What to Do in Just One Day in Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain

Cruise Port Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain

The port city of Santa Cruz de la Palma sits on the east coast of the Spanish Canary Island of La Palma. Known for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and surrounding volcanoes, it’s a common stopover for Atlantic cruises. The cruise port is centrally located right in town, making for an easy visit during a short port call.

How to Provide Transportation in Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain Cruise Port?

Can I Walk From Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain Cruise Port to City Center?

Santa Cruz de la Palma’s compact size and flat terrain make the city center very walkable right from the cruise port. Simply stroll straight up Calle O’Daly and you’ll quickly reach the main plazas and sights around town. The attractive waterfront Avenida Maritima is also just steps away. With the quaint colonial streets full of shops and restaurants, walking is one of the best ways to experience Santa Cruz de la Palma during your brief visit.

If you need to go a little farther, taxis and buses are available near the port. There are also mini-trains leaving from the port on sightseeing tours of the city’s top attractions. But with the proximity to the historic heart of Santa Cruz de la Palma, it’s easy to get around the scenic streets on foot straight from your cruise ship.

What are the nearest attractions to Santa Cruz de la Palma Cruise Port

Visit the Balconies of Avenida Maritima

The pastel-colored balconied buildings along the seaside Avenida Maritima are some of the most photographed spots in town. Take a stroll along the beachfront promenade right by the port to admire the rows of flowers and intricate woodwork embellishing the facades. Pop into the cafes and restaurants on the ground floor to do some prime people-watching.

Visit Calle O'Daly

Just one block up from the port you'll find Santa Cruz de la Palma's famous pedestrian street, lined with colonial architecture and shops. It's one of the prettiest streets in town, with covered wooden balconies overhead as you browse boutiques and art galleries. Stop at one of the cozy cafes for a break.

Island Museum of La Palma

Located in a 16th century house, this museum offers an overview of La Palma's history and culture. Exhibits highlight topics like traditional Canary Island architecture, embroidery, pirate attacks, and the sugar trade. Just a short walk inland from the port, it provides useful context on the island's past.

Places to Visit in Santa Cruz de la Palma

Calle Real

For more sights of Santa Cruz de la Palma's postcard-perfect colonial architecture, stroll along Calle Real. This inviting pedestrian street is lined with historic mansions, churches, and convents. Don't miss the brightly colored facades of 17th century Casa Salazar and Casa Cabrera.

Naval Museum - Ship of the Virgin

Moored in Santa Cruz de la Palma's port is this replica 15th century Spanish caravel, modeled after the ships Columbus used in his New World explorations. Costumed guides provide information on the vessel, which also houses exhibits on maritime history.

San Francisco Church

Built in 1580, the Iglesia de San Francisco is Santa Cruz de la Palma's most prominent church. The whitewashed exterior and vaulted interior are beautifully maintained. Climb the bell tower for sweeping views over the city.

Los Tilos Biosphere Reserve

Just under an hour's drive through La Palma's interior leads to this protected laurel forest. Walking trails wind past mossy trees and cascading waterfalls. It provides a nice contrast to the coastal city on a quick day trip.

With its postcard-perfect colonial architecture, laidback seaside vibe, and manageable size, Santa Cruz de la Palma can easily be seen in a single port stop. The central location of the cruise terminal right in town makes it effortless to soak up scenic sights on foot in just a day.

FAQs

Where is Santa Cruz de la Palma Cruise Port located?

The cruise port is situated right on the Avenida Maritima seaside promenade in the heart of Santa Cruz de la Palma on the eastern coast of La Palma Island.

What cruise lines visit Santa Cruz de la Palma Cruise Port?

Cruise lines calling on the port include Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Pullmantur Cruises, Windstar Cruises, and Crystal Cruises.

How far is the port from the center?

Santa Cruz de la Palma's compact colonial center is just steps away from the port, easily reachable on foot.