Introduction
San Cristóbal de La Laguna (usually simply called La Laguna) is an old town in the north of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands. The historical center of the former capital of the Canary Islands was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. In the years following many buildings in the old center were renovated.
Population
The city has over 135,000 inhabitants.
Location
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is located in the north of Tenerife, directly northwest of Santa Cruz, with which it forms one large urban center.
Economy
From way back the city is a trade center, although much of the commerce now takes place in nearby Santa Cruz. Northwest of the city tomatoes and bananas are grown. As on the rest of Tenerife tourism plays a principal role in local economy. Many people will look round the beautifully preserved historical center of La Laguna.
The city is also an educational center: 30,000 students go to the university of La Laguna.
Airports
The airport is stuck to the southern districts. This airport, Los Rodeos or Tenerife North, is mainly used for flights to other Canary Islands and the Spanish mainland, but there are also some flights with international destinations. The airport is easily reachable by rental car. The airport is situated right off the Autopista del Norte which crosses the southern districts of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
The main airport of Tenerife, Reina Sofia or Tenerife South, can be reached via the Autopista del Sur.
Public Transport
San Cristóbal de La Laguna has good public bus transportation. In general, busses also go to Santa Cruz. There is also a tram connection between the center of La Laguna and the bus station in Santa Cruz.
Traffic and Parking
Many streets in the historical center are closed for car traffic. Santa Cruz can also be very busy. You have to pay for street parking. Fortunately there are many parking lots and parking garages in and around the city center where you can safely park your car.
Hotels
San Cristóbal de La Laguna has a limited supply of accommodation. There aren't many hotels, and the rooms offered in private houses are often taken by students. You have more choice in Santa Cruz and of course along the popular tourist beaches of Tenerife. The island draws tourists all year round. It is therefore recommend booking your hotel room well in advance.
External Sources
For more information about San Cristóbal de La Laguna we recommend Google and the following sources: