Beautiful Gardens to Visit in Tenerife

The Botanical Gardens in Puerto de la Cruz span more than 20,000 square metres and showcase more than a million tropical and subtropical plant species, including the ‘Coussapoa Dealbata’, a rare South American tree of intertwining trunks. The gardens’ sprawling layout means you can spend a couple of hours admiring their immaculate presentation, before stopping for refreshments at the onsite cafe. The garden can be easily reached by car along the TF-5 north motorway, towards Puerto de la Cruz.

The multi-terraced gardens of Jardines Victoria boast a collection of plants, flowers and fountains. Visitors can experience beautiful views over La Orotava and Mount Teide from the top of the garden, with Puerto de la Cruz also visible on a clear day. This is a great place to take a break to relax, wander or read. There are streets surrounding the gardens in which to park, but finding a spot can be difficult so allow time for this if you are driving.

The plaza is a perfect little oasis in the heart of the city, providing ample shade and seating. Plaza del Principe is a great spot to take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture encompassing the square. Whilst the plaza itself may not feature elaborate displays of flowers, it provides a calming spot to rest or grab a bite to eat in one of its many restaurants. The plaza is next to the Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes, along Villalba Hervás, perfect for weary tourists walking past or seeking a break from shopping.

The Palmetum of Santa Cruz is a 12-hectare (30 acre) botanical garden, specialising in palm trees. It was once a rubbish dump but has since been transformed into an unrecognisable tropical paradise. Lush plants are interspersed with waterfalls and streams, attracting geckos, birds and butterflies. At only €6 entry for adults, this garden is not to be missed. The garden is about a 15 minute walk from the Santa Cruz bus stop and also has free on-site parking.

This smaller botanical garden is not to be overlooked if you are visiting La Orotava. It provides a peaceful change of scene from the rest of the town with plants, trees and butterflies infusing nature’s gentle touch into its urban surroundings. The garden has pathways weaving through it, so it’s a great spot to steal some shade while exploring the area. Hijuela del Botánico can be found just behind the town hall, across from the Jardines Victoria.

At more than 220 years old, the Orchid Garden is the oldest garden in Tenerife and has been visited by crime writer Agatha Christie and botanical painter Marianne North. It houses the largest collection of orchids on the island as well as Puerto de la Cruz’s largest and oldest dragon tree. There is also an onsite cafe and shop for holiday souvenirs. This garden is in Puerto de la Cruz, just south of Playa de Martiánez and close to many of the area’s hotels.