La Orotava Old Town
Step back in time in La Orotava's enchanting old town, famed for its intricate wooden balconies and colonial charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness stunning flower carpets
La Orotava Old Town
Best Time
Witness stunning flower carpets

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in La Orotava's enchanting old town, famed for its intricate wooden balconies and colonial charm.
"Wander through colorful streets lined with traditional Canarian houses and charming plazas."
🚶♀️ Wander the Old Town
Get lost in the charming streets, admire the colorful houses and unique wooden balconies. It's a photographer's dream!
🌸 June's Floral Spectacle
Visit in June for the Corpus Christi festival and see incredible flower carpets laid out in the old town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Casa de los Balcones
Old Town
Marvel at the iconic, intricately carved wooden balconies that define La Orotava's unique architectural style.

Historic Old Town Streets
La Orotava
Stroll through colorful streets lined with traditional Canarian houses and charming plazas, soaking in the colonial atmosphere.

Corpus Christi Flower Carpets
Old Town (June)
Witness the breathtaking, temporary flower carpets and tapestries laid out for this religious festival.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Colonial Architecture
Timing is Key for Flower Carpets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander the Old Town
Get lost in the charming streets, admire the colorful houses and unique wooden balconies. It's a photographer's dream!
🌸 June's Floral Spectacle
Visit in June for the Corpus Christi festival and see incredible flower carpets laid out in the old town.
🏛️ Explore Colonial Charm
Discover the historic architecture and learn about the island's past by strolling through the old town.
🌳 Visit Beautiful Gardens
Don't miss the small, beautiful public gardens scattered throughout La Orotava.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander the Old Town
Get lost in the charming streets, admire the colorful houses and unique wooden balconies. It's a photographer's dream!
🌸 June's Floral Spectacle
Visit in June for the Corpus Christi festival and see incredible flower carpets laid out in the old town.
🏛️ Explore Colonial Charm
Discover the historic architecture and learn about the island's past by strolling through the old town.
🌳 Visit Beautiful Gardens
Don't miss the small, beautiful public gardens scattered throughout La Orotava.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about La Orotava's stunning colonial architecture, particularly its unique wooden balconies, and the charming atmosphere of its old town. The Corpus Christi flower carpets in June are a major highlight, though they draw significant crowds. Some find parking challenging and suggest visiting on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tenerife South Airport (TFS), you can take a bus (e.g., Line 111 to Santa Cruz, then change to a bus heading towards La Orotava) or rent a car. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive.
Parking can be challenging in the narrow streets of the old town. Look for public parking lots on the outskirts and be prepared to walk a short distance. Some street parking is available but often fills up quickly.
Yes, La Orotava is well-connected by bus services from major towns and cities in Tenerife, including Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
The best way to explore is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets and some inclines.
While the main streets are generally accessible, some older parts of the town have cobblestones and uneven surfaces, which might pose challenges. It's advisable to check specific accessibility information for attractions you plan to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the old town itself is a public area and free to explore. You only need to purchase tickets for specific museums or attractions within the old town, such as Casa de los Balcones if you wish to enter certain sections.
The old town is always accessible. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions within the old town will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon/early evening.
Exploring the streets and admiring the architecture is free. Casa de los Balcones may have a small entrance fee for certain exhibits or guided tours.
Weekdays, especially in the morning, tend to be less crowded than weekends or peak tourist seasons. If you're not visiting for the flower carpets, consider visiting outside of June.
Yes, La Orotava Old Town can be visited year-round. The weather is generally pleasant, though June is particularly special for the flower carpets.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire old town is a photo opportunity! Focus on the intricate wooden balconies, colorful facades, charming plazas like Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the stunning views from higher vantage points.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone regulations can be strict in populated areas and historic sites. It's essential to check the latest local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of plazas and buildings.
Absolutely! During Corpus Christi in June, the flower carpets are a unique and highly photogenic event.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for local 'guachinches' or traditional restaurants in and around the old town. Try dishes like 'papas arrugadas' with 'mojo' sauces, 'ropa vieja,' and fresh seafood.
Yes, you'll find several charming cafes tucked away in the old town, perfect for a coffee and a pastry while enjoying the atmosphere.
While specific recommendations vary, seek out places with outdoor seating in the plazas for a pleasant dining experience. Many offer local specialties.
While traditional Canarian cuisine is meat and fish-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to ask.
Prices can vary, but you can find affordable local eateries and more upscale restaurants. Expect to pay around €10-€20 per person for a main course in a mid-range restaurant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Wooden Balconies
Visitors are captivated by the sheer artistry and craftsmanship involved. The Casa de los Balcones is the most famous example, showcasing a stunning array of these balconies. Walking through the streets, you'll see them on various buildings, from grand colonial houses to more modest dwellings, each contributing to the town's picturesque charm. It's a key element that makes La Orotava a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Corpus Christi: A Floral Masterpiece
The creation process is a community effort, with families and groups working together to bring intricate designs to life. The carpets often depict religious scenes or elaborate patterns, transforming the cobblestone streets into a vibrant, fragrant gallery. The festival is a significant cultural event, drawing visitors from across the island and beyond to witness this ephemeral beauty before it is eventually walked upon or dispersed.
Beyond the Balconies: Exploring La Orotava
For those interested in history and culture, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción is a significant landmark with its impressive Baroque facade. The town also boasts several museums and historical buildings that provide deeper insights into Tenerife's past. It's a place where you can combine architectural appreciation with a connection to nature and local history.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit