Plaza de España travel guide

Plaza de España, located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is the largest square in the city and the Canary Islands. Constructed in the early 20th century, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history.

The plaza was originally built in 1929 to commemorate the centenary of General Captain Carlos Gutiérrez de los Ríos. However, its history took a dramatic turn during the Spanish Civil War when it was transformed into an air-raid shelter.

In the late 20th century, the plaza underwent significant renovations. The most notable change was the construction of a large artificial lake, which symbolizes the sea that once flowed in that area. This lake has since become one of the plaza's most iconic features.

Today, Plaza de España is not only a historical landmark but also a bustling hub for social and cultural activities. It remains a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Tenerife.

Plaza de España, the largest square in Tenerife, is renowned for its man-made lake, a symbol of the city's connection to the sea. The lake is complemented by a striking fountain, which lights up colorfully at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Another notable feature is the 'Monument to the Fallen,' a towering monument paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the Spanish Civil War.

Not to be missed is the plaza's lush greenery, consisting of palm trees and other subtropical plants, providing a refreshing contrast to the surrounding concrete structures. The plaza is also home to an underground car park, cleverly concealed beneath the square, and the contemporary 'Círculo de Bellas Artes' building, which hosts a variety of cultural events.

What truly makes Plaza de España unique, however, is how it seamlessly blends modern design elements with historical significance, creating an inviting space that serves both as a bustling public square and a poignant memorial.

Located in the dynamic Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the popular Plaza de España is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, Palmetum, Museum of Nature and Archaeology, Mirador Pico del Inglés, and Sendero de los Sentidos.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

Plaza de España is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. If you're flying in, Tenerife–South Airport is approximately 35.3 miles (56.8 km) away from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. From there, you can easily reach Plaza de España by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Plaza de España, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Plaza de España, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Plaza de España, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Plaza de España!

The best time to explore Plaza de España in Tenerife, Spain is arguably in the spring months of April and May. During this period, the weather is warm yet comfortable, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the outdoor nature of the plaza. This is also when the island sees a slight dip in tourist crowds, offering a more relaxed ambience at the plaza. Visitors can enjoy the plaza's stunning architecture and its fountain show under the clear blue skies without the bustling crowds that appear in summer. Alternatively, the fall months of September and October also provide pleasant weather and lower crowd levels. For those interested in cultural events, visiting during the 'Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife' in February offers a unique experience. This vibrant festival fills the plaza with colorful parades, traditional music, and dance performances. However, it's worth noting this is a popular event, so advance booking is recommended. Regardless of when you visit, Plaza de España never fails to impress.

To truly enjoy your visit to Plaza de España, joining a tour that features this popular square in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, Plaza de España draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Plaza de España starting at just 18 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Plaza de España and Spain's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Tenerife–South Airport and the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Spain cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and beyond.

Conveniently explore Plaza de España and plenty more captivating attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Plaza de España and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Santa Cruz de Tenerife has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Plaza de España below.

Aside from Plaza de España, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Santa Cruz de Tenerife, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, Palmetum, and Museum of Nature and Archaeology.

Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,500 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín is Av. La Constitución, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is Palmetum. Like Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 5,100 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Av. La Constitución, 5, 38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Museum of Nature and Archaeology is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This museum and top attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of C. Fuente Morales, s/n, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife below.