Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers

Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers offers a relaxed yet comprehensive way to enjoy the highlights of this charming northern town on Tenerife. For just around $28, you get roughly 8 hours of exploring, with hotel pickups (from select hotels), air-conditioned transport, and the freedom to wander at your own pace once there. The tour visits Plaza del Charco, the impressive Lago Martianez, and Playa Jardín, offering a mix of scenic beauty, local life, and leisure.

What we love most about this experience is the convenient transportation — no need to worry about navigating public buses or taxis — and the opportunity to enjoy free time at prominent sites, especially Lago Martianez’s spectacular pools. Also, the fact that it’s a budget-friendly option makes it accessible to most travelers.

However, a note of caution is that the tour is quite flexible, meaning it’s not guided in-depth through each site. This suits independent spirits but might feel a bit unstructured for those craving detailed tours or guided commentary. It’s ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective day with the chance to set their own pace, especially if you’re interested in relaxing, sightseeing, and maybe doing some shopping or quick sightseeing without the hassle of planning transport.

Key Points

• Hassle-Free Transport: Comfortably ride in an air-conditioned coach with hotel pickups from select areas.
• Flexible Free Time: You decide how much to explore at each stop, especially at Lago Martianez and Playa Jardín.
• Affordable Price: At $27.75, it offers good value considering transportation and access to major sights.
• Independent Exploration: No guided tours, so it’s perfect for self-guided wanderers who like to explore on their own.
• Variety of Attractions: From bustling plazas to stunning pools and beautiful beaches, there’s a mix for different interests.
• Mixed Reviews on Timing: Some travelers mention feeling the free time in the city can be a bit long or disorganized, especially without a guide.

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

The Convenience of Pickup and Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the door-to-door pickup service. If you’re staying in the south of Tenerife, the round-trip coach makes getting to Puerto de la Cruz effortless. It’s a simple, no-hassle way to avoid the complexity of public buses, which can be slow and unpredictable. The coach is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the roughly 1-2 hour ride.

Some reviews note that the coach can be late both on departure and return, which highlights the importance of punctuality and flexibility. The group size caps at 55 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate enough for easy socializing but large enough to keep the price down.

The Heart of Puerto de la Cruz: Plaza del Charco

Your first stop, Plaza del Charco, is a lively square packed with cafes, shops, and local life. It’s a hub where you can soak in the casual atmosphere, watch street performers, or just enjoy a coffee while people-watching. According to reviews, this area is a highlight, offering a more authentic feel of local Tenerife life.

Although the tour provides 30 minutes at this spot, some travelers, like one who mentioned “a long time in the city without a map,” felt that the free time could be better planned. Still, it’s a lovely place to take photos, grab some tapas, or browse small shops.

Lago Martianez: The Pool Complex

The tour’s real standout is Lago Martianez, a human-made sea water lagoon designed by César Manrique, blending iconic Canarian architecture with sculptures and native flora. With about two hours to enjoy, you can lounge by the pools, swim, or relax at one of the many bars and restaurants.

Reviewers often mention the pools as “spectacular” and note that this is a perfect spot for a relaxing break. One reviewer pointed out that the complex features 27,000 cubic meters of seawater, surrounded by multiple pools catering for both adults and children, all set in a lively atmosphere. You have the freedom to spend as much time here as you like, which makes this stop particularly worthwhile.

Playa Jardín and the Beaches

Another popular spot is Playa Jardín, designed by César Manrique as well, where lush gardens, waterfalls, rocky caves, and a long sandy beach create a scenic environment. The tour gives around two hours here, allowing you to stroll along the promenade, dip your toes in the Atlantic, or explore the gardens.

Some travelers especially enjoy the combination of natural beauty and artistic landscaping, but others mention that the long walk along the coast can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to walking or carrying beach gear. It’s a relaxing spot, especially if you want to avoid crowded beaches and enjoy a peaceful shoreline.

Other Attractions and Optional Activities

While the tour emphasizes free exploration, there are a few other optional avenues if you want to extend your visit. The hermitage of San Telmo or strolling through local shops can be leisurely pursuits during your free time.

Practical Tips Based on Reviews

• Timing matters: Some reviews say the time in the city feels a little long or disorganized, so planning your own map or itinerary could be helpful.
• Comfort matters: Seats on the coach are sometimes uncomfortable, and reclined seats by other passengers can make for a less restful ride.
• Flexibility is key: Because there’s no guided commentary, this tour suits those who like exploring independently and setting their own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for independent travelers who want a cost-effective way to see Puerto de la Cruz without the hassle of organizing transport. It’s ideal if you value free time at key sights like Lago Martianez and Playa Jardín and enjoy relaxing at scenic pools or strolling along beaches.

Those who like a relaxed pace and are comfortable wandering on their own will find this a good fit. Conversely, if you prefer guided tours with detailed commentary or structured schedules, this might feel a bit too freeform.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For a modest price, this tour offers a convenient way to experience some of Puerto de la Cruz’s best-loved spots, especially Lago Martianez’s pools and the lush beaches. The hotel pickup and air-conditioned coach take away the stress of transportation, while the ample free time lets you enjoy the sights at your own pace.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value flexible exploration over guided commentary. While some find the timing a little unorganized, most appreciate the good value and the chance to see a lively town and beautiful beaches without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who enjoys wandering independently, taking your time at scenic spots, and soaking in local atmosphere, this tour can be a real treat. It’s not perfect — the long rides and potential for disorganization are worth considering — but overall, it offers a practical, budget-friendly way to enjoy Puerto de la Cruz.

FAQ

Does the tour include guided commentary?
No, this is a self-guided tour with free time at each stop. You’re free to explore on your own once dropped off.

What’s included in the price?
The fare covers air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels. Entry fees to attractions are not included.

How long is the drive from southern Tenerife?
The ride to Puerto de la Cruz takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pickup location and traffic.

Can I customize my free time at each stop?
Yes, you are free to spend as much time as you like within the allocated hours, especially at Lago Martianez and Playa Jardín.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is stroller accessible and suitable for most travelers, though some reviews mention walking long distances, so comfort depends on individual stamina.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants at Lago Martianez and Playa Jardín.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, and a map or guidebook if you prefer self-guided exploration. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 55 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and friendly.

In all, this tour combines the convenience of transport with the freedom to explore Puerto de la Cruz’s most iconic sights at your own pace. It’s a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers who value flexibility and authentic local experiences.