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.

Discover plaza de España, a prime feature of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the vibrant Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Plaza de España is situated at Plaza de España, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, just a short distance from Castillo de San Cristobal and Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of plaza de España, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a city in Spain rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Santa Cruz de Tenerife travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

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 the city center. 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 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Plaza de España, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 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 guided tour of this renowned public square in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, plaza de España draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to plaza de España starting at just 2.99 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore plaza de España, perfectly planned travel packages to Santa Cruz de Tenerife make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring plaza de España.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic public square in Spain.

Upon arriving at Tenerife–South Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Choosing the right accommodation near plaza de España from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from plaza de España, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond plaza de España, Santa Cruz de Tenerife boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, located at Av. La Constitución, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Palmetum is worth seeing when you're in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Av. La Constitución, 5, 38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Museum of Nature and Archaeology completes any trip to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at C. Fuente Morales, s/n, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife below to discover even more incredible places to explore.