Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Los Cristianos, you’ll be tendered right into the town center. The port is close to Playa de Las Américas, a lively resort area with a lovely, walkable beachfront and plenty to explore. Taxis are inexpensive and readily available if you want to venture a little further afield, and the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets make exploring on foot a delight.
Nearest Airport:
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is approximately 15 km away. You can easily catch a bus or grab a taxi to get from the airport to Los Cristianos.
Sightseeing
Tenerife is famous for its dramatic and varied landscapes. While you're in Los Cristianos, take some time to appreciate not just the town but the natural wonders nearby:
- Visit the volcanic landscapes of Mount Teide National Park – you can even take a cable car for a spectacular view from near the crater’s rim.
- Enjoy the long, scenic beachfront promenade and explore the town on foot. You'll find that the walkways are wheelchair-friendly and lined with shops and cafes.
- Relax on one of the local beaches:
- Playa de Los Cristianos: A sandy beach right next to the tender dock, complete with water sports, volleyball courts, showers, and a children’s play area.
- Las Vistas Beach: A man-made beach protected by breakwaters, also offering a variety of water activities and facilities.
- Rincón Beach: A black-sand, rocky beach popular with naturists, offering a more rugged seaside experience.
Tours & Excursions
If you're looking to explore further afield, there are a few ways to get around:
- Bus Travel: The local guagua buses are an affordable way to explore Tenerife. You can pick up a timetable at bus stations, shops, or even your hotel.
- Car Rental: If you're traveling with others or plan to see several sites, renting a car might be more convenient. This will give you the flexibility to visit attractions outside of town at your own pace.
- Local excursions are also popular – consider a day trip to explore more of Tenerife’s diverse scenery, from lush valleys to volcanic landscapes.
Shopping
The long beachfront promenade is lined with a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops, and local markets. Whether you're looking for handcrafted Canarian goods or the latest fashions, you'll find plenty of opportunities to shop and soak up the local scene.
Dining
Los Cristianos offers a range of dining options, many of which are located right on the promenade. Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Canarian dishes in one of the many restaurants or cafes. From casual beachside eateries to more upscale dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Culture & Local Events
Los Cristianos and Tenerife have a rich cultural vibe that comes to life in their daily rhythm and special events:
- Local Business Hours:
- Most local shops and businesses are open Monday through Saturday, from 9:30 to 13:30 and then from 16:30 to 20:00.
- Larger shopping centers and department stores often extend their hours to 21:00 or 22:00, with some even opening on Sundays, especially during the high season.
- Pharmacies generally follow similar hours, and you can usually find at least one open 24 hours in major urban areas.
- Note that many museums are closed on Mondays.
- Currency & Payments:
- The local currency is the euro. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s sometimes handy to have a bit of cash for small purchases, especially in markets or smaller shops.
- Local Festivals & Events:
- Tenerife is famous for its vibrant Carnival – one of the world’s largest, full of music, color, and joy. If your cruise coincides with the Carnival season, it’s an experience not to be missed.
- Other local celebrations and cultural events occur throughout the year, so be sure to check local listings during your visit.
- Safety & Awareness:
- As with any busy tourist destination, keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.