orotava is the giant volcanic sand 'carpet' in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. This tradition dates to 1912, and its creation requires several weeks; visitors can observe the process from the upper steps of the plaza. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• Hiking . Given that Teide National Park extends right up to the edge of the city, Orotava is a good starting point for a number of hikes of varying length and difficulty, a few of which can be accessed by public bus. However, the wildfires of 2023 caused massive destruction in the forests above the Orotava valley. As of early 2024, the whole area of the fire is completely off-limits for civilians and virtually all nearby trails are closed. Check the official map for up-to-date information before you head out. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 28.38815 -16.52595 1 Casa del Turista ( Casa Molina ), C/ San Francisco, 4 , ☏ +34 922 330 629 x216 . Daily 08:00-19:00 . Housed in a former 16th-century convent, the shop sells embroidered textiles along with ceramics and Canarian cigars. It also has a permanent exhibit with mannequins dressed in traditional costumes as well as a room displaying the technique of producing the volcanic sand 'carpets' used in the Corpus Christi celebrations. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.39552 -16.5475 2 La Villa Centro Comercial , Autopista del Norte, TF-5 ( Exit 36 ), ☏ +34 922 32 62 34 , [email protected] . Alcampo supermarket and a few smaller shops, ideal place to stock up on food, drinks, and convenience items. ( updated Jul 2019 )

• 28.39023 -16.52597 1 Bar Restaurante La Duquesa , Plaza Patricio García, 6B , ☏ +34 922 334 949 . M-F 07:00-16:00, Sa 08:30-15:00 . A very popular family-run restaurant which serves traditional Canarian dishes. There is outdoor seating in the plaza as well as indoors. ( updated Nov 2016 )
• 28.38899 -16.52543 2 Restaurante Sabor Canario , C/ Carrera del Escultor Estévez, 17 , ☏ +34 922 322 793 , [email protected] . M-Sa 12:00-22:00 . Located in the courtyard of a hotel, this highly-regarded restaurant serves modern variations of traditional Canarian dishes. ( updated Nov 2016 )
• 28.384127 -16.524013 3 DaBeke , Calle la Candelaria 9 , ☏ +43 922 33 27 26 , [email protected] . 19:30-23:00 . Restaurant specialising in quality food from the Spanish-speaking world made with local ingredients. Try the ceviche (based on the fish of the day), and the carrillera de cerdo ibérico (Iberian pork cheeks served with a green curry sauce). ( updated Aug 2019 )

Vineyards were established in the Orotava Valley with the arrival of the Spanish in the 15th century, and red and white wines produced here are specially designated by the Spanish Denominación de Origen for Valle de la Orotava . The most popular red varieties are listán negro and negramoll , and the most common whites include gual , malvasía , and verdello .

• 28.39247 -16.52521 1 Cafeteria Dulceria Los Jardines , c/ Sabino Berthelot Aurgiers S/N , ☏ +34 922 193 404 . Cafe and restaurant next to a small park with plenty of outdoor seating. They have a nice selection of cakes and other sweets. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 28.39099 -16.52436 1 Pensión Silene Orotava , C/ Tomás Zerolo, 9 , ☏ +34 922 330 199 , [email protected] . Free Wi-Fi. Rates include full breakfast . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.39265 -16.52351 2 Hotel Alhambra , C/ Nicandro Gonzalez, 19 , ☏ +34 922 320 434 , fax : +34 922 323 433 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00-21:00 , check-out: 08:00-12:00 . The hotel is non-smoking. Facilities include an outdoor pool and garden, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. €112 doubles, breakfast included . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 28.38899 -16.52543 3 Hotel Rural Orotava , C/ Carrera del Escultor Estévez, 17 , ☏ +34 922 322 793 . Located in a historic manor, the hotel is operated by the same owners as the onsite Sabor Canario restaurant. All rooms are nonsmoking and furnished with original period furniture, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. €160+ doubles, breakfast included . ( updated Dec 2016 )

The closest free official camp grounds are up the road south to Teide:

• 28.35544 -16.50109 4 Zona de Acampada de La Caldera ( Along the road up from Puerto de la Cruz to the crater. ), ☏ +34 922239199 . Temporarily closed after the 2023 wildfires. Free, online reservation required . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 28.3297 -16.53222 5 Zona de Acampada de Ramón el Caminero ( Along the road up from Puerto de la Cruz to the crater. ), ☏ +34 922239199 . Temporarily closed after the 2023 wildfires. Free, online reservation required . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Puerto de la Cruz – In case you did not come from here in the first place–a pleasant resort city
• Icod de los Vinos – Another interesting town known for its vineyards, banana plantations, and magnificent drago tree
• Teide – The must do thing on Tenerife

• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

What to see? Guide.

Travel, tourist guides, attraction maps

La Orotava - Tenerife: attractions, map, sightseeing and time travel to colonial times.

Colonial city

There is probably no place where you can feel the spirit of colonial times better. La Orotava it is a city steeped in colonialism. The streets we walk slowly slowly look almost like a movie set, which will be banned from actors in the costumes of Spanish colonizers. The impression that time has not started here since the eighteenth century is irresistible. It is worth surrendering to this atmosphere and climate. It is worth to slow down like time who here do not want to take quick steps forward. It is worth allowing a slow walk ... although often a slow walk will force the street itself. The streets in this city sometimes rise so steeply that they could compete with the Bieszczady trails. Don't explore La Orotava, walk her ! Walk and go wherever you like. Stop, sit down, drink coffee. Do not rush. Waste some time here.

Casa de los Balcones and other colonial residences

The city is filled with perfectly preserved colonial residences from the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries. The House of Balconies is commonly considered the most interesting of them ( Balcony House ). From the outside, it doesn't make a great impression, but the soul is hidden inside. Make sure you go there. Although I speak and write less about other residences, I must admit that each of them is impressive, especially when it is time to take a closer look, from the inside. And probably there is no point in mentioning them by name ... just walk and look. You will come across them for sure!

Casa de los Balcones, GPS coordinates: 28°23’18.0″N 16°31’33.2″W 28.388343, -16.525878 - click and route

Victoria Gardens

When walking the streets of La Orotava, don't forget to visit Victoria Gardens . It's designed in the nineteenth century with an eclectic garden. Visitors are surprised by the unique orderliness and attention to the smallest details. The garden is formed in the shape of a stepped slope, with intertwining fountains and colorful flower rugs. From the top of the garden there is a unique view of the historic center of La Orotava. Admission to the garden is free.

Victoria Gardens, GPS coordinates: 28°23’23.5″N 16°31’21.8″W 28.389870, -16.522717 - click and route

Hijuela del Botanico

This is a small botanical garden in the form of a fenced square. It is located just 100 m from Casa de los Balcones, and in it you can see up close and without crowds and even touch quite large sizes Dragon Tree : )

Hijuela del Botánico, GPS coordinates: 28°23’20.3″N 16°31’27.7″W 28.388973, -16.524369 - click and route

La Orotava - walking map

Below is a map with only four attractions in the city: 1. Casa de los Balcones 2. Constitution Square 3. Victoria Gardens 4. Hijuela del Botanico.

All others are between them. Walking between these points you will come across other interesting places in the city. You can open the following walking route directly on Google Map (you can zoom, edit or just start in the phone navigation) by clicking on: link to the walking route around La Orotava - [click] .

Useful GPS coordinates

Parking P1 - La Orotawa - car park at Casa de los Balcones, GPS: 28°23’25.8″N 16°31’28.7″W 28.390495, -16.524630 - click and route

Parking P2 - La Orotawa - center parking, GPS: 28°23’18.0″N 16°31’35.3″W 28.388326, -16.526470 - click and route

Plaza de la Constitución, GPS: 28°23’26.6″N 16°31’23.5″W 28.390729, -16.523184 - click and route

Tenerife sightseeing plan

Important to me.

• ← Barcelona - long-term weather. When to go Air, water and climate temperature.
• How to organize a trip to Majorca yourself and how much does it cost? Majorca on your own: [GUIDE] →

One comment on “ La Orotava - Tenerife: attractions, map, sightseeing and time travel to colonial times. "

Thank you for this guide. Is fantastic. For someone like me who usually has short holidays, this is a great help. I can use the time to browse through guidebooks to go sightseeing.

Add a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Witryna internetowa

• Playa de las Americas
• Puerto de la Cruz
• Los Gigantes
• 5 Star Hotels
• 4 Star Hotels
• San Cristóbal de La Laguna
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Teide National Park
• Tenerife Markets
• History of Tenerife
• Tenerife Map
• Weather and Climate
• Weather by Month in Tenerife
• Inter-island Travel
• Tenerife Airport Transfers
• Tenerife Bus Routes and Timetables
• Tenerife Flights
• How to get to your Resort
• Exchanging Currency in Tenerife
• Prices in Tenerife
• Is Tenerife one hour ahead of the UK?

• About Tenerife History, Weather, Climate and Map of Tenerife.
• Attractions
• Cities/Towns
• How to get to your Resort Instructions on how to get to your resort by car, bus, taxi or airport transfer.
• Travel Info

Founded at the beginning of the 16th century, La Orotava’s first two centuries of existence proved very prosperous. Surrounded by the best agricultural land on the island, a thriving wine production industry soon got under way and splendid mansions and religious buildings were built with the proceeds. The town went through a period of decline during the 18th before the it was reinvigorated in the 19th century thanks to cochineal and then banana production.

The town is full of well-preserved architectural treasures from throughout its history, but is perhaps most famous for its traditional 17th century balconied mansions built around a central atrium. The most famous example is the Casa de los Balcones on Calle San Francisco (open to the public).

Other attractions include the Baroque Iglesia de La Concepción – built between 1767 and 1788 on the site where the previous church had been destroyed by an earthquake – and the 17th century Iglesia de San Agustín.

Carpets of Flowers and Sand

If you’re lucky enough to visit La Orotava during Corpus Christi, then you’re in for a real treat. Since 1847, locals have been decorating their squares and streets with Alfombras de Flores y Arena (carpets of flowers and sand) to celebrate the occasion. The images produced are of incredible detail and quality and are a sight to behold.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Visit La Orotava, Tenerife - travel guide and tourism

Visit La Orotava

La Orotava is a town on the north west coast of of Tenerife not far from Puerto de la Cruz. Being on the north side of Tenerife La Orotava is set in attractive fertile countryside with a backdrop of Mount Teide, Tenerife's volcano. Much of the town's wealth came from the fertile slopes surrounding the town and today the main crop covering the hills is bananas

Explore La Orotava

In the past many of the wealthiest residents of Tenerife lived in La Orotava and their influence can be seen in the many beautiful buildings. A particular feature are the beautifully carved wooden balconies and interior courtyards. The Casa de los Balcones and the Casa del Turista both have lovely interior courtyards that are open to the public.

The Casa Mendez-Fonseca is another great courtyard and is home to a small museum and wine-tasting. Grapes are another of the main crops in the surrounding hills and so the wine is made locally. Casa Lercaro is a 16th century house in very typical Canarian style and as it has been converted into a restaurant and shop you can visit and see the lovely carved wooden balconies.

The old town of La Orotava has been declared a Site of National Historic and Artistic Interest and there are lots of Renaissance mansions to admire as well as some beautiful churches and convents. Head for the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion in the old part of the town. This church is a baroque church with a dome and two towers and was built in the 18th century.

Other religious buildings to look out for are the Calvario chapel, the San Augustin church and the San Benito Abad monastery.

A rather lovely building is the pink palace-like building of  Liceo de Taoro which is an 18th century building surrounded by pretty gardens. It sits on a hillside overlooking the valley. The Liceo de Taoro is now a bar and so you can sit and enjoy the views whilst having a drink.

Garden lovers can admire the formal Victoria gardens, also called the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, whose terraces sweep downhill from a mausoleum at the top. Another lovely garden is the Hijuela del Botanico, a tropical Botanic gardens with more than 3000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants including the iconic dragon trees which are native to the Canary islands.

For a different side of La Orotava take the Los Molinos path which starts at Villa Arriba and takes you to the nine watermills of the area. The watermills were built in the 17th and 18th centuries

Fiesta time is in June for the Feast of Corpus Christi when the town is full of flowers and giant pictures made of sand from Park Teide is made on the floor by the town hall.

For great views of La Orotava and Mount Teide go to the Mirador de Humbolt viewpoint, you won't be disappointed!

Places to visit nearby

Puerto de la Cruz with its pretty harbour and excellent lido which was designed by Cesar Manrique is very nice. Families will be sure to want to visit Loro Parque with its excellent zoo and dolphin and killer whale shows.

A visit to Teide National Park is a highlight of a visit to Tenerife. You can hike up to the top of Tenerife's volcano, Mount Teide, or take the cable car and enjoy the stunning views.

Photos of La Orotava

Click any picture to start the gallery

Map of La Orotava and places to visit

La orotava places to visit.

Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is a lovely town with a pretty harbour and surrounded by lush tropical plants.

Loro Parque

Loro Park is one of Europe's best zoos and also has killer whale and dolphin shows. Enter the 18 meter long shark tunnel.

Candelaria is an important pilgrim destination. Many visitors come to see the shrine of the Black Madonna.

Teide National Park

A stunning volcanic park with an active volcano, Mount Teide. Teide Park is in the centre of Tenerife and is a highlight of any visit.

Icod de los Vinos

Icod de los Vinos is home to the oldest dragon tree on the Canary Islands. It has some pretty squares and is close to the Cueva del Viento larva tunnels.

A beautiful little town on the north coast of Tenerife. Garachico has a very pretty centre and a harbour area full of natural rock pools.

Popular places

Plan Your La Orotava Holiday: Best of La Orotava

Explore La Orotava

Essential la orotava.

La Orotava Is Great For

Eat & drink