Puerto de la Cruz is the tourist capital of northern Tenerife. Unlike the concrete-laden south, it has retained its soul: cobbled streets of the old port, century-old botanical gardens, and a Playa Jardín sculpted by César Manrique. The city blends European tourists with authentic local life, making it the ideal base for exploring the north of the island.
Things to know before you go: The northern sea is cooler and choppier than the south. Natural pools of volcanic rock (Lago Martianez) more than make up for it.