Plan Your Trip to Tenerife: Best of Tenerife Tourism
Tenerife, Spain
Essential Tenerife
Food & drink
Tenerife’s top outdoor adventures
- Parque Rural de Anaga310Starting in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, drive a half hour to Anaga Rural Park. It’s home to one of the world’s last remaining laurel forests, known as Laurisilva. This subtropical wonderland has lush canopies, deep valleys, and viewpoints of the rugged shore. There’s hiking for all levels, too, as well as those with accessibility needs. Make sure to ask a guide where the moss-covered walls are and snap an Instagram photo (or ten).
- Los Gigantes772Ever seen Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher? Well, the Acantilados de Los Gigantes, which jut dramatically from the sea, are Tenerife’s version. Cruise by the bluffs in a kayak or paddleboard, which you can rent at the port nearby. Around the 2,500-foot cliffs, you’ll often see dolphins, colourful fish, and sea turtles pop their heads above the surface. Or, take a whale-watching tour to spot bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales out at sea.
- Volcan El Teide13,750You can’t miss Tenerife’s towering epicentre, El Teide volcano. The trek to this 12,000-foot peak (the tallest in Spain) spans 11.6 miles via the Montaña Blanca trail. If you’d rather rest your legs (I don’t blame you), ride the cable car eight minutes to the top of this lunar-like beast. Tip: Consider the elevation if you have breathing difficulties, and keep an eye on the weather as storms tend to move quickly in these parts.
- Refugio de Altavista874In Teide National Park, stay at Altavista Refuge, the park’s only shelter. (There are beds and a fireplace to keep warm in the cabin.) You can also camp here, but you’ll need to get a permit at the park’s visitor centre. On a clear night, the stargazing is spectacular. In fact, it’s a designated starlight reserve for its minimal light pollution and clear night skies—trust me, it’s worth it.
- Cueva Del Viento2,803Fun fact: The Wind Cave was formed by an eruption nearly 30,000 years ago. Now, the underground system is one of the longest volcanic tubes in Europe, stretching 11 miles near the town of Icod de los Vinos. Highlights include stalactites and stalagmites, roughly 30 animal species unique to the cave (creepy crawlers, beware), and a steady breeze that gave the cave its name. Don’t forget to pack a jacket as it’s colder underground.
- Playa del Duque5,786Tenerife has more cobblestoned streets than bike paths, however, cyclists will be happy pedaling along the paved, generally flat Costa Adeje Promenade. Just north of Playa de las Americas, this six-mile waterfront stretch passes plenty of restaurants, shops, and beaches—Playa del Duque is a favourite—where you can take a break along the way. Tip: It’s best to go in the morning (around 8 a.m.) when the weather is cooler and there is less pedestrian traffic.
- Finca Las Margaritas Banana Experience255Bananas are an important product in Tenerife and a cornerstone of the island’s history. In fact, bananas are its largest export, dating back to the 15th century. You’ll see the palm-like plantations everywhere, and you can tour one at Finca Las Margaritas on the southern coast. With a guide, you’ll peruse the crops, learn about their history, do a banana taste test (yum!), and take home some locally-made goodies like banana jam.
Browse collections
- A solo traveler's guideHotels, tours, and more to book on your own
- Winter in TenerifeSee what makes this place so magical at this time of year
- Spend the day at seaBoat tours, snorkelling—the ocean’s all yours
- Raise a glassExplore some of the island’s best vineyards
- For the architecture buffHistoric landmarks and must-see sites
- Tenerife, after darkThere’s lots to do when the sun goes down
- See nature do its thingMountains, gardens, and more scenic spots
More beachy European islands
Tenerife travel advice
Recommended Areas for Specific Interests
According to forum posts, for travelers interested in vibrant nightlife and tourist activities, areas in the south like Costa Adeje, Playa de las Americas, and Los Cristianos are highly recommended. These regions are known for their lively atmospheres, abundant bars, restaurants, and beaches, catering well to tourists seeking entertainment and convenience.
Quiet and Authentic Stays
For those seeking quieter, more authentic experiences, northern areas like Puerto de la Cruz are suggested by some travelers. This area offers a blend of local culture and access to natural attractions, including good opportunities for hiking and proximity to historical sites.
Remote Work and Leisure Combination
Travelers working remotely have expressed preferences for places like El Duque for its balance of a calm environment and good amenities. Los Gigantes is also mentioned for its stunning scenery, though it is noted for being somewhat isolated for longer stays.
Family and Recreational Preferences
Families and those looking for a mix of recreation and relaxation tend to favor areas with a combination of access to beaches and natural parks, like those near Teide National Park, as well as accommodations that are not heavily centered around nightlife.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Private Transfers
According to forum posts, some travelers have recommended Viva transfers for private airport transport, as they often provide more reasonable quotes. Others have suggested booking through Welcome Bus Canarias via online platforms, which can provide low-cost roundtrip options.
Shared and Taxi Services
For those looking for shared or taxi services, travelers have mentioned that companies like Suntransfers and Vivatransfers offer good service at competitive prices. Direct taxi services are also widely available at airport taxi ranks, with typical fares ranging from 20 to 35 euros depending on the destination within Tenerife. Taxis are considered a reliable and quick option by many users.
Bus Options
Some travelers have discussed bus services as a cost-effective means of airport transfer. The bus line 343 connects major points but has limited frequency. Alternative bus routes require connections and have longer journey times.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Water Activities
According to forum posts, Tenerife offers a variety of beach activities, particularly water sports. Travelers have mentioned enjoying jet ski safaris and parasailing. Additionally, boat trips to see whales and dolphins are highly recommended by many users.
Swimming and Beaches
For those interested in swimming, some travelers said that the southern resorts of Los Cristianos or Playa de las Americas provide ideal spots. These areas feature multiple beaches with breakwater protection, ensuring safe swimming conditions. Playa La Pinta is specifically highlighted for its calm waters and safety.
Additional Leisure
Apart from water sports and swimming, users have suggested other leisure activities near the beach. These include enjoying local bars and restaurants along the coastlines, providing a complete beach day experience with amenities and entertainment options nearby.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Taxi Rates from Tenerife South Airport
According to forum posts, taxi fares from Tenerife South Airport vary depending on the destination. For instance, a ride to Guia de Isora costs around 60€ one way, while a shorter trip to Playas de Las Americas is approximately 25€. Traveling to Los Gigantes typically costs between 60€ and 70€.
Regulation and Pricing
Travelers have noted that taxis in Tenerife are metered and well-regulated, with no need for fare negotiation as prices are set. This ensures that passengers are not overcharged.
Long-Distance Fares
For longer distances, such as from Tenerife South Airport to Bajamar, fares can exceed 100€ each way. Similarly, a taxi to Puerto de la Cruz from the same airport would cost over 100€.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Hotel Recommendations
Some travelers have recommended the All Inclusive Tagore in Costa Adeje for families, highlighting its multiple pools including a children’s play pool that is warmer than the other pools. Another recommendation for families is the Bitacora, noted for its excellent kids' play area and animation team.
Adult-Focused Options
For adults or those seeking a quieter stay, the Colon Guanahani was mentioned as having very warm heated pools and an adults-only policy. The Jardines de Nivaria, although not strictly adults-only, has a warm saltwater pool and tends to attract fewer families.
Alternative Choices
Other travelers have mentioned the Arona Gran in Los Cristianos, which has a pool maintained at around 30 degrees Celsius. This hotel is also conveniently located for easy access to shops and restaurants.
General Advice
According to forum posts, many hotels in Tenerife feature heated pools, especially the higher-rated ones. However, it's advisable to verify the specific pool temperatures as preferences vary, with some guests finding standard heated pool temperatures too low for comfort.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Tenerife General Weather
According to forum posts, Tenerife is a year-round destination with consistently warm weather. Some travelers mentioned that even in early October, it is still hot and suitable for swimming, with temperatures comfortable enough for beach and pool activities.
Weather Variability by Region
Travelers have noted that the weather in Tenerife can vary by region. The north of the island tends to be cloudier and cooler compared to the warmer and sunnier south. Despite occasional cloud cover, the northern parts remain a good spot for sunbathing and enjoying the outdoors.
Seasonal Weather
In winter months like January, Tenerife offers mild temperatures, warm enough for beach activities during the day, while evenings may require light jackets. During December, the south of the island is generally warmer and less cloudy compared to the north.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Insect Encounters
According to forum posts, some travelers have experienced encounters with cockroaches and mosquitoes in Tenerife, though experiences vary by location and accommodation quality. While some visitors report seeing cockroaches, especially in older buildings or near food left out at accommodations, others have rarely or never seen them during their stays.
Mosquito Presence
Mosquitoes are not commonly mentioned as a major problem in Tenerife. Several users noted that they or their partners, who are typically prone to mosquito bites, have not been bitten or have encountered very few mosquitoes. The presence of mosquitoes seems to slightly increase following rain but remains low overall.
Preventative Measures
For those concerned about cockroaches, travelers have suggested ensuring clean accommodations and using products like roach barriers. Despite some concerns, the overall sentiment suggests that with proper precautions, the impact of insects can be minimized, allowing for an enjoyable stay in Tenerife.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?