Puerto de la Cruz is the main town on Tenerife's green northern coast, set at the foot of the Orotava valley with Mount Teide rising behind it. It has been attracting visitors since the 19th century and has a warmth and character that the purpose-built southern resorts lack. The old harbour, the tree-lined streets around Plaza del Charco, and the Lago Martiánez lido designed by César Manrique give it a sense of place that feels genuinely Canarian rather than generically tourist.
The town makes an excellent base for exploring the north. The Jardín Botánico is among the oldest in the Canaries, Loro Parque is one of Europe's best zoos, and the Orotava valley above town is spectacular. The Museo Arqueológico offers the best introduction to the pre-Hispanic Guanche culture on the island. The Anaga mountains are an easy drive to the east, offering hiking through ancient laurel forests with views down to hidden beaches.