The Historic Quarter of La Laguna

The most important streets in the centre of La Laguna are pedestrianised. This allows you to roam them at leisure without worrying about the traffic. You will be glad of it when you realise the time it takes to explore it all.

The city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 and is considered a “unique example of an unwalled colonial city”. The original 15th century layout remains almost intact, just as it was depicted by Master Leonardo Torriani in his map of La Laguna. The city was also used as a template for the colonial cities founded in America, such as Old Havana, Lima and Cartagena, which is why their houses and streets looks so similar.

The city centre is very well-preserved, dotted with lovely buildings on all of its streets. It's a good idea to book one of the guided tours that will take you around the most emblematic buildings. You can also arrange your own tour and take it at your leisure.

The streets are bustling, full of shops, cafés and taverns, making it the perfect opportunity to do some shopping or have a replenishing drink, a snack or a wholesome meal. A list of the buildings you won't want to miss on your tour includes the refurbished Cathedral, the La Concepción church, the Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna Royal Sanctuary – which houses a figure of the Santísimo Cristo (Holy Christ) –, Plaza del Adelantado, the City Hall, Palacio de Nava and Casa de los Capitanes.