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The Latest Tenerife Vacation Packages

Hotel Riu Palace Tenerife

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2023

Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife - All Inclusive

Reviewed on Mar 24, 2024

Hotel Riu Arecas - Adults Only

Reviewed on Dec 24, 2023

Bahia Principe Sunlight Costa Adeje – All Inclusive

Reviewed on Mar 1, 2024

Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden

Reviewed on Apr 16, 2024

Where to stay in Tenerife

Costa Adeje

Coastal strip boasting picturesque beaches like Playa Fañabé and Playa del Duque, this southwestern Tenerife area offers sun-soaked relaxation and stunning ocean views.

Acantilados de Los Gigantes

If you're spending some time in Acantilados de Los Gigantes, Tenerife Beaches and Playa de Masca are top sights worth seeing.

El Rincón is a destination visitors seek out for is beaches, seaside views, and relaxing spas. You might want to check out attractions like Bollullo Beach or Ancón Beach while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Los Menores

Get to know Los Menores by checking out its beaches, restaurants, and golf courses. Consider a visit to nearby sights like Golf Costa Adeje or Ajabo Beach during your time in the area.

Lomo Bermejo

Spas and cafes are notable features of Lomo Bermejo. You might consider a stop by Anaga Natural Park while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Tenerife Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in tenerife.

Speed down heart-pounding water slides or relax on the lazy river at one of Europe’s largest themed water parks.

Fañabé Beach

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Fañabé Beach, a popular beach in Costa Adeje. Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside or attend a sporting event.

Playa de las Américas

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa de las Américas during your trip to Arona? Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

What to do in Tenerife

Los cristianos: eco-yacht whale watching cruise with swim, tenerife: teide volcano and north of the island vip tour, tenerife: 5-hour whales and dolphins tour, other vacations you might like.

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The 14 best things to do in Tenerife, from ground-breaking galleries to Spain’s highest peak

Jun 17, 2022 • 9 min read

When it comes to activities, Tenerife packs a big punch ©️ Jose A. Bernat Bacete / Getty Images

Crammed with volcanic peaks, primeval laurel forests and Atlantic-washed shorelines, soulful Tenerife tempts with much more than its balmy weather and beach-vacation buzz.

On the largest island in Spain’s Canary Islands , you can meander around lively neighborhood markets and linger at low-key terrace cafes before diving into forward-thinking art, brightly painted architecture or cliff-hugging hiking trails. And it's all set against a spectacular natural backdrop that feels unlike anywhere else on earth. 

From the cultural thrills of the dynamic capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife to tricky-to-find foodie delights and otherworldly hikes, here’s our pick of the top things to do in Tenerife. 

Discover Canarian flavors at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África

Settle into Tenerife life at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África , the capital’s fresh produce market . The scents of c innamon, cumin, paprika and other spices waft through the air as you wander past subtropical plants, mountains of colorful fruits, towers of Canarian cheeses and counters piled high with fresh seafood. The peach-orange building was built back in 1944 with Islamic-style arches and a sky-reaching clocktower. 

Delectable local treats range from olive oils and wines to toffee-colored palm honey, specialty coffee from La Orotava and tubs of almogrote (a cheese-based paste from La Gomera). Don’t miss the chance to buy your fish at the market and then have it cooked up at one of the cafe-bars dotted around its edge.   

Get creative at Santa Cruz’s Tenerife Espacio de las Artes

Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron – in collaboration with Canarian Virgilio Gutiérrez – are behind the boundary-pushing design of Tenerife Espacio de las Artes , the island’s unmissable art gallery housed in a bold concrete-clad building inspired by the surrounding volcanic landscapes. The free expert-led tours offer a detailed introduction to the TEA’s wonders, which include works by the Tenerife-born surrealist Óscar Domínguez, an astonishing collection of 20th- and 21st-century Canarian art and a 24-hour glass-walled library. 

Right opposite stands one of Tenerife’s oldest churches, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción (built in the 1490s and later remodeled), and a 10-minute stroll south takes you to the sweeping wave-shaped Auditorio de Tenerife , designed by Santiago Calatrava. 

Hike through age-old laurel forests in the Anaga mountains

Welcome to the oldest (and arguably most spectacular) part of the island. Shrouded in mist and ancient laurisilva (laurel forest), the isolated Anaga mountains stretch across the northeasternmost tip of Tenerife, protected as both the 144-sq-km (56-sq-mile) Parque Rural de Anaga and, since 2015, as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. The best way to explore this natural paradise is on foot, hiking between clifftop hamlets along the 400km (249 miles) of pathways, which you can learn more about at the Centro de Visitantes Cruz del Carmen . Standout routes include the PRTF3 through the laurel forest and willow trees (8km/5 miles round trip) and the PRTF8 linking Afur, Taganana and Tamadite beach (14km/8.5 miles round trip). 

On the south side of the range, gold-sand Playa de las Teresitas is one of Tenerife’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for cooling off post-hike. 

Cool off in the Atlantic sea pools

One of Tenerife’s greatest joys are its twinkling natural sea pools, where you can join the tinerfeños for a dip in the emerald Atlantic. Rough weather and high tides can make swimming dangerous, so time your visit for low tide. 

On the north coast, Bajamar has a duo of calm, restored salt-water pools set into a concrete terrace right by the waves, and they're perfect for families. Venturing southwest, you’ll find wilder north-coast swim spots at Charco de La Laja and Charco del Viento, located between Puerto de la Cruz and Icod de los Vinos. And then you reach Garachico , one of Tenerife’s most fascinating historical towns, with a string of tempting rock pools created by an 18th-century volcanic eruption. 

Over in the west, jump in at Charco de la Jaquita in Alcalá (which has views of La Gomera), Charco de Isla Cangrejo (overlooking the Los Gigantes cliffs) and hidden-away Playa Abama. On Tenerife’s less-touristy eastern shoreline, low-key Radazul has ladders plunging into the Atlantic beneath soaring magma-molded cliffs.

Explore Spain’s most beloved national park

Few visitors can resist the pull of Spain ’s highest peak, 3718m (12,198ft)  El Teide , which rises at the core of the eerily beautiful, Unesco-protected  Parque Nacional del Teide , the country’s most-visited national park. Sidestep the crowds by hitting the rewarding walking trails that plunge across a silent lava-shaped valley or track up near-deserted volcanic cones.

If you’re planning to hike up to El Teide’s summit, you’ll need to book permits and (if needed) cable car tickets as far ahead as possible. It's around 40 minutes to the top from the upper cable car station at 3555m (11,663ft) along the Sendero Telesforo Bravo path or five hours (9km/5.5 miles) if you hike all the way up from the foot of Montaña Blanca at 2349m (7707ft) without using the cable car. 

But there are endless other exhilarating (and permit-free) trails through this astonishing lunarscape, including hikes up 3135m (10,285ft)  Pico Viejo and around the Roques de García . 

Join the winter Carnaval

Rivaled only by Cádiz as Spain’s greatest Carnaval city , Santa Cruz bursts into riotous, sequin-clad fun for three weeks each February, with street parties, colorful parades, fashion competitions and galas spilling out across town. With roots in the 16th century, Tenerife’s Carnaval was banned during Franco’s dictatorship but powered on by recasting itself as a “winter festival.” Book accommodations far in advance. The dates change each year depending on when Easter falls. For those who can’t make it during the festivities, Santa Cruz’s Casa del Carnaval offers a taster. 

Ride the waves in El Médano

With rainbow-colored kitesurf sails rippling across the waves and a sprawling golden Blue Flag beach, bohemian-feeling El Médano ranks among Europe’s prime kitesurfing destinations. Well-established 30 Nudos Kite School runs two-hour kitesurfing sessions for beginners, along with more in-depth three-day courses for a variety of ability levels. They offer classic surf classes too. The best months are November to March and June to September, though conditions are good almost year-round. Don’t miss refreshingly undeveloped Playa de la Tejita overlooked by the Montaña Roja volcano, both part of a protected nature reserve.

Taste volcanic Canarian wines 

Tenerife’s distinctive climates and abrupt geology mean wine-making here is all about rare, autochthonous pre-phylloxera grapes, such as malvasía , negramoll and listán negro . Ancient vines have been grown across the mineral-rich, lava-flow slopes since at least the 15th century, and most are still harvested by hand in the island’s five Denominaciones de Origen (DOs; Denominations of Origin). 

Drop in for a tour and tasting at the award-winning Bodegas Insulares Tenerife , a 660-member cooperative in the northern DO Tacoronte-Acentejo or (with advance booking) at family-owned Suertes del Marqués in the DO Valle de La Orotava, which prioritizes traditional, sustainable production techniques. For a deep-dive into small, artisan tinerfeño vineyards, Tenerife Wine Experience offers private bodega-hopping tours. 

Feast on Tenerife classics at a guachinche

Beloved by tinerfeños , Tenerife’s guachinches are simple, great-value food spots specializing in traditional home-cooked cuisine, typically set in repurposed garages, garden shacks or country fincas (estates) whose owners make and serve their own wine. 

The best area to hunt one down is northern Tenerife, particularly around La Orotava, where you’ll be digging into garbanzas (chickpea stew), grilled meats, ultra-fresh fish, ropa vieja (a meaty stew), Canarian cheeses and other favorites. It’s best to get recommendations locally, but you can find a few online guides.

Enjoy watersports and whale-watching in Los Gigantes

Plunging into the Atlantic from 600m (1969ft) above, northwestern Tenerife’s basalt cliffs of Los Gigantes make up one of the Canaries’ most spectacular coastal landscapes. The dreamiest views are from out on the cobalt-blue water, which means kayaking and paddle-boarding are a delight, especially at sunset. It’s also Tenerife’s top spot for diving and snorkeling, with stingrays, barracudas, sea turtles, endangered Canarian lobsters and other creatures bobbing around the cliffs.

In 2021, a 2000-sq-km swath of ocean surrounding western Tenerife and neighboring La Gomera was declared Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site , recognizing local efforts to develop responsible whale-watching tourism and the area’s unique populations of short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins and 27 other cetaceans. Make sure you book with an ethical, low-impact operator that prioritizes the animals’ welfare, limiting numbers and always keeping a good distance.

Marvel at Canarian architecture 

Lush green interior patios await discovery behind the candy-colored facades, wood-carved balconies and shuttered windows of La Laguna ’s Canarian mansions, just north of Santa Cruz. This town was the island’s original capital until 1723, with most of the palatial homes dotted around its Unesco-listed old town built between the 16th and 18th centuries, particularly along Calle San Agustín . Many remain private residences open only to visitors on free guided tours . It’s a similar scene over in La Orotava, the historically prosperous town clinging to northern Tenerife’s slopes; here you'll find the 1632 Casa de los Balcones ,  a jewel of Castilian-style Canarian architecture. 

Tackle the Barranco de Masca hike

One of Tenerife’s most thrilling hikes threads through the sheer-walled Barranco de Masca gorge , protected by the 80-sq-km (31-sq-mile) Parque Rural de Teno in the rugged northwest of the island. Following restorations, this spine-tingling trail reopened in 2021, linking Masca (among Tenerife’s most scenic hill villages) with a wild volcanic beach at the mouth of the ravine. It’s a 10km (6.5-mile) round trip, walkable in about seven hours. To help with preservation efforts, the barranco is open to the public only on weekends and there’s a daily cap on visitor numbers (currently set at 125) – you’ll need to book a permit far in advance. 

Dine among the stars

Over the last few years, Tenerife has stormed onto Spain’s gastronomic stage, shining a spotlight on the Canary Islands’ fabulous produce, on-the-up wines and distinct culinary heritage. The island now hosts four Michelin-star restaurants, including the Canaries’ only two-Michelin-star venture: M.B. by top Basque chef Martín Barasategui at the luxe, Morocco-inspired Ritz-Carlton Abama hotel. Also at the resort is Japanese-inspired Abama Kabuki , with one Michelin star. La Caleta’s Canarian-fusion spot El Rincón de Juan Carlos (by the tinerfeño brothers Juan Carlos and Jonathan Padrón) and nearby Italian-Chilean Nub (at the five-star Bahía del Duque hotel) joined the club in 2022. 

Stars (and price tags) aside, you’ll dine well all over the island, whether you fancy a lunch of fresh fish at a no-fuss chiringuito (beach bar) or a gomero -cheese tapa with a glass of Tenerife-made red.

Roam around blissful Canarian gardens

With their unparalleled lava-molded geography and hugely varied microclimates, the Canary Islands are an astonishingly biodiverse natural wonderland, with 500 endemic types of flora. Tenerife alone has around 140 plant species that exist nowhere else in the world. Get a taste at the peaceful Palmetum in Santa Cruz, a 12-hectare (30-acre) landfill now ingeniously reborn as a one-of-a-kind botanical garden devoted to palms from all over the globe.

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Tenerife Guide: Planning Your Trip

Astrid was the Senior Special Projects Editor at TripSavvy.

The largest island in Spain's Canary Islands archipelago, picture perfect Tenerife welcomes over 6 million visitors per year. With its stunning white sand beaches, unique ecological diversity, and abundance of dramatic cliffside vistas, its popularity is no surprise. A playful paradise packed with culture and outdoor adventure, Tenerife is a dream destination for travelers all over the world. If you're planning a trip to this tropical gem, here's what to know.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: If you're looking for tropical weather without the high peak season prices, the best time to visit Tenerife would be in May or June.
• Language: Spanish. You may notice a slight difference in the dialect spoken here than on mainland Spain, but Spanish speakers will still be able to get by with ease.
• Currency: Euro
• Getting Around: There is no train system in Tenerife, but visitors seeking public transportation will be able to get around on the island-wide bus system, named "TITSA." The 111 bus provides ample service from the island's airport in Santa Cruz. Visitors can purchase a refillable Ten+ bus card at the airport that costs 2 euro and can be topped off in multiples of 5 euro.
• Travel Tip: One of the most photogenic places in Tenerife, the small mountain village of Masca, hidden in a volcanic formation called Macizo de Teno, is worth exploring.

Things to Do

Tenerife is the perfect mix of rugged outdoor landscapes, history and culture, and thrilling nightlife. Here are just a few of the activities you should include on your list:

• Visit Teide National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is one of the crown jewels of the island. Home to the Teide-Pico Viejo stratovolcano, the world's third-tallest volcanic structure and the highest peak on Spanish soil, this destination is also known for its incredible stargazing.
• Ride the Mount Teide Cable Car: This five minute ride offers some of the most jaw-dropping views of Mount Teide, an active volcano and the highest point in Spain.
• Hike the Barranco del Infierno: Translating to the "Hell Ravine," this 3 hour hike may sound intimidating, but with an incline of around 650 feet, it is perfectly suitable for hikers of all levels.

Make the most of your time in Tenerife with our full guide of things to do.

What to Eat and Drink

In Tenerife, you'll find traditional Spanish dishes such as  paella  (a rice dish loaded with seafood) and gazpacho (a chilled vegetable soup), but there are a few dishes unique to the island that are worth trying, too. The best known traditional dish on the island is gofio , a type of corn or flour that is made from roasted grains. You'll find it as the base of many Canarian dishes such as grilled meats, fish, and stews. It can also be served as a dessert, often whipped into a sweet mousse.

Locally grown agriculture on the Canary Islands includes papayas and bananas. Tenerife is also one of six Canary Islands that produces its own wine; with high altitude vineyards, wines have been produced here for over 500 years. Food and drink in Tenerife is typically inexpensive, with a sit-down meal rarely costing more than $10. A liter of local wine can cost as little as $12.

Where to Stay

As the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has the advantage of offering a wide variety of places to stay for travelers of all budgets. From luxury resorts in the buzzy South to hostels and cozy bed and breakfasts, you'll be spoiled for choice. For those looking for glitz and glam, The Ritz-Carlton, Abama , a pink palace surrounded by lush gardens and tropical foliage, is not to be missed. For the more wallet-conscious, the family friendly Gran Oasis Resort is a popular choice, as well as the unpretentious and all-inclusive Barceló Tenerife .

Getting There

The easiest way to reach the island is usually via a two-hour flight from  Madrid . However, for adventurous travelers with a bit more time on their hands, the Canary Islands are accessible from Spain via a ferry from either Huelva or Cádiz. The trip will take anywhere from 32 to 42 hours.

Culture and Customs

Claimed by the Spanish in the 15th century, Tenerife boasts a unique blend of both Spanish and distinctly Canarian culture. Similar to mainland Spain, dinner is eaten late, usually between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. The inhabitants of Tenerife take hospitality seriously and are a generally warm and friendly people. Take note that smoking is banned in all bars, cafes and restaurants, so you will need to step outside if you're seeking a smoke break during your meal.

Money Saving Tips

• No need to stock up on bottled water like you may do on other European islands. The tap water in Tenerife is held to the same standards as the water in the UK and France, and is perfectly drinkable.
• Restaurants further away from the seafront are often less expensive.
• Entry to all museums is free on Sundays.
• Tenerife is a tax-free island, which means there are no tourist taxes on items you buy here. The prices you'll find at souvenir shops are often more competitive than the bargains you'll find at the airport.

Ireland, Ben. "Record UK Visitor Numbers to Tenerife as Two Million Travel to Island." Travel Weekly. https://travelweekly.co.uk/articles/273236/record-uk-visitor-numbers-to-tenerife-as-two-million-travel-to-island

"How to Get to Tenerife: The Complete Guide." Ferryhopper. https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/blog/featured/how-get-to-tenerife

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One Week in Tenerife: Itinerary for First-time Visitors

This seven-day Tenerife itinerary can help you experience the best of the island in only one week. Tenerife is one of the most popular of the Canary Islands to visit, and for a good reason. What you might not know is that Tenerife is more than a party destination (or one where your family dragged you when you were 10) and offers a surprising mix of beaches, mountains, and forested lands.

Top that off with some delicious and affordable Spanish tapas and you are in for a trip that truly has a little bit of everything for everyone.

To follow this itinerary, it’s best to rent a car – this can be very affordable on Tenerife, with weekly packages as low as 50 EUR. However, Tenerife has a good public transportation system, so much of the trip can also be done by bus.

General tips for visiting Tenerife, Canary Islands

• Pack clothing for both warm and cool weather. In the Northeast, temperatures frequently dipped to around 5ºC while the Southwest was receiving 25ºC weather.
• Bring hiking boots! Tenerife is a hiker’s paradise, you can get information of trails that take anywhere from 45 minutes to 8 hours.
• Check RyanAir for cheap flights. Our flights were roughly 175 EUR each, round trip, from Berlin to Tenerife. Although the flight is roughly five hours long, we found it very afforable. But you have to shop in advance and avoid national holidays to keep the prices low.
• Renting a car is very, very affordable. Weekly car rentals can go for as little as 50 EUR, perhaps even lower in the off season. Just be mindful that trying to extend your car by just one day can easily double the total cost of the car, so be sure to rent it as long as you’ll use it up front. We always book with Discover Cars for our trips and have had zero issues.
• Mondays are often when things are closed. Be extra sure to check that the place you want to visit is open on Mondays!

Top things to do in Tenerife

Before going into the Tenerife itinerary, you’ll probably want to check out a couple of activites that can (or should) be booked in advance. Especially as on Tenerife, chances are you’ll be deciding where to stay based on the activites you choose.

Here are some of my favorite things to do on Tenerife during a week-long trip:

A 7-day itinerary for Tenerife

Duration 7 days Dates visited April 3-10 Where to stay in Tenerife We booked all our Tenerife accommodation on Booking.com and found it had really great prices. The most expensive place we stayed was Los Cristianos. We also stayed at one Airbnb, which was great but it didn’t have heating and it turns out that’s important in the Tenerife mountains! 😂 Click here to check current availability of Tenerife accommodation on Booking.com.

Legend   ♦♦♦ Must visit   ♦♦ Recommended   ♦ If time permits

• La Laguna, Santa Cruz, Las Teresitas
• Anaga Nature Park

Puerto de la Cruz

• La Orotava, Parque del Drago, Garachico
• Punta de Teno, Masca
• Los Cristianos

Day 1: The city and beaches of Northeast Tenerife

Today we’re going to start exporing the Northeast of Tenerife, except for the Anaga region (that comes tomorrow!). We’ll see it all: from the urban heart of the island, to one of its most scenic beaches, and finally ending up in our homebase in the north.

Where to stay – I recommend staying in La Laguna while you are in this area. The town is very pretty, with enough to do and enough places to eat that you won’t get bored by staying here for 2 nights. It’s also central enough that you won’t spent too much time in the car (although that’s the case for almost anywhere on the island so long as the road is paved 😉)

Santa Cruz ♦

Would you believe it if I told you that Tenerife is home to more than one million people? It’s hard to imagine when you’re driving around the island that so many people inhabit Tenerife, and perhaps that only place that makes this seem remotely possible is Santa Cruz de Tenerife .

In fact, nearly half of the residents of Tenerife live in this city. For that reason, it shouldn’t be surprising that the city itself is much less charming than the spots coming up on our itinerary.

My honest review is that you can certainly skip Santa Cruz if you are tight on time, or want to spend more time in other places. However, for the sake of being thorough and getting one glimpse into urban life on the island, it’s also hard to go totally wrong 😄

The Auditorio de Tenerife is probably the city’s most recognized landmark. From here you can climb up the stairs for a view over the Atlantic ocean. Nearby, locals sunbathe and swim in an alcove protected from the buffet of the waves. If you’re in the mood for a water park, you can find one a stone’s throw from the Auditorio as well.

Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

• Walk around the Parque García Sanabria , the largest public park in the Canary Islands. It has most of what you might find in a botanical garden, but for free 😄
• Enjoy the pedestrian street of Calle del Castillo , which you can easily take from the tourism office on your way to the public park.
• Visit the Mercado Municipal Nuestra Senora de Africa (municipal market) for a look at how the locals get their fresh fish and produce. Be sure to arrive before it closes daily at 2:00PM. Closed Mondays
• Learn all about palm trees at the Santa Cruz botanical garden, known as Palmetum . We didn’t have time to visit here (and were kind of burned out after the Parque Garca Sanabria), but this spot comes highly recommended.

Las Teresitas ♦♦♦

A short drive up the coast from Santa Cruz, and you’re on your way to Las Teresitas , perhaps the most recognizable beach on the island. Here you can take off your shoes, grab a mojito, and soak up the sun.

For a beach chair you’ll have to pay 2-3 EUR, but if you brought a beach towel you can occupy any part of the beach you want to. After you’ve had enough of that, you can drive up to this scenic point for a view over the beach. Here you’ll find some abandoned buildings riddled with graffiti and a rock with a dinosaur skull painted on it. Perfect for photos!

PARKING TIP – There is a ton of parking along the full length of the beach. Don’t pull into the first parking lot you find on the far north of the beach – I’m pretty sure the guys running that parking lot are just scammers 😄 You can park for free, closer to the beach by simply following the coast.

La Laguna ♦♦♦

End the day in San Cristobal de la Laguna , a university town that you could mistake for being in Cuba for its traditionally styled balconies and colorful houses.

I mean, just look at this traditional bodega with wine barrels for tables, a bicycle outside, and an original wooden balcony overhead. If you love Spanish colonial architecture, you will find yourself charmed by this city! This is one place where I could’ve spent even longer on an extended trip to Tenerife.

Where to eat in La Laguna

• Bodegón Tocuyo de la Laguna – Don’t miss out on this traditional tapas bar, where you get what’s jokingly referred to as “Canarian cola” (an old coke bottle filled with house wine) for just a few euros to share with you and someone special. The house tapas are simple, affordable, and fresh and the service is beyond friendly.
• Restaurante Guaydil – For a taste of traditional Canarian food with good portions and decent prices. The prices look a bit steep, but with the bread you can easily split one full-sized main course between two people. They also offer half-portions. Just get there before 8PM when the locals start to flock!

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Day 2: Meet Tenerife’s rainforest in Anaga

Few people actually think about rainforests when they think of Tenerife. The typical image that comes to mind is a mojito on the beach, but for those who dare to go off the beaten path there is a special place to discover in the most northeast part of Tenerife.

Before Spanish explorers “discovered” Tenerife, the rainforest spanned much more of the island – which had been inhabited by the Gaunches, the indigenous people of Tenerife. Unfortunately, excessive logging and felling of trees led to where we are today where only a precious small area is still in tact.

However, you can still enjoy this beautiful slice of nature through hiking trails and by visiting the mountain villages accessible only by narrow roads with steep drop-offs. Come with a camera and your hiking boots!

Parque Natural de Anaga ♦♦♦

Start your experience in Anaga by stopping at the Centro de Visitantes, Parque Rural Anaga (Visitors Center at Barrio Cruz Carmen). If you have any questions about which hikes will work for you, the people here can give you a map and help you find a suitable trail.

Just a moment’s walk away from the visitor’s center, you’ll find the most accessible trail. It takes just 45 minutes round trip and will land you in the middle of the laurel forest.

Also near the visitors center is this lookout point, where you can see El Teide , Spain’s highest mountain and volcano. We’ll visit later, but for now just be impressed by how huge it is!

Taganana and Benijo ♦♦

In the distance you can see Taganana, as seen from Benijo, a miniscule village on the northern coast of Tenerife.

From here you can hike to other nearby villages over the mountains or – if you’re like me – stop by Restaurante El Mirador for some excellent papas arrugadas (Canarian potatoes) and sangria.

Las Carboneras ♦

There are a lot of other small villages in this area, so in some way it’s up to you to visit the ones you think are interesting and explore! One spot where I would say was rather remote but provided some lovely views is Las Carboneras . I think the picture speaks for itself.

Day 3: Sun, sea, and sangria in Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is a cute, beachfront city with plenty of space to watch the waves with a sangria in one hand and an ice cream cone in the other. But before going to the beach, don’t miss one of the most famous botanical gardens on the island.

La Orotava Botanical Gardens ♦♦

One thing that is quite confusing about La Orotava Botanical Gardens is that they’re not actually in La Orotava (which is where we’re going tomorrow). But once you’ved understood that, you’re well on your way to visiting a little slice of nature inside one of the larger cities in Tenerife (well, as much as any ‘city’ is ‘large’ in this place!).

Entrance cost is 3 EUR. While the gardens aren’t big, the highlight is worth the cost: massive trees whose roots stem from their branches and anchor themselves in the ground for additional support. This is called “aerial roots” and is rather similar to how orchids survive without proper soil.

Puerto de la Cruz is also where you’ll find Loro Parque , which is essentially a zoo. Before going to you should be aware that they keep whales and dolphins in captivity, so you can decide whether you wish to support this venue.

The city itself of Porto de la Cruz also has a lovely stretch along the sea where you can order a sangria and people watch. As with many towns in Tenerife, you’ll also find a Spanish-style church, wisteria framing entrances to private homes, and plenty of places to dine al fresco .

Casa del Vino de Tenerife ♦

Did you know that the wines of Tenerife were once some of the most sought after in Europe? Even Shakespeare sings the praises of Malmsey Wine in his Richard III , and Alexander von Humboldt remarked that this wine was celebrated for its excellence in his book Personal Narrative of Travels to the Equinoctial Regions of America .

This museum of wine (which also includes a restaurant and tasting room) explains how the volcanic soil and varying locations on the island lend themselves to excellent conditions for growing wine. You can see some of the traditional wine-making equipment and read up on more than thirty varieties of grapes that are grown on the island. Besides the wine-making process, you’ll also learn about the history of wine production on the island and how it’s carried out today with modern tools.

Naturally, you can buy some of the wines you learn about at the accompanying giftshop 😉

Day 4: Historic cities, ancient trees, and waterfront towns

The historic city center of La Orotava is very well preserved, with countless colorful buildings, streets lined with palm trees, and as always – intricate wooden balconies dating back to colonial times. One of the main “attractions” of La Orotava is Casa de los Balcones , House of Balconies.

Casa de los Balcones ♦

To be honest, I’m not sure if this place is a tourist trap or not. It costs 4 EUR to enter, and more if you want an audio guide. Upon entering, you’re almost bombarded with the same souveniers you can get all over the island, leading me to believe it’s probably just mass produced abroad.

That said, the house is lovely and certainly has a beautiful courtyard. You won’t learn much about the traditional culture or history of Tenerife while you’re here, there are still a few nice spots to take photos and enjoy the sounds of the birds.

At least the next spot on our list can be visited for free if you know how to get there!

Parque del Drago ♦

Even though its claim to fame as the oldest tree on Tenerife has been debunked, this beast is still some 500-600 years old and that’s impressive on its own! Drive to the entrance to the park and continue up the street by foot to the town square where you can get a great view of the tree without paying the fee to enter the park.

There’s not a whole lot else in the area, except a few spots to eat, the staple Spanish-style church, and (in our case) a pair of teenagers smoking some reefer. Continue on to Garachico, one of our last stops on the northern coast of Tenerife!

Garachico ♦♦

A few hundred years ago, a volcanic eruption smothered the historically important port town of Garachico . It never quite recovered to its former glory, though a good part of the town you see today is built on land that was extended by lava. Garachico is a nice spot to grab a bite to eat, and if you have a few extra minutes you can give yourself a tour through the Monastery of San Francisco in the town center.

Day 5: Harrowing drives through the coast and mountains

Today we’ll visit the most western point in Tenerife, accessible only by a super curvy road with rather little between you and a sheer cliff that plunges into the sea. This is a great spot for a picnic, if you end up taking the bus and simply spending an hour out here. After that, we’ll see one of Tenerife’s most recommended scenic spots and see if it’s really worth the hype!

Punta de Teno ♦♦

The area of Punta de Teno is particularly volcanic, with a veritable sea of black rocks stretching out into the sea. The beach itself also has black sand, and what we can see in the distance is the northern face of Los Gigantes (literally, “the giants”), a massive rock formation usually observed from the south.

TIP – It’s not always possible to drive yourself to Punta de Teno, as during peak hours (such as weekends) vehicle access is restricted to buses and other authorized vehicles. You can instead take an hourly bus for 1 EUR each way and let a professional do the driving!

Just about any itinerary you go on will suggest that Masca is one of Tenerife’s must-see villages. Masca Valley itself is very impressive, and the drive there is noted for being a bit nerve-wracking but I found it much less harrowing that those we had in Anaga .

Is it worth it? Have a look for yourself and tell me what you think 😉

TIP Until further notice, the three hour hike from Masca to Los Gigantes through the Gorge is completely closed. The trail head is closed off an inaccessible, however there are other hikes in the area should you be on a mission to enjoy the valley more intimately.

The town of Masca itself is, let’s say, underwhelming. A few restaurants, and a few grumpy locals who are tired of their tiny, tiny town being flooded with tourists day in and day out. To fully enjoy Masca, I’m sure it’s best to stay over night but I can’t say from experience (yet!).

Day 6: Beach life in Los Cristianos

Hopefully until this point I’ve been able to show you that Tenerife has a lot more to explore for visitors than beach bars 500 meters away from their all-inclusive resort. Tenerife has gorgeous terrain ranging from laurel forests in Anaga to volcanic cliffs at Punto de Teno and stunning canyons surrounding Masca.

Bearing all of that in mind – there’s no reason to skip the beaches in Tenerife just to make a point. One of reasons people come to Tenerife is because it’s overall very affordable without being too touristy in any one place. After nearly a week of being on the go, a day on the beach in Los Cristianos was the perfect way to regain some energy before a very active final day.

Los Cristianos ♦♦♦

There are a few main “party cities” in the Southwest of Tenerife, and Los Cristianos is without a doubt one of them. You’ll find plenty of English party-goers watching a football match at one of the “familiar” pubs, and honestly there’s no shame in joining them if you just want to relax – you are on vacation after all!

Things to do in Los Cristianos

• Walk the boardwalk to Playa de las Americas – Get the lay of the land and do some shopping at the same time. From one end to the other this can take 20-30 minutes.
• Grab a mojito at Las Salinas – These generously-sized mojitos also come with the option of fresh fruit mixed in, and there are also options besides mojitos in case you’ve had too many the previous night 😉
• Go out for tapas – We really enjoyed Tapas Revolution which also happens to have a view of the sea.
• Lay on the beach and read a book – Although you’ll need to pony up 3 EUR for a beach chair, you can relax on the beach under a palm tree for free with your own towel.

Los Gigantes

As seen from the other side of Punto de Teno, Los Gigantes is a striking rock face that can be seen from many angles. You can go on a boat ride or go scuba diving in this area, and many places that will hook you are located in Los Cristianos. Otherwise, the beach with access to Los Gigantes, Playa de los Gigantes , is located a bit up the coast is located at Puerto de Santiago .

Unfortunately when we went, this beach was closed until a future date. So the best view we got from this side was from a view point on the way out of the city. Still impressive!

Day 7: El Teide National Park

You’ve probably seen El Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, from a few different vantage points by now. It’s so high, at over 3,700 meters, El Teide can be seen from just about any corner of the island. The area surrounding this mountain is a National Park, offering a number of hiking trails and places where you can get up close and personal with this volcanic giant.

TIP - One of the most recommended things to do in this park is taking the cable car to (nearly) the summit. For us this was closed because of wind – you can always check this in advance on the Volcano Teide website .

El Teide is super popular and in the high months, make sure you grab a cable car fast-track ticket to avoid waiting in line. You can cancel the ticket 24h in advance for a full refund if the weather conditions look like the cable car could be canceled due to wind.

El Teide National Park ♦♦♦

If possible, take the cable car up the mountain for a view over the island. If you get unlucky like me and it’s too windy, you can still go for a hike in the area – simply stop by the visitor’s center for a map and recommendations for a hike that is suitable for your time and physical state.

Perhaps my number one tip here is not to underestimate how intense the sun can be! Even if it’s cooler up here, you can still get a mega sunburn. Like me. And spend the next week looking like a veritable lobster. Enjoy Teide responsibly!

Have you ever been somewhere like Tenerife?

It’s hard to think that there are many other places in the world with all the features of this place, but I’m sure they are out there. Share in the comments where you’ve been and if you would recommend going!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Tips for planning a holiday in Tenerife

Tenerife travel guide.

If it’s your first time traveling to Tenerife and you’re not sure how to start planning your adventure, I’m here to help. I created this guide with all the information you need about planning a holiday in Tenerife , including things like places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around.

Plan your holiday in Tenerife step-by-step

This Tenerife travel guide will cover everything you need to know so you can organize your trip step-by-step:

1. Best things to do in Tenerife

• 2. Best time to visit Tenerife

3. Plan your Tenerife travel itinerary

• 4. How to travel to Tenerife cheaply
• 5. Where to stay in Tenerife

6. How to get around Tenerife

• 7. Where to eat in Tenerife
• 8. Travel budget for a Tenerife trip
• 9. What to pack for Tenerife + tips
• 10. Tourist map of Tenerife

People travel to Tenerife for beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and charming villages. Whatever you want to do here, I’ll help you plan a memorable trip.

After visiting Tenerife several times as a couple, with family, and with friends, I’ve become familiar with the most beautiful places on the island. No matter your interests, you’ll find endless things to see and do here.

Here is an overview of the best things to do in Tenerife :

How to climb Mount Teide

Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Guide to hiking the Masca Gorge

Guide to Anaga Rural Park

Guide to visiting Punta de Teno

Things to do in Los Gigantes, Tenerife

Things to do in Puerto de la Cruz

Best beaches in Tenerife

Whale and dolphin-watching in Tenerife

Things to do in Icod de los Vinos

Things to do in El Médano

Things to do in Garachico

Things to do in La Laguna

Things to do in La Orotava

Things to do in Candelaria

As you can see, there are plenty of places to visit during your trip to Tenerife , from traditional towns to natural parks. If you don’t have much time and can only visit part of the island, don’t worry. We have specific guides on things to do in Tenerife North and things to do in Tenerife South , so you can plan a wonderful getaway.

Don’t get overwhelmed; the island isn’t that big, so regardless of where you stay, you’ll be able to visit the main points of interest in the north and south. Your best bet is to rent a car so you can move freely around the island. However, if you’d rather not worry about driving during your Tenerife holiday, there are lots of great excursions around Tenerife that will allow you to discover the most popular attractions .

2. best time to visit Tenerife

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Tenerife , there really isn’t a bad time to go. The temperatures on the island are quite mild throughout the year, with an average temperature of 77 °F (25 °C) in the summer and 65 °F (18 °C) in the winter.

Keep in mind that there are about 25 microclimates on the island, meaning there may be small thermal variations from one area to another. For example, the south tends to get more sun, so the temperatures are a few degrees higher than in the north. As for the northern part of the island, it usually gets more rain, especially in winter. That said, there are only 2-3 rainy days per month on average, so you’ll still be able to enjoy your vacation to Tenerife .

Overall, you can enjoy a pleasant trip to Tenerife year-round.

Best month to travel to Tenerife

If you want a specific answer for when to travel to Tenerife , it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact time, as the temperatures and weather in Tenerife are mild year-round. Something to keep in mind is that, depending on what you want to do during your holiday in Tenerife , some months may be better than others.

For example, for lazy days on the beach, plan to travel to Tenerife in the summer months, specifically July, August, and September. The temperatures should be around 77 °F (25 °C), with very little rain and up to 12 hours of daylight. That said, during this time of year, there are often sudden changes in temperature from one area of the island to another, depending on altitude. So, if you want to climb Mount Teide , be sure to bring some warm layers to wear. Also, one of the drawbacks of traveling in Tenerife during the summer is that the prices for everything are higher since it’s peak tourist season.

Best month to visit Tenerife

On the other hand, if you want to go to Tenerife in the winter (January, February, and March) the temperatures will still be quite nice, with an average of 65 °F (18 °C). This time of year also brings more rainfall, although it’s usually no more than 2-3 rainy days per month. So, this could be the best time to travel to Tenerife if you want to go hiking and try other outdoor activities.

The spring (April, May, and June) and the autumn (October, November, and December) are the best for taking a cheap holiday to Tenerife . It’s the low season, so accommodation and food prices will be more affordable. Plus, there will be fewer crowds and the weather will still be pleasant, so you can visit the beach, go hiking, and enjoy other attractions .

Once you’ve decided to travel to Tenerife , it’s time to plan your itinerary. Below, you’ll find all the information you need to organize a trip itinerary and route so you can make the most of your time.

Should you travel to Tenerife North or South?

One of the most common questions I see is whether to travel to Tenerife North or South . Both parts of the island offer beautiful sites and exciting attractions. Depending on your personal preferences, one area will appeal to you more than the other.

First, if you visit Tenerife North , you’ll be able to explore some of the most important metropolitan areas on the island, such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Puerto de la Cruz . The north is also home to several charming towns like La Orotava and Garachico , where you can try some authentic Canarian cuisine. There are also incredible natural areas here, like Anaga Rural Park , and beaches like Las Teresitas. So, if you’re interested in history, culture, and stunning hiking trails, you’ll love exploring all the tourist attractions in Tenerife North .

As for Tenerife South, it’s known for its white sand beaches, where you can practice watersports like kayaking and surfing, as well as dolphin and whale-watching. There are also some lovely historical towns here like Vilaflor de Chasna and El Médano , not to mention magnificent landscapes like the Masca Gorge , one of the best places to visit in Tenerife South . And if you’re looking to enjoy some shopping and nightlife while traveling in Tenerife , there are lots of restaurants, shops, and nightclubs in Tenerife located in this part of the island.

Remember, you can get from one end of the island to the other by renting a car, booking a tour, or taking the bus. So, just because you’re staying in one part of Tenerife, that doesn’t mean you can’t explore other interesting areas. I will say that the quickest and easiest way to get around is by renting a car in Tenerife .

How many days do you need to visit Tenerife?

Most tourists in Tenerife spend 4-5 full days on the island, which is enough time to see all the main points of interest, including Mount Teide . If you want to explore Tenerife in more depth, I recommend spending 7 days here.

Of course, if you don’t have that much time, you can still visit Tenerife ’s top attractions in 3 days. To help you plan your route through the island, here are some itinerary ideas:

Itinerary ideas for a Tenerife holiday

7 days in tenerife, 5 days in tenerife, 3 days in tenerife.

Spend the first day of this trip through Tenerife by getting to know Vilaflor and its otherworldly lunar landscapes. If you take the road from Vilaflor and head towards the Cañadas del Teide, you’ll see some of the most incredible viewpoints in Tenerife. Take your time and capture some photos!

Day 1 – Efrén Yanes

You can also take the opportunity to picnic in the Cañadas del Teide and wait for nightfall, as this is one of the best areas to stargaze and photograph the Milky Way . You can book this tour , which includes dinner and telescopic observation of the night sky.

Finally, to get the most out of your visit to Tenerife , stay overnight at the Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide .

The second day of your holiday in Tenerife can be dedicated to climbing Mount Teide , which is something I recommend everyone do. Most travelers take the cable car up to La Rambleta, then walk the remaining 650 feet to the summit. However, to do the final route, you must request this permit in advance. You can also skip the cable car and make the ascent up Mount Teide by taking the Sendero 7 (Montaña Blanca) route.

After spending some time on Teide, head back to Santa Cruz de Tenerife for a good night’s rest. Some of the best 5-star hotels in Tenerife are here, such as the Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey ; although the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz is another good option, and where we stayed during our Tenerife trip . Another excellent accommodation, especially for tight budgets, is Hotel Príncipe Paz , one of the top-rated cheap hotels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

During your third day traveling in Tenerife , do a tour of the capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Here, you can see the Castle of San Cristóbal, Our Lady of Africa Market, and Plaza de España.

At lunchtime, go to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are lots of cool places to see in La Laguna , including Plaza del Adelantado and the Palacio de Nava. Later, return to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, stopping at Las Teresitas Beach along the way. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife , and one of the few white and golden sand beaches in the north.

You can spend the night in the same hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife from day 2.

The next day, begin with a visit to Anaga Rural Park , one of the most magical places to visit in Tenerife . Its laurel forests are a declared Biosphere Reserve and look like something out of a fairy tale. Best of all, there are several walking trails here, including the popular Trail of the Senses.

Day 4 – Efrén Yanes

After that, make the 35-minute drive to Benijo Beach , one of the wildest, virgin beaches on the island. Be very careful if you go swimming, as there are strong currents and waves. At night, I recommend returning to your Santa Cruz de Tenerife hotel.

My tips for Tenerife day 5 include getting to know Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava, two important towns in the northern part of the island.

There are many interesting places in Puerto de la Cruz , although you can’t miss Plaza del Charco, Plaza Europa, the port, and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia.

In La Orotava , you’ll find all kinds of restaurants and beautiful attractions like Casa de los Balcones, Plaza de la Constitución, and the Church of Our Lady of the Conception.

After visiting La Orotava, head to Icod de los Vinos, where I recommend spending the night. There are some small, intimate hotels here, like the Hotel Emblemático San Agustín or the Casa Rural Montiel .

If you’ve spent the night in Icod de los Vinos , you can start your day exploring its lovely town center. You can’t miss the Cueva del Viento, a volcanic cave that formed over 27,000 years ago after the Pico Viejo eruption. The Drago Milenario, an over 800-year-old dragon tree, is another must-see.

Grab some lunch in Icod de los Vinos, then head to Garachico , which is just 15 minutes away and offers awesome sites like El Caletón , one of the best natural pools in Tenerife . If you have the time, visit the Punta de Teno Lighthouse in Teno Rural Park , where you can witness a magnificent sunset. Otherwise, go directly to Masca and rest up for the final day of your Tenerife holiday . We stayed at Sweet Home Masca .

On the last day of your trip to Tenerife , get to know Masca, perhaps by hiking the Masca Gorge . Keep in mind that this activity takes up the whole day, so you may prefer to visit the town of Masca and Los Gigantes. Here, you can marvel at the impressive cliffs and take one of the best whale and dolphin tours in Tenerife , like this one .

Then, take advantage of your last afternoon in Tenerife to explore Playa de Las Américas and its vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find shops, restaurants, clubs, and resorts here, like the Sir Anthony hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in Tenerife . Some other great options include the Olé Tropical Tenerife , an all-inclusive hotel in Tenerife South ; and Catalonia Oro Negro , one of the best cheap hotels in Tenerife .

With a 5-day holiday in Tenerife , you can see even more. Start in the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife to visit points of interest like the Castle of San Cristóbal, Our Lady of Africa Market, and Plaza de España. You can also stop by Las Teresitas Beach, one of the best beaches in Tenerife that’s just 15 minutes from the city.

To make the most of your time in the capital, I recommend spending the night here. The Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey is one of the best 5-star hotels in Tenerife , but we enjoyed staying at the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz . And if you’re on a budget, the Hotel Príncipe Paz is a cheap hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

During your second day of traveling in Tenerife , you can visit San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Here, you can’t miss the top attractions in La Laguna , like the Plaza del Adelantado, the convent of Santa Catalina de Siena, the Palacio de Nava, and the Casa de la Alhóndiga.

You can also spend the day walking through the beautiful laurel forests of Anaga Rural Park . If you have time, check out Benijo Beach, a gorgeous wild beach that’s just a 30-minute drive from Anaga. To end the night, get some rest at the same hotel you stayed at in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

I recommend using your third day in Tenerife to explore Mount Teide, the island’s crown jewel. There are many ways to climb Mount Teide , but most tourists in Tenerife ride the cable car to La Rambleta. From here, it’s a short walk to the summit, but you must request a permit in advance. If you don’t have the permit, you can still ride the cable car to La Rambleta, but you’ll only have access to the Mirador de la Fortaleza and the Mirador del Pico Viejo viewpoints.

After visiting Mount Teide, you can travel to Puerto de la Cruz, where I recommend spending the night. There are beautiful hotels in Puerto de la Cruz , such as the Hotel Best Semiramis and the Hotel Las Águilas , which is where we stayed. Alternatively, the Hotel Puerto Palace is one of the best cheap hotels in Tenerife .

If you spent the night in Puerto de la Cruz , you can start day 4 by exploring its main attractions, such as Plaza del Charco and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia.

Later, consider visiting La Orotava , which is just a 15-minute drive away. Take a walk among the various tourist sites like the Casa de los Balcones, Plaza de la Constitución, or the Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. I suggest making your visit here quick since you’ll also want to stop by Icod de los Vinos , home to the famous Drago Milenario, a must-see during your trip to Tenerife .

Depending on how much time you have, you can go to Garachico and enjoy a swim in El Caletón, or check out the Punta de Teno Lighthouse in Teno Rural Park , which boasts the most beautiful sunsets on the island. To wind down, spend the night at the Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja in Garachico.

For the last day of your vacation in Tenerife , I recommend visiting the Punta de Teno Lighthouse if you weren’t able to go the day before. Then, travel to Masca, where you can hike one of the best trails in Tenerife , the Barranco de Masca . Of course, this will take the whole day, so if you want another option, just visit the Caserío de Masca, followed by the Los Gigantes Cliffs. This is where some of the best whale and dolphin-watching tours in Tenerife depart, like this one that we took.

If your plane home departs this same day, head straight to the airport after your tour. However, if you have time, check out Playa de Las Américas , a lively area with all kinds of entertainment. It’s a good place to spend the night, either at the Sir Anthony hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in Tenerife ; the Olé Tropical Tenerife , one of the top all-inclusive hotels in Tenerife South ; or Catalonia Oro Negro , one of the cheapest hotels in Tenerife .

You can start the first day of your 3-day Tenerife trip by getting to know San Cristóbal de la Laguna , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, take a tour through Anaga Rural Park , a declared Biosphere Reserve not far from town.

Ideally, you’ll end your day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the island’s capital city. If you have time after visiting Anaga Rural Park, I recommend stopping by Las Teresitas Beach, one of Tenerife’s best beaches .

I suggest spending the night in a hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife . For example, the Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey , is considered one of the best 5-star hotels in Tenerife , while the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz is one of the few spa hotels in Tenerife . If you’re on a budget, the Hotel Príncipe Paz is a wonderful cheap hotel in northern Tenerife.

For day two of your holiday in Tenerife , spend some time exploring Mount Teide, a must-see on the island. There are different ways to climb Mount Teide , although the most common way is to ride the cable car to La Rambleta. From there, you can reach the summit on foot as long as you’ve requested this permit in advance. Also, from La Rambleta, you can access the Mirador de la Fortaleza and the Mirador del Pico Viejo, two beautiful viewpoints that don’t require a permit.

Then, spend the night in one of the top-rated hotels in Los Gigantes , like the Royal Sun Resort , one of the most romantic hotels in Tenerife . Alternatively, the Ona el Marqués is a great apartment in Los Gigantes , while the Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur is a good option if you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Tenerife South.

For the last day of your Tenerife vacation , take the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic attractions in the south. I recommend starting with a whale and dolphin-watching tour in Tenerife , such as this one . You can also take advantage of the morning hours to visit the imposing Los Gigantes Cliffs by taking one of the excursions that departs from the port.

Afterward, I suggest going to the town of Masca, a declared Asset of Cultural Interest that’s famous for being the starting point of the Masca Gorge route. Next, go to Garachico and take a swim in El Caletón, or visit Icod de los Vinos , home to the Drago Milenario. Another interesting town is La Orotava , a village full of tradition and colonial history.

To end the day, you can stop by Puerto de la Cruz , which is considered the second most important city after Santa Cruz de Tenerife. I recommend spending the night at the H10 Tenerife Playa , one of the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz . It’s also worth checking out Hotel Marte , one of Tenerife’s best hotels , or the FERGUS Puerto de la Cruz , an all-inclusive hotel in Tenerife .

4. How to have a cheap holiday in Tenerife

Don’t worry if you’re on a tight budget; you can still take a cheap trip to Tenerife while enjoying its most popular sites and attractions.

To plan your cheap holiday to Tenerife , the first thing you should do is decide when to travel. Avoid peak tourist season (summer and winter) since prices will be the highest. I recommend planning your trip for spring or autumn so you can save more money on hotels, food, and activities. Besides, this time of year has fewer crowds, so you’ll be able to enjoy the beach and other outdoor attractions in addition to pleasant temperatures.

I also suggest looking for the best deals for Tenerife , starting from your home country. You can find cheap flights to Tenerife on Kiwi and Skyscanner , which search hundreds of airlines to get you the lowest prices. They’ll even tell you the cheapest dates to fly.

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One of the biggest expenses for your trip to Tenerife will be accommodation, so consider staying in one of the best cheap hotels in Tenerife to cut costs. After all, if you’re not going to use a hotel’s gym, spa, or other facilities, it’s not worth paying extra for a room at one of those resorts.

Finally, if you plan to rent a car in Tenerife , make sure you choose the right rental car company. I recommend arranging your rental ahead of time to save money and time. We always use DiscoverCars to find cheap rental vehicles since the website scours all the different companies in the area to find the best deals. Hold off on getting extras like insurance since the rates are usually higher online. Instead, wait until you pick up the vehicle in person, so you get the cheapest price.

Best Tenerife holiday packages

Another way to save money on your Tenerife holiday is by booking a vacation package that includes your activities, accommodation, and transportation. Of course, you’ll still have to book and pay for your flight to the island. Here are some of the best deals on holiday packages in Tenerife :

• This 6-day hiking tour includes an expert guide who will take you around Puerto de la Cruz, through Anaga Rural Park and Teno Rural Park, to La Orotava and Teide National Park, and the beaches of Costa Adeje.
• This self-guided 8-day tour is perfect for experienced hikers who want to explore on their own. It goes to Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Icod de los Vinos, Santiago del Teide, Masca, and Candelaria.
• This is another 8-day holiday package , but it’s fully guided. You’ll make stops at Teide National Park, the Teno Mountains, the laurel forests of Anaga, Santiago del Teide, and Masca. You’ll also enjoy scenic hikes through Canarian pine forests and volcanic routes. Tour guides and flights are included.

Each of these tour packages includes your accommodation, meals, and transportation, so if you’re looking for the best deals on your Tenerife trip , be sure to book one of these in advance .

5. Where to stay while traveling in Tenerife

There are many places to stay in Tenerife , so you won’t have any trouble finding a hotel that suits your budget and needs. Below, you’ll find some of the top-rated hotels on Tenerife :

1. Hotel Príncipe Paz

The best hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

2. H10 Tenerife Playa

The best hotel in Puerto de la Cruz

3. Hollywood Mirage

The best hotel in Los Cristianos

4. Iberostar Selection Sábila

The best hotel in Costa Adeje

5. Catalonia Oro Negro

The best hotel in Playa de Las Américas

6. Royal Sun Resort

The best hotel in Los Gigantes

7. Kn Hotel Arenas del Mar

The best hotel in El Médano

8. Hotel Spa Villalba

The best hotel in Vilaflor

9. Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja

The best hotel in Garachico

10. Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide

The best hotel for visiting Mount Teide

Depending on your preferences, one type of accommodation may suit you better. The best thing about traveling to Tenerife is that it offers a wide variety of hotels, villas, apartments, and more, so you’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay:

• Apartments in Tenerife
• All-inclusive hotels in Tenerife
• 5-Star hotels in Tenerife
• Villas in Tenerife
• Luxury hotels in Tenerife
• Camping in Tenerife

You can also choose your accommodation based on where you’ll be traveling in Tenerife . For example, if you plan on exploring different hiking trails and learning about Canarian history and culture, you’ll want to stay in the north. On the other hand, if you’d like to enjoy the beach, practice watersports, or go shopping or partying in town, stay in the south.

Best areas to stay in Tenerife North

Hotels in santa cruz de tenerife, hotels in puerto de la cruz, hotels in garachico, hotels in costa adeje, best areas to stay in tenerife south, hotels in las américas, hotels in los cristianos, hotels in el médano, hotels in los gigantes.

• Rental cars
• Campervan rentals
• Public transportation

If you’re not sure how to get around while traveling in Tenerife , be aware that you have several options. The most convenient and practical way to visit different parts of the island is by renting a vehicle through DiscoverCars . We always go through this website because it has the cheapest prices, but if you don’t want to drive, there are other ways to get around .

Rental cars in Tenerife

Again, the most comfortable and practical way to visit Tenerife ’s different attractions is by renting a car in Tenerife . I recommend going through DiscoverCars , a platform that looks through all the available rental companies in the region to find the best deals. You can reserve your vehicle before leaving for your trip so it’s ready for pick-up at the airport when you land in Tenerife.

If you’re using DiscoverCars, I recommend declining the extras (with the exception of insurance) and instead purchasing them when you pick up the vehicle in person. This way, it’ll be a lot cheaper.

Overall, if you have no problem driving around to explore Tenerife , this is the best option. The roads on the island are in good condition and well-marked, with the only exception being the road to Teno Rural Park . This road has limited access to protect the surrounding environment, although it’s not usually closed to traffic. In more urban areas, there is more traffic, but travel times are quite good .

Campervan rentals in Tenerife

If you prefer having your mode of transportation combined with your accommodation, you can rent a campervan in Tenerife . This is the best way to enjoy your trip to Tenerife in total freedom, as you can drive around and stop at your leisure. We like renting our campervans through Motorhome Republic or Yescapa , as they offer a wide range of vehicles.

Keep in mind that free camping in Tenerife is not permitted, but there are authorized areas where you can camp in Tenerife . While you can park your campervan in urban and non-urban areas, you cannot take up more space than what the closed RV or campervan occupies .

Tours in Tenerife, the best way to get around Tenerife without a car

Don’t want to drive? No problem. You can tour Tenerife in its entirety by booking some of the best excursions in Tenerife . Even if you don’t have your own vehicle on the island, you can still see its most popular attractions and beautiful landscapes, as there are tours that depart from the main towns in Tenerife North and South. If you want to make things super easy, I recommend staying at the H10 Tenerife Playa , where you’ll be close to the departure point for many excursions in Puerto de la Cruz .

If you’re short on time but still want to see all the main points of interest, you can book this tour , which starts in the south and travel around Tenerife , passing through Candelaria, San Cristóbal de la Laguna, La Orotava, Garachico, Masca, and more. There is also this option if you prefer starting in the north. And, of course, a tour of Mount Teide is a must-do while you’re visiting Tenerife !

Make sure that you book your spot for these tours in advance, especially if you’re traveling to Tenerife during peak season.

One of the main advantages of booking an excursion is that it includes your tour guide, transportation, and admission fees, if applicable. For those who prefer touring Tenerife ’s attractions on their own, there is also the option to book a private transfer .

Public transportation, a cheap way to get around Tenerife

To plan a cheap trip to Tenerife , you may also consider using the island’s public transportation system, which connects all the main towns and cities.

The Canarian buses, or guaguas , are managed by TITSA and make up over 200 bus lines around the island. The buses typically run on schedule and have affordable fares, so you can reach practically any point on the island for very little money.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the buses are designed for locals, not tourists on Tenerife , so it may take considerably longer for you to get to your destination. In general, it’s a slower way to get around, and there are some remote places that you won’t be able to reach by bus .

7. Where to eat while traveling in Tenerife

This Tenerife travel guide wouldn’t be complete without an overview of the island’s best restaurants. I recommend avoiding the more touristy places, as they tend to have higher prices and lower-quality food. Rather, I suggest visiting a guachinche , where you can taste some authentic Canarian cuisine .

One of our favorite guachinches is Casa Edu in Los Gigantes, which serves a wide variety of dishes. I highly recommend ordering the papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), chicken soup, and sirloin steak, but if you can’t decide, ask for a sampler plate so you can try some different dishes.

There are other delicious restaurants in Tenerife , including Etereo by Pedro Nel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Restaurante Familiar in El Médano. While traveling in Tenerife , you must also go to Casa Mediterránea , one of the best restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz .

Best restaurants in Tenerife

Best restaurants in puerto de la cruz, 8. travel budget for a tenerife holiday.

Calculating the price for a holiday in Tenerife can be a bit complicated since it depends on many factors, such as the type of accommodation you choose, where you eat, what activities you do, and how you get around the island.

You can get a better idea of the cost to visit Tenerife in this price breakdown:

You will find many places to stay in Tenerife at a wide range of price points, but to give you an idea, this is what a double room in Tenerife would cost:

• Hotel Taburiente S.C. Tenerife , in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: From €80/night
• Sol Arona Tenerife , in Los Cristianos: From €80/night
• Los Amigos Hostel Tenerife , in El Médano: From €60/night

For more options, check out our guide on the best cheap hotels in Tenerife .

• H10 Tenerife Playa , in Puerto de la Cruz: From €90/night
• Royal Sun Resort , in Los Gigantes: From €100/night
• Dreams Jardín Tropical Resort & Spa , in Costa Adeje: From €150/night

You can look at our article on the best hotels in Tenerife for more options.

• Hotel Botánico y Oriental Spa Garden , in Puerto de la Cruz: From €210/night
• Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora Resort & Spa , in Guía de Isora: From €215/night
• Hotel Sir Anthony , in Playa de Las Américas: From €320/night

For more information and other accommodation options, read our guide to luxury hotels in Tenerife .

Another option, if you want to be surrounded by the great outdoors, is to stay at one of the campsites in Tenerife . You can stay in any of the designated camping areas free of charge by requesting a permit on this website , or you can book a spot at a paid campground from €20/night.

During your vacation in Tenerife, you won’t have any problem finding places to eat. Some restaurants specialize in typical Canarian food or tapas, while others serve grilled meats, the catch of the day, and even vegetarian or vegan dishes. Best of all, many of the top restaurants in Tenerife offer amazing food at affordable prices:

• Breakfast : €3 – €10/person
• Lunch : €10 – €30/person
• Dinner : €10 – €30/person
• Total : €23 – €70/person per day

You can also stay at an all-inclusive hotel in Tenerife and enjoy unlimited food and drinks for a flat, fixed rate.

There are so many things to do in Tenerife , and some of them are free. Depending on what you want to see, you’ll spend more or less of your budget on attractions. To give you a better idea, here are the ticket prices for some of the most popular tourist attractions in Tenerife :

• Museum of Nature and Archaeology , in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (free)
• Municipal Museum of Fine Arts , in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (free)
• Casa del Carnaval , in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (free)
• Palmetum , in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (€6)
• Cueva del Viento , in Icod de los Vinos (€20)
• Drago Milenario , in Icod de los Vinos (€5)
• Teide cable car (from €40)
• Castle of San Felipe , in Puerto de la Cruz (free)
• Botanical Garden , in Puerto de la Cruz (€3)
• Anaga Rural Park (free)
• Masca Gorge (free)
• Teno Rural Park (free)
• El Caletón , in Garachico  (free)
• Casa de los Balcones , in La Orotava (€6)
• Barranco del Infierno (€11)
• Pyramids of Güímar (from €12.50)
• Siam Park (€42)
• Cueva de Hermano Pedro , in El Médano (free)
• Lunar landscape of Vilaflor de Chasna (free)
• Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria , in Candelaria (free)

These are the best excursions in Tenerife , so be sure to read our guide for more information about each one:

• Excursion to Teide with cable car ticket and permit to access the summit (€128)
• Whale and dolphin-watching tour  (€27)
• Hiking through Anaga Rural Park  (€17)
• Excursion to the Masca Gorge  (€35)
• Boat trip through Punta de Teno (€30)
• Kayak tour through Punta de Teno (€30)
• Guided hike through the Barranco del Infierno (€98)
• Snorkeling with turtles (€38)
• Stargazing at Teide National Park  (€55)
• Tour of the island from the north  (€49.50)
• Tour of the island from the south  (€49.50)
• Day trip to La Gomera (€95)

There are all kinds of ways to travel around Tenerife , but you’ll enjoy the most freedom and convenience if you rent a car in Tenerife . Rental vehicles start at around €35 per day through DiscoverCars , although the price may vary depending on the model, the duration of your trip, and any extras you purchase.

Besides renting a car, there are other ways to get around during your Tenerife trip :

• Public transportation – Tourist card  (€10/day)
• Taxi   (€3 + €1/mile)
• Private transfer (from €47)

Another option is to rent a campervan in Tenerife , which will allow you to move around the island freely while also having a place to sleep. I recommend these two options:

• Motorhome Republic (from €104/day)
• Yescapa (from €75/day)

Below, you’ll see the average total cost for two adults traveling to Tenerife for 4 days and 3 nights. Keep in mind the total price will vary depending on where you stay, eat, and visit:

• 3 nights at Sol Arona Tenerife : €240
• Food : €50 x 2 people x 4 days = €400
• Tourist attractions (Casa del Carnaval, Palmetum, Cueva del Viento, Drago Milenario, Botanical Garden, Anaga Rural Park, El Caletón, Casa de los Balcones, and Barranco del Infierno): €51 x 2 people = €102
• Excursions (Guided hike to Mount Teide, whale and dolphin-watching tours, and kayaking excursion): €185 x 2 people = €370
• Transportation (Rental car + gas): €200
• Total : €1,312 for a 4-day/3-night trip for 2 people (€656 per person)

Remember, you can make your holiday in Tenerife cheaper by visiting free attractions or staying in budget-friendly hotels. Also, if you have more people joining you for your Tenerife trip , you can share some travel expenses like accommodation and transportation, which can also lower the total price.

Planning a cheap holiday to Tenerife

• Decide when to travel to Tenerife , keeping in mind that prices are usually lower in the spring and autumn. If you travel during these months, you can find cheap flights to Tenerife .
• Only visit the Tenerife attractions and tourist sites you’re interested in . You’ll enjoy your holiday a lot more, and you’ll save money.
• Take advantage of free attractions and tourist sites in Tenerife .
• Save money by booking a room at one of the cheap hotels in Tenerife , and avoid staying in resorts with fancy facilities or services you won’t use.
• Take advantage of these travel discounts to make your trip to Tenerife cheaper .
• Get a no-foreign transaction fee credit card to get the best currency exchange rate and save money on withdrawals at foreign ATMs.
• Just because you’re planning a holiday to Tenerife on a budget , that doesn’t mean you can’t get coverage for unexpected incidents. Get one of the best cheap travel insurance policies to stay protected during your trip.

9. Tips for Tenerife and what to pack

Another thing to consider before traveling to Tenerife is what you should pack. Remember, the holiday weather in Tenerife is quite pleasant year-round, with an average temperature of 77 °F (25 °C) in the summer and 65 °F (18 °C) in the winter. So, you can visit the beaches here any time of year!

That said, there are up to 25 microclimates on the island, which means that depending on which areas you’re going to visit, you may need a certain type of clothing. Keeping this in mind, here is what I recommend bringing along for your Tenerife trip :

• Swimsuit, towel, flip flops, and sunscreen for days at the beach
• Water shoes for visiting the natural pools in Tenerife
• Summer/spring clothing and comfortable walking shoes
• Warm layers and mountain boots for climbing Mount Teide and doing other  hikes in Tenerife

Tips for Tenerife and what to pack

Other things you may want to bring along for your Tenerife trip include:

• Your camera and an extra memory card
• Portable battery or power bank  (I have this one and it works great)
• Chargers for electronic devices you travel with
• Cash and credit card for the rental car deposit (check out the best credit cards for travel )

Documentation for traveling to Tenerife, Spain

Before  traveling to Tenerife , you must make sure you have the necessary documentation.

First, you’ll need the basics, such as a photo ID and your passport. I also recommend checking iVisa to see if you need a certain Visa, like a Schengen Visa , or some other type of documentation. Be aware that in 2025, the visa requirements are changing, and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will require all travelers to apply for authorization before traveling to Europe or passing through Europe to other destinations. You can check here for more info.

Moreover, if you plan on renting a car in Tenerife , make sure you have a valid driver’s license. It’s also a good idea to keep digital copies of your boarding passes and reservations for tours and hotels on your phone. If you have Heymondo travel insurance, you can even access your policy information on your phone thanks to the company’s 24/7 app.

Travel insurance for Tenerife

Anytime we fly or travel in general, we get travel insurance. No matter how short your  trip to Tenerife is, you’ll want to be covered in case anything goes wrong. We’ve been using  Heymondo for the past 5 years and consider it to be one of the  best travel insurance companies on the market.

We have a complete guide on  Heymondo insurance , but I’ll tell you here that it stands out for its great value. In addition to excellent coverage for travel and medical-related expenses, Heymondo pays your medical bills upfront, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a claim. Plus, you’ll have a $0 deductible and access to the 24/7 travel assistance app.

With Heymondo, you can enjoy your holiday in Tenerife worry-free, knowing you’re covered by one of the top-rated insurance companies . Don’t forget to take advantage of our  Heymondo discount code to save even more on your policy.

Internet for traveling in Tenerife

To make sure you stay connected and have  Internet while traveling  through Tenerife, I recommend getting a  SIM card for Europe . This way, you can easily look up directions, find reviews for restaurants or Tenerife tourist sites , or book a last-minute accommodation.

We always use the  Holafly eSIM , which has unlimited data and great coverage, so you can use it practically anywhere during your  Tenerife trip . It’s a digital SIM, so you can buy it before or during your trip. Plus, the eSIM is available for durations of 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days, so you can find one that fits your  Tenerife holiday .

Getting a travel SIM card will help you avoid roaming fees and a huge phone bill when you return home. Plus, you can save even more by using our  Holafly discount code . Of course, you should check your device’s compatibility with the digital SIM here . If it’s not compatible, or you prefer a physical SIM card, I recommend getting one from SimOptions .

5% OFF your international eSIM card

Best credit cards for traveling to Tenerife

If you’re an avid traveler, consider getting a  credit card for travel . These cards earn points or miles for things like dining out, shopping for groceries, and booking hotels. Over time, those points add up, and you can redeem them for airline credits toward your dream destination, perhaps a  trip to Tenerife !

Take advantage of your everyday purchases by using your travel credit card and enjoy benefits like cash back, airport lounge access, and exclusive offers for choice hotels. There are lots of cards on the market, so I recommend reading through our guide to find the best options for you.

10. Download a Tenerife tourist map

I recommend having our Tenerife tourist maps on hand so you can plan your Tenerife travel itinerary . You’ll be able to easily locate all the attractions you want to see in Tenerife North and South, as well as restaurants and accommodations.

We have several useful maps in our complete guide, including maps of Tenerife’s best beaches and trail maps.

Other tips for a Tenerife holiday

Now that you have all the necessary information for your Tenerife travel adventure, I want to give you some tips that will make your vacation even more enjoyable:

• It’s difficult to see all the tourist attractions in Tenerife, so focus on visiting those that really excite you and pique your interest .
• Take advantage of the places where admission is free to learn more about the history, traditions, and culture of Tenerife .
• Temperatures are pleasant all year round, but the best time to travel to Tenerife is during spring and autumn when the weather is suitable for all activities, and there are fewer crowds.
• Regardless of when you travel to Tenerife , you should bring warm clothing to wear in mountainous areas, where temps are lower .
• Always wear sunscreen, even if it’s winter !
• Plan your trip in advance and book flights, accommodations, rental cars, and activities beforehand. This way, you’ll have more options to choose from, as well as lower prices.
• Tenerife has two airports , but you can get from one end of the island to the other without too much hassle, even without your own car. You can get around by bus (find fares and schedules on the TITSA website).
• Always drink bottled water to avoid stomach problems.
• Tenerife is safe , but you should always be cautious and use common sense. Remember to keep a close eye on your personal belongings and valuables , and don’t leave your bags in the car. We have several friends who had their cars broken into, and they lost all their stuff.

If you follow these tips, I’m sure that planning your trip to Tenerife will be much easier and you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Taking into account everything mentioned in this guide, you can make the most of your holiday in Tenerife, Spain , and take advantage of all that this island has to offer.

Visit other Canary Islands from Tenerife

If you’re going to be in Tenerife for several days and you want to take advantage of your trip to visit other Canary Islands, I recommend taking a ferry . This is the most practical option, and you can even bring your rental car on board. There are ferries from Tenerife connecting to La Gomera, La Palma, Gran Canaria, El Hierro, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. You can also hire a boat in Tenerife with or without a skipper to explore the Canary Islands.

Best things to do in La Gomera

Best things to do in La Palma

Best things to do in Gran Canaria

Best things to do in El Hierro

Best things to do in Lanzarote

Best things to do in Fuerteventura

Another option is to book an organized tour to travel from Tenerife to other islands. These excursions are convenient because they include your transportation, tour guide, and any admission tickets to the sites. Below, you can find more information about these guided excursions from Tenerife to other Canary Islands:

• La Gomera from Tenerife
• La Palma from Tenerife

FAQs - Traveling to Tenerife

To wrap up, here are the answers to some common questions about traveling to Tenerife :

Where is Tenerife?

The island of Tenerife is in the Atlantic Ocean, off the northwestern coast of Africa.

What is the official language of Tenerife?

The official language of Tenerife is Spanish.

What currency do they use in Tenerife?

Tenerife uses the euro.

Is it better to travel to Tenerife North or Tenerife South?

It depends on what you want to see and do. In Tenerife North, you’ll find charming towns like Santa Cruz de Tenerife , Puerto de la Cruz , La Orotava , and Garachico ; lovely natural sites like Anaga Rural Park ; and popular beaches, such as Las Teresitas. The north is the perfect region to learn about the history and culture of Tenerife .

On the other hand, Tenerife South is full of white sand beaches, ample watersports and activities, and beautiful villages like Vilaflor de Chasna and El Médano . The south also has incredible natural landscapes like the Masca Gorge , plus a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, restaurants, and entertainment.

So, if you’re looking to explore Tenerife ’s traditions and historical areas, the north may be your best option. If you’d rather spend time on the beach, doing water activities, and partying, the south is a better fit for you.

When is the best time to visit Tenerife?

The best time to travel to Tenerife is in the spring and autumn since the weather will be nice enough for any activity, plus there will be fewer tourists.

What’s the weather like in Tenerife?

You don’t have to worry too much about the weather in Tenerife during your holiday since temperatures are quite stable and mild year-round. The average temp in summer is 77 °F (25 °C), while in winter it’s 65 °F (18 °C).

How easy is it to get around Tenerife?

It’s pretty easy to travel around Tenerife since all the towns are connected by the Canarian buses, or guaguas . You can check the bus lines and schedules on the TITSA website.

The most comfortable and practical way to get around the island is by rental vehicle, which you can find through DiscoverCars . You could also book a private transfer or take some excursions around Tenerife .

Do you need a car to visit Tenerife?

If you want to explore Tenerife in total freedom and reach the most remote places on the island, then you’ll need a rental car. If you plan on staying in town and the nearby surrounding areas, you can get by without a vehicle.

How many airports are in Tenerife?

Tenerife has two airports: the Tenerife North (Los Rodeos – Tenerife Norte) Airport and the Tenerife South (Aeropuerto Tenerife Sur – Reina Sofía) Airport.

How much does a holiday in Tenerife cost?

The cost of a holiday in Tenerife varies depending on the type of accommodation, the number of tours and activities, rental cars, and other factors. In general, the average price is usually €500-700 per person for a 4-day/3-night trip.

How easy is it to travel from Tenerife to other Canary Islands?

The easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Tenerife to other islands is by taking the ferry. You can find ferry schedules and fares on the DirectFerries website. Another option is to go by plane, but this is less practical. If you want to fly, I recommend finding flights on Kiwi .

What is the culture in Tenerife like?

Tenerife has a long history, dating back to the Guanches, aboriginal Berbers of African origin. The Spanish conquest brought more traditions to the island, including a rich gastronomy, which is most represented in dishes like ropa vieja (a type of beef stew) and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes). Tenerife is also known for its famous festivities, most notably the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Corpus Christi in La Orotava.

Is Tenerife safe to visit?

Yes, traveling to Tenerife is totally safe . Of course, you should be careful and keep an eye on your personal belongings and valuables.

What documents do you need to visit Tenerife?

For your trip to Tenerife , you’ll need a valid passport, copies of your boarding pass and reservations (hotels, tours, etc.). I recommend checking iVisa to see exactly what you’ll need, especially since visa requirements are changing in 2024.

Is Tenerife expensive?

Tenerife is not expensive, especially compared to other travel destinations in Europe.

If you have any other questions about traveling to Tenerife , or you’d like to share your experience and tips, feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to hear from you!

Enjoy your holiday in Tenerife !

Our other articles about Tenerife

15 Best Natural Pools in Tenerife + MAP

10 Best Things to Do in La Orotava, Tenerife + MAP

10 Best Things to Do in Garachico, Tenerife + MAP

Camping in Tenerife | Campsites and Tips

10 Best Restaurants to Eat in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

10 Best All-Inclusive Hotels in Costa Adeje, Tenerife

10 Best Villas in Tenerife, Canary Islands

15 Best Restaurants in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Things to Do in El Médano, Tenerife + MAP

Tenerife By Ferry – Prices, Routes & Timetables

10 Best Family Hotels in Tenerife, Canary Islands, in 2024

10 Best Apartments in Tenerife, Canary Islands, in 2024

10 Best Hotels in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, in 2024

10 Best Hotels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 2024

10 Best Hotels in Costa Adeje, Tenerife, in 2024

10 Best Hotels in Las Americas, Tenerife, in 2024

10 Best Hotels in Arona, Tenerife in 2024

5 Best Hotels in El Médano, Tenerife, in 2024

10 best 5-star hotels in tenerife south in 2024.

10 Best Hotels in North Tenerife in 2024

10 best hotels in south tenerife in 2024.

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Your vacation guide to Tenerife in the Canary Islands

The largest and most populous of all the Canary Islands , Tenerife has no shortage of beautiful beaches, charming villages, epic hiking spots and family-friendly activities.

And if you think it's simply too far-flung and getting there would take forever, United's new service starting Thursday, June 9, 2022, is changing that with a brand-new nonstop flight between Newark (EWR) and Tenerife South (TFS).

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Anytime is a good time to visit Tenerife, thanks to year-round sunshine, warm temperatures and no rainy season. Whether you're hoping to wine taste and explore on your honeymoon, visit water parks and hike volcanoes with your family or simply have a getaway filled with sunshine and cocktails with friends, Tenerife is the island for you.

This guide will help you curate your trip in full, from tips on getting there and where to stay to advice on what to do, see and eat during your Canary Islands vacation .

Not quite sure if Tenerife is the right island for your visit? Check out these guides, which may help you choose another island more apt for your vacation:

• How to know which Canary Island is right for you
• Which Canary Island is best for your socially distanced vacation?

Getting there and around the Canary Islands

Tenerife is home to not one but two international airports. There's Tenerife Norte (TFN) and Tenerife Sur (TFS). As each of their names suggests, Norte is in the north of the island in the capital of Santa Cruz. The Sur airport is near the southern tip of the island, closer to popular resort areas such as Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and the Costa Adeje.

As previously mentioned, United Airlines unveiled a new route from Newark, New Jersey, to Tenerife Sur three times a week. The route launches on June 9.

This is the easiest and fastest way to reach Tenerife, which is closer to Africa than Europe. Or, you can always take advantage of Iberia's award chart sweet spots, flying business class starting at 34,000 Avios one-way from a U.S. hub like Chicago (ORD) or New York (JFK) to Madrid, then hop over to Tenerife North (TFN) or Tenerife South (TFS), a flight that takes two-and-a-half to three hours.

You can also combine a visit to Tenerife with another European hub, as many flights operate on both full-fare and low-cost carriers from destinations like Frankfurt, London, Paris, Milan and Amsterdam, among many others. Most visitors coming from European destinations tend to fly into the south airport, which caters more to tourists. However, if you get an amazing deal for the north airport and plan to rent a car, it's about a one-hour drive to some of the more popular resort areas in the south.

Renting a car is essential if you'd like to explore. Public transport on Tenerife is limited to buses that often run on 'island time,' especially on weekends and holidays. Popular car rental companies like Hertz and Avis have a presence at both airports. However, local car rental chains like Plus Car and Orlando tend to be more affordable.

That being said, if you'd prefer to permanently park yourself in a beach lounger at your all-inclusive hotel, you may not need to rent a car. Instead, take a taxi from either airport to your hotel, as there are no ride-hailing programs on the island.

Where to stay

In general, most visitors prefer staying in the south, mainly because the weather is often sunnier and less windy in this area of the island. The west side is also popular for travelers. Looking for all the tourist amenities? Consider areas like Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas, Los Gigantes and the surrounding Costa Adeje.

If you're looking to explore Tenerife's wineries, tour the capital of Santa Cruz or hike in Anaga Park, you could consider a base in the north of the island.

Most of the resorts are located in the south and west of the island. For a more local stay, book a home or apartment in the north of the island. Santa Cruz provides all the amenities of an urban oasis, while San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has colorful, vibrant homes reminiscent of the Caribbean and a gorgeous cathedral.

Wine-lovers should consider the rolling hills of Icod de los Vinos. There are rentals in the sunnier south in quieter, less touristy areas such as Las Galletas or surfer enclave El Médano.

Travelers with Marriott points might opt for the Ritz-Carlton Abama (rates start at 40,000 points per night) and the Sheraton La Caleta (rates start at 30,000 points per night). Both of these luxury hotels offer gorgeous views of the sea, with amenities such as saltwater pools and fitness centers.

For a base in the north, the AC Tenerife, which opened in 2021, is an affordable, basic option for Marriott fans (rates start at 25,000 points per night, but it's better to pay cash as rates usually cost well under $100 per night). The hotel features a small rooftop pool and offers a fairly ample breakfast buffet spread, too.

Another beachfront option is the Hard Rock Tenerife, which boasts a trio of swimming pools and the Rock Spa. The H10 hotel brand has a few hotels throughout the island apt for both families and couples such as the H10 Big Sur and the H10 Costa Adeje.

Finally, the Melia Palacio de Isora is another luxury option that caters to all types of travelers, with a special floor for adults only called the Red Level and another just for families called the Red Level for Families.

What to do and see

What's the top activity to do in Tenerife? The beach ! The island is covered with both black sand volcanic beaches, as well as stretches of golden sand. Here are some of the best:

• For windsurfing, kite surfing and surfing: El Médano.
• For white sands, shallow waters and all the amenities: Los Cristianos and Las Vistas (walk between them).
• For white sands in the north: Playa de Las Teresitas.

• For windswept black sands: Playa de la Tejita.
• For a hidden gem: La Pelada.
• For restaurant and shopping options: Playa del Fanabe.
• For far-flung, northern black sands: Playa Benijo (spot monolithic sea rocks here!).

Tenerife is perfect for travelers who love adventure. Besides offering all sorts of water sports like diving and snorkeling, kite, wind and regular surfing , paragliding is a popular activity, as is canyoning on Tejina Mountain. You can also explore an ancient lava dome system of craters and caves at Cueva del Viento.

Hiking is another favorite activity in Tenerife. The most famous spot is one of the tallest peaks in Spain, the Teide volcano. There are many paths of varying lengths and difficulties to choose from. For those wanting a more relaxed experience, there's a cable car that takes you almost to the very top.

Note that a trip to the top summit requires a permit, and it's best to buy your cable car tickets well in advance for the beginning of your trip. Make sure to check the day of to confirm the cable car is operating (it often shuts down due to weather conditions), rebooking for later in your trip if it's not.

Anaga Rural Park is a verdant area to hike. It leads you through twists and turns in varying microclimates past one-of-a-kind mosses and laurel trees, fertile valleys and rocky passes, offering stunning views of the ocean below. Wear layers here — while others may be sunning on the beach, it can be freezing and rainy in areas of this natural park.

Masca is one of Tenerife's most beautiful mountaintop villages . Hike the area, or simply drive through the Macizo de Teno mountains and enjoy the impressive scenery. Certain hikes here offer views of Los Gigantes, towering oceanside cliffs on the island's western side.

Families will enjoy visiting the Siam Water Park, one of Europe's largest waterparks. Families with older children may also enjoy quad adventures or stargazing experiences. Santa Cruz, the island's capital, is home to the Natural History Museum. The city also features many 15th-century buildings and palm-tree-lined squares ideal for a stroll on a warm, sunny afternoon.

What to eat and drink

Canarias cuisine is hearty and delicious. You'll want to sample papas arrugadas ("wrinkled" potatoes in a delicious, tangy Canarian sauce, Mojo picón), and ropa vieja, a meat dish also popular in Cuba. Of course, you can't go wrong with fresh seafood, either.

Make sure to dine in some of the most traditional restaurants found in the north of the island , known as guanchinches. These no-frills eateries aren't fancy, featuring simple foods with a limited menu. However, they're the heart and soul of the island's gastronomy.

Traditionally, these restaurants also cultivate their own wine, so make sure to indulge in a glass (or a few). Some of the best ones to try are the colorful Restaurante Bodegón Casa Tomás, famous for its ribs in mojo picón sauce, or Guachinche 3 Dragos (try the fresh cheese or stewed octopus).

Tenerife's volcanic soil is ideal for wine cultivation. Some of the best wineries are in the north of the island, like Bodegas Lomo or Bodegas Monje. The latter offers a gorgeous outdoor patio where you can taste wine while admiring the sunset.

Bottom line

Tenerife makes for a versatile vacation spot: One where you can either lounge on the beach for days on end, enjoy wine-tasting and waterparks, or explore caves, forests, beaches and beyond.

With mild temperatures and sunshine year-round, plus a new way to arrive nonstop, there's never really a bad time to visit. There's always plenty to do on this affordable island.

Tenerife Itinerary: An Exciting Travel Guide for Spain’s Hidden Gem

To say the least, Thanksgiving travel in the US can be hectic and unnecessarily expensive. If spending the day with your drunk uncle is not something you’re not looking forward to, here’s a tip: go to Europe for an off-season adventure instead. Seriously. For 1/3 of the price, you can see the most crowded touristy places without the crowds. Yes, you might be sacrificing a little bit of sunshine, but I’ll take empty Las Ramblas or the Vatican over summer crowds any day. This is how the idea of my Tenerife itinerary was born.

Having been to Spain numerous times, I decided it was time to show my parents this gem. We snatched $300 tickets from New York and flew to Madrid. From there, we took our fancy $15 Ryanair flight to Tenerife Sur, the southern airport of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. We wanted a little more sunshine than New York and some good food instead of turkey. 

Living in the United States, it can be difficult to learn about the vacation spot stereotypes of Europe. When I booked a trip to Tenerife and started planning, I became anxious about the supposed “relaxing” vacation. However, most blogs only focused on the party scene of the island’s main tourist spots. I had low expectations, but to my surprise, Tenerife exceeded them all. Despite common warnings, this island proved to be a perfect vacation spot with hidden gems to explore. Find out more about the unexpected wonders of Tenerife.

With this guide, I bring you the best Tenerife itinerary including logistics, top places to see, and most importantly, guides to download at the bottom of this page!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here  🙂

Quick Tenerife logistics

How many days in tenerife is enough.

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife, I recommend spending a minimum of three days on this magnificent island. During your stay, I suggest exploring the natural wonders of Tenerife, such as the awe-inspiring Mt. Teide. Then, make sure to set aside some time to soak up the sun on one of the island’s stunning beaches. Finally, no trip to Tenerife is complete without experiencing the lively atmosphere of a tourist hotspot like Los Cristianos or Santa Cruz.

Despite its lively hotspots, Tenerife offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As soon as I landed on the island, I felt a sense of calm and relaxation. For active travelers, three days in Tenerife will give you a taste of this laid-back lifestyle. However, if you have the luxury of staying for around five days, you’ll have plenty of time to truly appreciate the island’s volcanic beauty at a leisurely pace.

Size & Transport in Tenerife

To truly experience all that Tenerife has to offer, renting a car is practically essential, as this relatively small island offers so much beyond its main cities. While it is possible to drive around the island in a day, I highly recommend against it. The roads can vary from highways to narrow, winding mountain roads, which can be a challenge for even the most experienced drivers. Keep in mind that the roads can be stomach-churning, especially when sharing the road with large buses. While buses are available to get from point A to point B, the rental prices of cars on the island are so reasonable that it’s worth the expense.

Tenerife boasts two airports, one in the North and one in the South. Regardless of which airport you choose, it’s important to have a logistics plan in place for exploring the island. The North is cooler and greener, while the South is hotter and rockier.

Alternatively, taking a ferry is another way to see the island. The Santa Cruz port in the north connects to Gran Canaria and mainland Spain, while the southern port of Los Cristianos provides access to other islands such as La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro. Although ferry tickets can be more expensive than flying, it’s a fantastic way to see more of the Canary Islands.

Food in Tenerife

When dining in Los Cristianos or Playa de las Americas, you’ll likely come across an abundance of foreign-owned restaurants serving up pizza and burgers. If this is your preferred type of cuisine, do some research to find the best spots and you won’t be disappointed. However, for those seeking a more authentic taste of Canarian cuisine, my fellow travelers highly recommend checking out the following posts, this comprehensive restaurant guide , or this guide here :).

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of the cheapest drinks you’ll find anywhere on the island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or an exciting night out, getting a little tipsy in Tenerife is the perfect way to add some fun to your day.

People & Safety

During your travels in Tenerife, you’re likely to come across many ex-pats from Germany, Britain, or Italy who have made the island their home. From our experience, we found that the Airbnb hosts, restaurant staff, and other service providers were all extremely friendly and accommodating. While we did meet a few locals during our trip, we found them to be very hospitable and open to interacting with tourists.

It’s worth noting that the primary language spoken on the island is Spanish, so it’s a good idea to have some basic knowledge of the language as many locals may not speak English. While Tenerife is generally considered a safe destination, it’s important to exercise caution and take precautions to protect your belongings. Unfortunately, we had a bad experience where our car was robbed while parked at a viewpoint . Despite being parked in a public area, the thieves managed to steal our phone, camera, money, and credit cards.

While incidents like these can happen anywhere, it’s essential to be vigilant and take steps to protect your belongings. We highly recommend never leaving personal items in your car and getting travel insurance to protect yourself in case of theft or other mishaps. I was fortunate enough to have had our car covered under our Chase Saphire card and our stolen items reimbursed by Allianz Travel Insurance after filing a claim.

If this ever happens to you take the following steps:

• Call the police. In my case, there was no signal in the mountains so we drove to the nearest town and located a police station. Make sure to get a police report!
• Take pictures and make a detailed list of what was stolen.
• Go to the rental place and submit a report. They will exchange the car for you and make you pay for the damage upfront if you used your card insurance.
• File a claim with your insurance company for the stolen items and car rental insurance for whichever policy you used.
• In a month or so, you should get your check in the mail assuming you have the proper paperwork.

Accommodations in Tenerife

Accommodation options in Tenerife are plentiful, catering to various budgets and preferences. From all-inclusive resorts to small family-owned properties, farms (fincas), Airbnbs, and even hostels, there’s something for everyone. As a budget-conscious traveler, I opted for Airbnb accommodations in Tenerife, which proved to be a smart choice. I found some amazing homes, one in the south and one in the north, providing two excellent bases for exploring the island. Compared to a hotel, Airbnb offered more personal space, breathtaking views, and greater flexibility. If you’re not planning on spending all day lounging by the pool, I highly recommend considering Airbnb for your stay in Tenerife.

Sightseeing options

While Tenerife may not offer an endless list of sightseeing spots, there are still plenty of fun and exciting activities to choose from. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, lounging on the beach, visiting small towns, or experiencing the island’s amusement parks, there’s something for everyone. Some are pretty popular others are more of Tenerife’s hidden gems. Check out some of the highlights below and be sure to grab the downloadable itinerary to make the most of your trip!

Perfect Things To Do On Your Tenerife Itinerary

Tenerife is a versatile tourist destination that caters to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing, all-inclusive hotel stay, or prefer to explore the island with a rental car or hiking shoes, there’s something for everyone. For those on a budget, basic hostels and cheap beers can be found too!

If you’re looking for spring-like weather, a variety of outdoor activities, and some great drinking spots, you won’t be disappointed. And no, not every street is filled with drunk Europeans! Tenerife is a destination that has it all, offering must-see places that cater to every interest. Below are some of the top spots to visit in Tenerife, categorized for your convenience.

Natural Attractions in Tenerife

Mount teide.

Mount Teide is a volcano located in the center of the island. It is the highest point in all of Spain and yes, it is still an active volcano. Having a history of erupting every 100 years and the last eruption in 1909, we’re still waiting for the next sign of activity from it.

The volcano is located in a national park and there are a couple of different ways to see it. The simplest is renting a car and driving through the park. It will take you about an hour to two hours, depending on how many stops you take. There are many viewing points and honestly, you will not get bored of them as they each offer a different viewpoint.

Reaching the summit of Mount Teide

If you’d like to see the Tenerife from above, a good option is to take a cable car to the top of Mount Teide. The availability varies and you generally need to book weeks to months in advance depending on the season. From there you can climb further (1hr) to the top but you will need a special permit. For experienced hikers who want more of a challenge, they can begin their ascend from a lower point (5+ hours) all the way to the top, again with a special permit. There is a hostel-like refuge up top that requires prior reservations which allows you to see the one-of-a-kind sunrise from the top. Look on the official Mt. Teide website which does an excellent job of explaining all of the hiking options you have. 

I took the option of a guided tour there which includes a drive up (not all the way up but still pretty high) to see the sunset, then a small break for dinner, and lastly a stargazing experience. It was a unique way to see it but it was indeed very touristy. Mt. Teide is known for being one of the best viewing spots in the world for stargazing. There are many companies that offer this excursion so pick one based on your budget and personal preferences.

The companies offer similar itineraries but pay close attention to what is included (pick-up location, number of people going, food and drinks, return). I like this option if you’re traveling with a family and don’t want to worry so much about the logistics of times and places to park, the company will take care of all of it. 

Los Gigantes

This giant rock formation rising up to 800 meters will leave you in awe. It’s not an all-day activity but definitely something amazing to see. There is a little marina with restaurants and shops for a little pause for your journey. Many recommend Mirador Arichipenque as a good viewing spot. Driving there will leave you dizzy so make sure to take some motion sickness pills. There is also a black sand beach in the area Los Guios Beach , a public heated pool, and some natural pools too.

Masca Valley

Masca Village is a beautiful village in the mountains that is worth making a trip to. Since these two landmarks are near each other, they’re worth seeing together. Just getting there is quite stunning. It requires driving on very curvy roads in the middle of the mountains. There are some walking trails available for those wanting to take a little bit of a detour, or just taking a small break at one of the local restaurants to admire the scenery is enough to get the gist of this amazing place. 

Driving through this park on TF-12 is one of the most scenic drives you will do in Tenerife aside from Mount Teide. The roads are scary but the views are stunning. You can follow this road from or to Las Teresitas Beach. Trust me, you will not regret this drive. If you’re more into hiking, there are hiking trails you can access. 

Icod de los Vinos

Located on the northeastern side of the island, this spot is mostly known for the Drago Milenario tree which is hypothesized to be around 1000 years old. Although the tree is pretty impressive, if you’re located on the other side of the island, I would not personally go out of my way to see it. The town is small and cute with some restaurants, but overall there isn’t much to do there.

Beaches in Tenerife

Playa las américas.

This is the most known beach on the island of Tenerife. It is full of restaurants, bars, obnoxious happy hours, and a lot of people but in my opinion, it is just something you have to see and experience. Places are popular for a reason and there is nothing wrong with falling for that tourist trap sometimes. The beach is beautiful, the sand is nice and warm, the water is clean and there are plenty of lounge chairs available. Even the little beach promenade is a nice activity to do. I don’t care what the reputation is, I liked that spot very much. Go to Veronica’s strip for good nightlife.

Playa de los Cristianos

Beaches, amazing sand, lounge chairs, resorts and hotels, restaurants, bars, shops you name it Los Cristianos has it. People? Oh, yea. It has them too. But if you don’t want to miss out on the liveliness and Las Americas seems like a little too much, come here. Since it is one of the most popular spots, during peak times you might want to head out early to get a good spot. However, if this is your vibe, you won’t be disappointed. 

Playa del Duque

A smidge north of Los Cristianos, you can also find this nice little beach. With beautiful sand, clean water, and a slightly less busy spot compared to its neighbors, this could be a great choice for your southern island beach visit. 

Playa de las Teresitas

Arguably the most known beach after Cristianos and Las Americas in Tenerife. It’s on the northern side of the island but it’s beautifully situated near the mountains. There are plenty of little booths that rent our chairs and sell “beach snacks” and drinks. The water is clear and the views are great. Very relaxing and highly recommended! 

Playa de la Teija

Located at the southern tip of the island near the Sur airport, it’s a nice little spot to visit if you’re in the area. The backdrop mountain gives it a little character in a rather dry, volcano-ey spot. There isn’t much happening in terms of activities nor are the options for restaurants. Still, it is very natural and a nice escape from overcrowded beaches that pop up during peak season. 

Playa de la Arena

If you like black sand beaches, you’ll love this place. Located in a somewhat busy resort area, it is also close to Masca and Los Gigantes. The vibrant palm trees add to the beachy vibe and you can definitely score some good happy-hour deals in the area. 

Playa Abama

A little more south of Los Gigantes, this small beach is protected by rock formations on both sides. You can find the famous Ritz-Carlton nearby if you’d like to escape the one-euro beer climate. Parking may be difficult unless you’re a hotel guest there. 

Tourist Spots

Los cristianos & playa las americas.

Not going to lie, both are heavy tourist areas that are catered to an average traveler. With that said, however, it is still a very entertaining area you’re looking to get a little sun on this short trip, start at this beach and admire the nice beachfront hotels and restaurants. Both of these are next to each other and you can walk along the beach from one area to another. Los Cristianos is a more quiet area catering to an older more “calm” crowd while Playa las Americas is a loud, happy hour crowd. Both little towns are worth visiting on your holiday.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz was one of my favorite spots in Tenerife. With a more Canarian vibe, you can enjoy some restaurants, bars, and shops. The small parks in the city and all its nature make the city exciting to explore. Some notable things to see would be Plaza de España, Auditorio, Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa, Calle Castillo, Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís and just simply walking the town. It has a very different feel compared to the two tourist hot spots mentioned above and I found it quite relaxing.

This beautiful town is a little smaller than Santa Cruz, but also a lot more charming. It’s worth a spot for lunch with some nice strolls around its colonial structure.

Commercial Attractions

Loro parque.

Although I am personally not a fan of zoos, this park could be a great option to explore if you have kids or you want to see a lot of animals. This is the biggest attraction in the Canaries. 

This is a very large water park with a high rate of visitors. People love it and so will you if you’re looking for all-day of fun. It rates very highly on all travel boards and people enjoy this for their family time. It is located in Costa Adeje near Playa Las Americas.

If you’d like to shop, this will be the perfect place for you. Located in the southern part of the island in Costa Adeje near Siam Park, for those who enjoy shopping as part of their traveling, make sure to make a stop here.

Perfect Tenerife Itinerary: FREE Downloadable Guides for your stay

Now the best part. If you like my suggestion and are thinking of visiting this island, don’t forget to download the best itineraries for your stay!

Three Perfect Days in Tenerife

Three days on the island is just enough to see all the major spots. On the first day, you will focus on all outdoor, natural attraction sights as they simply cannot be missed when visiting this island. Day two is more relaxing with some beach time and exploration of the more touristy cities which in my opinion, should be experienced despite their basic reputation. For day three activities, I centered them in the northern part, which is a more green area compared to the volcanic south.

A simple map for your reference

Is there something you think I missed and should be added to this itinerary? I would love to hear your thoughts! Comment below. If you’re looking for a similar destination, check out my Madeira guide , an island not too far away.

Kasia Kalemba

Kasia is a travel blogger that loves to share her detailed itineraries and travel tips with her community. She’s traveled to numerous countries and makes it a priority to explore her home state of New Jersey while still being passionate about her 9-5 career.

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Hi! Great post!

Last summer I decided to exploring Puerto de la Cruz in a guided tour and it was a total delight.

From charming streets to black sand beaches – it’s the perfect blend of historic charm and coastal beauty.

A must-visit gem in Tenerife!

Hello from Kiddishop.

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ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE TO TENERIFE FOR EASY TRIP PLANNING

October 31, 2023

This comprehensive guide to Tenerife gives you all the information that you’ll need for planning your own trip. Tenerife, the largest of the seven Canary Islands , is well known for its beaches, historical towns, national parks, fantastic weather, and it’s crowning glory, Mount Teide .

The wonderful climate draws people to the island year-round. Whether you are looking for relaxation, fun-packed activities, energetic hikes or charming historical towns, Tenerife is a perfect holiday choice.

In this Tenerife travel guide you will find all the details you need to put together your own trip and itinerary. From the best way to get around the island, the top 10 things to do in Tenerife, where to stay and when to visit.

Plus, we share general Tenerife tips to ensure you have an unforgettable holiday experience.

Simply follow this travel guide to Tenerife and start planning your trip with ease. Here’s everything you need to know.

YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO TENERIFE

Why visit tenerife, tenerife overview: about the island, 1. how to get to tenerife, 2. the best time to go to tenerife, 3. passports, visas & vaccinations.

• 1. TENERIFE BY CAR:

2. TENERIFE BY BUS

3. using taxis, 4. tram service, how many days in tenerife do you need.

• HOW TO VISIT THE ISLAND ON A BUDGET:

1. MOUNT TEIDE

2. anaga rural park, 3. masca village, 4. tenerife towns, 5. tenerife beaches, 6. outdoor adventures, where to stay in tenerife, in conclusion, more posts on tenerife.

Is Tenerife worth visiting you may ask. What are the main Tenerife tourist attractions?

Tenerife is the largest and most popular of the Canary Islands archipelago. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, somewhat adrift from mainland Spain, the climate is warm and pleasant all year round.

Beach resorts in south Tenerife may entice those seeking all-inclusive treatment and 5-star Tenerife hotels, but Tenerife is an island of extraordinary beauty and so much more than its beaches.

For such a small island, Ténérife is a versatile holiday destination. Packed with enough attractions and sights to please every type of traveller, its popularity is soaring.

There are black sand beaches, fun waterpark,s and whale-watching tours. Lush ancient forests, stunning landscapes, and incredible hiking trails. But the best part of Tenerife lies away from the resorts in the south.

From charming towns with colourful colonial-era buildings, otherworldly volcanic landscapes, mist-wrapped peaks and laursilva forests. To the spectacularly rugged, isolated beaches and the hauntingly exquisite Teide National Park.

Tenerife Spain is full of surprises and ripe for exploring.

Tenerife is an island marked by its outstanding geographical contrasts.

Tenerife was created millions of years ago, by volcanic eruption in the Atlantic Ocean. The island you see today, was formed by the fusion of the mountain ranges Anaga, Teno and Valle de San Lorenzo, due to volcanic activity from Teide.

El Teide’s crater is 11 miles long at some points, and visible from most parts of the island.

The island’s closest neighbour is La Gomera which lies 18 miles (30km) west.

GUIDE TO TENERIFE: PRACTICAL ESSENTIALS

Tenerife Spain has two international airports, Tenerife Norte (TFN) and Tenerife Sur (TFS). The south airport, located 11 miles (18km) east of Los Cristianos, is where you will likely arrive if you have booked a package holiday to Tenerife.

Most of the luxury beach resorts and hotels around areas such as Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, are located on the southern tip of the island.

So which airport should you arrive at on your Tenerife vacation? Tenerife north or south?

Most international flights use Tenerife Sur (also known as Reina Sofia Airport), while the North Airport mainly handles inter-island traffic.

If you are planning to road trip Tenerife, it really doesn’t matter where you arrive, as you will be driving around the island.

• Flight time from UK is 3.5 to 4.5 hours, with many airlines offering cheap flights to Tenerife south airport.
• From USA, flights go via major European airports such as Madrid and can take 12-13 hours.
• Check flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights for the cheapest flights to Tenerife.
• Ferry operators such as Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas , connect with other islands such as La Gomera, La Palma and Gran Canaria.
• Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas also run regular ferry from Spain to Tenerife. The  Huelva to Tenerife ferry ferry crossing is the most popular. The trip is normally faster than the  Cádiz to Tenerife ferry route, run by Trasmediterránea.

Tenerife is great to visit at any time of the year, with many activities to keep you busy year-round. With a warm sub-tropical climate all year, deciding when to visit Tenerife is an easy choice. In fact, one of the most appealing aspects of the island IS its climate.

The Teide Massif divides the island into two climatic zones, north and south. The closer you are to Mount Teide National Park and El Teide, the more changeable the weather becomes.

At times, you can leave the coast in full sunshine and find snowfall in the park.

North Tenerife is warm, but there can be more rain and cloud due to northerly trade winds.

South Tenerife is the warmest and sunniest, with little rainfall and few clouds.

Below is a chart showing Tenerife weather by month.

• The best month to visit Tenerife is September.
• The minimum and maximum annual average temperatures in Tenerife in winter are 15 °C (59 °F).
• The minimum and maximum annual average temperatures in Tenerife in Summer are 24 °C (75.2 °F).
• Overall, the best time to visit Tenerife Canary Islands is the months of May, June, July and August, if you also want to swim in the sea.
• To avoid the crowds and get cheaper accommodation deals, do not visit in Summer (July/August)
• If you check the 10-day weather for Tenerife, the temperatures remain constant.
• We found Tenerife in February to be perfect for hiking and walking around major attractions. Most days were clear blue sunny skies, though we didn’t go in the water.
• PASSPORTS: All Non-EU nationals require a full valid passport. You need this, together with a valid drivers license to hire a car.
• VISAS: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days.
• VACCINATIONS: None are required.

GETTING AROUND TENERIFE

1. TENERIFE BY CAR :

The best way to explore the island, is by renting your own vehicle. Driving in Tenerife is easy and straightforward, and the roads in Tenerife well maintained. Popular car rental companies such as Avis and Hertz have desks at both airports, making renting a car in Tenerife a breeze.

We always compare prices on our favourite platform, DiscoverCars.com , one of the best rated comparison sites. They have a huge selection of high-quality cars for rent, all at competitive prices.

Book early to lock in the best price, and the largest selection of vehicles to choose from.

For the best Tenerife travel experience, you want to explore the dramatic coastline, stunning Teide National Park , lush forests of Anaga Rural Park and more.

A Tenerife Road trip is a fantastic way to take in all Tenerife best sights, experience the differing landscapes and discovering the true essence of Tenerife. Getting around in Tenerife by car is also convenient, practical, and affordable.

You must show a valid driving license and passport to rent a vehicle. There are some things you need to be aware of when driving around Tenerife. Our Driving in Tenerife and Renting a car in Tenerife guides will tell you everything you need to know.

From laws, rules and regulations, these articles will get you up to speed.

If you prefer to use public transport, Tenerife is well set up with the following options:

Tenerife buses are run by TITSA , and are an affordable way of seeing the island. The buses (guaguas) are green, air-conditioned, comfortable, and popular with locals.

Tenerife bus routes cover all major destinations, and most minor destinations on the island. They offer a practical and cheap option for getting around Tenerife without a car.

Be aware that not all buses go directly to their end destination, which makes journeys quite time-consuming. It may mean you having to change buses or lines enroute.

We recommend you picking up timetables from bus stations, tourist offices or online.

If you plan on travelling around Tenerife by bus, you can purchase your ticket from the bus driver, and can pay with cash or a bank card.

Buying a return ticket saves you 10% discount, off the cost of a single ticket.

New Tourist fares are available for unlimited trips. A DAY TRAVELCARD costs €10, while a SEVEN DAY TRAVELCARD costs €50.

TITSA have a great interactive map showing all bus routes to give you an idea of the areas in Tenerife that are covered. You can also read the details about tourist fares.

Finding a taxi in Tenerife is easy. You will find them at the airport, all resorts and spotted driving around. If you are staying in a resort for the entirety of your trip, taxis are an inexpensive method of transport. All journeys are metered.

If you are going further afield, fixed fares to the most popular destinations are displayed at main taxi ranks.

Taxis should have an official plate on the front and rear bumpers, with the letters SP (servicio publico). A green light is displayed in the windscreen when the taxi is available.

A tram service runs between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna , making it ideal if you are staying in either town. Check the timetable for tram times.

If you are planning your first trip to Tenerife, you may be asking yourself how many days in Tenerife you should spend. You want to explore the island and see the best sights and attractions.

With Mount Teide located in the center of the island, there are many winding roads full of twists and turns to navigate. Moving around places can take time which you need to factor into your planning.

We consider the perfect Tenerife itinerary to include a mix of sightseeing, hiking, relaxing and exploring. But ask yourself, how many days can you allocate to the trip, and what do you want to see.

For a small island, there are plenty of activities to do in Tenerife to fill your time.

There are many interesting things to do in north Tenerife , including hiking in Anaga Rural Park , and exploring charming towns such as La Laguna and Santa Cruz .

While things to do in south Tenerife include the hair-raising drive to Masca, having fun at a water park and of course chilling out at the many beach resorts.

Plus, the main highlight, and best place to go in Tenerife, stunning Teide National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So, if you have the time and the opportunity, go for at least 7 or 10 days to Tenerife, which will give you the opportunity to visit the island at a more relaxed pace.

When planning your trip, we have the following Tenerife travel tips, depending on how long you can spend on the island:

• With 3/4 days – See the highlights of Anaga, Teide National Park and explore Santa Cruz and La Laguna.
• If you have 7 days – Travel Tenerife by car on an epic road trip. While you can drive around the whole island in about 4 hours, you can stop along the way.
• In 10 days – Enjoy driving around Tenerife at a slower pace. Add in a couple of excursions from Tenerife , such as a trip to La Gomera , and finish with a couple of days being pampered at one of the 4-star Tenerife hotels.

IS TENERIFE CHEAP?

Compared to most other European destinations, Tenerife is an affordable place to visit. Of course, this depends on which country you are coming from. In which case, your flight to Tenerife might be your biggest expense.

HOW TO VISIT THE ISLAND ON A BUDGET :

• Grab great deals on flights by booking far in advance and not sticking to specific flight times. Budget carriers such as EasyJet, Jet2 release their seats in blocks, many months in advance.
• Plan your visit during the shoulder season (March-May, October & November) for cheaper flight prices, car rates and accommodation rates. You can enjoy the island when it is less crowded.
• If you want to save money, avoid Christmas, New Year, Carnival Festival, Easter, and Summer Season (July/August)
• Book your rental car as far in advance as possible, as prices generally rise as the starting date of your trip gets closer. DiscoverCars.com allow you to make changes or cancel for free up to 48 hours before pick-up if your plans change.
• Invest in a travel pass if you are travelling around Tenerife by bus. Titsa public buses are an affordable way to get around to explore.
• Visit Tenerife’s biggest draw, Mt Teide, by bus .

Although it can be wreathed in cloud, El Teide and the surrounding moonscape Teide National Park shouldn’t be missed.

Two public buses run to the area, where you can then take the cable car, go for a hike or just enjoy the stunning scenery.

Bus 348 goes from Puerto de la Cruz in the north, while Bus 342 departs from Costa Adeje in the south.

• Choose your accommodation wisely .

While there are some luxurious Tenerife Villas to choose from, there are plenty of ways to save money on accommodation costs. If you’re traveling as a family or with a group of friends, renting a self-catering apartment or villa is the way to go. You can split the cost, and dine in.

Instead of staying in popular Tenerife resorts like Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje which are costly, move one bay over, and your accommodation costs will be less.

Don’t pay for beach chairs and umbrellas on popular beaches when you can take a picnic and have a small remote beach to yourself.

• Eat Canarian-style at a guachinche – You may be sitting in a garden shed or garage, but you will eat hearty traditional food at a fraction of the cost of restaurants.

Picnic food can be purchased in well-stocked public markets, where you can mingle with locals and pick up delights including volcanic wines, smoked goat cheese, fresh bread, chorizo, chili-spiked mojo and ripe tropical fruits.

Other tips include asking for tap water, avoiding seafront eateries, and making lunch your main meal of the day. If you want to eat out for small change in Tenerife, make lunch your main meal.

For as little as €10, including an appetizer, main course, glass of wine and dessert or coffee, you can eat from the menu of the day at many simple cafes and restaurants.

WHAT TO DO IN TENERIFE

If you are looking for an exciting range of activities, Tenerife won’t disappoint. The island offers the perfect combination of history, culture, nightlife and nature. While there are plenty of places to visit in Tenerife, make sure you don’t miss the hidden, off the radar attractions.

Here are some of the best Tenerife recommendations that you should include on your list.

Any Tenerife tourist guide will show glossy images of the highest peak in Spain. This crown jewel, overlooks Teide National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a scenic drive through the park to see the volcanic terrain and other worldly landscapes. Ride the cable car to the upper station, or if you are feeling energetic, hike up the top from the base station.

We think the park is the best place in Tenerife for nature lovers, in search of hiking and staggeringly beautiful scenery.

In the evening, book a  Teide by Night  stargazing tour, and witness the clear skies which make the National Park famous.

One of the best places to visit in northern Tenerife is the Anaga Mountains, clothed in ancient laurel forests. This Biosphere Reserve is home to the largest number of endemic species in Europe.

Take your pick of hiking trails to explore this verdant landscape as you traverse valleys and rocky passes.

The rather nerve-racking journey along a narrow mountain road is part of the reason to go to Masca. Twisting and turning, the road gives glimpses of the glorious views as you ascend to the tiny town.

Perched on the side of a mountain, the town has breath-taking views down the valley. Several walking trails showcase the unique vegetation found in the area, plus the incredible oceanside cliffs on the west side of the island.

When it comes to towns in Tenerife, it’s not just the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife that is worth exploring. The island’s former capital, La Laguna , is filled with colourful mansions, each reflecting the island’s trading history.

Other ancient and pretty towns to walk around include, La Orotava , with its famous Casa de los Balcones or house of the balconies. Puerto de la Cruz is a popular resort with beaches, attractions, and restaurants.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and having a warm year-round climate, Tenerife’s beaches are a major draw for visitors. Tenerife has many black sand beaches, but there are also some golden sand beauties.

• If you are looking for a remote black sand beach with incredible views, head to the far north, and Playa Benijo.
• El Medano is popular for kite surfing and windsurfing.
• Popular golden sand beaches, include Playa de Las Americas, in south Tenerife, and glorious Playa de Las Teresitas, near Santa Cruz.

One of the most popular places to visit in Tenerife South, is Siam Water Park. But getting out on the water itself, is a great way to view the coastline and the sheer cliffs of Los Gigantes.

Popular tours include whale watching, dolphin spotting, snorkeling, diving and wind surfing.

When it comes to accommodation Tenerife offers something for every budget and personal preference. From hotels, villas, apartments, and holiday villages, Tenerife can oblige.

Where to stay in Tenerife will ultimately depend on your budget, and what you plan on doing during your stay.

Before you visit Tenerife, you need to decide which areas of the island you want to explore and the activities in Tenerife you’d like to experience.

Most visitors on Tenerife holiday packages are based in the south of the island, in apartments or beach resorts. Some of the best and luxurious Tenerife villas are located in areas such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos and Santa Úrsula.

Tenerife enjoys warm temperatures all year round, making it a popular tourist destination. So wherever you choose to stay, I recommend booking accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.

WHERE TO STAY IN TENERIFE SOUTH

Some of the best places to stay in Tenerife South are in the resort area of Costa Adeje. Also some of the best hotels in Tenerife are in Costa Adeje, which is close to beaches, waterparks, and the best things to do in south Tenerife.

• Luxury option:  Iberostar Selection Sábila – Adults Only
• Mid-Range option:  Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa
• Budget option:  MYND Adeje

If you prefer a self-catering option, there are plenty of luxurious villas in Costa Adeje to rent. Or if glamour is what you want, check out The Ritz-Carlton Abama , further along the coast. It could possibly be the best place to stay in Tenerife for couples.

WHERE TO STAY IN TENERIFE NORTH

Basing yourself in the north of the island makes sense if you plan on visiting Anaga Rural Park, wineries and the capital of Santa Cruz. From here towns of La Laguna, La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz are easily accessed.

• Luxury option: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey
• Mid-Range option: Hotel Tigaiga
• Budget option: Hotel Principe Paz

Tenerife in the Canary Islands is a great destination for travelers all over the world. Hopefully this guide to Tenerife has given you all the information you need to start planning your own trip to Tenerife.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.

There is so much to discover in the Canaries, so don’t miss our other in-depth guides to help you plan your trip.

• How to visit Mount Teide
• Exciting Tenerife Itinerary
• Best Villas in Costa Adeje
• Excursions from Tenerife
• Best Tenerife Villas
• La Laguna Tenerife
• Renting a Car in Tenerife
• Things To Do in South Tenerife
• Things To Do in North Tenerife
• Things To Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• La Orotava Tenerife
• Anaga Rural Park
• Driving in Tenerife

And click  here  to find guides to other destinations.

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Footsteps and Journeys

Best travel itineraries for unforgettable experiences around the globe

A Tantalizing Tenerife Itinerary : A 4-Day Itinerary to Explore Sun, Sand and Culture at the heart of the Canary Islands

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a stunning destination with diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and a rich history. From its beautiful beaches to its lush forests and volcanic landscapes, Tenerife offers a range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. In this detailed 4-day Tenerife itinerary, you’ll discover the best places to visit, where to stay, where to eat, how to get around, and some hidden gems that will make your trip to Tenerife truly unforgettable.

This 4 day Tenerife Itinerary has you landing early morning or late evening at Tenerife North, spending one full day at the northern part of Tenerife, and then moving to the more relaxed part of Southern Tenerife. If you are not too keen on staying at Northen Tenerifem you can skip day 1 and directly head to day 2.

TENERIFE ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Getting to Tenerife (Tenerife Itinerary)

Choose Your Airport: When booking your flights, consider which airport (Tenerife South or Tenerife North) is more convenient based on your travel plans and accommodation location. Tenerife has two main airports:

• Tenerife South Airport (TFS): Also known as Reina Sofia Airport, it is the more commonly used airport for international flights and is located near Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.
• Tenerife North Airport (TFN): Also known as Los Rodeos Airport, it serves both domestic and international flights and is located near the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

International Flights: Major airlines from around the world operate flights to Tenerife, with Tenerife South Airport being the primary gateway. You can find direct flights from many European cities, including London, Madrid, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and more.

Domestic Flights: If you’re already in Spain, you can find domestic flights to Tenerife from major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Airlines like Iberia, Vueling Airlines and Air Europa operate these flights.

Travel Tips:

• Book in Advance: Flights and ferries can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking your tickets in advance is recommended to secure your preferred travel dates and times.
• Check Entry Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa or other entry documents to travel to Tenerife. Check the latest requirements before you travel.
• Baggage Allowance: Check the baggage allowance of your chosen airline, as some budget airlines might have stricter baggage policies.

Day 1: Exploring Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Orotova and Mirador Archipenque

Begin your Tenerife itinerary in the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Kick-start your day with a traditional Canarian breakfast at a local café. Start your day with a hearty Canarian breakfast at Café de Paris , known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee.

Visit the Museum of Nature and Man . This museum offers a captivating journey through the natural history, archaeology, and ethnography of the Canary Islands. It’s a place where visitors can explore the unique geology, diverse flora and fauna, and the cultural heritage of the islands.

Museum Highlights:

• The Guanche Collection: One of the main attractions of the museum is its Guanche collection. The Guanches were the indigenous people of the Canary Islands before the Spanish colonization. The collection includes artifacts, tools, pottery, and mummies that provide insight into the lives, customs, and beliefs of these ancient islanders. Beyond the Guanche collection, the museum also houses archaeological artifacts from different periods of Tenerife’s history, shedding light on the evolution of the island’s culture and society.
• Geology and Volcanology: The museum showcases Tenerife’s volcanic origins through informative displays and geological exhibits. Visitors can learn about the processes that shaped the island’s landscapes and contributed to its unique biodiversity.
• Biodiversity and Natural Habitats: Explore the rich variety of plant and animal species that call the Canary Islands home. Exhibits offer insight into the island’s diverse ecosystems, including its marine life, endemic species, and adaptations to the unique environment.
• Opening Hours: The museum typically opens from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours. It’s a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
• Guided Tours: The museum often provides guided tours that offer in-depth insights into its exhibits and collections. Guided tours are a great way to enhance your understanding of the island’s history and natural wonders.
• Accessibility: The museum is designed to be accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, offering ramps and elevators to facilitate movement between the different levels.

Enjoy a traditional Canarian brunch at La Hierbita offering local dishes in a charming setting.

Discover the charming village of La Orotava with its historic architecture and stunning gardens. If you’re up for it, visit the Mirador Archipenque . Unlike more crowded viewpoints, the Mirador Archipenque offers a sense of solitude and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for contemplation and relaxation. The viewpoint is often accessed via a short hiking trail, which can add an element of adventure to your visit.

The journey to the Mirador Archipenque can be as rewarding as the destination itself. The Mirador Archipenque is situated in the northern part of Tenerife, near the town of La Orotava. It’s advisable to use a map or navigation app to find the exact location. The Mirador Archipenque can be particularly captivating during sunrise or sunset, as the changing light creates a magical atmosphere.

Head to Plaza de Espana to experience the lively nightlife of Santa Cruz. At the center of Plaza de España, you’ll find the Monumento a los Caídos, a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Spanish Civil War. The monument is an important symbol of the city’s history and a focal point of the square.

One of the most distinctive features of the square is its large artificial lake, known as Lake Martiánez. The lake is surrounded by a walkway with benches and palm trees, providing a peaceful oasis amidst the urban bustle. Plaza de Espana is located right by the harbor, offering picturesque views of the waterfront, ships, and the ocean beyond. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Day 2: Playa De Las Americas and Garachico

Check out of your Santa Cruz hotel and drive to the southern coast of Tenerife.

Relax on the golden sands of Playa de las Américas and take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean. Playa de las Américas boasts several beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm. Playa de Troya and Playa de las Vistas are two of the most well-known beaches, offering golden sands, clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and swimming.

Indulge in seafood at Restaurante El Cine while enjoying ocean views.

Drive along the coastal road to the charming town of Garachico and visit the natural pools created by volcanic activity. Known for its rich history, charming streets, and stunning landscapes, Garachico offers visitors a glimpse into Tenerife’s past while providing a peaceful and authentic atmosphere to explore.

Garachico is famous for its natural rock pools, formed by volcanic activity. The Piscinas Naturales de El Caletón is a series of natural pools connected to the sea, providing a unique and refreshing place to swim. Visit the Castillo de San Miguel , a historic fortress that once protected the town from pirate attacks. The castle now houses an exhibition about the history of Garachico.

Admire the elegant Church of Santa Ana , a beautifully preserved church with a baroque façade and intricate interior. Head to the Plaza de la Libertad , a charming square is the heart of Garachico, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and a relaxed ambiance. It’s a great place to enjoy a coffee or a leisurely stroll. For panoramic views of Garachico and its surroundings, head to the Mirador de Garachico , a viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the town, coastline, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Taste traditional Canarian flavors at Casa Gaspar .

Day 3: Tiede National Park, Masca Village and the Veronicas Strip

Grab a quick breakfast and then make your way to Teide National Park , home to the iconic Mount Teide , Spain’s highest peak. Take the cable car to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the island (book tickets in advance online). Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic attractions on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.

The star of the show, Mount Teide, stands at 3,718 meters (12,198 feet) above sea level, making it the highest point in Spain. The cable car journey provides breathtaking vistas as you ascend to approximately 3,550 meters. At the summit, you’ll find the Teide Crater, a vast volcanic caldera surrounded by rugged terrain. Explore the crater’s unique geological features, including lava flows and rock formations. he landscape of Teide National Park is often compared to the surface of the moon due to its barren and rocky terrain.

There is no entrance fee to access the national park itself. However, if you plan to ascend to the summit of Mount Teide, you need to obtain a free permit from the park’s official website. The weather at higher altitudes can be cooler and more changeable. Dress in layers and wear comfortable hiking shoes. It’s also advisable to bring sun protection, as the sun’s rays can be intense even at altitude.

Enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty of the national park, or dine at the Parador de Las Cañadas , offering stunning views and local cuisine.

Drive to the picturesque Masca Village and hike the Masca Gorge Hike for an exhilarating adventure. Masca Village, tucked away in the Teno Mountains of Tenerife, Canary Islands, is a remote and picturesque hamlet renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rugged landscapes. Nestled within a deep gorge, this charming village offers a sense of isolation and tranquility that makes it a favorite among nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

To reach Masca, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through winding roads that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The journey itself is an adventure worth savoring. The village itself is a charming blend of traditional Canarian architecture and natural beauty. The houses are typically white and adorned with terracotta roofs, creating a harmonious contrast against the backdrop of the rugged terrain. While Masca is often associated with the challenging gorge hike, it’s also a place where you can simply relax and soak in the tranquility. Wander through the village’s narrow streets, discover hidden corners, and enjoy the peace of its remote location.

Return to your accommodation and relax.

If you’re in the mood for some nightlife, head to the Veronicas Strip or the Starco Commercial Centre in Playa de las Américas . These areas are known for their bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 4: Costa Adeje Promenade, Playa Del Duque, La Caleta

Start your day with a morning drive to Los Gigantes , located on the western coast of Tenerife. It is a breathtaking destination renowned for its towering cliffs, stunning landscapes, and relaxed atmosphere. This picturesque town offers a serene escape for travelers seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a more tranquil side of Tenerife.

The towering cliffs that give Los Gigantes its name are the main attraction. These dramatic cliffs, which reach heights of up to 800 meters (2,625 feet), drop dramatically into the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The sight is truly awe-inspiring.

Embark on a boat tour to get up close to the cliffs and explore the sea caves. Many tour operators offer whale and dolphin watching excursions as well, allowing you to enjoy the marine life that thrives in these waters. While Los Gigantes doesn’t have expansive sandy beaches, it has small coves with clear waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Playa de Los Guios is one of the local beaches.

Head back to Costa Adeje and stroll along the Costa Adeje promenade. Enjoy the sea breeze and admire the ocean views. The promenade provides uninterrupted views of the sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an ideal spot for taking leisurely walks or simply enjoying the sights. Along the promenade, you’ll find access points to several beautiful beaches, including Playa del Duque, Playa Fanabe, and Playa Torviscas. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Head to Playa del Duque , a pristine beach known for its golden sand and calm waters. Enjoy a leisurely morning sunbathing, swimming, or simply lounging by the sea. Have lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants that offer a range of international and local dishes. Savor fresh seafood and enjoy the ocean views. Spend the afternoon indulging in water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. Many water sports centers are available along the coast.

Book a sunset catamaran cruise to experience the beauty of the coastline and enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the ocean.

Head to the charming fishing village of La Caleta for dinner. This area is known for its seafood restaurants and tranquil ambiance. If you reach La Caleta a little early, it is also a departure point for whale and dolphin watching excursions. Join a guided boat tour to witness these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Where to Stay in Northern Tenerife

• Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey
• Hotel Taburiente
• Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden
• Hotel Turquesa Playa
• Hotel Rural Victoria

Where to Stay in Southern Tenerife

• Sheraton La Caleta Resort & Spa
• Iberostar Selection Anthelia
• Hotel Jardín Tropical
• H10 Conquistador
• Mediterranean Palace
• Sol Tenerife
• Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife
• H10 Big Sur Boutique Hotel
• Labranda Reverón Plaza
• Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel

Car Rental Companies for your Tenerife Itinerary

Tenerife is best experienced by driving down the superb coastal highway and its beautiful inner roads. Places are far away from each other and driving experiences are sublime.

• Cicar Car Rental is a reliable local car rental company with a variety of vehicle options.
• Autoreisen – We hired our car from here, we hadn’t booked before landing and this was the counter with the least number of people and immediate availability. Very smooth experience from hiring to return.

Best time to visit Tenerife

Tenerife offers pleasant weather throughout the year and is a popular holiday destination throughout the year. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, the type of activities you want to enjoy, and your tolerance for crowds.

1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Tenerife. The weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). It’s less crowded compared to the peak summer months, making it ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.

2. Summer (June to August): Summer is the high tourist season in Tenerife, especially for beach lovers and sun seekers. Temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, making it perfect for beach days and water sports. However, it can be crowded, and accommodation prices tend to be higher during this time.

3. Fall (September to November): Fall is another pleasant time to visit Tenerife. The weather is still warm, and the crowds begin to thin out after the peak summer season. Temperatures range from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F), making it a good time for various activities, from hiking to enjoying cultural events.

4. Winter (December to February): Tenerife’s winter is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F). It’s a popular destination for escaping colder climates in Europe. While not as crowded as summer, this season still attracts visitors.

Special Considerations:

• Carnival Season: If you’re interested in experiencing Tenerife’s famous Carnival, which takes place in February or March (dates vary each year), consider visiting during this festive time. The Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the largest and most vibrant in the world.
• Hiking: If you’re planning to do a lot of hiking, spring and fall are excellent choices as the weather is comfortable and the landscapes are lush.
• Whale and Dolphin Watching: Whale and dolphin watching tours are available year-round, but the chances of spotting these marine creatures are generally good during the warmer months.
• Accommodation and Prices: Keep in mind that accommodation prices can be higher during the peak summer and holiday seasons. Booking in advance is advisable.

Tenerife offers a diverse range of experiences that will captivate every traveler’s heart. Whether you’re exploring its natural wonders, indulging in local cuisine, or uncovering hidden gems, this 4-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time on this enchanting island.

During our early morning return from Tenerife South to Tenerife North Airport, in Google Maps the highway was showing as closed due to an accident. The route we took was through the higher villages and smaller towns, and as dawn was breaking over the horizon it was a beautiful experience. To this day, we don’t know if the highway was actually closed because we didn’t see a single car apart from ours for large parts of the detour. It was well worth it, though 🙂

Also, side note, Tenerife has the best sunsets. Do not miss them! !!

If you enjoyed this Tenerife itinerary, read on for a smashing few days in Barcelona or Seville .

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Visiting Tenerife? 12 Tips Every Traveller Needs To Know

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Thinking of visiting Tenerife? Tenerife belongs to a group of volcanic islands named the Canary Islands. This small archipelago is a popular tourist destination, known for its year-round good weather, diverse landscape, and great beaches. 

While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of planning a trip to Tenerife, it’s also important to remember that planning your perfect vacation is more than just booking flights. Here are insider information and advice to help you stay safe in Tenerife and make the most of your Canary Islands vacation. You will want to know these travel tips for visiting Tenerife before you departure.

Getting into Tenerife

There are two main airports in Tenerife: Tenerife South and Tenerife North . And their name suggests where they are located.

If you are visiting Tenerife from outside of Spain, you will most definitely land at Tenerife South Airport. The inter-state or national flight are operated only from Tenerife North. This means you will use this airport if you continue your trip to any other of the five Canary Islands.

What is the best time to visit Tenerife?

Due to its mild and consistent weather, you can visit Tenerife all year round. The temperatures in winter usually don’t drop below 19°C. Because of this winter is the best time for people interested in hiking. 

The high season is from June to September. With around 29°C, August is the hottest month and more preferred by tourists. 

You are most likely to witness rain between November and February. We visited Tenerife in February 2021 and we had a mixture of warm spring weather in combination with rainy and cooler days. 

Please note that at any time of the year you can experience Calima – a wind brining the dessert dust from Sahara. It deteriorates the visibility and can last from a day or two to the whole week. We were told it’s most common in February. 

Which part of Tenerife is the warmest?

We have received many questions whether North Tenerife is colder than South. It’s slightly warmer in the South of the island, where the temperatures are high enough for a swim and sunbathe every month of the year. In addition, you can enjoy a good share of great weather in the West part of the island as well.

The north of Tenerife can be more rainy and cloudy, especially in the winter months. However, you should not take this for granted.

The warmest area to stay

The most obvious choices for people looking for the best weather are the popular tourist resorts around Playa de Las Americas and Los Cristianos or Los Gigantes in the South-West of the island.

What is the average sea temperature in Tenerife?

This is a tricky question. Whether the sea is warm enough for you to swim depends on what you consider too warm or too cold. The sea temperature is different in summer and winter. However, generally looking the temperatures are high enough for a swim and sunbathe every month of the year. But the water may feel a little cold in the winter period.

Is it always windy in Tenerife?

Tenerife is windy throughout the year, especially at the North and West coast of the island. The warmest and the least windy areas are Arona, or more specifically, Playa de Las Americas and Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje. Therefore, it’s no surprise the majority of touristy resorts are located here. 

The island’s windiest part is the Northern part, more specifically La Laguna and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Can you travel to Tenerife in 2021?

The Canary Islands welcomes tourists again since October 2020. The level of openness is categorised from 1 to 4, with 4 being the most restricted. The government revises the levels every 2 weeks.  You can check the current status here .

Before entering Tenerife you need to provide a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours and a signed Spanish health form. To complete and sign the online form click here .

If you stay in an official tourist establishment, you will need to provide negative test results while checking-in. Some will also require a copy of your flight tickets to confirm your actual arrival on the island. We didn’t have to provide the test for private apartments. 

Always make sure to check the latest requirements in Spain as well as in your home country. 

Is Tenerife safe?

It’s completely safe from the perspective of a current health situation. You are required to disinfect your hands and wear masks in indoor places and all public areas. The latter also means when you are completely alone.

The Guardia Civil stopped by one of the viewing points. At that moment we were the only one there, but they still required us to put on the masks. 

From the perspective of safety in general, do pay a special precaution to your belongings. Never leave any things unattended in your car or hotel. We were robbed while hiking at Mt. Teide. They took everything from swimming suits, towels and masks to iPhone adapter. According to locals, people are desperate and will take everything they can sell.

How to go around Tenerife?

The best thing is to rent a car. It’s time effective and provides you with more freedom to explore Tenerife. The petrol prices are lower than in continental Europe and the motorways are clearly marked. We booked our car with Hertz due to the lowest prices. Their service was great, but please keep in mind that electric cars are not made for hills. I’m all about sustainable travel, but there were moments where I thought we won’t make it to the top of the hill and just crashed.

12 TENERIFE TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TRIP

Let’s do a recap of the main tips and tricks to make your stay in Tenerife a blast:

• Pack clothes for warm and cool weather. It can get chilly in the hillsides and at the top of Mt. Teide, especially in the winter months. 
• Bring sneakers or hiking boots. Even if you are not going to do the proper hiking, note that some viewpoints can de dangerous. I injured my big toe walking in sandals to photograph La Rambla. 
• Bring sun cream with you. 
• Rent a car! This is very affordable and if booking in advance can be as little as 60 EUR. Try to avoid hybrid as they are just not made for the hilly road. 
• Most of the things are closed on Mondays. Be sure to check that the place you want to visit is open. 
• Keep your belongings with you all the time.
• Go wine tasting – this area has one of the best and unique wines we have drunk. Where else can you drink the dragon blood? 
• Reserve a special permit for trekking to the summit fo Mt. Teide or book an organised tour.
• Book your spot for hiking trails. Some hiking trails have a limitation on the number of visitor per day. They are also booked out quickly. 
• South of the island (Playa de las Americas, Costa Adeje) is more expensive than the other parts of Tenerife. 
•  Free parking is available almost everywhere. It’s hard to find a hotel in the city centre offering free parking included. But don’t worry. We never had a problem finding street parking in proximity to our accommodation. 
•  Save on your data roaming. Double-check whether your accommodation has Wi-Fi and if it has, which areas it covers. For using the internet without limitations, the best thing is to buy a local SIM card. 

We are two travel passionistas, who are always in the minds of planning their next travel trip and creating memories. Get honest tips and all the details, learn from our mistakes and enjoy our travel guides so you can have the best time!

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22 comments

I’ve been wanting to go to Tenerife for sooo long! I didn’t know they were mostly “open” during the pandemic, but now that I know, I can get more serious about planning. Thank for the link to their site that lists what 1-4 level they are on right now, that’s super helpful.

Tenerife are currently very popular alongside other Canary Islands. Happy to hear this post inspired you to consider visiting Tenerife. Make sure to check the official website as the levels are at the moment revised every two weeks. I’ll soon published detailed itinerary so stay tuned 🙂

I love Tenerife! These tips are very helpful thanks

Such an interesting and contrasting island. Happy to hear you find them helpful.

You had me at “dragon blood”! Excellent tips, I’ll come back here when we plan our trip to Tenerife 🙂

So delicious! The red wine is something special due to volcanic soil. If you’re a wine person, I highly recommend you do a wine tasting tour. I’ll publish more detailed itinerary in the next post so stay tuned 🙂

Fabulous post! I visited Tenerife yeeears ago with some friends, but we were poor students so we didn’t hire a car or explore as much of the island as I would have wanted. I would loooove to go back and hike up Mt. Teide.

Did you take a boat out whale or dolphin watching? I think that was the highlight for me.

Thank you so much for your feedback! Hiking Mt Teise is such a unique experience. The landscape is breathtaking. Yes, I booked a boat tour and was able to see the dolphins so up close for the first time – definitely a highlight for me as well 🙂

It would never have occurred to me to book my hiking spots in advance! And that would be majorly disappointing to find out upon arrival at the trail head. Thank you!

We were quite surprised as well but on the other side completely understand that it can be too much for nature. We were not able to hike one trail, which was a little disappointing. Now we have an excuse to go back 🙂

A great guide! My girl friends and I usually meet up at least once a year for a girls getaway and we always go to Spain We’re thinking about Tenerife so this is super useful and has got .e excited:)

So happy to hear this! Tenerife is a great location that has so much to offer. My detailed itinerary is coming soon if you need some ideas on what to see 🙂

I’ve heard of Tenerife but didn’t know it in this much detail. Thank you, this is very helpful for my future visit.

So happy you find it useful for your visit 🙂

Never been to Tenerife but it looks like a fun place! Great article 🙂

Wow, there’s so much in this article that I hadn’t even considered. Thank you, it should help everything go smoothly… when times allow us to plan to travel again. Soon perhaps.

Tenerife has a lot to offer, but also requires some preparation before travelling to Tenerife. Just follow these steps and you should be completely prepared. If you have any additional questions, let us know.

I’ll have to resort back to this guide for when I decide to travel! I never even heard of Tenerife before, but these are the kinds of tips I would need to know before traveling. Thanks for this guide!

So happy to hear you find it extremely useful. It’s the purpose of this article to help people plan accordingly and have the best possible experience.

I’ve never had this place on my list but now I’m adding it! It looks so pretty! Thanks for sharing your tips and experiences.

So happy to hear you were inspired to travel to Tenerife. We hope this tips will help you have to best possible experience.

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One day in Tenerife - Advice & Itinerary for Cruise Passengers

Tenerife is a great place to visit, even if you're only stopping over for a day during your cruise. As the most visited island in the archipelago, Tenerife offers plenty of activities for everybody and after your short visit, you will definitely want to come back to spend more time here.

One day itinerary in Tenerife for cruise passengers

1. one day in santa cruz de tenerife, 2. one day in san cristobal de la laguna, 3. go on an island tour and see the magnificent mount teide, our advice for cruise passengers stopping in tenerife , one day in tenerife from gran canaria.

Tenerife is also the largest Canary Island and in consequence, it is impossible to visit the entire island in just a day. You can opt for an island tour and go to see the highlights of the island, but there's so much to see and do in Tenerife , that you could stay here for a few months and still find new places to explore. 

If you're visiting in Tenerife during your cruise, then your stop will be in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island's capital.

In this case, these are our suggestions for what you can see in Tenerife in a day:

Spend your time visiting Santa Cruz , as the city has plenty of lovely parks and square, good restaurants and bars and offers plenty of opportunities to do some shopping. You can go on an interesting city tour to discover the best sights, then spend the rest of the day wandering on your own and chilling at of the many terraces and bars downtown. 

From Santa Cruz, it's easy to hop on the tram and get to La Laguna, the oldest town in Tenerife and the island's former capital. The journey only takes 15 minutes, so it's short and you'll be there in no time.

If you're passionate about history and culture you will love visiting La Laguna , which still has many buildings with typical Canarian architecture, a pedestrian old town and also interesting museums like the Museum of the History of Tenerife.

Did you know that the Teide volcano is the 3rd largest volcano in the world and the highest peak in all of Spain?

For us, Teide National Park is the symbol of Tenerife and every time we visit dedicate at least a day to exploring this beautiful park and its trails. 

If you want to make the most of your time in Tenerife, we would recommend getting a private tour of the island. This way you won't be stuck in a bus with tens of other passengers from the cruise ship and you will be able these places at your own pace (as much as the limited amount of time permits).

• Pick-up service & Transportation by air-conditioned minivan

But we guarantee that after seeing Mount Teide and spending just one day in Tenerife touring the island, you will want to come back.

• Plan your day in Tenerife ahead of time , so you'll be able to see as much as possible in the given time.
• If you to explore on your own, stick to visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife or La Laguna. We know it sounds tempting to see them both on the same day, but you'll spend your day running from place to place, chasing tourist attractions, without having the time to enjoy them properly.
• If you want to see Teide and/or Anaga, book an excursion with a guide. Renting a car just for the day and driving on your own will be tiring and probably equally expensive as a private tour. Plus, the local guides know the roads and the best ways to help you make the most of your time on the island.
• Avoid the temptation of going to Loro Park or Siam Park - although these parks are totally worth a visit, each of them will take up an entire day, so you won't have time for anything else. Better leave them for when you come back for a proper holiday in Tenerife.
• Skip traveling to the south of the island and stick to the north. It's not worth it to spend most of your time on the road when there are so many beautiful places in the north of Tenerife .

If you're on holiday in Gran Canaria and you want to come and visit Tenerife for just a day, you have several options, depending on how to plan to get here. 

• If you come from Gran Canaria by ferry , you'll be arriving in the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife - so you can spend the day visiting the city of Santa Cruz and you can also go to Playa Las Teresitas , which is one of the best beaches in Tenerife .
• If you come by airplane, you will land at Tenerife North Airport, which is close to La Laguna - So you can spend the day visiting San Cristobal de La Laguna and/or Santa Cruz, since the two cities are connected by a tram line and it's easy to travel between them. 
• If you come over just to visit Loro Park , then from the Tenerife North Airport you can take one of the two direct bus lines that go from the airport to Puerto de la Cruz. You can either go on bus 30 or bus 343, which will take you to Puerto de la Cruz , from where you can walk to Loro Park or you can take a cab.

As you can see, you have plenty of options for spending a great day in Tenerife, although we personally consider this to be an insufficient amount of time to enjoy what the island has to offer. If you decide to come over for an extended stay, you can see our recommendations for a full Tenerife itinerary . 

• Best Apartments in Tenerife: Kn Aparthotel Columbus (Playa de Las Americas) • Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur   (Puerto Santiago) 
• Popular hotels in Tenerife: H10 Costa Adeje Palace 4* (Costa Adeje) • Iberostar Bouganville Playa 4* (Playa de Las Americas) • Barceló Santiago (Puerto Santiago)
• Luxury 5* hotels in Tenerife: Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria (Adeje) • Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur (Adeje)
• See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Tenerife .
• Best Excursions & Tours: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks & Snacks • Loro Parque Entry Ticket and Shows

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Plan your trip to Tenerife step-by-step!

• Ferry Tickets

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and a great destination for holidays all year round. On our Tenerife travel guide , you can find detailed information about what to do on the island, the best beaches, sights, activities and nightlife. But before that, let’s see how you can travel to Tenerife  by ferry or plane with ease.

Flight or ferry to Tenerife?

Tenerife is one of the few Canary Islands that you can visit both by ferry and plane. There are various domestic and international flights to the island’s 2 airports : Los Rodeos Tenerife North Airport and Reina Sofia Tenerife South Airport. 

You can also get a ferry to either of the 2 ports of Tenerife: Santa Cruz de Tenerife on the northeast coast, or Los Cristianos on the southwest coast.

Wondering what's the best way to get to Tenerife? Our personal favorite is traveling by ferry . Here, you can read the key benefits of traveling by ferry to Tenerife:

• Ferry traveling is more comfortable as you can stroll around and breathe fresh air at the deck, overlooking the amazing Atlantic Ocean.
• You can bring your car on the ferry to Tenerife and easily explore every corner of the island. 
• Traveling by ferry with your pet is more convenient than flying. You can bring your little friend onboard and make the trip more comfortable for both of you. 
• Traveling by ferry to Tenerife is the most eco-friendly way to explore the Canaries. Read all about sustainable ferry travel on Ferryhopper.

The 19th-century lighthouse at Punta de Teno of Tenerife

How to get to Tenerife from the Canary Islands

Getting to Tenerife from the rest of the Canaries by ferry is one of the easiest ways to reach the beautiful island. We gathered below information about the most popular ferry connections and how long it takes to get to Tenerife from nearby destinations. 

Tip : should you need more detailed information about ferry travel and island hopping in Tenerife , make sure to read our blog!

Traveling to Tenerife from Gran Canaria

This is one of the most popular ferry routes in the Canary Islands and can often get busy. There are daily ferry crossings from Gran Canaria to Tenerife all year long, with increased frequency in summer.

Ferries from Gran Canaria depart either from the port of Agaete or from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and they reach the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife .

The Gran Canaria - Tenerife ferry duration is 1 hr 20 min to less than  3 hr depending on the port of departure and the type of ferry. Ferry ticket prices range between €42 and €60 .

Note : there are also direct flights between Gran Canaria and Tenerife (South). The duration of the Gran Canaria - Ibiza flight is around 40 min .

Traveling to Tenerife from La Gomera

This is the fastest way to get to Tenerife, as the trip duration from La Gomera to Tenerife is about 50 min . 

Normally, there are at least 4 daily ferry crossings from the port of San Sebastián in La Gomera to the port of Los Cristianos in Tenerife. 

Ticket prices for the La Gomera - Tenerife ferry route start as low as €42 .

Traveling to Tenerife from El Hierro

The El Hierro - Tenerife route is a great idea for a day trip or a long weekend, moving from the relaxing vibes of El Hierro to the vivid lifestyle of Tenerife.

The ferry route is usually served 6 days per week and the duration of the trip is approximately 2.5 hr .

Ferries from El Hierro depart from the port of Valverde (or Puerto de La Estaca) and reach the port of Cristianos in Tenerife. The ferry price from El Hierro to Tenerife is approximately €54 .

Note : there are no direct flights from El Hierro to Tenerife (South) but you can travel indirectly via Gran Canaria about 3 to 4 times a week. The total duration of the El Hierro - Tenerife flight route is around 2 hr . 

Tip : you can find more information about the available ferry crossings and island hopping in the Canary Islands in our relevant blog post.

Playa de Las Américas on the southwest coast of Tenerife

How to get to Tenerife from mainland Spain

Are you thinking of getting to Tenerife without flying?

You can travel by ferry from the southern coast of Spain to Tenerife and the Canary Islands. You can catch the ferry to Tenerife either from the port of Cádiz or the port of Huelva .

Despite the long duration of the trip, traveling by ferry from mainland Spain to Tenerife is a great way to transfer your vehicle to the island and enjoy the ride through the Atlantic Ocean. It's also one of the least pricey  and most convenient ways to get to Tenerife.

Discover more tips about the ferry from mainland Spain to Tenerife on our travel guide and read below about the ferry crossings from Huelva and Cádiz to Tenerife.

How to get to Tenerife from Huelva

The Huelva to Tenerife ferry crossing is served at least 3 times per week throughout the year, with ticket prices starting at €96-€120 .

The trip duration from the port of Huelva to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is between 31-39 hr .

The port of Huelva is in Andalusia , close to the Spanish borders with Portugal.

How to get to Tenerife from Cádiz

There is 1 crossing per week on the Cádiz - Tenerife ferry route. One-way ticket prices start at €175 .

The ferry trip from Cádiz to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife lasts approximately 44 hr . 

The port of the Bay of Cádiz is in Andalusia, close to the city of Seville. 

Roadtrip in the mountains of Tenerife

Book ferry tickets to Tenerife

Now that you have all the information you need on how to get to Tenerife, you can book tickets with confidence. On Ferryhopper, you can find all the ferry schedules for Spain , compare ferry companies and prices, and buy your ferry tickets online easily and quickly, with no hidden fees .

Pro tip : for combining multiple destinations in one booking, make sure to check out our interactive Map of ferries and plan every step of your excursion in the Canaries.

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Travel to tenerife - the island of eternal spring.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and is one of the top warm-weather destinations in Europe. The spanish islands, the Canaries are located in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean. The island is filled with a remarkable variety of things to do - from stunning seascapes, black sand and golden beaches, world class resorts and hotels, UNESCO world heritage sites and Mount Teide, the islands crown jewel.

Take a trip to Tenerife- the perfect destination for adventure seekers, romance, families looking for the warm weather destination any time of the year.

5 Tenerife regions you don’t want to miss

A local’s guide to the king of the canaries..

Tenerife , the largest and most visited of the Canary Islands, is often associated with package tourists and all-inclusive resorts, but that doesn’t mean travelers are resigned to its crowded southern coast. Instead, base yourself in another area of Tenerife and focus your sights on a surprising arts and culture scene, dramatic terrain with distinct microclimates, and scrumptious cuisine—you just need to know where to look.

You might think, why choose Tenerife if it attracts millions of visitors each year instead of one of the quieter islands? As someone who has lived in Lanzarote , Fuerteventura , and Tenerife, I believe that the latter offers the most choice, from outdoor activities to urban culture in two lovable cities that are separated by a tram. In other words, you can spend an entire trip getting to the heart of the Canaries here without getting bored.

Ahead, dig into a breakdown of Tenerife’s wide range of regions.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna

The first time I walked through the historic center of La Laguna , clinging to the hills above Santa Cruz de Tenerife , I couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard of it before. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and instantly casts a spell on visitors with its tidy grid of charm-filled streets. Brightly colored and impeccably preserved colonial houses dating back to the 16th century, many with wooden balconies and hidden palm-filled courtyards, line the avenues. (Check out Calle San Augustin, which has plaques that highlight many buildings’ significance for a primer.)

The best thing to do is arrive without a plan. It’s a safe place to wander, and when in doubt, follow the locals to clothing boutiques, record stores, and craft beer bars. It doesn’t hurt that there’s a university here—the oldest in the Canary Islands—so you’ll find youthful energy and even a bit of nightlife.

Other places to check out include the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife (free on Fridays and Saturdays after 4 p.m. and packed with island history) and the plaza in front of the striking Cathedral of San Cristobal de La Laguna . There are also smaller churches and museum courtyards, as well as art galleries, such as Galeria de Arte Artizan, with their doors wide open.

Where to eat: While Pakistani-Himalayan cuisine might sound like an unusual choice when eating in the Canaries, the family-run Rakaposhi Tapas serves up some of my favorite meals. (Be sure to order the walnut and apricot croquettes and hearty Silk Road stew.) If you crave traditional Spanish fare, head for Maquila Restaurant for seafood paella and shishito peppers. And if you want coffee and a sweet treat, stop by La Higuera Cafe for an espresso and a slice of lemon pie.

Hotel pick: La Laguna Gran Hotel offers a prime location in the historic district. The rooftop bar is worth a visit alone—have a drink before dinner in town or make a reservation at the Michelin-starred restaurant onsite. For about half the price, you can stay at Laguna Nivaria , also within walking distance to the city, where rooms have mini-fridges and soaking tubs.

Tip: La Laguna is a prime base for those who want to hike Tenerife’s northern tip in the Rural de Anaga Park . Here, you’ll find a network of trails that cuts through jagged green mountains and passes by traditional farmers and hamlets. After a morning hike, reward yourself with the cod cannelloni or garlic prawns at La Ola before driving the hour back into town.

Mount Teide National Park

The Canary Islands are known for their lunar landscapes, and you’ll want to visit the highest volcano (and mountain) in all of Spain: Mount Teide . The formidable peak is situated in the middle of the island and is visible on a clear day. Follow the hairpin roads and notice the temperature start to dip (be sure to bring layers, no matter the season). And though it may seem crowded, it’s a massive area so you can easily find your own space to explore.

Non-hikers can opt for the Teide Cable Car , which departs every 10 minutes for the top of the peak, offering exhilarating views of neighboring islands. Make sure to book early online early to avoid long lines and potential sellouts. Or, skip the crowds and go on a full-day hike to the adjacent crater, Pico Viejo . If time is short, you can do what I often opt for: spend a little over an hour hiking a circular trail around the unique rock formations at Roque de Garcia .

Where to eat: For hiking provisions, head to Dulceria Hermano Pedro in Vilaflor and order hearty sandwiches to go. If you do a shorter hike and want to enjoy a leisurely lunch, try the Los Cipreses de La Casa Inglesa and snag an outdoor table overlooking the sea.

Hotel pick: For a luxury stay near the park, book at Hotel Spa Villalba , a 27-room hotel surrounded by pine trees in Vilaflor. A more affordable option is the Parador Hotel , which offers volcano views and a sunny terrace.

Tip: Mirador translates to “viewpoint,” so keep an eye out on your drive for mirador signs if you’re looking for breathtaking turnouts.

La Orotava and Garachico

These two historic towns, a 30-minute drive apart along the northwest coast, embody Canarian style. In La Orotava , you’ll find cobblestoned streets and colonial architecture dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Head to the Casa de los Balcones to see a re-creation of what life was like back in the day. Another must-see is the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja , the French-inspired gardens that date back to the 18th century with walkways, fountains, and a notable mausoleum. For more gardens, head down to neighboring Puerto de la Cruz’s dreamy botanical garden with a lovely centuries-old fig tree.

Then head over to Garachico . Once you’ve walked to the top of the Castillo de San Miguel and learned about the town’s history, walk inland to explore the beautiful colonial town. The centerpiece is Plaza Libertad with its iconic 16th-century church and museum . I spent nearly 30 minutes taking photos in the plaza and imagining what life was like here, especially during 1706 when a volcanic eruption practically ruined the town. Hikes along nearby lava fields are also available.

Where to eat: In La Orotava, Restaurant Victoria is a short walk from Victoria Gardens and serves up dishes such as chickpeas with langoustines, duck, and pork. (The restaurant also runs a small hotel in a well-preserved home.) Or, try the restaurant in the courtyard of Casa Lercaro , a 16th-century mansion. In Garachico, Tasca El Muelle Viejo has Spanish classics and fresh seafood, or for a more upscale experience, try El Rebojo . French-inspired Le Pâtissier is also a great place for coffee and cake across the street from the ocean.

Hotel pick: Hotel Rural Victoria is a charming stay in La Orotava, or go for the slightly more upscale Boutique Hotel San Roquer in Garachico.

Tip: As you travel between the two towns, stop and visit one of the oldest trees in the world: El Drago Milenario . Additionally, many of the island’s top wineries are located in and around La Orotavo, so oenophiles can do some tasting, which makes for a great day trip.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Unlike La Laguna, which pulls you in at first glance, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a slow burn. But the mega-port’s pleasant climate, banyan-tree–filled parks, great running and bike paths, and loads of historic and modern culture grow on you.

Start at the Plaza Espana . Not only is there great shopping with a mix of Spanish chains and local boutiques in this area, but you can easily pull up a chair at a nearby cafe and watch locals go about their days. Pop into the baroque Iglesia San Francisco and listen to the chorale music against the sounds of a humming city around you. Then spend a half hour at the free Museo de Bellas Artes directly behind it to see Canarian and Flemish artists. From the entrance, walk up a set of stairs to the leafy P laza del Principe de Asturias and find a bench and people-watch.

Another must-see is the Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa . On the top level, you’ll find vendors selling everything from colorful produce to textiles, while the lower level is home to the fish market, where you can grab a stool and have lunch. And no visit to Santa Cruz de Tenerife is complete without attending a performance at the Auditorio de Tenerife , designed by Santiago Calatrava. It’s on the waterfront and, like the Sydney Opera House, resembles a large white sail and boasts outstanding acoustics.

Where to eat: My pick for a romantic meal is the cobblestone terrace of Wine & Cheese for shareable paellas, great cheese plates, and a fun after-work crowd. Around the corner is the contemporary Jaxana , which serves up inventive sushi rolls and dim sum. Also, try the seafood black rice, or huevo frito, at Lebeche where the sleek, beachy vibe sets the tone.

Hotel pick: The ultimate big-city hotel in town is the Iberostar Grand Hotel Mencey with a gorgeous outdoor pool and open-air fitness center. Or, check into the local-run, friendly Hi Suites , a boutique hotel with modern California-style decor and kitchenettes closer to the waterfront.

Tip: On a sunny day, head to Playa de las Terresitas just north of Santa Cruz. It'll take you about half an hour on the bus, but nothing beats renting a bike and riding the six miles to get there. Fuel up for the ride back with a seafood lunch from one of the many restaurants near the sand.

Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago

This is a great stop for those who want access to the busier southern beaches but prefer to stay somewhere more low-key. The highlight is the Los Gigantes (“The Giants”)—staggering dark rock formations that stand out against the cobalt sea. You can climb up and look out for ocean views, or join a boat tour and see the spectacle from the water. This is also a prime location for scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea kayaking with dolphins and whales.

For an adventurous day trip, hold your breath on the way to the pint-sized village of Masca , which seems impossibly perched on a cliff (go early to beat the crowds). Walk around and take photos or hike the 2.5-mile trail along the Barranco de Masca to the ocean and then jump on the ferry to get back to Los Gigantes.

Where to eat: For a more casual dining experience, Tas-k offers a variety of daily tapas written on a chalkboard. There are also a few Michelin-starred restaurants in the area including at the nearby Ritz Carlton Abama . I love El Mirador , with a large shady terrace offering stunning views of the ocean—the sunset views here are incredible.

Hotel pick: The Royal Sun Resort is your best bet in Los Gigantes. Set against the backdrop of the majestic cliffs, the hotel offers views of the village, the charming marina, and the sea beyond.

Things to do in Tenerife

Tours, Attractions and Excursions

Sailboat Mola Mola

Quad biking

Paragliding

Jet Ski at Puerto Colón

Scuba Diving

Buggy Tenerife

Kayak with snorkeling (turtles)

Go Karting Club Tenerife

Boat Trip: Opera 60

Kalima Kat Catamaran

Helicopter Tours over Tenerife

Jeep Safari Tenerife with driver

Spyder Excursion Tenerife

Rent a boat without a license

La Palma Bus Tour

6 Vans Tours Tenerife

Private Luxury Yacht Trip

Submarine Safari

Freebird Catamaran

Fishing Sea with No Limit

Hiking Trails in Tenerife

Catamaran with submarine vision

Teide, Masca, Garachico and Icod Tour

Teide National Park Tour

Kailani Sailing Charters

La Gomera Full-Day Trip

Monte Cristo – Luxury Catamaran

Parascending

Best Private Boats in Tenerife

Loro Parque

Teide by Night

SPA Aqua Club Termal

Water Sports in Tenerife

Catamaran Maxicat

Fishing with The RodFather

Viking Cruise – Ragnarok

Medieval Show and Dinner

Peter Pan Pirate Ship

Flavours and Wines tour

Transfer airport-hotel south

Jungle Park

Flipper Uno

Forestal Park Tenerife

Monkey Park

Jet Ski at Los Gigantes

Masca Gorge Trekking

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