travel tips for tenerife

The Travel Momento

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 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.

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10 Essential Tenerife Travel Tips: for the Best Vacation

Planning to visit Tenerife? You’re in the right place! Tenerife is a wonderful destination to visit; it’s warm, the food is delicious, the sites are incredible and the black sand beaches are truly breathtaking. Tenerife makes for a great place to spend a vacation. You get the best of both worlds by being able to relax on the beach while still being able to explore all that the island has to offer. Keep reading for all of the Tenerife travel tips you’ll need for your epic trip! 

Weather in Tenerife

Tenerife has a subtropical climate offering comfortable temperatures year round. The summer months are the warmest, with sunny days and temperatures in the upper 70s and 80s. In the winter, you’ll find mild daytime temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s. At night, in both the summer and winter, the temperatures will drop about 10 degrees. 

The Southern part of the island (Costa Adeje, Playa de las Americas, etc.) is consistently warmer than the Northern part of the island. However, you’ll find nice weather most of the year all across the island. 

Year round, I recommend a light jacket or sweater, and definitely bring more layers if you’re visiting in the colder months.

Mount Teide Climate

The one major exception to this mild climate is Mount Teide volcano. Mount Teide is definitely a must visit. It’s the highest peak in Spain and the views and landscapes are absolutely incredible. However, due to the elevation, around 3,355 meters (or 11,500 feet), it can get very cold and windy at the top. Year round, make sure you have a jacket and maybe even gloves and a hat. 

While you may be lucky and get warm sunny weather at the top of Mount Teide, this isn’t guaranteed and it’s always better to be prepared. Some travelers will recommend you wear hiking boots. However, if you’re just riding the cable car to the top and going on a short walk to the view points, sneakers are totally fine. If you’re planning on doing some serious hiking, you will, of course, need hiking boots. 

When to Visit Tenerife

I recommend visiting Tenerife in the summer in order to have the best weather. However it’s really a great destination year round.

September, specifically, is a great month to visit in order to take advantage of summer weather and temperatures, while avoiding the June-August crowds.

How to Get to Tenerife

Tenerife is easily accessible from the US and Europe. 

If you’re flying from the East Coast of the USA, you can get a nonstop flight on United Airlines to Tenerife. The flight operates out of Newark airport (EWR) from June-September. The flight time is around 7 hours. 

You can also find year round direct flights from all over Europe. These flights depart frequently and are often very affordable.

How Many Days is Enough in Tenerife

While I recommend a week in Tenerife in order to really explore and get to know the island, five days is also a good amount of time for a first trip. 

In 5-7 days you can see many of the most beautiful parts of the island and take part in tons of fun activities. 

Check out my Tenerife post series for more recommendations and tips:

• The 11 Best Things to do in Tenerife South
• The Best Towns in Tenerife to Visit on Your Vacation
• The 11 Best Restaurants in Tenerife

Tenerife Travel Tips

Choose your resort/hotel wisely.

There are a plethora of beautiful resorts all over Tenerife, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. 

The first thing you need to decide is how much you want to spend and, next, where on the island you want to be. The majority of resorts are in Tenerife South. This is a great part of the island to base yourself for beautiful beaches, great restaurants and lots of activities. You can also easily explore the entire island on day trips when basing yourself in Tenerife South. 

Tenerife South is certainly the busiest and most touristy part of the island. So, especially during the high season, this is something to keep in mind. 

The Northern part of the island, specifically the town of Puerto de la Cruz, is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience. While Puerto de la Cruz is the largest town in the Northern part of the island, it’s still much quieter than the South. 

From Puerto de la Cruz, you’ll be able to easily visit Tenerife South for day trips as well as have easy access to many other popular towns and tourist attractions in Tenerife. 

If you’d rather be in a small, more local town, check out my post about the Best Towns to Visit in Tenerife . Here you’ll find information about these wonderful towns, the best things to do there and the best hotels/accomodations in each one.

Hotels in Tenerife South (Costa Adeje):

• Flamingo Beach Mate
• Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa
• Adrián Hoteles Jardines de Nivaria
• Royal Garden
• H10 Gran Tinerfe – Adults Only
• Iberostar Selection Sábila – Adults Only
• Royal River – Adults Only

Hotels in Tenerife North (Puerto de la Cruz):

• Puerto Azul
• Hotel AF Valle Orotava
• Alua Tenerife

Explore Many Different Parts of the Island

It’s very tempting to visit Teneriife and spend most of your time on the beach. The volcanic black sand and stone beaches are truly beautiful and they make a great place to relax, read, swim, surf and take part in water sports. 

However, in addition to the amazing beaches, Tenerife has so much more to offer! There are a plethora of colorful, beautiful towns all across the island and each one has so much to offer. From viewpoints to markets to volcanos, Tenerife has it all. 

After reading these Tenerife travel tips, be sure to check out my post about all of the best things to do in Tenerife South ! 

My top 5 things to do across the entire island include: 

• Take the cable car to the top of Mount Teide 
• Marvel at los Gigantes 
• Visit Anaga Rural Park
• See the Dragon Tree and Butterfly Garden in Icod de los Vinos

PRO TIP: Rent a car

I’ll get more into this later, but in order to be able to explore all of the incredible towns and sites around Tenerife, you’ll definitely want a rental car. 

If you don’t want to rent a car, but still want to see and explore other parts of the island, consider taking some day tours. There’s quite a few to choose from and they’ll allow you to explore the island without a rental car or having to rely on public transportation. 

Tenerife day tours:

• Tenerife Full Island Tour
• Day Trip Around the Island of Tenerife
• Half Day Tour Discovering Anaga Tenerife
• 6hrs Private Tour in North Coast of Tenerife
• Private Excursion to Masca, Garachico, Icod in Tenerife
• Tenerife VIP Tour

Pack for Micro Climates (even in the summer!)

Tenerife has a mild climate year round, with the warmest temperatures in the summer months. Even though you’ll have temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s during the summer months, you’ll still want a sweater for the evenings. 

Additionally, you’ll want to pack warm(er) clothing for your trip to Mount Teide. Even in the summer months, the temperatures at the volcano’s high altitude can be quite low. 

You’ll also find slightly lower temperatures in the Northern part of the island as well as in Anaga Rural Park. For these excursions, you’ll want to make sure you have layers that are easy to put on and take off. 

Tenerife micro-climate packing list (in addition to regular summer/beachwear): 

• Light jacket
• Long sleeve shirt

As I mentioned above, a rental car is a necessity when visiting Tenerife, unless you’re planning on staying in one part of the island for your entire trip (which is also totally valid!) This is definitely one of my most important Tenerife travel tips.

You can drive around the entire island of Tenerife in under four hours (without stops), so it’s a great place to really be able to explore without spending the whole day driving. From Tenerife South, many popular sites and towns are under an hour away. 

There are Ubers in Tenerife South, but, in my opinion, having a rental car is much more convenient. This is especially true if your resort is outside of the main downtown areas. 

Driving in Tenerife is relatively easy and car rentals aren’t too expensive.

You can visit Tenerife on a Budget or have a Luxury Vacation

Tenerife, like many destinations, is a place you can visit on a budget or luxuriously. There are a wide range of hotels ranging from budget friendly accommodations as low as $40 a night all the way up to $600+ a night luxury stays. 

Budget Accommodations: 

• Sunset Harbour Club
• Canaan in Tenerife
• Atlantic Holiday Hotel

Luxury Accommodations: 

• Bahia del Duque
• Royal Garden Villas, Luxury Hotel
• Royal River, Luxury Hotel – Adults Only

Similarly, it’s very possible to find inexpensive food options or to go out to more expensive restaurants for a fine dining experience. 

When traveling, I definitely prioritize eating good, local food. If you stay away from the clear tourist traps and head instead to more local/unassuming restaurants, you’ll have a much better and more affordable experience. 

A few of my favorite affordable restaurants in Tenerife with delicious local food include: 

• Bistro 22 – Los Gigantes 
• E l Tejado – Costa Adeje
• Banh Noï Thaï V iet Food – Costa Adeje
• Bloom – La Caleta
• El Limón – Puerto de la Cruz 
• Makika&Co – Santa Cruz 

For  more restaurant recommendations, be sure to check out my post about the 11 best restaurants in Tenerife . 

When looking at things to do in Tenerife, there are a wide variety of free options. You can visit the many different beaches, go hiking in Anaga Rural Park and explore the quaint towns – just to name a few. 

If you have a higher budget, there are also several paid activities you can participate in. Like taking the cable car to the top of Mount Teide, going on snorkeling adventures, paragliding or visiting the wineries. 

Activities and Tours in Tenerife:

• Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with a Buffet
• Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing with Dinner
• Tandem Paragliding Flight in South Tenerife
• Winery Tour and Tasting in Tenerife with the Sommelier

Some Parts of the Island are More Touristy Than Others

The Southern portion of the island, Tenerife Sur, is more touristy than the North. This isn’t to say that there aren’t any tourists in the North, or in the towns on other parts of the island, because there certainly are. 

However, most tourists are concentrated in the resort areas in Tenerife Sur, specifically, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje. 

Book Tours in Advance

While in Tenerife, there are tons of great tours and activities to take part in. These range from snorkeling, to stargazing hikes, to whale watching and so much more. 

Like any popular destination, many of these tours book out in advance, so make reservations as early as you can. 

Popular Tenerife Tours:

• Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje
• Jet Ski Excursion (1H or 2H) in South Tenerife
• Tenerife: Quad Adventure Teide Tour
• 4 Hours Eco Safari Tour with Electric Car in Tenerife
• Teide by Night: Sunset & Stargazing with Telescopes Experience

Make Restaurant Reservations

Similarly to tours and activities, you’ll want to make reservations for popular restaurants in advance. Especially during the summer months, restaurants fill up quickly, especially at peak times like sunset. 

For restaurant recommendations, be sure to check out my post about the 11 best restaurants in Tenerife .

Understand the Tipping Culture (or lack thereof)

Coming from the US, many travelers assume tipping 20% everywhere is normal, or even mandatory. That’s not the case in Spain, or in Tenerife specifically. 

Tipping culture:

• 5-10% at sitdown restaurants is considered normal and is appreciated. 
• At a bar, an extra euro or two, depending on the total bill. 
• For taxis, it’s common to round up or to leave an extra euro or two. 
• At hotels, one-two euros a night for housekeeping and one euro per piece of luggage for bellboys. 
• For guided group tours, a few euros after the tour is appreciated, but not expected.

Tenerife is Safe, But Always be Aware of Your Surroundings

As a female traveler in my 20s, I felt extremely safe everywhere I went in Tenerife – and I explored the entire island. In general, Tenerife is a very safe destination to visit. 

However, like anywhere you travel, keep an eye on your belongings, especially when you’re at the beach or out at bars and clubs. 

I have read some instances of vehicles getting broken into, especially if purses or valuables were visibly left inside, so be sure to take your valuables with you.

I hope these Tenerife tips have been helpful for you as you plan your trip to the Canary Islands! Tenerife is such an incredible destination and one you’ll certainly want to keep going back to.

If you have any questions, or any other Tenerife tips to add to this post, please let me know in the comments.

Lastly, follow us on Instagram, @twosistersabroad , for more travel inspiration and mini guides!

More Tenerife Guides:

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Note: This guide to 10 essential Tenerife tips includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure  here .

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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.

5% OFF your travel insurance

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 !

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The Indispensable Tenerife Travel Guide

24 Feb The Indispensable Tenerife Travel Guide

The beautiful island of Tenerife is one of the eight Canary Islands . This Spanish archipelago is situated in the Atlantic Ocean opposite the northwestern coast of Africa. Tenerife is very touristy , attracting more than 6 million visitors a year. Beaches, Mountains and Sun are the 3 main reason why people love it! Therefore, you have probably put Tenerife on your bucket list , and if it’s not there yet – you should definitely add it! To help you prepare your trip to this extraordinary island, have a look at this Tenerife travel guide!

I am answering all of the most frequent questions you might have about Tenerife : when to go there, how to reach the island, how long you should stay, what are the best things to do, where you should stay and much more! So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea if you are like me) and read everything about Tenerife in this Tenerife Travel Guide!

Table of Contents

Why to visit Tenerife?

Tenerife is the most touristy island of the Canary Islands . It has many assets and people love to come here. Let me tell you in this Tenerife travel guide all the reasons why you should visit it!

First of all, you should visit Tenerife because it offers many beautiful and varied landscapes . Between stunning mountains and magical coastlines , you will be blown away! You will love exploring this island for sure!

Second of all, you should visit Tenerife because it features the most famous volcano of the Canary island, Mount Teide . This volcano is also the highest point in Spain and the third tallest volcanic structure in the world! It’s the most visited natural wonder in Spain. And the Natural Park surrounding it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Thirdly, you should visit Tenerife because it’s a highly picturesque island . It’s a paradise for photographers and it has many Instagrammable places !

Also, Tenerife is a budget friendly destination . So good news: you can travel here without getting ruined!

Last but not least, the weather in Tenerife is rather nice all year long!

So, what are you waiting for to book a trip to Tenerife?!

When is the best time to visit Tenerife?

One of the first questions that I should answer in this Tenerife travel guide is when is the best time to visit it. And at the same time, I will give you more info about the weather in Tenerife . Tenerife is one of those blessed sub-tropical places where the climate is pleasant all year long! In this island the sun is shining every day with few rainfalls. The winters are mild, and the summers are hot. Therefore, you can visit Tenerife all year long!

August is the hottest month of the year is with temperatures between 31 C and 22 C. And February is the coldest month of the year with with temperatures between 22 C and 15 C. January is the driest month is with no rainfall, whereas October is the wettest month (8 mm of rain over 1 day).

If you want to avoid the crowd and get better deals for your accommodation, it’s better to avoid summer as this is the most touristy period (especially July and August). You can come at any other time of the year! I travelled in Tenerife in January and I had a dry weather and mild pleasant temperatures (around 22 C degrees).  It was perfect!

How to get to Tenerife?

Tenerife being an island, the best way to get there is by flight . There are two international airports on the island: Tenerife Norte (or Tenerife North) in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and Tenerife Sur (or Tenerife South) in Granadilla de Abona.

Tenerife South–Reina Sofía Airport is the main and busiest international airport on Tenerife . In fact, this part of the island is the most touristy one. It’s located 60 km southwest of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the capital). Once you are arrived in Tenerife South airport, there are several ways to move around. You can easily hire a car if you want to explore the island on your own. But you can also take a taxi, take a shuttle or the bus (5 different routes are available).

Tenerife North Airport is located 11 km west of Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Once you are arrived in Tenerife North airport, there are several ways to move around. You can hire a car if you want to explore the island on your own. But you can also take a taxi, or the bus (4 different routes are available).

For your trip to Tenerife, I recommend you simply chose the airport close to your first destination in the island . I flew via Tenerife North airport because I decided to explore the north of the island first. If you need to go to the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, I recommend you choose Tenerife North as it’s only 11 min by car. But if you are in Tenerife to enjoy the beaches and the resorts you should probably arrive via Tenerife South. In addition, be aware that there is only 64km (around 1h10 by car) of distance between the two airports.

If you are coming from another islands in the Canary Islands you can also access Tenerife by boat .

How many days to stay in Tenerife?

One of the main questions you are probably asking yourself before booking your trip to Tenerife is how many days to stay . Although Tenerife is a small island (only 2 034 km²), there are many things to do here . So, the best recommendation I can give you in this Tenerife travel guide is to stay at least 1 week .

You can count 3 to 4 days to explore the North of the island and 3 to 4 days to explore the South.

If you do not have so much time you can skip some places and stay for 4/5 days . This can be an option especially if you want to visit other islands in the Canary Islands.

On the contrary, if you want to take your time , you can stay for 10 days . I can assure you that you won’t get bored as there are countless of interesting activities and places to see!

How to move around in Tenerife?

I highly recommend you rent a car to move around in Tenerife . It will allow you to explore the island at your convenience . There are many interesting places to visit all around the island. Therefore, Tenerife is a great place to do a road trip! And some of the best areas to visit are quite remote, or in the mountains, like Mount Teide or Masca Valley.

Nevertheless, the island is rather small (2 034 km²). So, you won’t lose too much time in transportation during your trip. Depending on the places you want to explore around the island, you can spend around 45 min/ 1h to drive from one to the other. I would suggest that you organize your road trip from North to South or vice-versa.

It’s quite easy to rent a car from both airports Tenerife South and Tenerife North. And this is also the most practical.

If you want to rent a car in Tenerife or on any of the other Canary Islands, I recommend the company Proarentacar . This company offers economical options for car rental in the Canary Islands or in the Balearics. You can use the code “PROA105” to get 5% discount.

Is Tenerife budget friendly?

This Tenerife travel guide will make you happy because yes Tenerife is budget friendly!

In terms of accommodations , you can find a great variety of prices in Tenerife that will match everyone’s need ( from budget to luxury ). Take a look at the paragraph about the Best Places to stay in Tenerife in this article.

Then, in terms of food , many restaurants have meals that are around 8 EUR/ 10 USD. The drinks are around 3 EUR/ 4 USD.

Renting a car was around 100 EUR / 122 USD for 6 days with 2 drivers for a VW Polo. And the fuel was super cheap. On average fuel in Spain costs less than in Europe and in the Canary Islands it is even more economical. It was around 30 EUR/ 37 USD to fill in the tank of the car when I was there in January 2021.

What are the Best Things to do in Tenerife?

Tenerife is an amazing island offering a lot of places to see and things to do . Let me give you a list of the best activities in this Tenerife travel guide!

You can start by hiking in Mount Teide National Park . Mount Teide is the most famous volcano of Tenerife and also the third tallest volcanic structure in the world. The National Park around also worth the visit as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

If you like hiking you should also have a look at Masca Valley . The unique village of Masca hidden in the Teno Massif is easily one of the most instagrammable places in Tenerife!

But Tenerife also features beautiful coastlines and beaches . Therefore, if you want to relax at the beach, you should head to Playa de Las Teresitas in the South. It’s the prettiest white sand beach in Tenerife. If you prefer dramatic black sand beaches, then choose Playa de Benijo in the North. You can also swim in one of the numerous charco (natural pools). One of the most scenic ones is named “ Charco El Diablo ”.

The giant cliffs of Acantilados de Los Gigantes located in the south west of the island are one of the best places to see in Tenerife!

Additionally, the cities and towns in Tenerife are charming . The best ones to visit are Puerto de la Cruz, Punta Brava, San Cristobal de la Laguna, Taganana, Garachico and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the capital).

One of the last best things to do in Tenerife is to see dolphins and whales in Playa de Las Americas . A great activity for kids and for adults!

Where to stay in Tenerife?

The best places to stay in Tenerife depend on your budget and the part of the island you want to explore . In this Tenerife travel guide I will recommend you some hotels for your stay with options from luxury to budget .

Best places to stay in Tenerife – Luxury Options

Ritz Carlton Abama on the western coastline of Tenerife is one of the best places to stay in the island! This 5-star hotel is easily recognizable by its flamboyant terracotta color, its scenic staircases and its Moorish inspired style. It’s very photogenic! You can stay in one of the luxurious rooms or villas. There are many different pools, a spa and the largest Ritz Kids in Europe. You can enjoy no less than 9 restaurants and bars in the hotel, 2 of which are Michelin starred!

Address: Carretera General, TF-47, Km 9, 38687 Guía de Isora.

Book your stay: Ritz Carlton Abama

Royal River on the western coastline of Tenerife is also a fantastic option! This brand-new luxury boutique hotel that opened in December 2020 will amaze you! You can stay in one of the numerous stylish villas with private pools . The hotel also features an amazing rooftop infinity pool, a river pool connecting the private pools together, and a spa. There are 4 different restaurants with a beautiful distinctive decoration. All the hotel is instagrammable!

Address: Calle Alcojora, s/n, 38670 Costa Adeje.

Book your stay: Royal River Tenerife

Best places to stay in Tenerife – Mid-Range Options

Check out Hotel Taburiente if you are around Santa Cruz de Tenerife . This chic boutique hotel is located in the center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city, next to the beautiful Parque García Sanabria . You can enjoy the rooftop pool offering views on the park and the Atlantic Ocean. There are also a gym and 2 restaurants inside the hotel.

Address: Calle Dr. Jose Naveiras, 24, 38001 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Book your stay: Hotel Taburiente

TRH Hotel Taoro Garden is a great hotel option in Puerto de la Cruz . This Adult-Only recommended boutique hotel offers a seasonal heated outdoor pool and every room feature a terrace. You can see Mount Teide from here! There are also a bar and a restaurant.

Address: Calle Dinamarca, 3, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz.

Book your stay: TRH Hotel Taoro Garden

Best places to stay in Tenerife – Budget Options

Adventure House Tenerife is a small cool hostel the south west of Tenerife . People appreciate it for its friendly staff, its great location and its cleanliness. And it offers a free new adventure activity for its visitors every day , like snorkeling with turtles, cliff jumping or swimming in volcanic rock pools! It’s ideal to explore the south of Tenerife.

Address: 11 Calle Baja Larga, 38686 Alcalá.

Book your stay: Adventure House Tenerife .

Patio hostel is a great hostel option not far from the airport of Tenerife North. This urban hostel is located in a colonial house in the charming town of San Cristobal de La Laguna. It’s ideal to explore the North of Tenerife! People love it also for its friendly staff, its great location and its cleanliness.

Address: Plaza del Cristo 6, San Cristobal de La Laguna.

Book your stay: Patio hostel

Is Tenerife safe?

As a female traveler I can understand why anyone would wonder if Tenerife is a safe destination . My Tenerife travel guide will reassure you! As a woman wandering in this island with another girl friend, I always felt very safe . I never felt in danger or had the feeling people were about to steal my belongings.

Nevertheless, you have to take into account that I traveled there in January 2021 during the pandemic. At this time there was a curfew from 11pm to 6am. Therefore, I was not going out late at night. Also, I am always very careful about my belongings . I recommend you do the same and never take any risks wherever the destination you travel to .

How to get a Phone SIM Card in Tenerife?

If you want to stay properly connected with the Internet during your trip to Tenerife, you must wonder how to get a SIM Card for your smartphone . So, I thought it would be great to give you my recommendations in this Tenerife travel guide!

I do not remember having seen a SIM Card shop at the Tenerife North airport but there is apparently a Lycamobile store in Tenerife South airport. Nevertheless don’t freak out: you can buy a SIM Card if any phone shop!  You will find those phone shops in all the high streets and shopping malls .

I got recommended by a local to go to Movistar as it apparently offers the best coverage. I went to a big Al Campo shopping mall near Santa Cruz de Tenerife that I spotted on the way and found an Orange shop. There was also a Movistar shop, but they didn’t have the prepaid SIM card I needed without annual subscription. Therefore, I took the Orange SIM Card “Go Fly” package offering 20GB (+15GB extra for free, a total of 35GB) for 17,64 EUR (21 USD). I think in the end I paid something like 20 EUR. It was a pretty good deal!

I found the coverage quite good during my trip (except maybe when I was on the road in the mountains like Mount Teide or Masca Valley).

Orange also had cheaper packages:

• “Go Run” for 12GB (+15GB extra for free, a total of 27GB) for 13,22 EUR (16 USD)
• “Go Walk” for 6GB (+10GB extra for free, a total of 16GB) for 8,80 EUR (11 USD)
• “Navega” for 5GB (+10GB extra for free, a total of 15GB) for 7,91 EUR (10 USD)

What is it like to travel in Tenerife in the time of Covid 19?

I traveled in Tenerife during the Covid 19 pandemic in January 2021, so I can talk about my experience in this guide. I recommend you check the measures existing at the time of your trip to see if the below ones are still valid or not. You can find all the hygienic-sanitary measures on the website of Spanish Ministry of Health .

First of all, to access the Spanish territory and Tenerife at the beginning of 2021 you need to fill in the Health Control Form available on the Spain Travel Health porta l from 48 hours before the flight. You will then obtain a QR Code , that you have to show at the control points upon arrival in Spain . I got mine quite quickly in the next hours after filling in the form online. Also be aware that you need to know your flight number and information, so fill in the form only once you have booked your flight.

Then the second thing you need to access the Spanish territory and Tenerife is a negative PCR Test from less than 72 hours .

Additionally, your temperature will be taken before boarding your flight and at the airport on arrival.

During your trip and your stay, please use a mask , maintain physical interpersonal distance of at least 1.5m with other, wash your hands frequently, and cover yourself if coughing or sneezing .

On top of the measures above you might have to respect a curfew . At the time I was travelling in Tenerife in January 2021, this area was in Tear 2. Therefore, the curfew was between 11pm and 6am. Also gathering was limited to 4 people (not from the same family).

I can only encourage you to respect all those measures so that we can all enjoy a better life in the future!

In Conclusion…

Tenerife is an amazing destination that you will love to discover! I did my best to cover all of the questions you might have before traveling there in this indispensable Tenerife travel guide . If there is anything else that you want to ask, please write your question in the comment or email me! It will be my pleasure to help you!

Do not miss any of the best photo spots in Tenerife by reading the Most Instagrammable Places in Tenerife!

Save it for later on Pinterest!

Hello! I am Ophélie, an avid traveller, photographer and foodista. I am French and I live in Paris.

This blog, will give you all my secrets: my best addresses (sightseeing and food) all around the world and in Paris, and my travel and lifestyle tips!

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Aanchal Iyer

What a comprehensive post! You have given so much valuable information. Tenerife is such an amazing destination with so many sites and unique experiences. Saving it for the future in case I decide to visit Tenerife.

Limitlesssecrets

I am glad you found the article so useful Aanchal! Tenerife should be on everyone’s bucket-list! I hope you can visit this island!

Pingback: Tenerife, Spain | Parallels | Travel the World One Story at a Time

[…] limitless-secrets.com The Indispensable Tenerife Travel Guide – Limitless Secrets In this travel guide I am answering the most frequent questions you might have about Tenerife. It will help you prepare your trip! http://www.britannica.com Tenerife | island, Canary Islands, Spain Tenerife, island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife provincia (province), Canary Islands comunidad autónoma (autonomous community), Spain, located in the … Distant Ramblings by Cory Hess Canary Islands Distant Ramblings Flash Travel Spain Tenerife […]

Marie laure Robin

Bonjour merci pour ce chouette blog je pars à Ténérife dans quelques jours et je suis tombée par hasard la sur votre page qui regorge de plein d idée de choses que nous allons sûrement aller voir … Par contre Petite question au sujet de la carte sim il me semblait que tout est compris aujourd’hui pour que en Europe on puisse utiliser nos téléphones comme actuellement chez nous… Du coup votre passage sur le fait que ayez eu a acheter une carte là bas me pose question pouvez vous m en dire plus … Nous allons avoir une voiture de location et j ai besoin du gps de mon tél lol pour aller explorer tout cela …

Bonjour Marie Laure ! Merci pour votre message, je suis ravie de savoir que l’article vous sera utile pour votre voyage à Ténérife ! Pour répondre à votre question, j’ai vérifié auprès d’une amie française qui y est actuellement, et elle m’a confirmé que sa carte SIM française fonctionne bien sur place ! Il semblerait donc que j’en ai acheté une locale pour rien >< . Passez un bon séjour et n'hésitez pas si vous avez d'autres questions !

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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.

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DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , SPAIN

A one-week tenerife itinerary you’ll want to steal.

Are you planning to spend a week in Tenerife?

This Canary Island has a rich and proud cultural heritage, colonial towns to match any in Central or South America and dramatic forested landscapes. It’s a far cry from the popular perception that it is merely a sangria & sand flop for sun-starved Northern Europeans.

To make the most of your time there, follow my 1-week Tenerife itinerary. I’ve also included tips for where to stay, where to eat, what to see and how to get around.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

How I Spent a Week in Tenerife: 7-Day Itinerary

I visited Tenerife for a week in January and used the northern resort town of Puerto de la Cruz as my base. The vast majority of day trips were done independently, using the island’s bus services.

This itinerary is based on my experiences.

7-DAY TENERIFE ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive at your base in Puerto de la Cruz Day 2: Explore Puerto de la Cruz Day 3 : Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna Day 4: La Orotava Day 5 : Day trip to Mount Teide Day 6 : Icod de Los Vinos and Garachico Day 7: An easy hike in the Anaga Forest

Day 1: Arrive at your base in Puerto de la Cruz

On your arrival in Tenerife, get settled into your hotel or apartment.

If you have time, pick up your ten+ card from the bus station. This will be your golden ticket for exploring the island.

Day 2: Explore Puerto de la Cruz

But before jumping on one of the shiny green TITSA buses, spend your first full day in Tenerife getting to know your home for the week, Puerto de la Cruz . You should be able to cover its main sights in a day.

With the possible exception of the Botanical Garden, everything is walkable (although I did walk to the Botanical Garden). Therefore, you shouldn’t need to take public transport.

Things to see and do in Puerto de la Cruz

• The Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico)
• The Orchid Garden (Jardín de Orquideas de Sitio Litre)
• Check out the street art
• View contemporary art in the Casa de la Real Aduana
• Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia
• Chapel of San Telmo
• Cool off at Lago Martiánez
• People watch in Plaza del Charco
• Castillo San Felipe
• Watch the waves crash over the sea wall (Explanada del Muelle)

Where to eat in Puerto de la Cruz

You won’t be short of choices of places to eat in Puerto de la Cruz. Most restaurants are concentrated in the old town.

Here are a few that I loved:

Bodega Julian | Calle Mequinez, 20

Good service and even better food with the best lamb dish of my life. Reservations recommended.

Chriniguito Pipo | Calle de la Marina, 2

Fill your boots with langoustines and Canarian potatoes as you watch the waves crashing onto the sea wall at this unpretentious café by the old harbour. Super fresh seafood and service with a smile.

Get there early for lunch for a prime seat.

Day 3: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the island’s capital, is home to half of the island’s permanent residents. It’s an attractive and laid-back city with a cluster of good museums and some striking architecture, notably the Auditorio de Tenerife.

By contrast, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of  La Laguna  (or San Cristobal de la Laguna) is the first of the three colonial towns included in this 7-day Tenerife itinerary. It is known for its rich history – it was the island’s first capital from 1465 until 1723 – and for its fine Canarian buildings and monastery courtyards.

Getting to Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna

Start your day by taking bus #102 or #103 from Puerto de La Cruz’s new bus station to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a journey time of 45 – 55 minutes.

Once you have finished exploring Santa Cruz de Tenerife, take the  tram  to La Laguna. The 40-minute journey takes you through the suburbs of the capital before climbing into La Laguna.

Alight at the terminus (Trinidad), from where it is a five-minute walk to the town’s Tourist Information Office.

When it is time to return to Puerto de La Cruz, catch #102 or #103 from La Laguna’s bus station, a 20-minute journey.

What to see and do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

• Visit Igesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción
• Visit Plaza de España, also home to the city’s Tourist Information Office
• View the Auditorio de Tenerife from all angles
• Explore palm trees from around the world at the Palmetum
• Trace Tenerife’s history at the Museo de la Naturaleza y El Hombre
• View artwork by the great masters at the Museo de Bellas Artes (Iglesia de San Francisco)
• Visit Espacia de las Artes, Tenerife’s art & cultural centre

What to see and do in La Laguna

Sightseeing in La Laguna is concentrated in three blocks in the town’s historic core, bordered by Calle San Agustin to the north, Calle Herrandores to the south, Calle Viana to the east and Plaza de la Concepción to the west.

• Stroll through La Laguna’s historic streets
• Visit Igesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción (yes … another one)
• Admire the carved wooden gallery in the Museo de Historia de Tenerife
• Seek out the animal-shaped gargoyles at Salazar House
• Visit the cloisters of the Iglesia y Ex Covento de San Agustín

Day 4: La Orotava

Sitting in the shadow of Mount Teide, grand old townhouses line the steep narrow streets and lanes of the old town of  La Orotava . Flanking its elegant squares are mansions with traditional wooden Canarian balconies.

Day-trippers flock here to view the best collection of these balconies in Tenerife, the  Casas de Los Balcones . But La Orotava is so much more than this stretch of townhouses, with first-rate churches, museums and a small botanical garden.

Getting to La Orotava

Take bus #345 or #352 from Puerto de La Cruz’s bus station to La Orotava, a journey time of around 25 minutes. When it is time to return to Puerto de La Cruz, take bus #345 or #353.

What to see and do in La Orotava

• Stroll through La Orotava’s historic streets
• Visit the Casas de Los Balcones
• Explore the art of Spain and Mesoamerica at Museo de Artesania Iberoamericana (MAIT) housed within the former Dominican monastery of San Domingo
• Take a stroll around La Orotava’s small botanical garden
• Admire the view from Jardins del Marquesadode al Quinta Roja
• Take a look at the unusual statue of Christ of Humility and Patience in the Iglesia de San Agustin

Day 5: Day trip to Mount Teide

Parque Nacional del Teide is the largest national park of the Canary Islands and Mount Teide (El Teide) at almost 4,000 meters, is Spain’s highest mountain.

Most visitors take the  cable car  up the mountain for a view over Tenerife. However, if it’s too windy the cable car will be out of action.

The other option is to take one of the  hiking trails  in the national park. There are marked paths accommodating all fitness levels, that lead through Las Cañadas, the giant caldera at the heart of the national park, and up to Mount Teide.

Note that permits are needed for some hikes.

How to get to El Teide from Puerto de La Cruz

Without a car, your options for getting to El Teide are limited.

There is a daily bus service (#348) that leaves Puerto de La Cruz at 9.30 am, returning at 4 pm. As this is a popular bus service, arrive early to ensure a seat.

Another option is to take an  organised day trip to Mount Teide . Learn from my mistake and book well in advance. Here are a few highly-rated options:

Teide and Masca Tour from Puerto de la Cruz

This includes pick-up from your Puerto de la Cruz hotel and the picturesque village of Masca.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Teide National Park Stargazing

Did you know that Teide National Park is the 3rd best place in the world to view stars and has been described by NASA as a window to the universe? This tour includes an optional transfer from bus stops outside of the listed hotels, or at Titsa bus stops.

Grand Tour of Teide and Northern Tenerife

This tour, which also sets out from Puerto de la Cruz, includes Icod, Garachico and Masca

Mount Teide Hiking Tour from resorts in southern Tenerife

This includes a cable car ticket and a partial ascent of the mountain on foot with a photo stop at Roques de Garcia

Day 6: Icod de Los Vinos and Garachico

Tenerife’s legendary dragon tree, Drago Milenario , in  Icod de Los Vinos . It is thought to be 500 – 600 years old and is the largest example of this species on the island.

Garachico  is one of Tenerife’s prettiest towns, known for its historic town centre and its natural rock bathing pools. Much of the original town was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706, burying one of the island’s most important ports and wealthiest towns. A new town was built on the cooled lava and, miraculously, some of its buildings survived unscathed.

Getting to Icod de Los Vinos and Garachico

The one-hour journey on the frequent 363 bus service from Puerto de La Cruz to Icod takes you along twisting roads, past lush banana plantations, precariously perched vineyards and dried-up river gorges. Sit on the right-hand side of the bus for dramatic views over the Atlantic once you leave San Vicente.

Hop back on the #363 in Icod bus station to continue your journey to Garachico, 15 minutes west. I recommend getting off the bus to Garachico at the first stop for the town. It’s a lovely walk along the promenade with the old town to your left.

What to see and do in Icod de Los Vinos

• See that dragon tree!
• Visit the Iglesia San Marcos
• Watch life go by in the Plaza de Pila

What to see and do in Garachico

• Wander along the paths of El Caletón, Garachico’s natural rock bathing pools
• Relax in Plaza della Libertad
• Visit Iglesia de Santa Ana
• Visit the Castillo de San Miguel
• Visit the Convento de San Francisco

Where to eat in Garachico

Grab a table at the seafront  Ardeola  (Av. Tomé Cano 4) for their  menu del dia . Great food reasonably priced.

Day 7: An easy hike in the Anaga Forest

Sadly, it’s the final day of your week in Tenerife but let’s finish on what was my highlight: The  Anaga Forest . This primaeval laurel forest, northeast of La Laguna and Santa Cruz, is prime hiking territory.

And on a clear day, the views from the forest’s  miradores  are sensational. From the highest one,  Pico del Inglés , there are sweeping views that take in Punta del Hildalgo and the beach at Las Teresitas.

Many waymarked hiking trails are available. Even if you have left your hiking boots at home, you should be able to manage the easy  Sendero de los Sentidos  (Path of The Senses)  in a pair of trainers (sneakers).

In fact,  Sendero de los Sentidos  comprises three tracks of varying length and difficulty.

Path 1 is the shortest, designed for those with mobility issues. Path 3 is the longest – it will take around 45 minutes to complete – and takes in two miradors.

As all paths are clearly marked, you won’t need a map to walk the  Sendero de Los Sentidos . The information office at Cruz del Carmen will provide a free map but this isn’t worth picking up.

How to get to the Anaga Forest

As bus services are infrequent, this day trip from Puerto de La Cruz will take a little more planning.

From Puerto de La Cruz, take bus #102 or #103 to La Laguna. At La Laguna, change onto the #76, #77, #273 or #275 and alight at Cruz del Carmen.

This second bus journey is wonderful. The Anaga Forest begins at Les Mercedes, climbing to the viewpoint at Le Jardin before reaching Cruz del Carmen. The journey time from La Laguna is around 20 minutes.

To plan your journey, check  Tenerife bus times  here.

Are you looking for a 5-day Tenerife Itinerary?

If you don’t have a week to spare – or want more beach or pool time – simply modify this itinerary.

For instance, if you are not a person who is keen on the great outdoors and walking, ditch Teide and the Anaga Forest. This will give you time to explore Tenerife’s colonial towns and its capital.

To help you put together a 5-day itinerary, here are the places that I consider must-sees, and where to go if you have the time

Must-see places in Tenerife

• Anaga Forest
• Mount Teide

Places to visit in Tenerife if you have enough time

• Icod de Los Vinos (there’s not much more to the town than the dragon tree)
• Garachico (a lovely town but short on sights, especially with the closure of Convento de San Francisco)
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (a taste of Tenerife city life but perhaps better suited to those who are keen on museums and architecture)

What is the Best Month to Visit Tenerife?

Tenerife is a year-round destination.

Northern Europeans flock there in the winter months to escape the cold back home. Those from the Spanish mainland visit during the summer months to avoid the city heat

Tenerife’s climate is subtropical, meaning that it is usually pleasant whichever month you visit. You are looking at an average of 19 degrees in the winter and 26 degrees in the summer, the heat moderated by the cooling trade winds

However, on balance,  spring, autumn (fall)  or  December / January  are good times to visit Tenerife. Thanks to those trade winds, the summer months (June – August) can be overcast.

The north of the island is cooler and wetter than the south, with November and February the rainiest months.

When I visited in January, I enjoyed long hours of clear skies and sunshine. Whilst it wasn’t bikini weather – although there were some people basking in the sun – the mid-20s temperatures were perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

How to Get to Tenerife

Most people arrive in Tenerife through one of its two  airports : the older  Tenerife North Airport  (or Los Rodeos) or  Tenerife South Airport  (also known as Tenerife South-Reina Sofia Airport).

The larger Tenerife South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS) handles almost all of the island’s international air traffic. Tenerife North Airport (TFN) acts primarily as the inter-island hub, connecting Tenerife with the other six Canary Islands and the Spanish mainland.

There are  sea connections  to Cadiz on the mainland and to the other Canary Islands from the port of Los Cristianos in the south, and from Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the north.

Tenerife is also a popular port of call for  cruise ships  that dock at Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Getting Around Tenerife

Hiring a car  in Tenerife is relatively inexpensive. Whilst this gives you complete freedom, parking can be challenging at the more popular tourist sites and navigating the island’s mountain roads requires nerves of steel.

So why not take the  bus  instead?

Thanks to cheap fares and an extensive network that reaches all corners of the island,  exploring Tenerife by bus  is a breeze. What you lose in flexibility you gain in chill-out time, watching the landscape unfurl from the comfort of your window seat.

Pick up a  Tenmas  (ten+) card from the bus station or airport on arrival. This will cost you 2 Euro which you then load with credit from 5 – 100 Euro.

Acting as a pre-paid electronic ticket, you simply tap the ten+ card on the reader as you board the bus and again as you disembark. The correct fare is deducted from your balance which is displayed on the reader.

For the few places that buses don’t reach or if you want to pack as much into your week as possible, organised day excursions of Tenerife are excellent alternatives.

Which Is The Best Area to Stay in Tenerife?

Ultimately, your Tenerife base will depend on your itinerary whilst on the island.

Package tourists descend on the resorts in the south: for example, Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos.

However, for a more authentic experience and a good base from which to explore Tenerife, pick Puerto de la Cruz , the largest tourist town in the north. Resolutely Canarian in character, Puerto de la Cruz’s squares, churches and old houses betray its origins as a fishing village.

From a practical viewpoint, it has a decent choice of accommodation and good bus connections to the rest of the island.

If you are looking to stay in a smaller town, consider La Laguna .

Alternatively, if it’s city life you crave, Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the island’s capital, is another option.

Where to Stay in Puerto de la Cruz

The good news is that you won’t be stuck for somewhere to stay in Puerto de la Cruz and the sheer number of properties keeps accommodation affordable.

However, the majority of hotels and apartments are built on a cliffside, a steep uphill walk from the sea and bus station.

Therefore, if possible, choose a place in or near the old town, within easy walking distance of many great restaurants, the main sights of Puerto de la Cruz and its bus station. Most of your options will be apartments.

Here are my recommended places to stay:

Miranda Penthouse AI

I stayed at this wonderful apartment in the heart of the old town with sweeping views across the ocean. Highly recommended.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK

Here are a few other places to stay that I have found that are good alternatives:

4Dreams Hotel Chimisay

A centrally-located hotel in the heart of Puerto de la Cruz’s old town, providing breakfast for a small additional charge.

Hotel Botanico y Oriental Spa Garden

If you want to stretch the holiday budget, you can’t go far wrong with this 5-star luxury hotel. Whilst it is not located in the old town, it makes up for this with its three 3 outdoor pools, attractive gardens and extensive spa facilities.

One-Week Tenerife Itinerary: Final Thoughts

I hope that this one-week Tenerife will help you plan your time there and that you will love the island as much as I did. I visited Tenerife as a solo traveller and, for my money, it’s one of the  best places to travel alone in Spain .

One of the reasons to visit Spain is to chill out on one of its islands. But if you are staying in one of the resorts in southern Tenerife, don’t spend your week by the pool. There’s so much to see on the Island.

Getting your hands on a good guidebook to help you explore the country is a smart move. I highly recommend this excellent  Marco Polo  guide , which was my constant companion when I visited Tenerife.

Finally, if you’ve found this article helpful, take a look at my other Tenerife guides to help you plan your vacation:

• Tenerife Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Top 10 Things to Do in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife
• Exploring Tenerife by Bus: TITSA Buses Made Easy
• The Top 10 Tenerife Excursions

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Tenerife Itinerary: How To Spend From 3 To 7 Days In Tenerife

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Located in the Canary Archipelago, just off the coast of Morocco, this Spanish island will steal your heart. Tenerife offers a huge variety of awesome things to do, stunning landscapes and comforts for travellers.

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife, you’ve made an excellent choice! After spending four months on the island I put together this ultimate Tenerife itinerary, to ensure you make the most of your trip.

Tenerife is so much more than just a tourist resort destinations, where retired Germans or young British party-goers go in search for some European winter sun.

It’s a beautiful island that should feature on everyone’s Spain bucket list!

Exploring the beautiful landscapes of Tenerife

In this guide I have put together some sample Tenerife day-by-day itineraries, outlining how to spend 3 days, 5 days or 7 days in Tenerife.

The longer itineraries are built up on the shorter ones, starting with the main attractions in Tenerife and expanding to lesser-known spots.

Feel free to adapt the itineraries to fit your personal interests. One of the things I love most about Tenerife is the variety of things to do, and how it can suit different types of travellers.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a keen surfer or a professional beach bum, Tenerife has something for all of you! So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover the ultimate Tenerife itinerary!

• 1.1 Day 1: Explore Teide National Park
• 1.2.1 Visit the town of Masca
• 1.2.2 Relax in Los Gigantes
• 1.3 Day 3: Explore Anaga National Park
• 2.1.1 Hike in Rambla de Castro
• 2.1.2 Swim in the natural pools of Garachico
• 2.1.3 Discover the town & Dragon of Icod de los Vinos
• 2.2 Day 5: Relax in the south coast of Tenerife (and maybe try some water sports?)
• 3.1.1 La Laguna
• 3.1.2 Playa de Las Teresitas
• 3.2 Day 7: Teno Mountains
• 4 Where to stay in Tenerife
• 5 How to travel around Tenerife

A beautiful sunset over the hills and southern coast of Tenerife

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Tenerife

Teide National Park Romantic Sunset, Dinner & Stargazing

Tenerife Whale Watching Cruise

2-hour hiking tour in Anaga Forest

Best hotels in Tenerife

Budget: Banana Surf House

Mid-range: El Dorado Residence  

Luxury:  The Ritz-Carlton Abama

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

Tenerife itinerary: 3 days

Three days is the absolute minimum you should spend in Tenerife. While it won’t be enough to see the whole island, it will give you the opportunity to see the main sights and to get a feel for Tenerife.

These are the places I believe you should visit if you only have three days in Tenerife.

Day 1: Explore Teide National Park

With its 3,715 metres, Mount Teide is the highest point in Spain, as well as one of the tallest volcanoes in Europe.

Hiking to its peak features on many Europe bucket lists , so it’s only natural that it should feature in this Tenerife itinerary.

Teide National Park covers an area of almost 200 square kilometres, and is home to a huge variety of landscapes. From pine tree forests to volcanic desert expanses, it’s guaranteed to leave you breathless.

The Teide summit from the Mirador of Samara hike

Besides the actual hike (or gondola ride) to the peak, there are also many beautiful hiking trails in the Teide National Park. Some of the most famous are Roque de Garcia and Samara.

These trails give you the opportunity to experience the beauty of Teide, while admiring the stunning natural landscape. There are also many viewpoints around the national park, which you can both hike or drive to.

Depending on what hikes you choose to do and what miradors to stop at, you can easily spend a whole day exploring Teide National Park.

There are many awesome tours that you can do exploring Mount Teide, I have linked below some of the best ones:

• Mount Teide Summit Hiking Tour
• Mount Teide Sunset Cable Car Tour
• Romantic Sunset & Star Gazing Experience At Mount Teide

The start of the Roque de Garcia trail, with the Teide peak in the back, Tenerife

Hiking the Montana Samara Circuit Trail in Tenerife, with a view of the sea and clouds

Day 2: Masca & Los Gigantes

Visit the town of masca.

On your second day in Tenerife, you have to visit Masca. Masca is a small town of less than 100 inhabitants, nestled amongst the Teno Mountains on the western corner of the island.

The town is surrounded by the tall mountains, and is extremely scenic. The drive down to Masca is very winding so make sure to take it easy and steadily.

You can spend a few hours wandering around the cute town, exploring the cobbled side streets and admiring the beautiful views.

For the more adventurous and active travellers you can also do the Barranco the Masca hike. It’s a 3-4 hour return hike with considerable elevation change, since it starts in Masca and goes all the way down to the sea.

The village of Masca and surrounding mountains

Relax in Los Gigantes

After visiting Masca you can head to the nearby Los Gigantes. Los Gigantes is a town on the west coast of Tenerife, named “The Giants” because of the imposing cliffs that tower over the town.

The cliffs range from 500m to 800m in height, and are quite the spectacular sight. Close to the town there are both a beach and some beautiful natural pools, where you can relax and swim in the sea after your hike.

From Los Gigantes you can also do a dolphin and whale spotting tour . The best time to do this is late afternoon, since the golden hour light over the tall cliffs is meant to be simply magical.

Click here to book your dolphin and whale watching sailing cruise in Los Gigantes!

View over the town and cliffs of Los Gigantes

A pair of pilot whales we spotted in Tenerife

The catamaran we did our whale watching cruise with

Day 3: Explore Anaga National Park

Anaga National Park is possibly my favourite place in Tenerife. Located in the north of the island, this national park is home to the most gorgeous green landscape.

Here you will find dramatic cliffs over the sea, a jagged green coastline, black sand beaches and sweeping views that will give you serious Jurassic Park vibes. I’ve never been to Hawaii, but I picture it looking somewhat like Anaga.

There are many awesome hiking trails in Anaga, spanning a wide variety of difficulty levels and durations. That makes it the perfect destination for all types of travellers and hikers.

My personal favourite hike is the one to the lighthouse of Igueste. This hike is relatively short (2 to 3 hours) but very steep. You will go from pretty much sea level up to around 600m, enjoying the stunning views all throughout.

The view over Tenerife from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

Close to the Anaga information point you will find Mirador Cruz del Carmen.

This viewpoint offers incredible views over the surrounding valley all the way to the peak of Mount Teide. Here there are also some very picturesque hiking trails in the local forest.

Depending on how much you feel like walking, you can easily spend a whole day in Anaga National Park, admiring the beautiful green coastlines, conquering challenging hikes and relaxing on black sand beaches.

The hiking trails in Tenerife are usually well marked, but if you prefer a guided experience you can also do an organised hiking tour of Anaga .

Click here to book your hiking tour in Anaga!

Enjoying the view while hiking at the Semaforo of Igueste

Tenerife itinerary: 5 days

For those who are planning to spend 5 days in Tenerife, here are some suggestions of awesome places to visit during your extra two days.

Day 4: Northern coast of Tenerife

Your fourth day is dedicated to the northern coast of Tenerife. Here you will find a combination of panoramic hikes, cute colonial towns and stunning natural pools.

Hike in Rambla de Castro

Start your day nice and early with a hike, so that you can do it before the sun gets too high and hot. Rambla de Castro is a 10km hike with a gradual 380m elevation change, which usually takes around 3 hours.

This trail is part of a very popular Tenerife shore excursion for cruise travellers, and you’ll soon see why!

Enjoying the coastal views during the Rambla de Castro hike

It’s a casual coastal hike on a well-marked and beaten path, lined with palm trees and with stunning views over the sea and cliffs.

I loved this hike because it felt different from other parts of the island, and was giving me some serious Bali vibes.

You can also hike down to Playa de Castro. The beach is rocky and isn’t the most comfortable for relaxing or tanning, but with the steep cliffs surrounding it it’s incredibly scenic.

There is also a small waterfall at the end of the beach that you can get up close to. If you want to get close to the waterfall make sure to visit at low tide, as it can be very slippery and dangerous when the tide is high!

Enjoying the waterfall in Playa de Castro after hiking Rambla de Castro

Swim in the natural pools of Garachico

After your hike you will probably want to relax a bit, preferable somewhere where you can actually lie down and swim in the sea! So why don’t you head over to Garachico, a cute town just a short 30-minute drive away.

The pools are natural but there have been some man-made additions around them, so that there are flat surfaces that you can lie on and sunbathe.

You can spend some time here relaxing and cooling down in the natural pools.

On the day I was visiting there were strong waves washing into the pools. In these situations be careful as it can be dangerous, although it also made it super fun and similar to a natural water park.

The Piscinas Naturales de El Caleton in Garachico, Tenerife

Discover the town & Dragon of Icod de los Vinos

After hiking and relaxing on the beach, it’s only fair to end your day with a bit of city exploration. Close to Garachico you will find Icod, a beautiful colonial town in Tenerife.

Besides displaying some traditional Canarian architecture, Icod is home also to the Drago Milenario de Icod de los Vinos. This is the oldest and largest living specimen of dragon tree, and is said to be over a thousand years old.

You can see the tree as you drive into Icod and from the nearby park, or you can enter the Parque del Drago for a small fee to get up close to this impressive tree.

The Parque del Drago is also a botanical garden that you can walk around and explore.

The famous Drago Milenario de Icod de los Vinos in Tenerife

Day 5: Relax in the south coast of Tenerife (and maybe try some water sports?)

After such a jam-packed itinerary, I figured you might want at least one day to relax.

While I always stress that there is more to Tenerife than just beach resorts, there is a reason why it’s such a popular European winter destination .

The southern most tip of the island is home to Costa Adeje, Las Americas and Los Cristianos, three areas that while very touristy, are home to some gorgeous beaches. Here you can also learn to surf!

It’s one of the best surfing spots in Tenerife , where I personally spent four months surfing. You will have to wear a wetsuit if you’re visiting Tenerife in winter , but the water is temperate enough to go for a dip without one.

Me surfing in Fitenia, Tenerife

If you want a slightly less busy spot you can also go to El Medano, another town only 15-minute drive away from Las Americas.

El Medano is much quieter, and a popular windsurf and kitesurf destination, as it’s always windy!

Given how popular Tenerife is amongst water sports lovers, I figured no Tenerife itinerary would be complete without a day of beach chilling and little bit of either surfing or windsurfing.

The popular kitesurfing beach in El Medano, Tenerife – Photo by Valentina Borghi of BeBorghi

Tenerife itinerary: 7 days

For those who can spend one week in Tenerife, here are some suggestions of awesome things to do in Tenerife for your two additional days.

Building on all the awesome spots we’ve already seen, these additional activities will make your Tenerife itinerary even more unforgettable.

Day 6: La Laguna & Playa de Las Teresitas

Personally what I love most about Tenerife is the wild nature, but there are also many beautiful cities and towns to discover.

The historical city centre of La Laguna in Tenerife

San Cristobal de La Laguna is a city in the northern part of the island, which should feature on every Tenerife itinerary.

The historical centre of La Laguna was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Here you will find houses built in the traditional Canarian style, with wooden balconies and quaint colours.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around La Laguna, admiring the Canarian architecture and tasting delicious local food. Just remember the weather here is much colder than the south, and bring a sweater!

Playa de Las Teresitas

If you’re anything like me, you probably won’t want to spend a whole day exploring a city. So after soaking in the chill vibe of La Laguna, head to Playa de Las Teresitas, one of the most famous beaches on the island.

Playa de Las Teresitas is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife, and it’s easy to see why.

With its pristine white sand, turquoise water and the scenic cliffs that surround it, it makes for a stunning beach.

You can get a sunbed for as little as 2 EUR for the whole day, a worthy investment if you ask me! Here you can sit in the sun, relax, swim in the beautiful sea and work on your tan.

Playa de las Teresitas from above

Day 7: Teno Mountains

After a few days of beaching, relaxing and visiting cities, how do you feel about taking back out the hiking boots? Another awesome hiking spot you are yet to discover is the Teno mountain range.

These are the mountains located in the north-western most corner of Tenerife, which are also part of the range surrounding Masca.

Here you will find dramatic green cliffs similar to those of Anaga, but more rugged and wild (if that’s even possible)!

Hiking the Punta de Teno trail in Tenerife

Hiking in the Teno mountains in Tenerife

The Punta de Teno hike, starting high up in the mountains and heading all the way down to sea level at the Punta Teno lighthouse, is one of the most popular hikes in the Teno Mountains.

It’s a 10km hike with 800m elevation change (descending) where you will see an incredible variety of landscapes, as well as an interesting flora change.

Once you reach the lighthouse you can also swim in the sea, and refresh after your hike. From Punta Teno lighthouse you can then take the public bus back to Buenavista.

It’s a one-way hike (unless you want to hike 10km back up) so make sure to plan and coordinate with your car and public transport accordingly.

Admiring the cliffs of Los Gigantes from Punta Teno Lighthouse

Where to stay in Tenerife

The best place to stay in Tenerife will depend on your personal interests. The island is extremely varied, which different types of travellers will find themselves more at home in different regions of the island.

For example if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday you might look at staying in Costa Adeje, if you’re looking for fun nightlife you will want to stay in Las Americas, or if you love hiking you might stay in the north of Tenerife.

If you want to do a bit of everything you might choose to start your Tenerife itinerary in one location, and then change accommodation to a different town. That said, Tenerife is a fairly small island.

You can cross the island in around one hour, and can easily drive to and back from most places within the day.

I’m usually a big supporter of on-the-road itineraries, but in this case you could select one place as base, and from there explore Tenerife on day trips.

The sunset view from my apartment at El Dorado Residence in Las Americas, Tenerife

I listed below some cool accommodation options around the island for every budget.

Budget:  Banana Surf House   – This cute surf house is perfect for those looking for a cosy stay in a great location, without breaking the bank. It also has a huge rooftop with great sea views.

Click here to book your stay at Banana Surf House!

Mid-range:  El Dorado Residence    – I spent my first two months in Tenerife in an apartment in this residence, and loved every day of it. My apartment was spacious, in a great location (close to both the beach and supermarket) and had awesome sea and sunset views. I can highly recommend it.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for apartments in El Dorado residence!

Luxury:  Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro  – This hotel is set in a traditional Canarian barn from the 1720s, and it still retains the rugged look, while having modern comforts like a pool. Located in Arona, it’s perfect for those who want to be close to Las Americas, without being in the heart of the party town.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro!  

The pool at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro in Arona, Tenerife

How to travel around Tenerife

The easiest way to get around Tenerife is to rent a car, as it will give you the most flexibility. You can find very cheap rental deals with Plus Cars .

Tenerife also has a fairly good public transport system. The public buses connect all the main cities and towns, as well as doing stops also along the road in remote locations, and they’re also very cheap.

However the buses don’t run that regularly, and if you want to do some of the awesome hikes in Tenerife , they might not take you all the way to the trailhead.

If you want to make the most of your Tenerife itinerary, make sure to rent a car.

Me and my friend Ari enjoying the views during the Roque de Taborno hike

Final thoughts on the ultimate Tenerife itinerary  

There you have it, the ultimate guide to planning a perfect Tenerife itinerary! The sample itineraries I included are designed to take you to all the best spots in Tenerife, both famous attractions and local secret spots.

I started with the shorter itineraries going to the absolute must-sees, and then building on day-by-day with attractions that aren’t as essential, but still worthy of a visit.

Obviously feel free to mix and match days based on your personal travel interests.

Have you been to Tenerife before? Are there other places in the island that you think should feature in this itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

In my opinion, Tenerife should feature on everyone’s Spain bucket list , especially if you’re travelling to Europe in winter , maybe for a unique Christmas trip !

Mallorca , Menorca and the other Balearic Islands often receive more attention, thanks to their beautiful hidden coves , but I personally think Tenerife is second to none when it comes to landscapes and beaches.

I hope you find this Tenerife itinerary useful in planning your time on this beautiful island. From beaches to volcanoes, Tenerife has it all, and it deserves to be explored.

Looking for more Spain travel tips? Check out these guides!

• How to spend an awesome weekend in Seville
• 15 gorgeous Instagram photo spots in Barcelona
• The best tapas tour in Barcelona?
• Visiting the Alhambra: The Ultimate Guide
• The Best Granada day tours from Malaga

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The Ultimate Tenerife Itinerary for 7 Days

Autumn is back with a fun, week-long Tenerife itinerary! You may remember she wrote a huge post on how to teach in Spain , and now she’s here with a nice, long guide on the island where she lived for a year. Enjoy!

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, has long been a favorite of European holiday makers due to its tropical beaches, diverse landscapes, and (in)famous party scene. If you’re making the trip, it can be easy to get swept up into the crush of 5€ mojito tourist traps with all the elderly German tourists you flew down with. However, this island has so much more to offer.

Tips for Your Tenerife Itinerary

What to pack for tenerife.

Lucky for you, Tenerife has the most ideal weather all year round, so this makes packing pretty easy. You’ll probably want a mix of clothes as you’ll be doing everything from hiking to sunbathing to sightseeing, so pack accordingly. Besides your normal clothe, accessories, and toiletries, I recommend at least the following:

A Daypack or Smaller Backpack

This is for your outdoorsy days and hiking trips. I’ve always used my trusty Janisport, but you can get something smaller too. The  Gonex Daypack is nice as it folds up super tiny when you’re not using it and is quite durable or if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish, the Troubador Goods Ember backpack is both chic and durable.

Hiking Boots

You don’t need the most heavy duty hiking boots, but you will want something a bit above regular sneakers for any hiking you do here. I like the KEEN Terradora style.

Sunscreen, Really ALL the SPF

T he UVs on Tenerife are like, hella high so make sure to slather on the sunscreen even if you “never burn” or “want to tan anyway.” Don’t skimp either. Get the body lotion , the face stick , the lip balm , and some sunscreen spray for touch ups. It’s also a good idea to make sure your SPF products are ocean safe, which is why I like Sun Bum .

Do you want to look like a used leather couch at a secondhand shop when you get older? Didn’t think so.

Reusable Water Bottle

I always like the Hydro Flask , but Target also has the Simple Modern brand, which is pretty similar style of reusable bottles. The tap water is drinkable, but just be aware it’s desalinated salt water, so it tastes a little funny. If you don’t think you’ll like it, you can look into some sort of water filter.

Some Sort of Hat

Back to those UV rays. Even if you’re not a hat person, it’s a good idea to have some sort of baseball cap or sun hat to protect yourself.

How to Organize Your Trip

Ask any local and you’ll quickly find that Tenerife is quintessentially divided into two parts: lush, traditional Spanish North and the sun-drenched and tourist-infused desert of the South.

If you’re only in Tenerife for a week, it’s best to divide your time between the two. The island is small enough that seven days is plenty of time to see both.

Getting into Tenerife

The larger of Tenerife’s two airports is Tenerife South Airport (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Sur) , so I’ll assume you’re flying into there.

If you’re flying into the Tenerife North Airport (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte) , start at Day 4 and then go back to Days 1 to 3.

How to Get Around Tenerife

The true key to doing justice to Tenerife is to get a car .  Starting at only 15€ a day, getting a car is very affordable. Just know that it’s mostly (if not all) manual transmissions. It will get you a lot more places than the bus will.

The buses are not on time. The buses sometimes don’t show up. Once I was waiting for a bus to the airport and while I was walking up to it, it just rolled off.

It would not stop even though I was chasing it down faster than a middle age dad chases down that last plasma screen at a Black Friday sale. Seriously. Get a car . You’ll thank me later.

The Perfect One-Week Tenerife Itinerary

Day 1 – Costa Adeje or Playa de las Americas

Your first point of business, upon arriving at Tenerife South, is to pick up the car I just talked you into renting. The people working at the rental shops are normally at least trilingual in Spanish, German, and English so you shouldn’t have any problems. 

(If you decided not to rent a car, go outside and enjoy waiting an hour or three for your bus to arrive.)

You can choose to stay in Costa Adeje or Playa de las Americas depending on what you’re looking for, which I’ll get into below. You’ll stay here for the first 3 days of your Tenerife itinerary while exploring south.

Costa Adeje

Your first stop is Costa Adeje , which, with its cheap cocktails, black sand beaches, and chic hotels, is the quintessential of tourist towns in Tenerife. Here, you can pull up a chair, grab a drink fruity enough you can no longer taste the booze, and listen to the crash of the waves as you nap on a chair under a nice umbrella. 

At the end of Day 2 and 3 (spoiler alert!) you’re allowed to return to this exact  same chair n cocktail situation. You’re welcome. 

Where to Stay in Costa Adeje:

• Royal Hideaway Corales Beach
• GF Victoria

If you’re on a budget, I stayed at  La Tortuga Hostel when I visited.

Playa de las Americas

If you really want to party though, hit up Playa de las Americas instead of Costa Adeje. The last time I was there, I was offered marijuana by four o’clock and then cocaine by seven.

Feeling very out of my league, I instead returned to my Airbnb and watched Harry Potter. No judgements, though. 

Where to Stay in Playas de las Americas;

• Tenerife Royal Gardens
• Sir Anthony
• Coral Ocean View

If you’re on a budget, try the  Olympia   apartments.

Los Cristianos

Another nice beach area a little further down from Playa de las Américas is  Los Cristianos.  Most of the people here are older and you can go naked if you really want to. There’s also a cool whale watching and swimming tour you can do from here.

Day 2 – Los Gigantes and Masca

It’s day two, and you’re feeling much more rested and relaxed, if not slightly hungover from whatever debauchery you got up to the night before. Now is the time to really start seeing the islands.

Today has two main stops: Los Gigantes and Masca.

Los Gigantes

If you don’t speak any Spanish, los gigantes literally means “the giants.” The name speaks for itself: Los Gigantes are enormous, 2,615 feet cliffs that tower over the sea. 

They are very tall.

They are very impressive.

They’re exactly the kind of thing you always wish for when your friend plays that one Taylor Swift song one too many times. ( Sam Note: That was me :p)

After reattaching your dropped jaw to the rest of your face, hop back into your car and head up the road to Masca.

Masca is a tiny blip on the map where fewer than a hundred people and maybe a few goats live. However, its location is stunning enough to make up for the lack of WiFi. Just take a look:

The road to Masca is not for the faint of heart. It’s steep, full of switchbacks with few side rails, but the pull off points and town itself are worth it.

Again, if you don’t have a car, you can always book this 4WD tour from Playa de las Americas.

Day 3 – Check Out Mt. Teide

Tenerife, as has been proven (by the images you have seen so far), is even prettier than that one girl in your high school you’ve not spoken to since graduation. 

A large portion of the island is also protected national parks, meaning that it’s perfect to go hiking in. 

Personally, I’d recommend Mt. Teide, as at 3,718m, it’s the tallest mountain in Spain and the world’s 3rd tallest volcano.

If you wanted, you could get the cable car at sunset and then stay for a  stargazing experience .

Don’t forget that if you want to visit the peak of Mt. Teide, you need a permit, which you can get here.

In such a diverse island as Tenerife, you can find walks ranging from seaside strolls to bucolic forests to scorching desert. I recommend you download WikiHikes or another similar app in order to find something that suits your needs. 

If you don’t like hiking, just remember this will give you some serious bragging rights. And also help make that Tinder description you wrote about how you “love adventures!” or “the outdoors!” a little less of a lie. 

Day 4 – Puerto de la Cruz & La Orotava

Your vacation is now half over, and you’ve already (hopefully) seen half of the island. Now it’s time to head north to Puerto de la Cruz ,  which is where you’ll stay for the rest of your itinerary.

Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is, as I’m sure Sam (the cat-lovin’ lady who normally writes this blog if you’re like, lost or something) would put it, a delightful little seaside town. 

She would not be incorrect in this statement.

If you didn’t guess from the Spanish signs that have suddenly popped up everywhere, Puerto de la Cruz is a lot less tourist-y and a lot more Spanish than the South. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, buy a fruity ice cream with a freshly-made sugar cone, and go hypnotize yourself with the powerful waves that crash against the thick sea walls.

If you’re not afraid of dying or being bitch slapped by the ocean, Puerto de la Cruz is also the perfect place to surf!

Where to Stay in Puerto de la Cruz:

• Hotel Botanico y Oriental Spa Garden
• Plaza del Charco-Muelle
• Casa el Adina

There are also lots of Airbnb options in Puerto de la Cruz, like this central apartment with parking options or this studio with views of the sea.

If you’re on a budget, try  Hotel Don Cándido .

In the afternoon, head up to La Orotava for an hour or two. It’s small, but widely said to be one of the prettiest towns on the Canaries. And, as it’s small and very local, it has much better food than you could normally find in one of the big tourist trap cities.

*beep beep just wait for the food guide it’s gonna be real swell*

Day 5 – Garachico and Icod de los Vinos

Do you like pools? Do you like the ocean? Do you like pool-ocean love children??

Then have I got the spot for you!

Garachico is a small town on the north coast of Tenerife famous for its natural swimming pools. If you go on a weekday (during the morning especially) they don’t tend to be very crowded, and you can swim to your heart’s content without worrying about chlorine content or being dragged to your death by a freak riptide. 

It is, as Hannah Montana once sang, the best of both worlds. 

Icod de los Vinos

Once you’ve dried off your pruny fingers and checked out the town (which is very cute), you can head over to Icod de los Vinos (which is also very cute). There’s a very famous tree that’s centuries old, some caves, and also just a nice town to check out. 

In my opinion, Garachico is a slightly nicer town than Icod, so definitely plan for more time there.

Day 6 – La Laguna and Santa Cruz

La Laguna, along with La Orotava, is said to be one of the prettiest towns on the island. The Canary Islands share a lot of similar architecture as the Spanish colonies in America. If you’ve been to South Florida, you’ll get some of the same vibes – old buildings, palm trees, and tourists looking like strawberry vanilla swirl ice cream from poorly-applied sunscreen.

In La Laguna you can take a walk around the old town and sit at one of the many outdoor cafes to order yourself a caña (because nobody actually says cerveza , gringo) and tapas.

And then, because you only packed pants with elastic waistbands, get yourself an ice cream afterwards.

During the afternoon, take the tram over to Santa Cruz , the capital of the island that La Laguna practically spills into. Parking in Santa Cruz is always awful, so don’t even bother taking your car.

Like La Laguna, Santa Cruz is a beautiful old colonial-style town that’s perfect for walking around in. There’s the Our Lady of African Market (I have no idea which lady this refers to but knowing Western religious iconography she was probably white) if you like to feast your eyes and/or stomach, a handful of museums if you want to get out of the sun, and, of course, cathedrals. 

While still teeechnically in the north of the island, Santa Cruz has a bit less of a Spanish feel than the very northern coast. You can still get excellent Spanish food and beer, but a lot of signs are in English and English levels might be a little higher. 

Day 7: :( :( :(

(This is your face when you realize vacay is over and you have to go back to work.)

Depending on your flight time, go to the nearest market or Mercadona (a Spanish grocery store chain), get some nice things for a picnic, and begin to drive south to the airport.

There are lots of pull-off points where you can stop and have one final picnic before your flight departs and your nap is interrupted every six minutes by an overzealous budget airline flight attendant trying to sell you something resembling hot salted styrofoam.

All that’s left to do is take back your car, check your bag, and hope to God you didn’t get assigned the middle seat. 

Returning Your Car

Make sure you fill your car up with gas before you get back to the airport. They will take a kidney from your grandma if you don’t .

Seriously, they have some high fees. Be smarter than I was, kids. 

And there you have it, Autumn’s perfect, Tenerife itinerary for 7 days. Let us know if you have any tips to add!

For more Spanish travel, read these next:

• How to Do a Segovia Day Trip from Madrid
• 5 Charming Things to Do in Segovia
• 50 Reasons to Visit Madrid
• 11 Great Things to Do in Granada
• An Easy Andalucía Road Trip Guide

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wonderful concise, straight-forward general guide that is not obscured by details

Thank you! Glad it was helpful!!

I love your style of writing. So funny. I chuckled a couple of times.

Haha I’ll pass your compliment on to Autumn!

Ooh whens the food guide coming please?

Now that you asked that, I realized we never published one! I’ll have to check with Autumn and see if she can remember her favorite foods and places to eat.

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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.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through this link. This income goes towards the sites running costs and enables us to provide our readers with free content. Read our Disclosure .

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Travel guide for Tenerife - how to experience the island in a unique way

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Bienvenido in Tenerife!

Discover the island beauty of the canary islands.

The original - travel guide for Tenerife with highlights, top 10 lists, places of interest, excursion tips and lots of real insider tips - as you have never experienced Tenerife before. Including practical tips from A-Z.

For a perfect and individual holiday in Tenerife there are definitely some hints. We give you everything you need for an unforgettable holiday on the Canary Island.

• Best beaches
• With children
• Travel tips
• Insider tips

Tenerife is not only the largest of the seven Canary Islands, it is also the most populous island in Spain and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Five senses are hardly enough to discover the breathtaking diversity of the Canary Islands' beauty, whose nature and culture could hardly be more diverse!

Tenerife ist the largest of the Canary Islands and is part of Spain and therefore part of the European Union

Geographical position

The island is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and is west of Africa

2.034 km²

888.000 (from 2015)

Popular destination: Tenerife

Tenerife is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Every year, up to five million people are attracted to the largest of the seven Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean 288 kilometres from the coast of Morocco and 1,274 kilometres from the southern coast of Spain. Topographically it belongs to Africa like all Canary Islands, but with about 880,000 inhabitants it is the most populous island in Spain. One of the largest cities on the island is the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife with 225,000 inhabitants. It is also the provincial capital of the islands of Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.

In the language of the indigenous population of Guanche, Tenerife means "snow-covered mountain", among Spaniards the island is also called "the island born of fire". This can be traced back to the volcanic origin of the island about twelve million years ago. The island's impressive geological history can still be admired in the Anaga mountains in the extreme north-east, the Teno mountains in the north-west and in many parts of the extreme south. Here, Tenerife plays with the contrasts of enchanted, misty laurel forests, impressive volcanic mountain ranges and remote headlands and beaches that give the impression of a desert island.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Local language is Spainanisch

WEZ (UTC±0) – one hour behinder british time

Teneriffa – the island of contrasts

While big city life rages in the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the old town of La Laguna, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with its still preserved colonial architecture. To the north in the Teno Mountains and further east in the Anaga Mountains, wild green heights give the impression of a deserted island. In contrast, the south at the foot of the Pico del Teide is characterised by barren lunar landscapes and bizarre rock formations. Classically beautiful white sandy beaches can also be found here, while a few kilometres further on there are beaches with a rocky and gorgeous backdrop and pitch black beaches. The unique natural landscape of Tenerife is more varied than any other island - and therefore a unique destination for every type of holiday.

Entry requirements

only with valdi ID Card

No adapter is needed for the euro sockets

There are no additionl costs as a result of the EU Agreement about Roaming.

All about Tenerife

No wonder that up to five million tourists are attracted to the island beauty of the Canary Islands every year. In order to make your holiday in Tenerife an unforgettable experience, you will find here all the information you need about the main attractions and most popular destinations in Tenerife. Whether you are looking for a carefree, relaxing holiday on Tenerife on the beach or an active holiday on the island's cycle and hiking trails, with our practical tips and recommendations you are well prepared for the many excursions and activities on the Canary Islands. Look forward to your holiday on the island beauty of the Canary Islands!

Tenerife highlights at a glance

Tenerife is the island of contrasts, with a breathtaking variety of nature from the coast in the north to the mountainous centre of the island and the southernmost tip. But not only nature lovers get their money's worth on hiking and cycling tours through the varied natural landscape of Tenerife, along the most beautiful beaches of the island to the most popular destinations on the Canary Island! In the popular holiday resorts on Tenerife you can also immerse yourself in the culture of the Canary Island in the many museums and exhibitions, on walks through the old towns or at traditional festivals. Tenerife has something to offer for every type of holiday - even the odd insider tip ! 

Why Tenerife is worth a visit

Three factors are among the outstanding arguments in favour of a holiday in Tenerife: the unique, year-round mild climate, the trade winds that bring the island, the extremely varied and contrasting natural landscape and the charming islanders with their Canary Island traditions and customs. Numerous excursions and activities invite you to explore every corner of the island.

The most important reason for many tourists to spend their holidays in Tenerife is the unique climate of the island. Due to the trade winds, which blow with 20 to 25km/h over the north-east of the island, Tenerife attracts with an average annual temperature of 23°C. In summer the temperature rarely climbs above 30°C, while in winter it is at least 17°C. Consequently, Tenerife is also called the "Island of Eternal Spring" - and is therefore worth a visit all year round.

Flora and Fauna

On the largest and highest island of the Canary Islands, tourists are presented with a special ecological diversity. In a stretch of just a few hundred metres you can admire the vegetation of Tenerife, which is constantly changing in radical ways. The different altitudes, trade winds and microclimates have created six very different ecosystems in Tenerife:

• Succulent scrublands:  Along the coast up to 700 metres above sea level, succulents grow, adapted to drought, strong winds and the many hours of sunshine per year. Although the Canary Islands account for only 1.5% of Spain's surface area, they are home to half of all endemic species
• Thermophilous forests: Sabinas, dragon trees and palm trees grow in so-called thermophilic forests, which are located 200 to 600 metres above sea level. Moderate rainfall and temperatures favour their growth  
• Pine forests : A typical mediterranean aspect are pines, which also grow on Tenerife and at 800 to 2000 metres above sea level
• Laurel forests: A unique floral feature of Tenerife is the dense laurel forests, where not only laurel trees grow, but also ferns, Canary Island holly and Indian perseas. Legend has it that witches lived in the dense cloud forests.
• Bush forests : As the laurel forests were extensively cleared, the tree-heath scrub forests today make up the entire forest area of the island. The Micronesian bagel tree and the tree heath defy the trade wind clouds and grow 10 to 20 metres high
• High mountains:  Above 2000 metres there are extremely dry, hot temperatures. This is where the Wildprets Natternkopf grows - the purple-red flowering pride of Tenerife, which can reach a height of 2.5 metres

During a walking or cycling tour through Tenerife, you will literally experience an up and down ride through typical Mediterranean areas, exotic deserts as well as dry areas and mountainous regions. You could encounter over 200 species of birds, rare frogs, butterflies and numerous species of reptiles such as geckos and lizards. The southwest coast is also a popular place to watch fin whales, dolphins, orcas and even blue whales during your Tenerife holiday!

Country and people

There is no doubt that Tenerife owes its special charm also to its compatriots, their special, cheerful nature, their Canarian accent and their traditions and customs - all of which are known beyond the borders of the country. It has a surface area of approximately 2,034 square kilometres, with a population of 888,000, spread over the 31 municipalities of Tenerife. San Cristobal de La Laguna and the island capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the largest cities in the archipelago. It is here and in the towns of Arona and Adeje, located in the tourist south of the island, that most of the "Tinerfeños", as the islanders call themselves, live.

Even though tourism has left its mark on the island, the inhabitants of the island have preserved their centuries-old history, so that a holiday in Tenerife makes it possible for tourists to experience Canarian traditions and customs. In particular, the indigenous people of the island, the "Guanches", were able to regain their very own Canarian culture after the period of oppression under the Spanish dictator Franco. Important cultural events - but also tourist highlights - are the Festival de Música de Canarias and the carnival in Santa Cruz. In Canarian folklore, the colourful and splendid costumes, the timple, a typical Canarian ukulele-like instrument, is played at popular festivals and romerías. It is sung and danced to. Whether you are a nature lover looking for peace and quiet in the countryside, a sun worshipper relaxing on the beach or the exciting nightlife in the capital, Tenerife has the right experience package for every type of holiday!

Click here to see the most important sights of Tenerife

Tenerife sights

Bestsellers Tenerife

Maybe you are interested in the following activities and tours:

• Best seller

Unique trekking to Pico del Teide at sunrise in Tenerife

Great trip on a glass bottom boat off the south of the island of Tenerife

Trekking in Tenerife: guided tour to the Teide summit

The famous Masca gorge hike in Tenerife with boat trip to Los Gigantes

Boat trip off the south of tenerife: Whale and Dolphin watching on a pirate boat

Great Value Tenerife Twin Ticket: Loro Parque (zoo) and Siam Park (water park)

Anaga Hike in Tenerife (Laurel Forest) & La Laguna from the South

Teide Tour in Tenerife: Discover Spain's highest mountains

Aqualand Costa Adeje - the water park in Tenerife

Catamaran tour starting from Costa Adeje in Tenerife

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Jungle Park Tenerife - zoo with fascinating shows for the whole family

from 110.-€

Teide hike on Tenerife - guided day trip to the summit with start in the south

Entrance Botanical Garden Tenerife in Santa Cruz in the north of the island

Boat party in Tenerife: celebrate from Puerto Colon (Adeje)

Road is Calling

Travel Guide

Traveling to Tenerife Soon & Need a Bit of Guidance?

Who is My Tenerife Page For?

Welcome to my Tenerife Travel Guide where you’ll find a treasure trove of insights, tips, and inspiration tailored for all types of travelers!

I created this tourist guide for people who are planning a trip to the island at the last minute or are already here and need information on Tenerife’s top attractions, beaches, wellness retreats & hotels, some of the off-the-beaten-path gems, and local secrets that will help to make the most of a journey!

I am living in Tenerife (will be a year soon) and have a lot to share based on my first-hand long-term experience!

So besides travel-related posts, you’ll also find articles with tips on living in Tenerife .

No matter where your interests lie, this Tenerife tourist guide is a gateway to discovering Tenerife in a unique way. Join me on this journey as we explore, learn, and uncover the wonders of this incredible island together!

Tenerife North or South

Visiting Tenerife for the first time and not sure which part of the island to choose and where to base yourself?

Even though Tenerife Island is small, its northern and southern parts are very different and offer unique experiences!

Find out through my guide which side will work best for you and what to expect visiting both southern and northern Tenerife, whether you are coming to visit or live in!

TENERIFE NORTH OR SOUTH – Which One is Better?

Travel Essentials for Tenerife

Here are my go-to resources for booking travel around Tenerife in any season.

Northern Tenerife Tourist Guides & Things to Do

Posts about northern tenerife.

Introduction to Northern Tenerife – From Beaches & Hotels to Volcanoes & Culture

16 Essential Things to Do in Tenerife North That You Will Love!

12 Beautiful Places With Best Views in Tenerife North

Loro Park, Tenerife – 8 Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Visit + Experiences Not to Miss

Best places to visit, things to do & more, tenerife travel guides.

12 Prettiest Towns in Tenerife to Visit (or Stay in) on Your Trip

Tenerife Road Trip Ideas: 4 Scenic Drives to Take on Tenerife Island

Guimar Beyond Pyramids – Aloe Vera, Volcanic Paths, Hidden Beaches & Rustic Living

Best of the canaries, more posts about canary islands.

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15 Beautiful Luxury Hotels in Gran Canaria for All Tastes & Budgets

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The best 8 places to visit in Tenerife: from cliff-hugging villages to culture-loaded cities

Jul 13, 2022 • 11 min read

Make a splash at Playa Paraiso in Santa Cruz de Tenerife © Stanislaw Pytel / Getty Images

Culturally, geographically, and spiritually, Tenerife is a one-off. There is nowhere else in Europe where you swing from cliff-clasped, black-sand beaches battered by Atlantic waves to whale-visited bays, mountain wineries, and time-lost villages that are every bit as lovely as when the Spanish rocked up 500 years ago.

You might bring a tick-list of places you want to visit, but some of your best moments are bound to be the serendipitous ones: Wandering through vineyards and banana plantations that stagger down to the sea; grabbing lunch with locals at an offbeat guachinche (rural pop-up restaurant); or eating boat-fresh fish on an old-town plaza in the blue dusk.

Tenerife’s reputation as a package-vacation party island precedes it, but venture away from the built-up southern resorts and you’ll be surprised. The farther you reach into the wild mountains and fairytale laurel forests of the north, the more you realize this isn’t an island that’s too well-known – rather a place still ripe for discovery.

Best for historic strolls

La Laguna is a knockout. The former Tenerife capital has a staggeringly well-preserved, Unesco-listed historic center that brims with churches, convents, and pastel-painted colonial mansions that pop in bright shades of blue, lemon, green, violet, and orange – all topped off by a fine cathedral . A deliriously colorful and festive city, with one of the island's hottest marcha (nightlife) scenes, La Laguna is like the Havana of the Canaries.

This is no fluke. Founded in 1496, the 16th- to 18th-century Canarian mansions that wrap around courtyards, featuring delicately-carved wooden balconies and oriel windows, were the model for many towns in the Americas. On Calle San Agustín , they line up as if for a permanent photo shoot, including the most fabulous of the lot, Casa del Montañés . Down the same street is the Museo de la Historia de Tenerife , a gloriously rambling, creaky-floored 16th-century mansion that spells out the past in artifacts. For slow Canarian food prepared with organic produce, tapas, and sustainably-brewed island beers, grab a table at Tasca 61 .

Parque Nacional del Teide

Best for volcanic landscapes.

All eyes are on Teide from the moment you fly into the island. Seen from the plane, this perfectly-etched volcano – Spain’s highest peak at 3715m (12,180ft) – seems to swallow the island whole. The pop-up effect is not lessened when you get closer to its dark summit, which is often wreathed in clouds.

The volcano is the icing on the cake of the 189-sq-km (73-sq-mile), Unesco-listed Parque Nacional del Teide, bang in the heart of the island. The journey up is breathtaking, with Canarian pine and laurel forests giving way to an arid, desert-like moonscape of surreal, rust-red rock formations that blaze in the light of the setting sun. The park’s cinematic backdrops haven’t gone unnoticed: It has appeared in films like Clash of the Titans (2010). Scientists are mad about its Martian landscapes. NASA’s Perseverance Rover, which searched for extraterrestrial life on Mars, was trained here because the climate and landscape were so similar.

The national park is sensational hiking country, whether for a gentle walk around the twisted lava pinnacles of Roques de García , a tough hike up the frozen lava flows of Pico Viejo , or tackling the big one – the full-day climb to Pico del Teide ( online reservations only). Hoof it up and you’ll better appreciate the views of La Gomera , La Palma , and El Hierro bubbling up from the Atlantic, but you can also take the cable car.

But as astronomers say, it's by night that the park really shines, and when you cast your eyes to the heavens, this Starlight Destination has some of the darkest, starriest skies in the northern hemisphere with 83 of the 88 recognized constellations visible on crystal-clear nights. Even with the naked eye, you can see the misty band of the Milky Way, but you’ll see more peeking through one of the gigantic telescopes at the Observatorio del Teide or on one of the tours run by Volcano Teide Experience .

Best for Canarian tradition and wine tasting

Winging you back to the early days of Spanish colonization, 16th-century La Orotava sits pretty in a lush valley to the island’s mountainous north, with Teide looming on the horizon. Its tangle of cobbled streets and flower-dotted plazas are instantly endearing and the atmosphere is wholly Canarian (no tourist tat here).

For a true flavor of the town, kick off with a wander along architecturally striking Calle San Francisco, where beautifully preserved 17th-century mansions are festooned with ornately carved balconies. Top billing goes to the Casa de los Balcones , with a lovely courtyard cafe where you can grab a coffee before continuing to nearby Casa Lercaro , with its baroque wooden gallery and palm-filled courtyard.

La Orotava is less about randomly ticking off sights and more about getting a slice of local life. Hang out at one of the old-fashioned tascas (bars) for drinks, tapas, and dominoes or buy hand-milled gofio (flour made from toasted grains) at La Maquina . Visitors can also arrange a vineyard tour and tasting (try Bodegas Tajinaste ) and then pin down a nearby guachinche for a simple, dirt-cheap feast with local wine. For a charming boutique sleep in a 17th-century mansion, book into Hotel Victoria .

The Orotava Valley is Tenerife’s fruit basket, with banana plantations and vineyards clambering up its slopes. The wines here are largely refreshing whites, made with the Listán Blanco grape, and vines are braided the traditional way (a technique known as cordón trenzado ). It’s gorgeous hiking country, with a web of trails dipping into fragrant Canarian pinewoods and views sweeping down to the coast.

Best for old-school Canary charm

Ask locals for a slice of genuine Canarian life and they will likely direct you toward Garachico on the north coast. Everyone has a soft spot for the historic streets of this charismatic town, battered by the fizzing surf of the Atlantic – but boy has it been through the wars. In the 17th century, it boomed as the home of wealthy merchants exporting Malmsey wine, but a huge volcanic eruption in 1706 wiped out its port and buried the town in lava. Freak floods, storms, fires, and a plague of locusts – real Old Testament stuff – have also ravaged Garachico over the centuries.

Today it’s a delightfully low-key base for exploring the north coast, with cobbled lanes, beautifully preserved 16th- and 17th-century colonial mansions, convents, monasteries, and churches to explore. Wander the waterfront where fishers cast their lines to the sea-gazing fortress of Castillo de San Miguel , whose museum throws you in at the deep end of Garachico’s history. Framed by lofty palms and Indian laurel trees, nearby Plaza Libertad buzzes with kids playing, couples strolling, and old men in cafes whiling away afternoons over drinks and dominoes. If you want to swim, head for the natural lava pools at El Caletón .

High above it all, Mirador de Garachico cracks open the view along the coast and has a bar serving local wine and putting creative riffs on Canarian ingredients. Back in town, you’ll sleep sweetly in the lovingly-restored, 16th-century mansion Hotel La Quinta Roja .

Los Gigantes

Best for diving and cliff drama.

Hugging Tenerife’s western shores, where the island’s highest cliffs drop abruptly into the wave-lashed, blue Atlantic, Los Gigantes delivers plenty of drama, but far fewer crowds than you’ll find swarming around south coast resorts. Indeed, this low-rise, white-washed town is nicely chilled with a seafront promenade, the dusky volcanic sands of Playa de la Arena , and fiery sunsets that backlight La Gomera.

You’re here, of course, for the giants: The basalt cliffs of Acantilados de los Gigantes , which punch 600m (1960ft) above the frothing ocean. For the best views from above, walk to the end of Calle Tabaiba to a natural lookout point .

For the full-on effect of the cliffs looming above you, nothing beats heading out on the water by kayak or stand-up paddleboard with Teno Activo . The submerged base of the cliffs teems with marine life, making this one of the island’s diving hotspots. Los Gigantes Diving Centre plunges into the deep blue to find stingrays, barracuda, and turtles swirling between the volcanic arches and caverns.

In 2021, Tenerife’s west coast was declared Europe’s first Unesco Whale Heritage Site. Its mild climate makes it one of the world’s best places for whale watching. Conservation-focused tours, such as those led by CB Marítima Acantilados , practically guarantee sightings of pilot whales at close quarters, as well as dolphins, porpoises, and – if you are incredibly lucky – a blue whale or an orca.

Puerto de la Cruz

Best for black-sand bays and botanical gardens.

Strung along a rocky shoreline and necklaced with volcanic bays, Puerto de la Cruz is one of Tenerife’s most liveable and loveable resorts, thanks to its easygoing charm, buzzing cafe scene, plazas, and parks. The Victorians raved about its spas, and there’s still a dash of that languor in the air today, thanks to a boardwalk for strolling, a luxurious spa enveloped in tropical gardens at Hotel Botánico , and the remarkable Jardín Botánico , with its jungle of Canarian plants and flowers, one-off palm collection, and 200-year-old Australian Moreton Bay fig.

A dive into the town’s historic center should begin at the bronze statue of the fisherwoman at Playa del Muelle, where La Cofradía de Pescadores dishes up fresh seafood. It’s paces away from the grand, palm-rimmed central square Plaza Charco (“Puddle Plaza”), so named because it used to flood every time a storm blew in. From here, lose yourself in the tangle of lanes in the old fishing district of La Ranilla, now a hip-and-happening quarter, where cottages have been reborn as artsy-cool bars and restaurants, like Agora , with a pretty terrace out front for vinos and tapas.

Beach-wise, Playa Martiánez wins, with its arc of dark sand and gentle waves ideal for getting to grips with surfing. But if you prefer your swims with a dash more style, check out the vast saltwater pools at Lago Martiánez , the volcanic rock vision of late Spanish artist, sculptor, and architect César Manrique.

Parque Rural del Teno

Best for mountain highs.

Shaggy mountains thrust up above orchards, terraces, and valleys on the island’s northwestern tip, where the volcanic cliffs of Parque Rural de Teno rear up above the raging ocean like a dragon’s backbone. It’s a corner of the island that is still deliciously off the radar, with a dawn-of-creation beauty about it. The area is spectacularly biodiverse, carpeted with laurel and beech forests and strawberry trees that the endangered laurel pigeon and spotted lizard both love.

On the rocky headland at Punta de Teno , where a lonely lighthouse stands, you can feel the full force of nature, with Atlantic waves battering a black-sand beach and jagged mountains rippling into the distance. The sunsets are worth lingering for. The road is restricted (no private cars during daylight hours or on the weekends), but you can get here by taxi, bike, or taking bus 369 from Buenavista del Norte.

The TF-436 road that corkscrews dizzyingly up to Masca acts as a drumroll for the insanely photogenic village, clinging to a mountaintop for dear life and with a great fang of rock protruding above it. Grab a bowl of cactus-flavored ice cream with palm honey at one of the local cafes before embarking on one of Tenerife’s most phenomenal hikes down the Barranco de Masca ravine to the ocean – providing you have a permit , that is.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Best for carnival and culture.

Though often overlooked by travelers in the mad dash to the coast, the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife really is the island’s beating heart. If you need proof, visit during February’s Carnaval, a feast of all-night fiestas, parades of sparkly costumes, and Latino-style hip-wiggling second only to Rio de Janeiro.

Culturally, Santa Cruz has the edge. It has some unmissable historic sights like Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción , originally built in 1498 just after the city was conquered, with its intricately wrought wooden Mudéjar (Islamic-style architecture) ceilings. But the city’s real showstoppers are more contemporary. The strikingly angular, light-flooded Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) , bearing the minimalist hallmark of Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron, presents an exciting roster of exhibitions of up-and-coming Spanish art. The city has its own Sydney Opera House in the form of Auditorio de Tenerife , a crashing white wave of an auditorium, famed for both Santiago Calatrava’s architecture and its acoustics. If you can’t catch a concert, join a guided tour of the building or go for a drink in the lobby cafe.

It’s a joy to also just wander the city’s parks, plazas, and streets, where you might happen upon a sculpture by Henry Moore or Joan Miró, hang out on a cafe terraza (terrace) on Plaza Candelaria or find picnic fixings at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África . With its Islamic-style arches and patios, and stalls heaving with fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, wine, and local cheese, the market is your backstage pass to local life, especially in the morning as people wake up over churros and coffee.

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Jun 21, 2022 • 8 min read

Tenerife Solo Travel Guide: Tips and Ideas for Solo Trips

Are you dreaming of an exciting solo adventure ? Look no further than Tenerife – a beautiful island that offers a lot of experiences for those traveling alone. From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant nightlife and friendly locals , Tenerife has it all. In this travel guide, we’ll help you navigate your solo journey with ease, offering valuable tips and ideas for a successful trip to this enchanting destination.

Main photo: Sunset in Masca village, (Getty Images)

Planning Your Solo Adventure to Tenerife

Before you pack your bags, let’s talk about planning . Timing matters, so consider Tenerife’s weather and crowds when picking the right time to visit. Plus, managing your budget is key .

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

Tenerife’s weather and crowds vary throughout the year, so picking the right time to visit is important. The island enjoys a mild climate year-round , making it suitable for solo travelers at any time. However, if you prefer f ewer crowds , consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall . During these times, you can enjoy pleasant weather and explore popular attractions without the peak tourist rush.

Budget Considerations and Cost-Saving Strategies

Traveling solo to Tenerife don’t have to break the bank. To make the most of your budget, consider these strategies:

• When you’re traveling alone, it’s important to find a good place to stay . You can choose affordable hotels, hostels, or guesthouses that have rooms for one person. This way, you have your own space without spending too much money. It’s really important to find the right place to stay when you’re traveling by yourself. Look for places that are safe, and comfortable, and where you can meet other travelers. You can try staying in hostels. They’re not expensive and you can meet new people there. If you want more comfort and a feeling of being part of a group, you can consider Boutique Hotels. Also, guesthouses and Airbnb are nice options. They give you a more personal experience and a chance to talk to local people.
• When you eat, try going to small local markets and little restaurants . This can help you save money and still enjoy the delicious food of the place. You can enjoy good taste without spending too much.
• Enjoy activities from Tenerife that won’t cost you a lot. There are things like hiking on beautiful trails and spending time at the beach, all without spending too much money.  You can also get to know the local culture by visiting charming villages or going to cultural events.

Is Tenerife Safe for Solo Travelers?

Thinking about traveling alone can be exciting. If you’re planning to go to Tenerife by yourself, you might be wondering if it’s a safe place. The good news is, Tenerife is usually safe because there is not much crime. People who live there are used to tourists and are usually kind and helpful.

Here are some tips to stay safe if you travel alone in Tenerife. 

• It’s a good idea to stay where many people know and it’s safe. 
• Use taxis or well-known ride services. 
• Keep your important things like your passport and money safe by using hidden pockets or belts.
• Be careful about what’s happening around you. Stay where there are lights, especially at night. The police are around popular places to help keep things safe.
• It’s also important to understand the local way of doing things. Some places have different customs. Being respectful and knowing about these things can help you have a good time.
• When you plan your trip, it’s smart to think ahead. Look into where you want to go and how to get there. Exploring when the sun is out is better for safety. If you want to do things like hiking, it might be good to join a group with a guide.
• If there’s an emergency, you should know the phone number to call for help: 112

So, is Tenerife safe for solo travelers? Yes, it can be safe if you remember these tips and be careful. You can have fun while being safe in Tenerife. Just make sure to think about safety while you explore.

Exploring Tenerife: Places to Visit for Solo Travelers

Tenerife is a nice place to visit if you’re by yourself. There are many cool things to see. Here are some places you should check out when you’re in Tenerife.

• Teide National Park : This is a special place. It has a tall volcano called Mount Teide. You can go up the volcano and see amazing views. It’s like looking at the world from the top!
• Beaches : Tenerife has lovely beaches. You can relax in the sun or swim in the water. There are different beaches to choose from, so you can find the one you like the most. You can find more information on this topic in our article about “ Best Beaches in Tenerife: Discover the Paradise .”
• Masca Village : Masca is a cute village surrounded by big mountains. It’s a nice place to go for a walk. The views are breathtaking and you can feel the calmness of the nature.
• La Laguna : This is a historic town. It has old buildings and nice streets. You can walk around and feel like you’re in the past.
• Markets : Tenerife has markets where you can buy fresh food and local things. It’s a good way to see what people on the island make and eat.
• Whale Watching : In Tenerife, you can go on a boat and see whales swimming in the sea. It’s exciting to see these big animals up close.
• Anaga Rural Park : Anaga is a place with green forests and pretty paths. You can go for a hike and be surrounded by nature.
• Auditorio de Tenerife : This is a famous building where they have concerts and events. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s cool to see from the outside.
• Candelaria Basilica : This is a church by the sea. It’s a peaceful place and has a big statue that people like to visit.
• Local Festivals : Tenerife has festivals where you can see traditional dances and music. It’s a fun way to experience the local culture.

Tenerife is a wonderful place for people traveling alone. These places let you see the beauty of the island, its history, and nature. Whether you’re exploring the old streets of La Laguna or walking in the Anaga Rural Park, there’s something for everyone in Tenerife.

Tours and Activities

Traveling solo by bus in tenerife.

The bus service in Tenerife is called TITSA . They have green buses that go everywhere on the island. You can use them to go from the airport to where you’re staying, between resorts, or from the coast to the mountains. Here’s some info to help you plan your bus trips:

• Get a Ten+ Card : This is like a special card you put money on to pay for the bus. It’s cheaper than using cash. You can get it at TITSA offices, some bus stations, or shops. The card costs 2 euros, and you can put 5 to 100 euros on it.
• Check Timetables and Routes : You can find when buses come and where they go on the TITSA website or app. You can also get a map of the bus routes.
• Plan Ahead : Buses are regular, but not all the time, especially in rural places or weekends. So, plan your trips and check times. Staying close to a bus stop might be smart so you don’t need to walk a lot or take a taxi.
• Stay Open : Bus travel might not be as fast as cars, but it’s fun. You might find cool places or meet new friends. You could also have interesting adventures. Be open and enjoy your bus trip in Tenerife!

Best Places for Solo Travelers to Stay in Tenerife

If you’re traveling alone to Tenerife, it’s important to find a good place to stay. Tenerife is an island with many different areas where you can stay, and some are really good for people who are alone. Here are some of the best places for solo travelers to stay:

• Costa Adeje : This is a nice place with pretty beaches and different places to stay. You can find fancy hotels, cheap hotels, and places where many people stay together. It’s good if you want to relax and also have some fun at night.
• Playa de las Américas : This place is known for being exciting and having lots of things to do at night. There are hotels that are not expensive and places where many people can stay. It’s good if you like to have fun and meet new people.
• Los Cristianos : This area is nice and calm. There are sandy beaches, markets where you can buy things, and small places to stay. It’s good if you want to relax and also see some local things.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife : This is the main city of the island. There are many things to see and do here. You can find different places to stay, like hotels or apartments. It’s good if you like to be in a city and see city things.
• Puerto de la Cruz : This is an old town with a relaxing feeling. There are places where you can swim that are natural, gardens, and places to stay that are comfortable. It’s good if you want a quiet time and see pretty things.
• El Médano : This place is great if you like water sports and being outside. There are places to stay that don’t cost too much. It’s good if you want to be active and enjoy the outdoors.
• La Laguna : This town is special because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are small hotels and places to stay that are unique. It’s good if you like history and culture.
• Garachico : This is a small town with nice streets and views of the ocean. There are cozy places to stay like bed and breakfasts. It’s good if you want to be calm and see beautiful things.
• La Orotava : This town has old buildings and gardens. There are nice places to stay that are cozy. It’s good if you want to relax and see nice views.
• Adeje : This area has a mix of old and new things. You can find different places to stay with local feelings. It’s good if you want to see real life away from the busy places.

So, in Tenerife, there are many areas for solo travelers to choose from. Each place has its own good things, whether you want to relax, have fun, or explore.

Exploring Tenerife's Local Food

The island’s food mixes different flavors from its history and where it is. They use fresh things like fish, vegetables, and fruits. The food is simple and good, meant to fill you up and taste nice.

If you’re traveling alone and want to know about the local food and where to eat, you’re in luck. You can find different places to eat like restaurants, cafes, and markets. There are foods that show the real taste of the place, like “Papas Arrugadas” small potatoes boiled until wrinkled, and “mojo” a special sauce. Another food is “Gofio” roasted cereal mixed with water or milk, and “Sancocho” a fish stew with potatoes and vegetables.

Since the island is near the ocean, you can have fresh seafood . You can eat things like grilled fish, seafood rice, and octopus salad at places near the coast. If you want to taste many things, you can get small plates of different foods called “tapas”. You can try these at many places. Also, you can go to local markets like Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa to taste local things like fruits, cheese, and snacks.

The people who work at these places are nice and make you feel welcome. There are places with different prices, so you can find what fits your budget and still tastes good. The restaurants use local things and ways of cooking, so you can try real Tenerife tastes. Even if you only speak a bit of Spanish, many menus are in other languages too.

Cultural Tips for Solo Travelers in Tenerife

When you’re traveling alone in Tenerife, it’s good to understand the cultural norms and ways of the place. This can make your trip easier and more fun. Here are some easy-to-understand tips to help you navigate Tenerife’s culture:

In terms of greetings and politeness, a simple “Hola” (hello) works well when meeting people. Being friendly and polite is important, and using words like “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) shows respect and kindness. For dressing, Tenerife is pretty relaxed. People often wear casual clothes. Just remember, if you’re visiting places of worship, wearing modest clothing is appreciated. While you don’t need to be fluent, knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can be really helpful for communication. Tenerife values its natural beauty, so it’s important to keep things clean and respect the environment. Dispose of trash properly and be mindful of your surroundings.

Lastly, stay flexible and open-minded . People in Tenerife are generally warm and welcoming. By showing respect for their culture, you’ll enhance your solo travel experience and create positive connections with the locals.

Exploring Outdoor Activities and Hikes for Solo Travelers

When you travel alone, Tenerife’s outdoors is a great place to have fun. There are many things you can do that don’t cost a lot and are easy to do on your own.

1. Walking Paths

Walking paths are like trails where you can walk. They go through forests, parks, or hills. Some easy walking paths for solo travelers are: Teide National Park : This park has paths for different levels and you can see the Teide volcano. Anaga Rural Park : This is a pretty place with forests and views of the sea. There are also bike paths through the mountains.

2. Beach Relaxation

Tenerife has really nice beaches. Being on the sandy beach is relaxing. Some beaches for people who are alone include: Playa de Las Teresitas : This beach has gold sand where you can be in the sun and swim. Playa del Duque : This is a calm beach with clear water, good for a peaceful day by the sea.

3. Surfing Adventures

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, Tenerife offers fantastic opportunities for surfing. With its favorable climate and beautiful coastlines, it’s an ideal place to catch some waves. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can find surf schools and rental shops along the coastline. Some popular surf spots include:

Playa de las Américas : Known for its consistent waves, it’s a great place to start your surfing journey. El Médano : This beach is famous for its strong winds and is a hub for windsurfing and kiteboarding, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. La Izquierda : If you’re up for a challenge, this reef break offers powerful left-hand waves for advanced surfers.

4. Learning About Culture

Knowing about the way people live in a place is interesting. You can visit towns, museums, and go to special events: La Laguna : This is a pretty town with old buildings and a nice feeling. Local Festivals : Sometimes there are parties and events where you can hear music, eat good food, and see traditional dances.

5. Going on Tours

Taking trips with a guide can be a good way to meet other travelers and be safe. Some options are: Whale Watching Tours : You can see whales and dolphins in the sea around Tenerife. Guided Hiking Tours : You can walk with a group and a guide on paths that might be challenging.

6. Watching Sunsets

Seeing the sun go down can be a beautiful experience. You can find a quiet place to watch it: El Puertito : This is a calm place to watch the sun go down over the sea. Mirador de La Centinela : This is a high spot where you can see a lot and take great pictures.

7. Looking at the Stars

At night, you can look at the stars: Observatories : There are places where you can look at the stars with help from experts. Dark Sky Areas : Some places don’t have many lights at night, so you can see the stars well.

Tenerife has many outdoor activities and walks that are great for people who are traveling alone. Whether you like walking, being on the beach, learning about the culture, or doing more exciting things, there’s something for you. You can enjoy the nature and the way of life in Tenerife while making good memories on your trip alone.

For a deeper dive into the top attractions and hidden gems, check out “ Top Attractions in Tenerife: Must-See Places and Hidden Gems. ” If you’re a beach lover, you won’t want to miss “ Best Beaches in Tenerife: Discover the paradise. ” And for those who prefer hiking and exploring the trails, “ Hiking in Tenerife: Trails, Tips, and Views ” has got you covered. Additionally, if you want hassle-free travel tips to make the most of your solo trip, “ Tenerife Travel Tips: Dos and Don’ts for a Hassle-Free Trip ” offers valuable insights for an enjoyable experience.

Nightlife Adventures for Solo Explorers in Tenerife

When it comes to nightlife in Tenerife, solo partygoers can find exciting options to have a good time. Tenerife has different places with different kinds of nightlife, from lively places to quiet ones. Depending on what you like and how much money you have, you can choose where to stay. Here are some popular places:

• Playa de las Americas : This is the most famous place with lots of bars and clubs for different people. You can listen to live music, sing karaoke, watch funny shows, and more.
• Los Cristianos : This place is quieter and better for families, but it still has places to go at night. You can find small pubs, bars to watch sports, places with cocktails, and live music.
• Puerto de la Cruz : This is a nice old town in the north of Tenerife. You can find traditional tapas bars, wine bars, jazz clubs, and places to dance.
• Kaluna Beach Club : This is a nice beach club where you can see the ocean, have good cocktails, and dance. They also have events with DJs, dancers, and fireworks.
• Sax Rock Bar : This is a place for people who like rock music. You can listen to live bands playing songs from famous rock groups. They also have drinks and snacks.

In Tenerife, you can find lots of things to do at night. It’s important to be safe and have fun! People often go out later in the evening and stay out until the early morning. So, you can have a long night of fun if you want. But it’s important to be safe. The nightlife is mostly safe, but it’s good to stick to places that are well-lit and not have too much to drink.

Meeting People While Traveling Alone in Tenerife

When you travel alone in Tenerife, you might want to know how to make new friends or talk to local people. It’s normal to want to meet others and have a good time. Here are some simple ways to meet and talk to other people who are alone or who live here in Tenerife:

One way is to stay in places where many people are. Like hostels – these are like budget hotels where you can meet other people who are traveling alone. They often have places where you can hang out and talk.

Another thing you can do is join groups that do things you like. It’s a good way to meet people who like the same things as you. If you use Facebook or the internet, you can look for groups where travelers talk. You can ask questions, make plans, and maybe find someone to do things with.

You can also go to events or classes that happen here. It’s a chance to learn something new and also meet people. When you use public buses or trains, you can talk to people. They might help if you want to know about the place.

If you know a different language, you can talk to the people who live here and teach them a little. And in return, you can learn some of their language too. Also, if you learn about how the people here live and what they do, it can help you connect with them. When you show that you like their way of life, they might want to talk to you.

Remember to smile and be open. Sometimes, just being friendly can help you make new friends. Meeting people can take time, so don’t worry if it’s not fast. The important thing is to enjoy your time and meet people along the way.

Ready to Explore Tenerife? Let the Adventure Begin!

Congratulations, solo traveler! You’ve equipped yourself with the knowledge needed to conquer Tenerife with confidence. From breathtaking attractions to enriching cultural experiences, this island promises a remarkable adventure. Embrace the freedom, make connections, and cherish the memories. Your solo journey in Tenerife is bound to be a transformative and unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on an extraordinary solo trip to Tenerife – a destination that promises to captivate your soul. Happy travels!

Ready to explore the beauty of Tenerife’s coastline? 

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More From Forbes

7 ways to travel more sustainably.

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Sustainable travel can be fun, rewarding and not at all challenging

Sustainable travel is surging in popularity, but what does it mean? The vague term can refer to traveling in a way that’s conscientious of the environment and local communities, leaving less of an impact on a destination and perhaps even bettering the location in the process. Sustainable tourism, in many ways a reaction to overtourism, helps protect the planet, to ensure destinations are liveable and worth visiting for years to come. And while travel can certainly takes its toll, creating carbon emissions, waste and more, responsible tourism is an essential step in protecting the planet.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Responsible tourism helps the environment by limiting ecological impact, supporting indigenous wildlife, respecting cultural heritage, and not taking away from a destination as a visitor, be it removing a shell from a beach or littering on a hiking trail. Plenty of responsible travel itineraries are easily replicable, but many trips can be adapted to be more sustainable. There are so many ways, big and small, to travel more responsibly and sustainably. Here’s how to start:

1. TSA-Friendly Doesn’t Need To Be Earth Hostile

You can buy single use and tiny versions of pretty much every care product these days, but do you actually need to? Opt for refillable travel bottles to decant your normal products into, and you’ll always have TSA-friendly bottles of shampoo, lotion, whatever you need at the ready. If you prefer to travel without liquids, consider switching to bars of shampoo and conditioner toothpaste powder and other products, which are eco-friendly wherever you are.

Planning ahead can be a major factor in sustainable travel

2. Opt For Public Transit

Public transportation — buses, trains, light rail, etc. — is always more sustainable than a private ride. If possible, use public transit to get to and from your destination and learn your destination’s public transit system to navigate while you explore. Not only will you likely save money as well as lower your carbon footprint, you’ll get a taste of how locals live. If public transit isn’t an option, consider booking shared rides to the airport and excursions, or renting an electric or hybrid vehicle if driving solo is the only option.

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A bit of planning ahead can save considerable landfill waste. Bringing a reusable coffee cup for morning coffee runs and reusable water bottle will hopefully cut down the amount of single-use items you purchase on the go. Other easy to pack items including a reusable travel utensil set, reusable straws and reusable earplugs can help avoid creating more waste on the road. If you’re someone who discards beach reads, consider switching to an e-reader. Pack tote bags to carry souvenirs or other items purchased on the road that won’t require disposable plastic bags.

4. Eat Conscientiously

Eating local is the best way for your diet to support local eco-systems. Not only does dining at independent, small businesses (e.g. not chains), support local business people, but can often have lower environmental impact than major franchised restaurants that ship ingredients and supplies across the country. Making lower impact choices, including eating mostly plant-based, when possible, can also make travel a bit greener. If you don’t have anything to do with leftovers, consider ordering with a bit more restriction so you aren’t creating an excess of food waste.

Local culinary experiences can be healthy, fulfilling and sustainable

5. Book A Sustainable Hotel

Staying at a property dedicated to sustainability can make a big impact, especially by showing the travel industry that this is a priority for hospitality. Hotels are offered various certifications to prove their sustainable status, which can be achieved as a remote eco-lodge or luxury property in a major city. Several hotels are seeking LEED certification , the Green Hotels Association has a collection of vendors who prioritize sustainability, and the Leading Hotels of the World has a sustainability collection of five star properties.

6. Buy Carbon Offsets

While we technically can’t undo the damage we cause to the environment, there are initiatives to at least mitigate it. Carbon offsets allow consumers to compensate for their carbon footprint by funding projects that reduce carbon dioxide pollution. CoolEffect.org can help you decide how much to give, based on trip itinerary and logistics. For example, to offset air travel, a roundtrip, 6-hour flight would add about 1.89 tons of CO2 per passenger, and $31.17 of carbon offsets would help mitigate that.

Some airlines offer the option to purchase carbon offsets alongside airfare

7. Slow Down Your Travel

Slow travel is a buzzword that’s emerged in the 2020s, when work and leisure travel aka bleisure have melded more than ever, and the concept of working and even socializing remotely is totally normalized. Rather than a quick jaunt back and forth, slow travel emphasizes taking your time with tourism, be it living in a rental property for a month and enjoying the sights on the weekends, going backpacking, biking or hiking for an extended off the grid period, or traveling via train instead of air. Slow tourism has been proven to have a positive environmental impact .

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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18 travel safety tips for women.

Whether it’s international business travel or leisure travel, it’s always important to keep safety a priority . Business travel can often entail long trips to unfamiliar places and can often be daunting, especially if it’s the first trip you’ve taken. We’ll go through some of the top business travel tips for women and how to keep safe when traveling solo.

Solo Female Travel for Business Travellers

For females traveling solo, business travel safety is crucial, and being proactive can help reduce some of the risks of traveling alone for business. Personal safety often gets overlooked when traveling solo, but it’s a really important consideration. Solo women, unfortunately, are often seen as an easy target by many, and staying safe needs to be a top priority. Here are some of the top travel safety tips for women to help you stay safe and stay aware when traveling.

Top Travel Safety Tips for Women

For solo female travelers, there are a lot of different elements to keep in mind to travel safely. The main thing to bear in mind, though, is to stay alert and aware as much as possible and also stay connected. There are some things you can do before leaving to make your trip safer, as well as some keeping some tips in mind when you’re at your destination. Let’s look at some top travel safety tips for women to ensure your solo trip goes well.

Read More: Business Travel Tips

1. Always plan ahead

The best thing you can do for solo travel is to plan ahead as much as possible. By planning ahead, rather than leaving things to chance or going last minute, you can keep people informed about your plans and stress less.

That means researching the area, where you’re staying, public transportation, specific safety tips for your destination, and more. Of course, you’ll likely deviate from your plans to a certain extent, but having a solid foundation for your travel plans helps avoid a lot of issues down the line.

2. Research local customs

Many countries have their own local customs, traditions, and distinct cultures that may differ from what you are used to. Understanding the differences beforehand can help you navigate the country better when you arrive and help you blend in more rather than sticking out as a visitor.

Before going to a new destination, look up what appropriate clothing might be there, traditions, even simple ones such as direct eye contact, and what’s expected of women to help you avoid unwanted attention during the trip.

3. Keep in touch with a family member

While it’s important to enjoy your trip and get work done, staying in touch is just as important! Keep in touch with a family member regarding your whereabouts, locations, and plans as a general rule. That way, even in worst-case scenarios, there is someone that can account for your plans and location.

4. Purchase travel insurance

Travel is hard to predict, and there might be instances and scenarios such as a missed flight or even a natural disaster where you may require additional protection. Purchasing travel insurance is a relatively inexpensive way to give yourself added peace of mind while traveling solo. If possible, also keep a first aid kit with you when traveling for added safety.

5. Identify the local embassy

Identifying your local embassy gives you another layer of protection when traveling solo. In scenarios such as a stolen passport, missing ID, or flight issues, your embassy can help you with leaving the country and emergency exits as needed.

6. Try to learn some of the local languages

As part of the travel experience and to help blend in better, knowing the local language definitely helps. Obviously, learning an entire language is pretty difficult before leaving, but even knowing some helpful phrases can help you get by. Use an app like Google Translate to help, or just keep a note on your phone with a language cheat sheet such as greetings, basic questions, and phrases to help you get by.

Read More: Business Travel Safety Tips

7. Share your accommodation details with a trusted family member or friend

Always share your accommodation details with friends and/or family wherever you decide to stay. To be safe, don’t just share the name but send the address and neighborhood to give them more details. Certain communication apps such as Whatsapp also allow you to share your location with a pin on a map, which can be helpful. If traveling in a taxi, make a note of the license plate by taking a photo and sending it.

8. Look up local scams

Unfortunately, solo women are seen as easy targets for local scams in many countries. To stay safe, do some research beforehand on the country on common types of scams that you can be on the lookout for. As a general rule, always rely on your gut feeling if approached by a stranger, and it’s okay to steer clear from crowded places to avoid unwanted attention. However, if someone does approach you, it’s okay to walk away or disengage if they make you feel uncomfortable. Look up taxi scams in particular, as that tends to be a common one that most travelers fall victim to.

9. Additional research may be needed for developing countries

While there’s always advice around using common sense when solo traveling internationally, but it’s also crucial to remember each country’s context and history when traveling as that can help you navigate as well. If you’re traveling to developing countries where there may not be as much infrastructure or resources, additional research such as firsthand travel experiences and travel blogs can help you prepare better for the trip.

Read More: international business travel

10. Purchase a money belt

Protecting your money is vital whether you’re relying on cash or credit cards. Pickpocketing and theft are unfortunately very common in many parts of the world, and they can leave you vulnerable if stolen. Purchase a money belt and a dummy wallet for added protection during solo travel, especially if you’re often on crowded city streets.

11. Separate your money

If you travel solo often, it can also help keep your money divided across different bags (e.g., emergency credit card in your backpack, a small amount of cash tucked away in your suitcase) for added protection.

12. Use the hotel safe

Most hotels will have a safe, so take full advantage! Any valuables you don’t absolutely need on a daily basis (e.g., passport, ID, emergency money, and/or credit card) should be kept in the safe. It’s peace of mind, and since you’ll be locking your hotel room before leaving anyway, you’ll be more relaxed.

13. Keep an eye out for travel advisories

Some countries are safer than others, but generally, keep an eye on travel advice – more specifically for solo female travelers. Always look for travel advisories before the trip, and try to follow local news and events while you’re there in case emergencies come up so you can leave quickly.

14. Create a detailed itinerary

If you’re traveling internationally as a solo female traveler, designing an itinerary can help you keep safe and stay organized. For example, what’s your intended destination, and what other countries are you thinking about visiting versus the ones you have concrete plans for? How many days are you planning on staying, tentatively, and what are you planning? Plans change, of course, but it makes solo travel safer since people will know your general plans and how to find you if needed.

15. Don’t pack too many valuables

It’s tempting to pack a lot when traveling solo, but it’s best not to. Keep valuables such as expensive jewelry and electronics to a minimum to avoid losing costly items. If you do have to carry them, make sure to buy secure suitcases and backpacks that you can lock and keep items in the safe as mentioned above.

16. Resist oversharing

As many travelers do, it’s fun to post and share information about your trip on social media sites, but it can also make you an easy target. Try not to post your exact location when traveling on social media to make it harder to track exactly where you are, and stagger your posts from different locations to make it difficult to pin you down. For example, you can post a photo of your dinner with the location after leaving the restaurant rather than while you’re at the restaurant.

17. Purchase a local SIM

Having internet access is crucial, and it’s easy to skip out on getting a local SIM as a way to save money – but resist the urge! A local SIM or phone number can make it easier to get in touch with you and ensures you always have access to the internet and phone wherever you are. However, don’t rely on trying to find free wi-fi everywhere as it’s not always possible and will make it harder to contact people in emergencies.

18. Get in touch with other solo travelers

If you’re feeling nervous or apprehensive about your trip, you can also get in touch with other women and solo travelers to make the trip a little easier. Many communities on Facebook and Reddit are dedicated to solo female travel, both international and domestic, where you can reach out to others when planning the trip, exchange safety tips, and meet up in your intended destination if possible.

In the realm of travel, whether for business or leisure, safety must always take precedence. Solo female travel, especially for business purposes, demands a heightened focus on personal safety and proactive measures. The travel safety tips outlined encompass a wide range of considerations, from meticulous planning and cultural awareness to staying connected and vigilant. These measures aim to empower women to embark on solo journeys confidently while prioritizing their well-being and security. With these precautions in place, solo female travelers can navigate the world with greater assurance, embracing the adventure while safeguarding their safety.

Solo travel, particularly for women, necessitates careful planning and awareness of the destination’s customs and potential risks. Staying connected with trusted contacts and learning local phrases can enhance communication and security. Additionally, understanding common scams and using secure storage options for valuables are crucial precautions. By incorporating these safety measures into their journeys, solo female travelers can experience the world with confidence and peace of mind.

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6 Last-Minute Travel Tips for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

I n less than a month, people will look to the sky as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth in a celestial event known as a total solar eclipse . The phenomenon is set for April 8, 2024, and the next one that can be seen from contiguous United States will be August 2044 , so it's unsurprising that eclipse fever has gripped the nation. Between 1 and 4 million people are predicted to travel to the path of totality, joining the 31 million people already living within it.

Among the tours, cruises, hotels, and even scenic flights offering their own spin on the total solar eclipse experience, here are six tips that last-minute planners should keep in mind for the special day.

1. Figure out where you want to go

There are 13 U.S. states on the path of this year's eclipse: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (small parts of Tennessee and Michigan are also in the path). Among all of these states, totality will occur in two national parks-Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas and Cuyahoga National Park in Ohio-and they're expected to get crowded. Instead, consider one of the more than 100 state parks along the path, some of which are more off the radar. If you're more of a city dweller, you can also experience totality in big cities, including San Antonio, Austin, Cleveland, and Rochester.

Consider the weather, too. According to NOAA 's past weather records, April weather seems to bring more chances of rain-meaning more potential for cloud coverage-in the Northeast than in the South.

2. Consider the length of totality

Aiming for a destination in the path of totality is a no-brainer, although the amount of totality you'll get depends on where you go. The closer to the center of the path of totality an area is, the longer the total eclipse lasts. Take Austin and Dallas: While both are on the path of totality, Austin will get 1 minute and 46 seconds of totality, while Dallas will get 3 minutes and 52 seconds of totality. The longest duration you can get for totality is about 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Particularly traveler-friendly spots to maximize your time in the dark are Texas Hill Country towns like Kerrville (which will receive around 4 minutes and 24 seconds of totality and is partnering with NASA) and Fredericksburg (which is set to get 4 minutes 23 seconds of totality). Texas Hill Country is also one of AFAR's best places to go in 2024 .

3. Consider camping

If you want a solar eclipse experience surrounded by nature rather than people, camping may suit you better. But booking developed campgrounds at state parks and well-known nature spots will likely be difficult at this point. As an alternative, check for privately owned land through platforms like Hipcamp or look for dispersed camping sites in a national forest, like Ozark National Forest or Green Mountain National Forest . While backcountry spots may not have amenities, they can be perfect for those seeking solitude.

In addition, be sure to check the capacity of a park when it comes to handling the influx of visitors for April 8. As an example, Erie's tourism board is discouraging visits to Presque Isle State Park to prevent bottleneck traffic from its one entry and exit point.

4. Look into a town, festival, or last-minute tour

Plenty of places within the path of totality are putting their own spin on the solar eclipse with dedicated festivities. Get an educational experience at Rochester Museum & Science Center's ROC the Eclipse Festival , a three-day event that includes talks titled "Frontiers of Plasma Physics" and "The Search for Earth-Like Planets" from science experts. Or lean into grandeur at the four-day Texas Eclipse Festival in Burnet, Texas; its lineup includes music performances, yoga sessions, and immersive art experiences. (If you're heading to Texas for the eclipse event in general, check out this interactive map of special activities happening across the state.)

If the mere thought of navigating trip logistics brings a headache, check for the availability of some solar eclipse tours. Some tours still have availability, like Holland America Line's whopping 22-day Solar Eclipse cruise tour through North America. Others, like Travel Quest's Mexico's Copper Canyon Total Solar Eclipse tour , only have wait-list spots. But don't give up hope: As last-minute cancellations roll in, a quick call could secure you a place.

5. Try to get a last-minute spot at hotels in the path of totality

Hotels are leaning into the solar eclipse experience too, and properties are throwing celebrations and dedicated solar eclipse events just for the event. Miraval Austin Resort and Spa is hosting a viewing session with its astrologer, while Hôtel Swexan in Dallas is offering solar eclipse wellness activities on the evening of April 8 that includes meditation, a sound bath, and a Reiki healing session.

Keep in mind that a last-minute booking may cost a premium. Properties all across the band of totality are recording sky-high prices -even budget hotels . Similar to booking tours, do your due diligence and call to check for a cancellation.

6. Come prepared

Of course, you should wear solar eclipse glasses to prevent permanent damage to your eyes. If you're going to an event, check to see if they will be provided or if you'll need to bring your own. If you don't want to buy them, you can use household materials like cardboard to make your own pinhole projector , a contraption that allows you to see the sun change shape as the moon crosses in front of it.

In addition to bringing materials for the day of the event, anticipate what happens next. The length of totality is less than five minutes, but the traffic afterwards may disrupt your plans for hours. If you're coming from a crowded park or city, be on the safe side and come prepared with extra snacks and water.

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How to Fly Your Kid Solo, Free of Stress

By Alexander Nazaryan

For many parents and guardians, putting a child on a flight alone may seem terrifying. Belligerent passengers, delays, turbulence: All loom large in a caregiver’s imagination.

Life sometimes leaves no other option. Hudson Crites , 17, of Marshall, Va., was 10 when he started flying unaccompanied to visit his father in Kansas and later Georgia, said his mother, Chelsea Tippett. But the extra attention from airline staff made Hudson “feel special,” Ms. Tippett recalls. Other than a single tarmac delay, he has had no problems.

On rare occasions, children have had troubling experiences. In December, Spirit Airlines accidentally flew a 6-year-old to Orlando, Fla., instead of the intended destination of Fort Myers. Spirit apologized, fired the gate agent responsible and offered reimbursement to the boy’s grandmother for her travel to Orlando. But while the boy was unharmed, his grandmother expressed worry that he had been kidnapped .

If you decide to fly your child unaccompanied, you’ll discover that each airline has its own procedures, fees and routes open to children. While some may find the process complicated, flying alone may be exciting for your child, instilling some independence. Here’s what you need to know.

Before you book, know the process

Regardless of the airline or route, flying an unaccompanied minor differs from an adult or a family catching a flight. Airlines require a trusted pre-authorized adult to be at the departure and arrival gates, and will ask you at booking to provide contact information for those adults. They will also need to present identification at the terminals.

The journey begins at the originating airport’s airline ticket counter. There, airline staff will check your identification and check in the child, perhaps handing them a lanyard or wristband to wear. The agents will provide you with a pass to get through security with your child. You will accompany them to the gate, where you will hand them off to a gate agent. You must stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

In the air, the flight crew will keep watch — but will not babysit, or sit with, your child. If the flight has a connection, a crew member will walk your child off the plane and a gate agent will take him or her to the next gate.

At the arrival airport, the child will be handed off by staff to the authorized guardian or parent who should have already checked in at the ticket counter with proper identification, gone through security with their gate pass and be waiting at the gate.

To learn more about this process, read the Department of Transportation’s online guide, “When Kids Fly Alone,” followed by the website of your selected carrier.

Choosing an airline and paying an extra fee

Before purchasing a ticket, experts advise you to consider an airline’s on-time performance. “Solid on-time performance is hard-earned, and signals a carrier that has tight control of its operation,” said the Ask the Pilot author, Patrick Smith. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has those numbers.

Booking procedures vary. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require you to call. United Airlines allows bookings online. JetBlue Airways does online bookings, too, but asks for three printed copies of its forms upon arrival at the airport.

International flights may call for a notarized consent letter describing where the child is traveling, with whom they’ll stay and how long they’ll be there.

On top of the ticket fare, flying an unaccompanied minor can be pricey.

Southwest Airlines charges $100 one way for each child, regardless of distance. Alaska Airlines charges $50 per child if the flight is nonstop; a connection adds $25. On Delta, one $150 fee will cover up to four children, and American’s $150 covers all siblings, with no cap on number. United charges $150 for one child, or two children flying together.

Restrictions: There are plenty

U.S. carriers allow children to fly as unaccompanied minors once they turn 5 and before they turn 18. But regardless of your child’s age, make sure he or she is ready by discussing the trip details and your expectations of their behavior. No policy can replace your judgment.

The low-cost carriers Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air don’t allow unaccompanied minors, Other airlines have restrictions that, in the broadest terms, differentiate between young children and teenagers. American and Delta restrict children under 8 from routes requiring connections. Both airlines allow children between 8 and 14 to take some connecting flights.

On American, no unaccompanied minor is allowed to take an overnight flight requiring a connection, or a flight that includes a connection on its final leg that also happens to be the last such flight that day (“unless it’s the only flight,” the company adds). Minors are not allowed on code-share flights.

United and Delta have similar rules. Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit don’t allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights.

JetBlue prohibits minors from flying to Europe, and limits the number of unaccompanied minors in one party to three. Spirit does not allow children on flights to Central or South America. Southwest doesn’t allow children on any international flights. American, United and Delta let minors fly abroad, but restrictions on connections, code-shares and overnights limit options.

American and Delta allow children to opt out of flying as unaccompanied minors once they turn 15 — that is, the child can fly without the assistance of airline personnel. JetBlue ends unaccompanied minor service at 14, while Alaska has an opt-out option at 13. Southwest boasts the lowest opt-out age: 12.

However, you should be able to accompany your child to the gate even if they’re not flying unaccompanied. American requires that you do so for teens between the ages of 15 and 17, even if they’ve opted out.

What to pack

Have a plan to head off your child’s hunger, boredom and thirst. If they are older, make sure they have emergency money and a charged phone.

When her two daughters, then 9 and 11, flew to Denver, Joey Conover of Charlottesville, Va., had a long list for their carry-ons.

“Pack a backpack with iPad, headphones, lightweight book to read, a pad of paper and colored pencils (markers might smear), a small travel game, water bottle (bring empty and fill in airport), snacks, some kind of surprise fidget or animals to play with, hoodie, and a lovey,” she wrote in an email.

“Write your name and phone number on the inside of their arm in Sharpie and put a parent’s business card in a luggage tag on both suitcase and backpack,” Ms. Conover said. (A sheet of paper with all their identification, and their guardian’s contact information, also works. Simply stick in an easy-to-access pocket.)

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .