Start your adventure in Santa Cruz de La Palma with a visit to Plaza de España, the city's central square, which is the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding attractions. This charming square, surrounded by impressive buildings, is the heart of the historic center and the perfect place to get a feel for the city.

Plaza de España (rating 4.6/5) is a true architectural gem, where you can enjoy a harmonious blend of different styles. The focal point of the square is a picturesque fountain, and notable buildings such as the Church of Salvador and the City Hall spread around it. The square is extremely photogenic, so it's worth taking souvenir photos here. In the evening, when the square is beautifully lit, it takes on a special charm, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of the most distinctive features of Santa Cruz de La Palma are the famous Balcones de la Avenida Marítima (rating 4.6/5). These colorful, richly decorated balconies stretching along the waterfront promenade are a landmark of the city and a testament to its colonial past. Walking along Avenida Marítima, you can admire these architectural marvels, each different and with its own history. The balconies, once used for practical functions, are now decorated with flowers and are a true outdoor art gallery.

Comparing the two attractions, Plaza de España offers a more compact, intimate feel and is ideal for relaxing and observing city life. On the other hand, a stroll along Balcones de la Avenida Marítima allows for a longer, more dynamic walk overlooking the ocean. Both locations are free and accessible year-round, making them attractive to families and people of all ages.

Once you've explored these sites, it's a good idea to delve into the narrow streets that diverge from Plaza de España. Here you will find numerous cafes and restaurants where you can sample local specialties. Especially recommended are 'papas arrugadas' - traditional Canarian potatoes served with mojo sauce, and fresh seafood.

Remember that Santa Cruz de La Palma is a city best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes are therefore essential! It's also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the colorful facades and charming backstreets. A tour of the center is best planned for the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are more pleasant and the light is ideal for photography.

As we continue our tour of Santa Cruz de La Palma, we should not miss the places that will give us a deeper insight into the history and culture of this fascinating city. One such place is the Castillo de La Virgen (rated 4.4/5), a picturesque fortress towering over the city.

The Castillo de La Virgen, built in 1820, offers not only a history lesson, but also breathtaking views of Santa Cruz and the Atlantic. This small but well-preserved fortification was extensively restored in 1995 and is a testament to the island's turbulent past. Admission to the castle is free of charge, making it an attractive destination for families and those interested in history. The short but steep climb to the castle hill is absolutely worth the effort - the panorama that unfolds from here will remain in the memory for a long time.

Moving from the height of the castle into the city, the charming Barrio de La Canela (rated 4.7/5) is worth a visit. This old neighborhood, also known as the San Sebastián district, is a true architectural gem of Santa Cruz. It is characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets, colorful houses with wooden windows and doors typical of the island, and numerous flowers decorating the facades of the buildings. Walking through the Barrio de La Canela is like traveling back in time - you can feel the authentic atmosphere of the old Canarian town.

For lovers of art and history, the Museo Insular de La Palma (rating 4.3/5) should be a must-see. Housed in a beautiful post-Franciscan convent, this museum offers a rich collection of artifacts related to the history and culture of La Palma. There are natural history collections as well as artworks by local artists. The ticket price (€4 for adults, €2 for concessions - as of 2023) is very affordable, considering the quantity and quality of the exhibits. The museum is an ideal place to deepen your knowledge of the island and its heritage.

Comparing the three attractions, each offers a different experience. Castillo de La Virgen is all about views and military history, Barrio de La Canela allows you to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the city, and Museo Insular de La Palma offers a structured knowledge of the island and its culture. The Castillo and Barrio de La Canela are outdoor attractions, ideal for exploring on a sunny day, while the museum is a great option for rainy weather.

When planning a visit to these places, there are a few things to keep in mind. The Castillo de La Virgen is best visited early in the morning or before sunset, when the light is best for photography. At the Barrio de La Canela, it's a good idea to set aside time to take a leisurely stroll and explore the hidden nooks and crannies. Before visiting the Museo Insular de La Palma, check the opening hours, which can change depending on the season.

Remember that Santa Cruz de La Palma is a city that is best explored slowly, savoring every moment. Take your time, take frequent breaks at quaint cafes and allow yourself to make spontaneous discoveries - these are often the ones that become your most treasured travel memories.

After a busy day of sightseeing, Santa Cruz de La Palma offers many opportunities for relaxation and entertainment that will allow you to fully enjoy the atmosphere of this charming city. One of the best ways to unwind is to take a stroll along the waterfront promenade known as Avenida Marítima.

At Avenida Marítima is Santa Cruz de La Palma's municipal beach, Strand (rated 5/5). This small but charming black sand beach is the perfect place to relax and swim. Along the beach stretches a promenade with numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialties and enjoy the ocean view. The beach is equipped with amenities such as showers, toilets and children's play equipment, making it ideal for families. What's more, the beach is usually less crowded than other popular beaches on the island, allowing for a more intimate experience.

If you're looking for a place to take an evening stroll and enjoy the sunset, it's worth heading to the port (rated 4.6/5). The port of Santa Cruz de La Palma is not only an important transportation point, but also an attractive place for tourists. Here you can watch the arriving ships, admire the yachts moored in the marina or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere. There are numerous cafes and restaurants near the port where you can dine with a view of the sea.

For those who want to experience the city's nightlife, the area around Plaza de España is the perfect place. In the evening, the square comes alive and the surrounding bars and restaurants fill up with locals and tourists. This is a great opportunity to enjoy local wines and tapas while listening to traditional Canarian music.

If you're planning a longer stay or want to see more, consider a trip out of town. One popular destination is Playa de Los Guinchos (rated 4.1/5), located slightly north of Santa Cruz. This wild, rocky beach offers great views and is popular with surfers for its good surfing conditions. Be aware, however, that swimming here can be dangerous due to strong currents.

Comparing these attractions, the city's Santa Cruz beach offers the most amenities and is most suitable for families with children. The harbor and Plaza de España are ideal for evening strolls and sampling local cuisine, while Playa de Los Guinchos is for adventurers and wildlife lovers.

When planning evening activities, it's worth remembering that Santa Cruz de La Palma is a relatively quiet town where the nightlife is not as intense as in larger resorts. Restaurants and bars are usually open late, but discos or nightclubs are rare. This is an ideal choice for those looking for relaxation and an authentic Canarian town atmosphere.

Whether you choose to relax on the beach, take a stroll around the harbor or spend an evening at the Plaza de España, Santa Cruz de La Palma offers plenty of options for a pleasant end to the day. Be sure to bring your camera - the sunsets over the Atlantic are truly spectacular here and are the perfect culmination of an intense city break in this charming Canarian city.