The Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the busiest cruise ports in the Canary Islands, welcoming cruise ships, ferries and cargo vessels. Conveniently located in the heart of Santa Cruz, the island’s capital, it makes a perfect starting point for exploring both the city and the rest of Tenerife. Thanks to its central location, travellers have easy access to several transport options directly from the port. For Santa Cruz Tenerife port transfers, buses (TITSA), the tram to La Laguna, taxis, private transfers and car hire are all within easy reach of the terminal.
Main Transport Options from the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- On foot: Many of Santa Cruz’s top attractions are within walking distance of the port, including Plaza de España, shopping streets, and city parks.
- By bus (TITSA): The most affordable way to travel around the island. For the Santa Cruz Tenerife port bus, head to the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife — the main bus station near the port and the central hub for services across Tenerife.
- By tram (Tranvía de Tenerife): A modern and convenient option connecting Santa Cruz with the historic city of La Laguna. Tram stops are located in the city centre, within walking distance of the port.
- By taxi: A fast and comfortable choice, perfect for those travelling with luggage or short on time. Taxi ranks are always available right outside the port.
- Private transfer: A pre-booked service offering maximum comfort, with a driver meeting you directly at the port and taking you to your hotel or resort.
- Car hire: Ideal if you want the freedom to explore Tenerife at your own pace. Car rental offices are available throughout Santa Cruz, including several close to the port.
Public Transport and Taxis: Need-to-Know
Below, you’ll find detailed instructions on getting from Santa Cruz Port to each of the island’s most popular destinations. How to use Tenerife’s buses and tram — where to check schedules, what it costs, and how to pay — explained in our public transport guide.
1. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to the Southern Resorts (Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje)
These resorts are the island’s main tourist hubs, located on Tenerife’s sunny south coast.
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz, take bus 110 (express, fewer stops) or 111 to the south.
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 1 hour–1 hour 15 minutes to Los Cristianos/Playa de las Américas, add 5–10 minutes for Costa Adeje.
- Fare: About €9.70–€10 to the southern resorts.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: Most services terminate at Estación Costa Adeje (main bus station). Bus 111 also stops on the edge of Playa de las Américas at “Magma Arte & Congresos.” These express routes don’t enter central Los Cristianos or the core of Las Américas (stops such as El Camisón, Zentral Center, Columbus). For those, change at Estación Costa Adeje to the local 467 (or take a short taxi).
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks in the port area.
- Journey time: About 45–60 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €90–€120.
2. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to San Cristóbal de La Laguna
La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is just a few kilometres from Santa Cruz and is famous for its historic old town, university, and colonial architecture.
- By tram (Metrotenerife)
- Line: L1 is the direct line linking Santa Cruz and La Laguna.
- Nearest stops to the port: The nearest tram stops to the port are “Fundación” or “Weyler” (10–15 minutes’ walk from the port or a short taxi ride).
- Journey time: About 30–40 minutes.
- Fare: About €1.80.
- Tickets: Use the ticket machines at the stop (pay by card or cash), or pay with a Ten+ card; validate when boarding.
- Arrival stop: In La Laguna, alight at “La Trinidad” for the historic centre, or at La Laguna bus station (Intercambiador de La Laguna).
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz, several buses serve La Laguna, including routes 15, 102, 104, and 108.
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 15–25 minutes.
- Fare: About €1.20–€1.50.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: La Laguna bus station (Intercambiador de La Laguna).
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks right outside the cruise terminal.
- Journey time: About 15–20 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €18–€25.
3. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is one of the most popular resorts in the north of Tenerife, known for its beaches, gardens, and relaxed atmosphere.
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station), frequent buses 102, 103, and 104 run to Puerto de la Cruz.
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 35–50 minutes, depending on the route.
- Fare: About €5.20–€6.50.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: The main stop is the Puerto de la Cruz Bus Station (Estación de Guaguas de Puerto de la Cruz).
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks in the port area.
- Journey time: About 30–45 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €45–€60.
4. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to Candelaria
Candelaria is Tenerife’s most important religious centre, home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, dedicated to the island’s patron saint.
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz, take buses 120 or 122 to Candelaria.
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 25–35 minutes.
- Fare: About €2–€3.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: The main stop is the Candelaria Bus Station (Estación de Guaguas de Candelaria).
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks in the port.
- Journey time: About 20–30 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €35–€50.
5. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to Tenerife North Airport (TNF)
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station), take buses 20, 104, or 108 to Tenerife North Airport (TNF).
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 20–30 minutes.
- Fare: About €2.65–€2.95.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: Tenerife North Airport (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte – TFN), outside the terminal.
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks at the port.
- Journey time: About 15–20 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €20–€30.
6. How to Get from Santa Cruz Port to Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
- By bus (TITSA)
- Routes: From the Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, take Route 10 (AeroExpress), Route 111, or the night service 711 to Aeropuerto de Tenerife Sur (TFS).
- Boarding point: Intercambiador de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (main bus station).
- Journey time: About 50 minutes on Route 10; about 1 hour 15 minutes on Routes 111/711.
- Fare: About €9.70.
- Tickets: Buy from the driver (carry small notes and coins), from ticket machines at bus stations, or use a Ten+ card for discounted fares.
- Arrival stop: Tenerife South Airport (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Sur – TFS), outside the terminal.
- By taxi
- Where to board: Taxi ranks at the port.
- Journey time: About 40–50 minutes.
- Typical fare: About €90–€100.
Private Transfers from the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
A private transfer from Santa Cruz Port offers the most comfortable and stress-free way of getting around the island. Transfers can be booked via your hotel or via specialist providers such as KiwiTaxi or Welcome Pickups.
- Price: Costs depend on distance and vehicle type. For example, transfers are typically €25–€40 to La Laguna, €45–€65 to Puerto de la Cruz, and €90–€120 to the southern resorts or airports.
- Advantages: Your driver will meet you right outside the cruise terminal with a name board, assist with your luggage, and take you directly to your destination without stops. This is a good option for families, larger groups, or travellers looking for maximum convenience.
Enter your hotel or town to get a private transfer quote and see available vehicle options:
Car Hire at the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
If you want the freedom to explore Tenerife at your own pace, hiring a car is one of the best options.
- Where to hire: We strongly recommend booking in advance. There is a CICAR office located directly at the cruise port. International car hire companies are more commonly found at Tenerife North (TFN) and Tenerife South (TFS) airports, as well as in the main resort areas. Some agencies may also offer delivery to the cruise terminal if arranged in advance.
- Price: Rates vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and rental duration.
On average, expect rates from €12–€20 per day in the low season and €30–€45+ per day in peak season for standard vehicles. - Tip: Parking in Santa Cruz city centre is often limited and chargeable. If you’re planning to explore the city first, it may be more convenient to collect your car later from the bus station or another city location.
We hope this guide helps you plan your onward journey smoothly from Santa Cruz de Tenerife Port — and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful Canary Island!
Useful links:
- Official Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife website: Puerto de Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Puertos de Tenerife;
- TITSA bus timetables and routes: Titsa – Official website;
- Metrotenerife tram timetables and routes: Metrotenerife – Official website;
- Private transfers from Tenerife South Airport (TFS) with meet-and-greet, fixed fares and a choice of vehicles: KiwiTaxi and Welcome Pickups;
- A global car hire comparison and booking platform, letting you compare prices and availability from both international brands and trusted local firms in one place: Rentalcars.com.
👉 Before you go, browse our full Tenerife travel guide for practical tips on when to go, where to stay and getting around, and check our curated list of must-see Tenerife attractions to plan your days.