Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the largest city and the capital of Tenerife. It offers visitors lovely, and often less crowded beaches compared to the resorts areas of the south. You can drive to the yellow sand beach of Las Teresitas or head a bit further to the black sands of Las Gaviotas. Taking a drive around the city to see its unique architecture is also recommended. Stop by places like the Auditorio de Tenerife and the twin Torres de Santa Cruz skyscrapers. Respected Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron have also contributed to the urban landscape of Santa Cruz. Check out their artificial lake at the Plaza de Espana in the center of town and the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, which houses several cultural institutions. It is also nice to just walk the Ramblas, long tree-lined boulevards, that run from the northern end of the city to the sea. Of course one of the most famous things about Santa Cruz is its incredible Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. One of the largest carnivals in the world, thousands of people come every February to take to the streets and join the celebration. If you like crowds then this is the time to come, otherwise stay clear.