Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island capital, is about 60 km north of the airport.
About Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a genuine Canarian working city, quite different from the tourist resorts of the south. The city features the striking Auditorio de Tenerife designed by Santiago Calatrava—a white, wave-shaped concert hall that has become the city's modern symbol. The historic center offers the leafy Plaza de Espana, the bustling Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa (a Moorish-style market), and the pedestrian Calle Castillo shopping street.
Santa Cruz is famous for its Carnival, the second largest in the world after Rio de Janeiro, which transforms the city for weeks in February and March. The Parque Garcia Sanabria, with its sculpture garden, provides green respite, while the nearby Playa de las Teresitas—a beach created with Saharan sand—offers golden shores backed by rugged mountains. The city also serves as a major port for ferries to Gran Canaria, La Palma, and mainland Spain.
Santa Cruz is famous for its Carnival, the second largest in the world after Rio de Janeiro, which transforms the city for weeks in February and March. The Parque Garcia Sanabria, with its sculpture garden, provides green respite, while the nearby Playa de las Teresitas—a beach created with Saharan sand—offers golden shores backed by rugged mountains. The city also serves as a major port for ferries to Gran Canaria, La Palma, and mainland Spain.
Nearby Landmarks
Auditorio de Tenerife
Plaza de Espana
Mercado de Africa
Playa de las Teresitas
Transport Options
Quick Comparison
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | $65-80 | 50-60 min | Convenience, groups, heavy luggage |
Good to Know
Late Night Transport
TITSA buses connect the airport to Santa Cruz throughout the day, with the last service around 10 PM. Taxis are available 24/7 and cost approximately €55-70 for the 60 km trip. Intercity buses have air conditioning and comfortable seating.
Luggage Tips
TITSA intercity buses have large luggage compartments underneath. Taxis and pre-booked transfers handle luggage easily for this longer journey. Consider the comfort level for a 50-60 minute ride.
Accessibility
TITSA intercity buses are wheelchair accessible with advance notice. Santa Cruz city center is mostly flat and well-maintained with accessible public spaces. The Auditorio and main cultural venues are fully accessible.