The 10 best churches in La Orotava

Definitely recommend a visit here and learn more about the local history. It’s quite small so you won’t need more than 30 minutes, unless you plan to buy something at the gift store.

Built back in 1632, this charming house once belonged to a wealthy family and is a perfect example of traditional Canarian architecture. Its famous carved wooden balconies are a true symbol of La Orotava — you just can’t miss them. Today, it’s a museum where you can step into the everyday life of people from the 17th to 19th centuries. I was pleasantly surprised by how many rooms there are and how carefully everything has been preserved. Each corner is full of little details — from the bedroom and dining room to the vintage bathroom and kitchen, which especially caught my eye. Walking through the house, you just want to slow down and take in every piece — from the furniture to the smallest decorations. The visit takes about 30 minutes, but these half an hour will take you on a real journey back in time. If you’re ever in La Orotava — I highly recommend stopping by! By the way, the balconies here are more than just beautiful. In traditional Canarian architecture, balconies helped protect homes from the sun and rain, served as spaces for socializing, and even reflected the family’s status. That’s why they’re so elaborate and iconic — they truly define the character of this house and the city. Plus — it’s such a photogenic spot! From the detailed woodwork to the charming old rooms and cozy courtyard, this place is perfect if you’re looking for unique and atmospheric photos.

The Casa de los Balcones, located in the historic center of La Orotava, Tenerife, is an architectural jewel of the seventeenth century that stands out for its elaborate carved wood balconies and its charming interior patio. Built in 1632, this manor house houses a museum that offers an authentic vision of the life of the noble families of the time, with rooms decorated with original furniture and exhibitions of traditional Canarian handicrafts, such as calados and embroidery. In addition, it has craft workshops in operation and a store where you can buy local products. It is an essential visit for those who wish to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Tenerife.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ La Casa de los Balcones is a beautiful step back in time. This 17th-century Canarian mansion is famous for its carved wooden balconies, but what really makes it special is how it shows life in Tenerife centuries ago. Inside, you can walk through rooms furnished as they would have been in the past, see traditional crafts, and get a feel for how wealthy families lived here. Built in 1632, the house belonged to the Méndez-Fonseca family and later became a symbol of La Orotava’s rich cultural heritage. Today it’s part museum, part cultural center, with exhibitions of Canarian embroidery, traditional costumes, and everyday tools. The courtyard filled with plants is stunning, and the craftsmanship in the woodwork is incredible. It’s not a long visit, but it’s a must if you’re in La Orotava. For a small entrance fee, you leave with a real sense of Tenerife’s history and traditions, and it’s a great complement to exploring the town’s old streets.

Beautiful building in the heart of La Orotava and at only €6 per person entry well worth it. Scan the bar code upon entry for a free online tour with descriptions of all rooms and there are descriptions on the wall outside each room in Spanish and English. They also have a shop selling local artisan goods as well as postcards etc. As La Oratava is only 15 minutes by bus from Puerto de la Cruz and only €1.45 per person each way it would be a shame not to visit.

A very cozy, ancient place. Immerse yourself in the past and see the life of the 18th century.

Although we didn't have time to visit the museum, the building itself is impressive from the road side

We stopped by for a quick drink and maybe a small bite. The location is lovely with a nice view, and the atmosphere was relaxed. However, the service left a bit to be desired. Our table didn’t have a menu, and when we asked for one, the waitress simply told us to check the one at the entrance—despite other tables clearly having their own. Two of our drink orders also came out incorrectly. That said, the setting itself is quite pleasant, and it could be a nice spot if the service improves.

Great place for a coffee and pastry. The view and garden are beautiful.

What a beautiful cafe bar/restaurant in the most stunning setting. Such a lovely place to enjoy a relaxing drink. The staff friendly and efficient. We didn't try the food but will if in the area again. Lots of seating areas inside and out. Can't wait to return.

Beautiful garden and house. You can enter freely and see the staircase and one room. There is supposed to be a café, but it must have been in one of the locked rooms. So not always open.

Gorgeous terrace, but lacking service. We came here for a coffee, but no one came to wait us, there was no menu even when I asked for one at the bar. Coffee was decent, though.

Cafe-restaurant on a city hill in Orotava, with a very wide and long view and a terrace. Beautiful gardens on premise and nearby. Nice service ♥️. Inside seating available for colder days. They even have some gluten-free items. The building is also home to occasional exhibitions and art events.

5⭐ is for architecture, ancient interior and beautiful garden.

Authentic, delicious food, in a small but characteristic setting. You feel like you are going into the family home, back in history and the grandma is cooking for you. The service from Ivan is impeccable, professional, friendly, polite, the best! Highly recommend, also is so good value for money! We spent £25 each, we left with full belly and merry from the good wine 😃 Thank you Ivan and family! Grazie

It was our first stop over right after landing in Tenerife! The son was amazing in serving us. The food was fantastic. The rabbit and the chicken were the favorites. Perfect combination for those who are adventurous and for those who wants something familiar. My dad said it was the best rabbit he ever had and was delighted because he loves rabbit and has not found a good place to have it until we ate here! It was one of the highlights of our trip.

Absolutely phenomenal food, about we authentic as possible. We had to wait for roughly 20 mins as it is quite a small place, but it was so worth it. It really is like you are visiting your friend and his grandmother is making you her best food. Service was amazing too, we were treated so well. They were all so friendly, gave us excellent drinks recommendations and moved us to a comfier table as soon as one became available. If we are ever back in Tenerife, we will most certainly get food here again.

Amazing food, service and really decent price! Tge Rabbit and desserta were the highlights!

Best croquettes in Tenerife! This is the second year we visit this lovely restaurant in La Orotava, and it never disappoints. The croquettes are simply outstanding – creamy inside, perfectly crispy outside – probably the best you can find on the island. The menu offers a variety of delicious homemade dishes, prepared with the warmth and authenticity of a true Spanish mama. Portions are generous, prices are very fair, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. A real gem if you want to experience genuine Canarian and Spanish flavors!

Probably the best authentic family run Canarian restaurant on Tenerife. We have been coming here for many years, it has always been fantastic, nothing changes. An amazing place to visit, no frills just good honest food and friendly staff. We love them like family.

The food was super tasty! You should stop to eat at this place. We had the rabbit stew, the croquet and the grilled cheese. ! And very nice and friendly service. Family run! They have many vegetarian options aNd the food is homemade❤️

A pretty church looking quite grand over the plaza. It looks quite plain on the inside compared to some, but has beautiful wooden altars beautifully painted and the door is really nice too. It is in very good state of repair and entry is free. It stands next to an old convent and the views of the plaza go down to the sea. The plaza has bars/cafes and plenty of seating

My experience visiting was mixed. I had been looking forward to stepping inside and seeing the famous altarpiece and Mudejar ceilings, but unfortunately the church was closed when I arrived. Standing in front of the locked doors was disappointing, especially after making the effort to walk up through the historic streets. The exterior is beautiful and worth a look, but I left with the feeling of having missed the heart of the place. If you plan to visit, I recommend checking the opening times in advance to avoid the same frustration.

The corner façade in front of you joins the San Agustín Church, on the left, with the former convent of Nuestra Señora de Gracia, which is currently the San Agustín Culture House. The Augustinians started to build this convent and the adjoining church in the late 17thcentury, on the hill occupied until then by the San Roque Chapel. The church suffered serious structural damage and was plundered of much of its works of art and altarpieces in the 19th century, after the Spanish Confiscation. A complete restoration was carried out recently that restored part of its original splendour. Look at the great height of the perimeter walls of this temple, which added to its elevated location, make this church visible from almost all of La Orotava. It’s an attempt at religious pomp tied to the typical ideology of the Augustinian order, which enjoyed the support of La Orotava's wealthy families. A highlight on the facade is its central portal with two bodies, made in stone in a classicist cut. You can see sumptuous ceilings inside. To the right of the church you can see the former Augustinian convent, which after the Spanish Confiscation was converted into a military barracks, causing irreparable damage to its cloister. In the eighties, it underwent another remodelling to become a House of Culture. The only original element of the building is the three-story millstone façade that culminates in a baroque style bell tower. In the middle level, you can find a typical Canarian window crowned by the Augustinian symbol of a heart pierced by the charity arrow, carved in white marble. On the sides, you can see two other reliefs with references to the Virgin Mary and Saint Augustine.

Jesus statue is interesting: looks like the catholic version of The Thinker. Dark in an ancient way. Cute, not too fancy.

Very nice village on the sea shore

Nice but closed ať time of Our visit

Medium sized church but with a very affordable guided tour (spanish or english) of the churche's treasure: a collection of items, religious clothes, silver and gold items and several statues. Very narrow opening times: 10:00 to 13:00, closes on mondays.

(Translated by Google) It was built in the mid-16th century by Captain Juan Monteverde Van Dalley Espino and his wife Marlana de Molina. This building marks the history of the town of La Orotava for having been the cradle of the tradition of flower carpets on the path to Blessed Sacrament during the heads of Corpus Christi (Original) Elle fut construite à la moitié du XVIl siècle par le capitaine Juan Monteverde Van Dalley Espino et son épouse Marlana de Molina. Ce bâtiment marque l'histoire de la vile de La Orotava pour avoir été le berceau de la tradition des tapis de fleurs sur le chemin du Saint Sacrement pendant les têtes du Corpus Christi

(Translated by Google) Beautiful place, beautiful houses with beautiful facades. The descriptions on the tour with QR codes are particularly helpful (Original) Schöner Ort, schöne Häuser mit schönen Fassaden. Besonders hilfreich die Beschreibungen beim Rundgang mit QR-Codes

Very pretty church! Don't miss it if visiting La Laguna. We were a bit disappointed that it was closed though!

There has been a small church here since the Conquista at the end of the 15th century. A second church was built in the 16th century on the same site. The current building, which has been granted the category of National Monument, was built in the 18th century after the Güímar earthquakes. The façade is one of the most interesting baroque portals of the Canary Islands. Let's pause for a moment to admire the church's exterior. Note the curved façade that divides the temple's naves and the elegant stone portal. The clock and bell towers arise in the background. Together, the façade and the towers accentuate the church's verticality, projecting a sense of roundness and elevation. A sensation of movement is added with the serpentine cornice and the curve that forms the three naves. The impressive gargoyles influenced by medieval bestiaries and Native American sculptures also accentuate the sensation of movement, unease and unrest.

Comparatively to Tenerife, it is a very large and unique church, compared to other churches in Europe, it is quite "ordinary". It is one of the special attractions in Ortoba and worth spending a few minutes to visit, of course Christians could always pray here

Since it was Ash Wednesday and I had a very short time in the city, because of my flight, I decided to stop by a church to pray since I could not make it to a full mass. Upon entering, two women informed me there was a €2 fee. While not much, I found it odd to pay to pray. They calmly explained the policy, I was willing regardless to pay, but then they claimed I wasn’t really there to pray—an unnecessary and rude judgment. They suggested other churches around instead. Visitors should be treated with respect, without assumptions. This is not the welcoming Catholic Church I know.

Nice baroque church in la orotava. Definitely worth a visit if your in la orotava.

A gorgeous church with unique features and history. HOWEVER, the real thing you need to look out for is the little door over to the right of the altar. At certain times of day you can pass through this door and into the Museum of Treasures, which is BRILLIANT. We happened upon it just as we were on our way to the airport, but I'm so glad we had a bit of time to spare, because the guide locked the door and took us on a ravishing trip around the unseen treasures of the building; through hidden doors and up winding stairs. The collection of vestments is particularly fabulous, where you can get right up and see the sequins and detail. Also the room of sculptures where you learn about shifting tastes and protocol around the iconography. The guide (I'm so sorry I don't remember her name) was knowledgeable (way beyond just the collection she was showing us), personable, funny and gregarious. We had the best time and would recommend it in a heartbeat. Thank you!

Very beautiful church, the best in Tenerife

(Translated by Google) Church closed during our visit (Original) Eglise fermée lors de notre passage

(Translated by Google) Very good Church, better to go during Holy Week or one of its festivities. (Original) Muy buena Iglesia, mejor acudir en Semana Santa o en alguna de sus festividades.

Big old church that still maintains the atmosphere of an old town church

(Translated by Google) As many have already described, I can only say that it's ideal for meditation and reflection. Very peaceful, with Gregorian chant in the background and peaceful wooden ceilings. In short, it's worth a visit. (Original) Cómo ya muchos la han descrito, me queda decir que para meditar y reflexionar es ideal, muy tranquila, con música gregoriana de fondo, techos de madera que dan paz. En fin merece la pena su visita

(Translated by Google) Beautiful church that, in its day, belonged to a convent complex belonging to the Augustinian order until the confiscation, by Royal Decree of 1837, which authorized the government to allocate the suppressed convent buildings to public utility establishments, although it should be noted that at this point, the community of Augustinian monks was practically extinct, the convent becoming a Town Hall and the church becoming dependent on the parish of Santa Catherine of Alexandria Martyr. Towards the middle of the 17th century, the square convent was built around a central courtyard, two stories high with thick whitewashed walls, and the interior cloister with a double colonnaded gallery on its four fronts. The current sanctuary of Cristo de los Dolores was built around the year 1664. Around this time, master Domingo Rodríguez was working on the construction of the naves of the church of Santa Catalina. It is not strange that he was hired to build the new church of the convent of San Agustín. The church has a basilica plan with three naves with its roofs closed by a single roof, four sections, a rectangular main chapel and sacristy with direct access to the presbytery and the convent cloister. In the elevation, the pseudo-Doric columns rest on a cubic base, smooth shaft and abacus with a projecting profile; Four modillions in the corners, with the character of corbels, establish the passage from the capital to the abacus, from which the semicircular arches start, turned with moldings on the front and on the intrados. At the foot of the church, the arches are reduced and the half-rounds of the columns are attached to the filler wall. Above the three naves of this first section is the high choir, which is entered through the upper gallery of the convent. At the entrance to the presbytery, the columns with dead flutes stand out, the abacus thickens and, above it, a piece of entablature is placed, as in the baroque of the Andalusian cathedrals. The walls are whitewashed, except for the main façade, which is carved in stone. (Original) Preciosa iglesia que, en su día, perteneció a un conjunto conventual perteneciente a la orden de los agustinos hasta la desamortización, por Real decreto de 1837, que autorizaba al gobierno para destinar a establecimientos de utilidad pública los edificios conventos suprimidos, aunque hay que señalar que a estas alturas, la comunidad de monjes agustinos estaba prácticamente extinta, convirtiéndose el convento en Casa Consistorial y la iglesia pasó a depender de la parroquia de Santa Catalina de Alejandría Mártir. Hacia mediados del siglo XVII se edificó el convento de planta cuadrada en torno a un patio central, alzado de dos pisos con gruesos muros encalados, y el claustro interior de doble galería columnada en sus cuatro frentes. El actual santuario del Cristo de los Dolores se construyó hacia el año 1664. Por estas fechas, el maestro Domingo Rodríguez estaba trabajando en la construcción de las naves de la iglesia de Santa Catalina. No es extraño que se le contratase para hacer la nueva iglesia del convento de San Agustín. La iglesia tiene planta basilical de tres naves con sus cubiertas cerradas por un solo tejado, cuatro tramos, capilla mayor rectangular y sacristía con acceso directo al presbiterio y al claustro conventual. En el alzado, las columnas pseudodóricas descansan sobre basamento cúbico, fuste liso y ábaco de perfil saliente; cuatro modillones en las esquinas, con carácter de ménsulas, establecen el paso del capitel al ábaco, del que arrancan los arcos de medio punto, volteados con molduras en el frente y en el intradós. A los pies de la iglesia, se reducen los arcos y las medias cañas de las columnas se adosan a la pared de relleno. Sobre las tres naves de este primer tramo se sitúa el coro alto, al que se entra por la galería superior del convento. En la entrada al presbiterio, se resaltan las columnas con estrías muertas, el ábaco se engrosa y, sobre él, se coloca un trozo de entablamento, como en el barroco de las catedrales andaluzas. Los muros van encalados, excepto la fachada principal, labrada en piedra.

(Translated by Google) The sanctuary of the Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores, and next to it, the former convent of los Padres Agustinos Calzados (Original) Le sanctuaire du Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores, et à ses côtés, l'ancien couvent de los Padres Agustinos Calzados

(Translated by Google) Located in the historic center of Tacoronte, a large pedestrian plaza. The Christ of Sorrows and the Agony, as he is commonly called, is the patron saint of Tacoronte and his image and his cult are in charge of the Brotherhood of the Holy Christ of Sorrows of Tacoronte. The carving of the Tacorontero Christ is attributed to the sculptor Domingo de Rioja, being a carving from the 17th century, it is the second most venerated Christ in the Canary Archipelago after the Holy Christ of La Laguna. The ceilings and coffered ceilings are truly typical Canarian beauty from that time. You breathe silence, peace and harmony. Full of flowers for your festive moment, everything is placed in great detail. (Original) Ubicado en el casco histótico de Tacoronte una gran plaza peatonal. El Cristo de Los Dolores y la agonía, como comúnmente se le llama, es el patrono de Tacoronte y de su imagen y su culto se encarga la Hermandad del Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores de Tacoronte. La talla del Cristo tacorontero se le atribuye al escultor Domingo de Rioja siendo una talla del siglo XVII, es la segundo Cristo más venerado del Archipiélago Canario tras el Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna. Los techos y el artesonado son una auténtica belleza típica canaria, de esa época. Se respira silencio, paz y armonía. Lleno de flores para su momento festivo, todo está colocado con todo detalle.

(Translated by Google) The Ex-Convent of San Agustín and Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores y Agonía de Tacoronte, located in the municipality of Tacoronte, island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain), is made up of a series of buildings that constitute a perfectly defined block and buildings that are located around the front plaza, through which the old convent and temple have their main entrance. It currently houses the House of Culture. (Original) El Exconvento de San Agustín y Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores y Agonía de Tacoronte, situado en el término municipal de Tacoronte, isla de Tenerife (Canarias, España), está formado por una serie de construcciones que constituyen una manzana perfectamente definida y las edificaciones que se ubican en torno a la plaza delantera, por la que el antiguo convento y templo tienen la entrada principal. Actualmente acoge la Casa de la Cultura.

(Translated by Google) It's a place that I like a lot. It is beautiful and its surroundings and bars are highly recommended. (Original) Es un lugar q me gusta mucho. Es precioso y su entorno y bares muy recomendables.