Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of Tenerife, located in the western Canary Islands.  A bustling destination with a local population of a couple hundred thousand, its docks represent a mix of trade and tourism in cruise ships and cargo carriers.  Of the many sites of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the most magnetic ones define the city—the exotic parks, idyllic beaches, and heritage-rich musea and monuments.

Loro Parque is an extremely popular draw, its enormous collection of tropical gardens and zoological curios bringing in visitors from all over.  Perhaps the most alluring element of Loro would be its collection of parrots, the largest such in the world.

The Iglesia de La Concepcion is acclaimed for its storage of religious art, while the Iglesia de San Francisco and the Palacio de Carta contain numerous Baroque masterpieces.

The Museo Militar was built quite recently, in the eighties, and is a leading focal point for international cartography.  It also boasts exhibits artifacts that pertain to Lord Nelson’s failed invasion of the island in 1797.  In addition, there is more national military history explored, explained, and preserved at this museum, as well as some famous oil and watercolor works.

For a full list of Santa Cruz attractions, try checking here.