Spain’s most beautiful street is in the Canary Islands:
The Canary Islands are home to what has been hailed as one of the most beautiful streets in Spain, Calle San Agustín, located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Tenerife). This historic avenue, blending colonial architecture, 18th-century palaces, and tropical gardens, has earned national recognition for its exquisite preservation and timeless charm.
Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, Calle San Agustín is a living testament to the island’s rich past. Originally known as Calle del Agua, the street was first paved in 1542 and later laid with volcanic stone tiles, enhancing its elegant, stately atmosphere.
Together with Calle La Carrera, it represents one of the best-preserved examples of historic Canarian architecture, with cobbled streets lined by centuries-old façades, wooden balconies, and lush courtyards.
Palaces and Noble Houses
The route begins beside the historic Casino of La Laguna, passing landmarks such as the house of the corsair Amaro Pargo and the Casa Van den Heede, built in 1725 by a Dutch merchant. With its carved wooden beams and cloistered patio, it embodies the refined colonial aesthetic that defines the city.
On the opposite side, visitors can admire the Hotel San Agustín, a restored mansion that retains its period charm, and the Casa Linares (1750), which once housed educational institutions like the Teachers’ College and UNED, maintaining its central role in the city’s cultural life.
Architectural Treasures
Perhaps the jewel of the street is the Casa Montañés, commissioned in 1746 by Sergeant Major Francisco Montañés. Now home to the Consultative Council of the Canary Islands, this two-storey mansion features one of the finest examples of a traditional Canarian patio, symbolising the elegance of the island’s domestic architecture.
Nearby stands the Casa Lercaro, built in 1593, with its Genoese-style doorway, intricate wooden ceilings, and tropical inner courtyard. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1983, it captures the splendour of La Laguna’s noble past and remains one of Tenerife’s most photographed landmarks.
A Living Heritage
Calle San Agustín perfectly fuses art, history, and nature, its colonial façades, colourful gardens, and peaceful atmosphere making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Tenerife. It stands as a symbol of the island’s commitment to preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.
Other Must-See Streets in Tenerife
Beyond La Laguna, Tenerife offers many scenic streets steeped in history. Highlights include La Carrera in La Orotava, known for its grand manor houses; La Noria in Santa Cruz, famed for its bohemian vibe and restaurants; and the Rambla de Santa Cruz, a leafy avenue lined with sculptures by artists such as Henry Moore.
Visitors can also enjoy Calle del Castillo or the San Telmo promenade in Puerto de la Cruz, where local life meets heritage and the sea breeze.
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