- Location of Tenerife
- Tenerife and the Canary Islands
- Introduction to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Districts of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- About the Venue (INSTITUTO ESPAÑOL DE OCEANOGRAFÍA)
- Getting to Tenerife
- Visa Requirements
- Getting from the Airport to Santa Cruz
- Catering during the Event
- Accommodation
- Currency
- Climate in October
- Useful Travel Tips
Location of Tenerife
Tenerife and the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, known for their year-round sunshine, diverse landscapes, and unique blend of Spanish and island culture. With everything from black sand beaches and volcanic craters to lush forests and world-class stargazing.
Our event will take place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife on the island of Tenerife, the largest island, home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.
Introduction to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, commonly known as Santa Cruz, is a major city and the capital of both the island of Tenerife and the Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It also shares the title of capital of the Canary Islands. Santa Cruz has a population of 206,593 within its administrative boundaries, and the urban area extends beyond the city limits, encompassing a population of 507,306, with 538,000 in the greater urban area. It is the second-largest city in the Canary Islands and the main city on Tenerife, with nearly half of the island’s population living in or around it.
Situated in the northeast quadrant of Tenerife, Santa Cruz lies 210 kilometers off the northwestern coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. The nearest point on mainland Spain is 1,300 kilometers away. From the 1833 territorial division of Spain until 1927, Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands. In 1927, a decree ordered that the capital be shared, a status that remains today.
Santa Cruz’s port is a vital communications hub between Europe, Africa, and the Americas, with cruise ships arriving from many nations. The city serves as the focal point for domestic and inter-island communications in the Canary Islands. It is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of the Presidency, half of the Ministries and Boards of the Canarian Government, the Tenerife Provincial Courts, and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. Several faculties of La Laguna University are located in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty.
The harbor is one of Spain’s busiest, crucial for commercial and passenger traffic, and a major stopover for cruise ships en route from Europe to the Caribbean. The city is renowned for hosting one of the world’s largest carnivals, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which aspires to become a World Heritage Site and is the second largest in the world.
Key landmarks in Santa Cruz include the Auditorio de Tenerife, the Santa Cruz Towers, and the Iglesia de la Concepción. The city hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canary Islands. Recent years have seen the construction of numerous modern structures, giving Santa Cruz the sixth tallest skyline in Spain, behind Madrid, Benidorm, Barcelona, Valencia, and Bilbao.
Districts of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz is a lively, walkable city with a relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and a strong connection to the sea. You’ll find a blend of historic sites, art galleries, cafés, shops, and green spaces—all easily accessible from the city center.
Key areas you may wish to explore during your free time:
Centro (City Center)
- The heart of the city, where you’ll find Plaza de España, García Sanabria Park, and a wide selection of shops along Calle del Castillo.
- A great area for cafés, restaurants, and evening strolls.
- Notable landmarks include the Auditorio de Tenerife, an architectural icon near the seafront.
Anaga District
- Extending into the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Ideal for those seeking outdoor activities, with scenic hiking trails and traditional Canarian villages.
- The nearby Playa de Las Teresitas, a golden sand beach, offers a perfect spot for relaxation.
We encourage you to take some time to enjoy the city’s friendly atmosphere, discover its unique cultural heritage, and experience the natural beauty surrounding Santa Cruz.
We hope your time here is both productive and memorable!
About the Venue (INSTITUTO ESPAÑOL DE OCEANOGRAFÍA)
The Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO) is Spain’s national oceanographic research institute, founded in 1914 by Odón de Buen with the mission of advancing marine science and understanding of the oceans. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the IEO operates the Centro Oceanográfico de Canarias, located at Calle La Farola del Mar nº 22 in the Dársena Pesquera area of the port. This center is strategically positioned to support research across the Atlantic and the surrounding Canary Islands waters.
The Tenerife facilities include modern laboratories for biological, chemical, and physical oceanography, a specialized fishery research department, and resources for studying marine ecosystems, climate impacts, and biodiversity. The center also supports several research vessels that conduct regular surveys and oceanographic campaigns around the archipelago. Additionally, it houses aquaculture experimental units and is equipped with advanced systems for remote sensing, satellite data analysis, and marine monitoring.
The Centro Oceanográfico de Canarias plays a key role in regional projects, including fisheries assessments crucial for sustainable management, long-term ocean observation programs, and international collaborations. It also contributes to public education and outreach, fostering greater understanding of marine science within the local community and beyond. The IEO’s presence in Tenerife underscores Spain’s commitment to marine conservation and cutting-edge oceanographic research in the Atlantic basin.
Location of the Institute
The Centro Oceanográfico de Canarias, part of the Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), is conveniently located just outside the city center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the Dársena Pesquera area. The facility is approximately a 10–15 minute drive from most central hotels, making it easily accessible for conference delegates.
Address:
Calle La Farola del Mar nº 22
Dársena Pesquera
38180 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Please note that delegates are responsible for making their own way to the IEO each day of the conference. We recommend arranging transport in advance to ensure timely arrival.
Getting to Tenerife
The nearest airports to Santa Cruze de Tenerife are Tenerife North Airport (TFN) and Tenerife South Airport (TFS).
Getting to Tenerife from North America:
- No direct flights to Tenerife from North America, but connections are easy via major European hubs:
- Fly to Madrid, Barcelona, or London from cities like New York, Toronto, or Miami, then transfer to a direct flight to Tenerife North (TFN) or Tenerife South (TFS).
- Airlines: Iberia, British Airways, Lufthansa (via partner airlines), Air France.
Getting to Tenerife from Europe:
- Direct flights available from most major cities in Europe
- Airlines: Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, Iberia, TUI, Condo
Getting to Tenerife from Asia:
- Travel typically requires two connections:
- Major hubs like Doha (Qatar Airways) or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines) connect to Madrid or London, where you can take a direct flight to Tenerife.
Visa Requirements
The Canary Islands are part of Spain and the Schengen Area, so the same visa and entry rules apply as for mainland Spain.
It is your responsibility to check current Visa requirements and information given below is given as a guide (25/04/2025)
No Visa Required
Citizens of the following can visit the Canary Islands without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits (up to 90 days in any 180-day period):
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens (can travel freely and stay indefinitely)
- UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- Most Latin American countries (e.g. Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Mexico)
- Japan, South Korea, Israel, UAE, and other visa-exempt countries
⚠️ Starting in 2025, citizens of visa-exempt countries (like the UK and US) will need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization before arrival. It’s a quick online form with a small fee.
Visa Required
Citizens of many African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries (e.g., India, Pakistan, Nigeria, China, South Africa) require a Schengen visa to visit the Canary Islands.
If you already have a valid Schengen visa, it is valid for entry to the Canary Islands.
Other Special Requirements
- Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure and issued within the last 10 years.
- Travel insurance: Required for Schengen visa applicants.
- Proof of accommodation/funds: Sometimes requested at border check
Getting from the Airport to Santa Cruz
From Tenerife North Airport (TFN):
- Taxi: A taxi ride to Santa Cruz de Tenerife takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Bus: The TITSA bus service (Line 102) runs from the airport to Santa Cruz de Tenerife and takes approximately 25 minutes.
- From Tenerife South Airport (TFS):
- Taxi: A taxi ride to Santa Cruz de Tenerife takes about 40-50 minutes.
- Bus: The TITSA bus service (Line 111) runs from the airport to Santa Cruz de Tenerife and takes about 60-75 minutes.
Here are some local Taxi/Transport Companies
Canarias.com
Comprehensive transport and vehicle hire services.
Contact: María de Francisco
📞 +34 922 792 919
📧 asistentedireccion@canarias.com
🌐 www.canarias.com
Barrera Chinea
Professional group transportation services with experience in event logistics.
Contact: Gustavo Suárez
📞 +34 922 611 684
📧 transportes@barrerachinea.com
🌐 www.barrerachinea.com
Transalex
Specialists in bus and coach transport for groups and events.
Contact: Alex González
📞 +34 922 611 684
📧 reservas@transalexbus.com
🌐 www.transalexbus.com
ALSA – Canary Shuttle
Reliable airport shuttle and private transfer services.
Contact: Alejandro de Juan
📞 +34 928 120 038
📧 alejandro.dejuan@alsa.es
🌐 www.canaryshuttle.com
Catering during the Event
Catering and local amenities will be confirmed closer to the event. For now, please plan for a self-catered day (e.g., bring a sandwich and drink).
Accommodation
NH Tenerife (3 stars)
Visit Website
A modern and comfortable hotel located in the heart of Santa Cruz. Perfect for guests who want to stay within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Hotel Colón Rambla (4 stars)
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Situated near the beautiful García Sanabria Park, this hotel offers elegant rooms, a relaxing outdoor pool, and lush gardens, providing a tranquil environment close to the city centre.
Hotel Taburiente (4 stars)
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A stylish hotel located next to García Sanabria Park, offering modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and a popular restaurant and bar — ideal for both business and leisure stays.
Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz (4 stars)
Visit Website
Located in the commercial district, this contemporary hotel features comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, and panoramic views from its upper floors. A great option for delegates wanting easy access to shopping areas.
Hotel Escuela Santa Cruz (4 stars)
Visit Website
This unique hotel doubles as a hospitality training centre and offers excellent service, spacious rooms, and a traditional Canarian restaurant. It is well-suited for visitors seeking an authentic local experience.
Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey (5 stars)
Visit Website
A luxurious 5-star hotel set in a stunning historic building, featuring lush gardens, a spa, and an outdoor pool. Perfect for delegates looking for a high-end, relaxing stay in an iconic Tenerife setting.
Hotel Adonis Pelinor (2 stars)
Visit Website
A budget-friendly option located in the city centre, offering simple, comfortable accommodations within walking distance of many local attractions.
INNSiDE by Meliá Tenerife Santa Cruz (4 stars)
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A vibrant, modern hotel offering stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and wellness facilities. Ideal for younger travelers and those seeking a contemporary stay with a dynamic atmosphere.
Currency
- Euro (€) is the local currency.
- Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments.
- ATMs are plentiful, especially near hotels and city centres.
Climate in October
- October is warm and sunny, perfect for both meetings and leisure.
- Average highs: 26°C (79°F)
- Average lows: 19°C (66°F)
- Sea temperature: ~24°C (75°F)
- Light clothing is ideal, with a light jacket for evening
Useful Travel Tips
- Time Zone: Western European Time (WET, same as London)
- Plugs: Type C and F (230V). Bring an adapter if traveling from outside Europe.
- Taxis & Transport:
- Taxis are reliable and reasonably priced.
- Buses (TITSA) are cheap and efficient—contactless payment accepted.
- Health & Safety: No vaccinations required. Tap water is safe to drink.
- Wi-Fi & SIM Cards:
- Hotels and venues offer free Wi-Fi.
- SIM cards from Orange, Vodafone, or Movistar are available at the airport and city stores.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated (round up or ~5-10% in restaurants