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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
• 17 Charming Things to Do in Cordoba, Spain

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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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One Week in Tenerife: Itinerary for First-time Visitors

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

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

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

General tips for visiting Tenerife, Canary Islands

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

Top things to do in Tenerife

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

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

A 7-day itinerary for Tenerife

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

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

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

Puerto de la Cruz

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

Day 1: The city and beaches of Northeast Tenerife

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

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

Santa Cruz ♦

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

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

Las Teresitas ♦♦♦

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

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

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

La Laguna ♦♦♦

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

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

Where to eat in La Laguna

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

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Day 2: Meet Tenerife’s rainforest in Anaga

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

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

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

Parque Natural de Anaga ♦♦♦

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

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

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

Taganana and Benijo ♦♦

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

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

Las Carboneras ♦

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

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

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

La Orotava Botanical Gardens ♦♦

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

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

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

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

Casa del Vino de Tenerife ♦

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

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

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

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

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

Casa de los Balcones ♦

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

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

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

Parque del Drago ♦

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

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

Garachico ♦♦

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

Day 5: Harrowing drives through the coast and mountains

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

Punta de Teno ♦♦

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Beach life in Los Cristianos

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

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

Los Cristianos ♦♦♦

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

Things to do in Los Cristianos

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

Los Gigantes

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

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

Day 7: El Teide National Park

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

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

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

El Teide National Park ♦♦♦

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

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

Have you ever been somewhere like Tenerife?

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

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About the author

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

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

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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

Enjoyed reading my Tenerife itineraries? Pin it!

The BEST 3 Day Tenerife Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Although often thought of as just a beach destination, this 3-day Tenerife itinerary will show you much more of what the island has to offer.

Tenerife is a beautiful Spanish island that has something for everyone to enjoy, from towering mountain peaks to lush green valleys, the island provides a variety of landscapes to explore.

With so much to see and do, this guide will help you make the most of your time on the island.

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: TENERIFE ITINERARY

Where is tenerife.

Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, an autonomous community of Spain located in the Atlantic Ocean off the southwest coast of Morocco, Africa.

Tenerife is known for its black sand beaches, dramatic landscapes, and Teide National Park, which features Mount Teide, the highest point in Spain.

Click here for an interactive map of Tenerife .

BEST TIME TO VISIT TENERIFE?

The island has a subtropical climate with warm weather all year round, however, the best months to visit Tenerife are from April to June or from September to December when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

TENERIFE IN SUMMER

The average temperature in Tenerife in summer is 29°C, with highs of up to 44°C.

While it’s certainly hotter than the winter months, you will want to consider the crowds as Tenerife gets very busy in the summer.

Another reason to visit in the summer is to try surfing in Tenerife which is the best season for smaller waves if you’re a beginner.

TENERIFE IN WINTER

Tenerife and the Canary Islands have a mild climate and in fact, are the warmest places in Europe during the winter months.

In winter the islands experience average temperatures of around 20 degrees Celcius and it rarely rains.

It’s perfect weather for sightseeing and exploring the coastal towns and phenomenal volcanic landscapes.

CAN I VISIT TENERIFE ON A CRUISE?

Yes, you can! I personally visited Tenerife with P&O Cruises which offers many cruises to the Canary Islands and allows plenty of time to get off the ship and explore.

P&O Cruises has a shore experience program for the Canary Islands and Tenerife, from once-in-a-lifetime adventures to simple, convenient transfers, there is a huge range of experiences and fun-fuelled activities on offer for everyone to enjoy.

The brand new Fly-Canaries itineraries start in October 2022 and the ship Azura will be based in Tenerife for the full winter program.

In this guide, I’ll show you all the amazing things that Tenerife has to offer and which you’ll have the opportunity to experience when visiting Tenerife on one of the Canary Islands Fly-Cruises.

HOW TO GET AROUND TENERIFE?

The best way to get around Tenerife is by car. There are plenty of car rental agencies at the airport and in South Tenerife, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a vehicle that suits your needs.

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If you’re not comfortable driving in Tenerife, there are also plenty of taxis that can take you where you need to go. Just be sure to agree on a price with the driver before getting in, as taxi fares can be expensive.

Alternatively, a great option to get around is by joining a tour. Excursions are convenient and not as expensive as taxis and you’ll have a guide to show you the best parts of the island.

Last but not least, taking the bus (called “guaguas” by the locals) is a cheap and good option, but you won’t be able to reach more remote areas, which is surely what Tenerife is best known for.

To give you an idea, taking the bus from Adeje to El Portillo, which is about 1 hour away, will cost you 8 euros ($8) per person.

3-DAY TENERIFE ITINERARY

If you’re looking for an amazing European vacation destination that won’t break the bank, look no further than Tenerife.

Boasting an abundance of fun-fuelled adventures, stunning mountain scenery, and award-winning beaches, use this guide to plan your perfect 3-day Tenerife itinerary and experience it all.

DAY 1 IN TENERIFE

Start your trip by heading north to Los Gigantes, one of the most beautiful spots on the island, and go on a kayaking tour along the cliffs.

After spending some time paddling around, head over to Puerto Colón and jump on a catamaran cruise and whale-watching tour.

And lastly, enjoy a hearty dinner and show at the Hard Rock Cafe.

KAYAKING AT LOS GIGANTES

If you want to explore the stunning, dramatic coastline of Tenerife, then kayaking at Los Gigantes is a must.

The cliffs here tower over 600 meters above the water, making for an impressive sight.

Several companies offer kayaking tours from Los Gigantes, so you can easily find one that suits your needs and abilities.

The tours typically last for 2 hours, and you’ll paddle around the cliffs, stop for a swim, and even visit a nearby cave. It’s an amazing way to see this part of the island, and it’s also a great workout!

I took a tour with Teno Activo and, for only 30 Euros, you’ll get to paddle around for 2 hours in a double kayak with a friend or a new acquaintance.

Teno Activo also provides you with a drink, a photo book, and a life jacket if you’re not experienced.

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CATAMARAN CRUISE & WHALE WATCHING

A catamaran cruise is a perfect way to explore Tenerife’s coastline and see some of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

You can also go whale watching on a catamaran – an experience you won’t want to miss on your Tenerife itinerary!

I recommend Freebird Tenerife , which is the company I chose for the tour. They offer 3-hour tours to Costa Adeje and 4.5-hour tours to Los Gigantes and Masca.

This tour includes free pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, a specialized guide, and lunch and drinks on board. All this from 39 Euros per person!

HARD ROCK CAFE – DINNER & SHOW

After a hard day’s work kayaking and catamaran cruising, head on over to Hard Rock Cafe for dinner and a show.

The menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches, ribs, and salads, as well as a wide selection of entrees.

But there’s more… Hard Rock Cafe offers Happy Hour events almost every day from 5 pm to 7 pm and you can get your favorite drink and cocktail for 50% off while enjoying the rock and roll show.

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DAY 2 IN TENERIFE

After a fun-fuelled first day going kayaking, whale watching, and indulging, start day 2 with a visit to La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage town on the north side of the island.

Then spend the afternoon checking out Anaga Rural Park and exploring the volcanic landscapes of Tiede National Park!

LA LAGUNA UNESCO WORLD-HERITAGE TOWN

San Cristóbal de La Laguna, also known as La Laguna, is a UNESCO World Heritage town located in the north of Tenerife.

This lovely Spanish town was once the capital of the Canary Islands and is now a popular tourist destination.

The historic center of La Laguna is well-preserved, and its architecture is a mix of Spanish colonial and Canarian styles.

The streets are lined with colorful houses, and there are several beautiful churches to explore.

You can also enjoy plenty of souvenir shopping and dining options in town while exploring the different squares.

The nicest things to do and see in La Laguna include:

• Wander around Conception Square
• Visit Catedral de la Laguna
• Visit the House of the Captains General
• Relax at the Adelantado Square

With such a picturesque setting and friendly locals, visiting La Laguna is simply one of the Tenerife attractions you can’t skip.

ANAGA RURAL PARK

Just a short car ride from La Laguna Tenerife, you can find yourself in a world of calm and natural beauty.

Anaga Rural Park is a protected area of mountains, forests, and coastline that covers a big part of the island of Tenerife and is 14,419 hectares.

With its dramatic scenery and diverse plant and animal life, the park is a popular destination for walkers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.

Here, you’ll be able to hike, get to the different viewpoints, take in the amazing views of the sea, and even visit the terrace fields in El Batan.

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TIEDE NATIONAL PARK

Mount Teide, with its 3,715 meters and being one of Europe’s tallest volcanoes, is the highest point in Spain.

Climb to its peak or take the easier route and ride the cable car to the top. Either option, this is not to be missed on your Tenerife Itinerary.

The Teide National Park encompasses almost 200 square kilometers of land and offers diverse environments.

From pine forests to volcanic wasteland expanses, it’s sure to take your breath away.

There are a few hikes at the Teide National Park and, depending on which one you choose, you can easily spend the day here. The best hikes at Mount Teide are:

• Parador Nacional to Montaña Guajara Circuit Trail – Moderate/Difficult – 4.5 hours duration
• Roques de García Loop Trail – Easy – 1 to 1.5 hours duration
• Montaña de la Botija and Montaña Samara Circuit Trail – Easy – 2 hours duration

If hiking is not your thing, there are a few roadside viewpoints throughout the national park, and my personal favorite is the Valle de Ucanca viewpoint which overlooks a Mars-esque landscape!

To sum up, if you’re willing to spice up your Tenerife excursions, Tiede National Park is a must.

DAY 3 IN TENERIFE

For the last day of your 3-day itinerary, start the morning exploring Garachico Village, a quaint town on the north coast of the island known for its black lava beaches and colonial architecture.

Then for lunch, make your way to El Calderito de La Abuela, an unmissable dining experience in Tenerife.

And lastly, end the day on the golden shores of Playa de Las Teresitas.

For an alternate option on day 3, you could spend an entire day at Siam Park Water Kingdom, rated as the #1 waterpark in the world 8 consecutive times!

GARACHICO VILLAGE – TENERIFE ITINERARY

Founded in the 15th century by Cristobal de Ponte, a Genoese banker, Garachico is a lovely town located about 1 hour away from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Costa Adeje.

The town is situated on a rocky coastline and is known for its black lava beaches and stunning naturally formed rock pools.

In addition, Garachico is home to several important historical sites, including the Fortress of San Miguel, a 16th-century fort, and Plaza de la Libertad where you can chill and sip on a drink.

The town is a popular tourist destination in Tenerife and is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

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EL CALDERITO DE LA ABUELA

El Calderito de La Abuela is not just a restaurant, it’s an experience not to be missed in Tenerife!

Run by the Torres brothers Fabian and Mario, they enjoy their work as much as their customers enjoy their dishes and the atmosphere of their restaurant in the north of Tenerife.

Come and try the delicious Canarian cuisine dishes and specialties from the area, paired with a nice glass of wine and incredible views over Orotava Valley and the sea.

PLAYA DE LAS TERESITAS

The turquoise waters of Playa de Las Teresitas in Tenerife are a sight to behold.

The golden sand and palm trees create a postcard-perfect setting, and the gentle waves make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

The crescent-shaped beach has an awesome view and is a perfect place to take a dip and relax, not to mention it’s one of the most beautiful sand beaches in Spain.

You’ll also find numerous beach bars along the shoreline to grab a refreshing cocktail and something to nibble on.

SIAM PARK WATER KINGDOM

Siam Park is one of the most popular attractions in Tenerife, and it’s easy to see why.

With its theme inspired by Thailand (hence its name), sprawling grounds, dramatic slides, and lush landscaping, the park has something for everyone.

You can cool off in the lazy Mai Thai river, take a spin on the Mekong Rapids, or slide down the Tower of Power.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of sun loungers dotted around the park where you can soak up the Canary Island sun.

You’ll also find restaurants and bars inside the park.

All in all, whether you’re young and traveling with friends or a family with kids, Siam Park is one of the best places to visit in Tenerife.

WHERE TO STAY IN TENERIFE

Tenerife has hundreds of accommodations to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

LUXURY: GF VICTORIA

MID-RANGE: OLÉ TROPICAL TENERIFE

BUDGET: ENDLESS SUMMER HOUSE

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN TENERIFE, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for tenerife.

When visiting Tenerife, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

FINAL THOUGHTS – 3 DAY TENERIFE ITINERARY

Tenerife is a beautiful island located in the Atlantic Ocean and, as you understood in this guide, it offers something for everyone, even for short holidays.

No matter if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, an adventure-filled holiday, or simply some time by the beach, Tenerife has it all!

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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Fitness Holidays in

Tenerife, spain, for all travelling athletes.

Get in shape while You’re on holidays

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Our prices include much more than just having a good time.

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Our fitness holidays don’t have set dates –  you can stay one week or three months.

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Our fitness holidays are available all year. Any day. Any month.

Our "Come & Go" Fitness Holiday Packages

It has never been so easy to travel the world, meet like-minded people, and enjoy amazing workouts in beautiful destinations. Try it yourself and become part of the community of Travelling Athletes. No matter  whether you want  to travel to Bali or Greece, we will help you become a better YOU while you experience an unforgettable fitness holiday. Designed for individuals or groups, our super flexible “come & go” fitness holidays are perfect for all fitness levels and are available 365 days a year.  

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About Fitness Holidays   in Tenerife, Spain

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17 best family hotels in Tenerife for a Canary Islands break

All-inclusive hotel on the beach or five-star hideaway our expert picks the top places for families to stay in tenerife.

T enerife knows how to enjoy itself, and when it comes to fun family holidays the island is hard to beat. There’s masses going on year-round and even the most on-the-go families will find plenty to keep them entertained. One of Europe’s best waterparks, Thai-themed Siam Park, is here, as well as Loro Parque, a wildlife park known for its focus on sustainability. Visit in February and you can jump into the most spirited carnival outside Rio de Janeiro, but come any time and you’ll find sun-drenched sandy beaches aplenty.

Some of the world’s best whale and dolphin-watching can be had in the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera — and there are numerous boat trips to get you out there — while at Cueva del Viento you can walk through lava tubes and at Mount Teide you can even stand atop an active volcano. Rather relax? Hotels in Tenerife tend to be laid-back, the sort where exuberant toddler screams are met with a smile and there are free kids’ clubs and dedicated children’s pools. Book a stay at one of these places and you could choose to do nothing very much at all — here’s our pick of the best family hotels in Tenerife.

Main photo: Spring Hotel Bitacora, Playa de las Americas (Expedia)

1. H10 Atlantic Sunset, Costa Adeje

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for poolside fun

There’s bags of space at this gleaming Tenerife five-star, with family rooms comfortably sleeping up to five and huge balconies that stare out at the Atlantic. Outside you’ll find four swimming pools, only one of which is adult-only, so you can take your pick — though younger kids are bound to want to stick to the aquapark with its looping slide. There’s a playground right next to it, too, and plenty of loungers for ready-to-flop parents. Come dinnertime there’s plenty of choice, from the crowd-pleasing buffet to the Sakura Teppanyaki restaurant.

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2. Iberostar Las Dalias, Costa Adeje

££ | POOL | Best for sociable kids

Kids keen to scamper off to the hotel kids’ club? The Iberostar’s Star Camp will wow them with activities a cut above the usual hotel fare: think scientific experiments, escape rooms and painting workshops. There’s plenty for kids aged four to 17 — and an adult-only pool terrace for parents to escape to. In the evenings they can dance with their new friends at the mini disco and meet up for all-inclusive ice cream. Rooms come with either pool or sea views from the balcony and there are plenty of interconnecting rooms sleeping up to six.

3. Spring Hotel Bitacora, Playa de las Americas

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for family fun

If your family is more on-the-go than on-the-sun-lounger, this bright and bold hotel in the heart of Playa de las Américas was made for you. The main pool area features impressive slides, including a multi-lane option for racing, and there’s a large alfresco play area with zip line, climbing wall and basketball court. Rooms are simple but spacious enough to sleep up to four and you’re just ten minutes from both a sandy beach (on foot) and Siam Park waterpark (by car). Come nightfall there’s a daily mini disco and kids’ film screening.

4. Hovima La Pinta, Costa Adeje

££ | POOL | Best for extroverts and fun-seekers

You couldn’t have easier access to the beach than this — golden sands start from the edge of the pool terrace and most of the bedrooms face the sea. The hotel is decked out in jaunty nautical colours and there’s an emphasis on fun, with an interactive virtual aquarium, splash park and near-constant entertainment. It’s not for those seeking peace and quiet, but this is the sort of hotel where the kids make friends around the pool and the staff encourage you to join in. There’s free wi-fi throughout too.

5. Gran Melia Palacio de Isora, Guia de Isora

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for water babies

You won’t want to leave the vast saltwater pool at this five-star palace, and admittedly there’s little in the local area to tempt you to. This is a hotel for the somnolent, those who seek a palm under which to recline while the children splash in the various outdoor swimming pools, one of which even has a pirate ship. With multiple à la carte restaurants, even the fussiest palates are catered for, though it’s worth encouraging the kids to try the excellent teppanyaki at the hotel’s Nami restaurant. The garden villas feature private pools.

6. Royal Hideaway Corales Suites, La Caleta

££ | POOL | Best for seafood lunches

A gated, heated pool, babysitting service and huge suites large enough for an extra bed or two make the Corales Suites one of the most appealing hotels in the Canary Islands for young families. All rooms have a private deck with sea view for parents to retreat to come nap time; for lunch, it’s a short amble down to La Caleta, an old fishing village with a boatload of seafood restaurants. Book a babysitter and head out for an evening next door, at its sister hotel’s Rincon de Juan Carlos rooftop restaurant, where local chefs the Padron brothers serve a gourmet tasting menu.

7. Hard Rock Hotel, Costa Adeje

£ | SPA | POOL | Best for rocking out

Forget mini discos, this music-obsessed hotel has Fender guitars and amps for your room, plus video guitar lessons and personalised playlists, so you can party with the kids at any hour. There are regular gigs and events around the Lago pool to boot, and the Roxity kids’ clubs get children of all ages rocking and rolling. Chill out after all that activity by the family pool and go all-inclusive to save the hassle of those endless ice cream requests. Rooms are glam, with sleek decor and Atlantic views.

8. The Ritz-Carlton Abama, Guia de Isora

£££ | SPA | POOL | Best for a hassle-free holiday

One of the most luxurious hotels in Tenerife, this five-star resort has thought of everything. Book all the gear — from buggies and car seats to sterilisers and potties — in advance and get ready to stretch out in palatial rooms, which come with some of the largest balconies on the island and glorious views across to La Gomera. Want a swimming pool? There are seven. A Michelin-starred dinner? Head to Abama Kabuki for Japanese (over-sixes only). Golf and tennis facilities are close by and there’s a beach club on the golden sands just below the hotel.

• Read our full review of the Ritz-Carlton Abama

9. Bahia del Duque, Costa Adeje

£££ | SPA | POOL | Best for old-school style

Bang in the centre of the action of Costa Adeje, this was Tenerife’s original luxury hotel and it has never let its standards slip. One of the island’s best white-sand beaches is reached via the gorgeous tiered gardens — and the pedestrianised promenade that passes the hotel makes walking anywhere along the coast a breeze. It’ll take you about an hour to reach Las Americas. All is classic elegance here, from the chic rooms to the uniformed staff. There are five pools and more restaurants and bars than you’ll manage to visit in a week.

• Read our full review of Bahia del Duque

• Best things to do in Tenerife • Best villas in Tenerife

10. GF Gran Costa Adeje, Costa Adeje

£ | SPA | POOL | Best for value

The rooms here may not win any style awards, but there’s space and light aplenty and the best have views across the palm-fringed pool to the Atlantic. Most guests opt for all-inclusive, and the buffet at La Finca is generous, but it’s worth upgrading to have at least one dinner at poolside La Laja, where dishes are creative and make full use of the island’s excellent produce. You won’t get bored here: there’s a play area for the kids, shows every evening and numerous activities from mini golf to billiards.

11. Roca Nivaria Gran Hotel, Costa Adeje

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for keeping the children busy

Everything here is child-focused. There’s a pool with waterslides and flumes, a playground with climbing and clambering areas and a buffet restaurant where the food is served from a pirate ship. Everything is brightly coloured and somewhat in your face, but the mini club takes little ones from as young as ten months and prices are all-inclusive, so who’s complaining? Adults can slope off to the spa, home to a thalassotherapy circuit, lounge by the infinity pool, or take advantage of a discount at Las Americas golf course in Playa de las Americas.

12. Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife, Golf del Sur

£££ | SPA | POOL | Best for all-out entertainment

Few family hotels provide entertainment as exceptional as you’ll find here, with performances reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil in the theatre and a nightly light show around the pool. At the hotel’s centre is one of Tenerife’s best splash pools, complete with miniature waterpark and overlooked by a castle fit for Cinderella. Food is copious rather than haute cuisine, so take the short walk to neighbouring Los Abrigos for harbourside restaurants serving local seafood. The entire hotel is designed to be buggy-friendly and bedrooms are huge, with loads of space for extra beds.

13. Hotel Botanico, Puerto de la Cruz

£ | SPA | POOL | Best for tropical lounging

Perhaps Tenerife’s most immediately enticing hotel, the Botanico is set in blooming tropical gardens with views from its balconies of Teide’s volcanic cone. Service is exemplary and the spa garden, with its thermal circuit and alfresco massages, is the perfect retreat for frazzled parents. Families are offered connecting rooms and all the restaurants, from Brunelli’s steakhouse to the Oriental Thai restaurant, have dishes designed for children. There’s also a kids’ club in the school holidays.

14. Hotel Tivoli La Caleta, Costa Adeje

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for a car-free holiday

Lagoon-style pools and mature gardens form the heart of this hotel, pulling you out from your room and down towards the Atlantic. The pedestrian promenade runs between the hotel and the beach, making for a pleasant stroll to the restaurants of La Caleta or into the resort centre of Costa Adeje — and you can take an easy hike to the top of Mirador Palomas for views along the coast. Several sandy beaches are within walking distance and there’s a heated children’s pool and kids’ club for little ones.

15. Royal Garden Villas, Costa Adeje

£££ | SPA | POOL | Best for seclusion and serenity

Set in lush gardens and offering villas with private pools, this is one of Tenerife’s most luxurious options for families. Compared with much of the surrounding Costa Adeje, this is a quiet area, and what you lose in proximity to the beach you gain in tranquillity. Up to six can share a villa here, with either two or three bedrooms, and you can order room service at all hours, perhaps eating dinner alfresco while the children sleep soundly inside.

16. Iberostar Selection Anthelia, Costa Adeje

££ | SPA | POOL | Best for location

Children’s pool complete with slides and pirate ship? Check. Direct access to the Costa Adeje promenade? Check. Huge gardens, kids’ club, spa? Check, check, check. This is the hotel you book if you want it all, with white-sand Fañabe beach immediately outside. It’s just a five-minute walk to Puerto Colon harbour for dolphin-spotting boat trips and less than that to Plaza del Duque for shopping, but prepare to find it very hard to leave the hotel’s tranquil grounds — we bet you’ll keep finding yourselves having just one more afternoon by the pool(s) instead.

• Read our full review of Iberostar Selection Anthelia

17. Hotel Suite Villa Maria, Costa Adeje

£ | SPA | POOL | Best for babies and toddlers

When you’ve got little ones in tow, it’s mighty reassuring to think everyone else has too, which is why this chilled hotel focuses firmly on the young family market. You’ll get a villa rather than a room, with kitchen facilities and bags of space for keeping your distance come nap time. But you’ll also have the services of a hotel, including buffet breakfast, kids’ club and the all-important daily housekeeping. For a spot of luxury, book a villa with a private pool or even a hot tub.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Tenerife • Best hotels with swim-up rooms in Tenerife

Take me there

Inspired to visit Tenerife but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from BA Holidays and Jet2 Holidays .

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Related articles

Do I need a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife?

Do you have your flight booked to Tenerife, but are unsure if you need a fit to fly certificate? You’re not alone. Many travelers find themselves in a similar predicament, wondering if this document is necessary for their trip. In this article, we will dive deep into the topic, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. From statistics and expert opinions to real-life anecdotes, we will present the facts that support the importance of a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife. So, let’s get started! In this article, you will find:

1. The significance of a fit to fly certificate: Discover why airlines and destinations like Tenerife require this document, and the potential consequences of not having one.

2. The requirements for obtaining a fit to fly certificate: Learn about the medical assessments and tests that may be required, and how to go about obtaining this certificate.

3. Expert opinions and studies: Explore the opinions of health professionals and experts in the field, backed by studies and research, to understand the importance of ensuring a safe journey.

4. Real-life experiences: Hear stories of individuals who have faced the dilemma of a fit to fly certificate and how it impacted their travel plans.

5. Tips and resources: Get practical advice on how to make the process of obtaining a fit to fly certificate easier and smoother, including links to reliable resources.

By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the necessity of a fit to fly certificate for your trip to Tenerife, ensuring a stress-free journey and peace of mind. So, let’s dive into the details and unravel the mystery surrounding this important travel document.

Navigating the Fit to Fly Certificate Requirements for Traveling to Tenerife

The issue of whether one needs a fit to fly certificate for traveling to Tenerife has been a topic of discussion among travelers recently. Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a popular destination known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. As travel restrictions are gradually easing globally, many people are eagerly planning their dream vacations to places like Tenerife. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has introduced additional complexities and requirements for air travel.

To ensure the safety of all passengers and prevent the spread of the virus, various countries and airlines have implemented protocols and guidelines. These measures aim to minimize the risk of transmission during flights, particularly for individuals who may be more susceptible to severe illness, such as those with pre-existing medical conditions.

In the case of Tenerife, the policy on fit to fly certificates depends on your departure location and any applicable regulations set by the airline you are flying with. It is advised to thoroughly research and familiarize yourself with the requirements to ensure a smooth journey.

If you are departing from a country that does not have specific fit to fly certificate requirements for Tenerife, it is still recommended to check with your airline to determine if they have any additional protocols in place. Some airlines may have their own policies regarding fit to fly certificates, even if they are not mandated by the destination country.

For travelers coming from countries that require a fit to fly certificate, it is crucial to understand the specific requirements set by the local authorities. These requirements may include the need to obtain a negative COVID-19 test result within a specified timeframe before departure or a certificate from a healthcare professional stating that you are fit to fly.

It is also worth noting that fit to fly certificates may not solely be related to COVID-19. In some cases, they may be required for individuals with certain medical conditions or during specific stages of pregnancy. Again, it is essential to consult with your airline and review the guidelines provided by the Tenerife authorities to ensure compliance.

To obtain a fit to fly certificate, individuals may need to visit a certified medical professional who can assess their health condition and provide the necessary documentation. This process often involves a medical examination and may require presenting relevant medical records or test results.

In summary, the need for a fit to fly certificate for traveling to Tenerife depends on various factors such as your departure location, airline requirements, and any specific regulations set by the local authorities. It is advisable to thoroughly research and understand the guidelines provided by your airline and the Tenerife authorities to ensure a hassle-free journey. Additionally, travelers should consider consulting with a medical professional to obtain the required documentation, if necessary, before their departure.

Do I need a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife: Conclusions

In this article, we have learned that a fit to fly certificate may be required when traveling to Tenerife. This certificate is a medical document that confirms an individual’s fitness to travel by air. It is often required for those who have certain medical conditions or are at risk of transmitting contagious diseases. The need for a fit to fly certificate can vary depending on the airline and destination, so it is important to check with your airline and the local authorities in Tenerife before your trip. Additionally, we have discussed the process of obtaining a fit to fly certificate, which typically involves a medical assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

In conclusion, if you are planning to travel to Tenerife, it is advisable to check whether a fit to fly certificate is required. This will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, as well as comply with the necessary health and safety regulations. Remember to consult with your airline and the local authorities for the most up-to-date information.

If you found this article helpful, we invite you to explore our blog for more informative content on travel-related topics. Don’t forget to share this article on your social media profiles to help others who may also be wondering about the need for a fit to fly certificate when traveling to Tenerife.

Do I need a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife: Faqs

What is a fit to fly certificate for tenerife.

A fit to fly certificate for Tenerife is a document that certifies that a person is in good health and fit to travel to Tenerife. It is usually required by airlines and authorities as a precautionary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Do I need a fit to fly certificate to travel to Tenerife due to COVID-19?

Yes, currently it is mandatory to present a fit to fly certificate when traveling to Tenerife due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This certificate ensures that you are not infected with the virus and reduces the risk of spreading it to others during your journey.

Where can I get a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife?

You can obtain a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife by contacting a certified medical professional or a designated testing facility. They will conduct the necessary tests, such as a COVID-19 PCR test, and provide you with the certificate if you meet the required criteria.

How long is a fit to fly certificate valid for Tenerife?

The validity of a fit to fly certificate for Tenerife may vary depending on the airline and local regulations. Generally, it is recommended to have the certificate issued within 72 hours before your departure to ensure it is still valid upon arrival in Tenerife.

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Tenerife Packing List: What To Bring & NOT To Bring

It’s time to start packing for your Tenerife vacation! But are you wondering what to bring and (just as important!) what NOT to bring to Tenerife? Well, you need more than just bathing suits, that’s for sure.

Even the coast can get windy and chilly from time to time, and to get to know this incredibly varied island beyond the beaches, it’s important to consider different elevations and climates when packing. Like micro-climates, or the continental mountain climate of Teide vs. the subtropical climate of the coast. So let’s see what to pack for Tenerife – and what to leave at home!

Weather in Tenerife

Teide National Park in March

Tenerife is the island of eternal spring (not summer!). Temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities for most of the year, but it’s not beach weather all year – though that depends on how you define beach weather, as well. The ocean temperatures are between 18-25°C throughout the year, with 18-20°C on average in the winter months and 20-24°C on average in the summer months. Water actually tends to be the warmest in September.

Here’s an overview of the average temperatures of three different areas throughout the year: the subtropical coast, Mount Teide and La Laguna in the more rainy, northern area of the island.

Read this post, too: 10 Things You Should Know Before Traveling To Tenerife

Travel essentials

• passport (or personal ID card for EU citizens)
• travel insurance
• debit or credit card
• cash (a small amount of EUR is enough for small purchases or tips): use a local ATM or visit a local bank to get cash; don’t go to a currency conversion counter inside the airport, they have the worst rates

Packing accessories

• backpack or suitcase
• packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized
• toiletry organizer : it comes with a hanging strap, so it’s quick and easy to carry and hang up even in a shared bathroom
• collapsible backpack as a day bag: for snacks, drinks, extra layers, camera

Basic clothing

will you spend most of your time on the beach? list all the activities you need clothes for

Choose light-colored clothing which naturally repels the sun. Cotton, linen or viscose are great materials for everyday wear in hot weather as they’re breezy and good at temperature regulation. But for hiking (or other athletic activities), choose polyester or nylon as they’re moisture-wicking and dry fast.

• breathable underwear
• a few pairs of shorts
• hiking pants (or leggings): one or two pairs, depending on how much hiking you plan to do
• maximum 1 pair of jeans (optional): jeans are heavy and probably too much for Tenerife’s coastal climate (and they’re the worst for hiking!); pack a pair if you prefer them as everyday wear, otherwise you’re good without it
• bathing suit(s)
• lightweight long sleeve : weather can be too chilly for T-shirts when hiking in Teide National Park or in the Anaga Mountains, but a sweater might be too much, especially when hiking uphill; a lightweight, synthetic long sleeve is the most comfortable solution
• sweater/hoodie: one is usually enough
• sun hat : both for the beach and for unshaded trails
• rain jacket: it can be useful on extremely windy beaches, too

Read this post, too: Best Hiking Jackets For Each Season

• hiking shoes or boots: not sneakers, they’re not safe on most trails; you won’t even be allowed on trails like the Masca Canyon without having proper hiking footwear (yes, park rangers will actually check it)
• hiking socks
• walking sandal : if you plan longer sightseeing walks that won’t be comfortable in flip-flops
• water shoes for rocky and pebbly beaches

Outdoor accessories & toiletries

• basic toiletries (shampoo and conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush)
• sunscreen : sunscreen is essential both for the beach and for hiking, especially in Teide National Park as the sun at those altitudes is very strong!
• moisturizer
• long-sleeved rash guard for extra skin protection on the beach
• dry bag : to keep your valuables safe on boat trips or on the beach
• travel towels : what makes a great travel towel? being extremely lightweight and quick-drying
• beach mat (or an extra beach towel to sit on)
• water bottle or hydration reservoir : the latter barely takes up any space when empty!
• beach cover-up for women : not just for going to the beach, but also for walking around and sightseeing if paired with leggings or shorts and a top

Do you need winter clothes?

chilly morning in Teno Rural Park in March

There’s no winter on the coast, but there is up in Teide National Park. If you visit between December and January, the temperatures in Teide are around freezing. Combined with strong winds, it’s a real winter, so bring some extra layers:

• fleece jacket ( women | men ) or down jacket ( women | men ) as an insulating mid-layer under your windbreaker
• thick socks
• extra sweater
• winter coat or parka (optional): you’ll likely have this when you travel, anyway, because it’s winter time at home; on the other hand, it’s the most useful if you plan to do a Teide road trip with lots of stops and walking around viewpoints, but not much hiking. It might be too bulky when hiking, a down jacket with a windbreaker is more practical for that.

To save space in your luggage, wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothes instead of packing them. Hoodie or sweater, a large scarf that’s the size of a blanket, a down jacket or winter coat – and your sturdy hiking boots, too!

What not to pack for Tenerife?

Beach umbrella. While umbrellas are fine for beach vacation road trips, they’re not worth the hassle if you fly. There are other ways to protect your skin from the sun: natural shade, rental umbrellas, protective clothing and sunscreen. If your skin is very sensitive (or you travel with a baby), take a compact, easily packable beach tent to make sure you have shade even on the most deserted beaches. A beach tent is also more resistant to strong winds than an umbrella.

Snorkeling set. On one hand, a quality snorkeling set makes for the best snorkeling experience, but on the other hand, flying with a carry-on only saves lots of money and snorkeling sets take up too much space. If you’re planning to go on an organized snorkeling tour, you’ll get equipment for snorkeling, anyway. If you’re flying from overseas with checked-in luggage, pack your favorite set. But leave the fins out, have water shoes instead.

Surf boards or boogie boards. Obviously, right? You can rent water sport equipment on the spot.

Multiple sweaters and jeans. They’re bulky, heavy clothes, and you likely won’t need them on most days even on a winter visit. Have one versatile sweater if you visit in winter (and wear it on your travel days, too). A lightweight sweater and a thin pair of leggings is more than enough for a summer visit, you’ll mostly wear shorts, sleeveless tops or beach cover ups.

Snacks. Stock up on food in a supermarket once you arrive. You can buy anything from granola bars, dried fruits or crackers on the spot, there’s no need to waste your storage space for them.

Read more of our Tenerife travel guides:

• Best Beaches In Tenerife: White Sand, Black Sand & More
• 6 Best Natural Pools In Tenerife
• Best Things To Do In Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife
• Hiking Tenerife: 14 Amazing Trails For The Average Hiker

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

By Beata Urmos

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

Thank you so much- well thought out, clear, and much appreciated! Yours was the best of every site I checked out- Cheers!

Thanks, Robin, we’re glad you find it truly helpful. Enjoy your trip!

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Best Time To Go To Tenerife – When To Plan A Tenerife Holiday?

Tenerife is said to be the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands that is well known for its beaches and adventures. But the island can be best enjoyed if you choose an ideal time to visit Tenerife. Compared to any other islands, Tenerife weather is quite mild and pleasant which makes it a popular holiday destination in Spain. Though Tenerife can be visited all year round, you can only make the most out of it if you know the best time to visit Tenerife. Wondering when to plan? This article will help you.

Here, find out the best time to go on a holiday to Tenerife and a lot more detail into all the different experiences that you can get in different seasons.

What is the best time to visit Tenerife?

Tenerife is blessed with a subtropical climate offering a pleasant climate throughout the year. Though Tenerife having attractive weather at any time of the year, you must decide what suits the best for you. For that, take a look at the below-mentioned things about Tenerife weather.

• Tenerife in Spring
• Tenerife in Summer
• Tenerife in Autumn
• Tenerife in Winter
• Visit during the spring and autumn months if you are looking for a cheap Tenerife holiday and not too much into festivals.
• And visit during the summer and winter when Semana Santa and New Year celebrations happen if your prime focus is to have a lively Tenerife holiday but beware the expenses would be high.

1. Tenerife in Spring

Spring months Tenerife: March to May Average Tenerife weather spring: 23-degree Celsius Average Tenerife daylight and sunshine hours in spring: 12 hours of daylight and 8 hours of sunshine Average spring rainfall Tenerife : 10 mm

The months of spring in Tenerife are pleasant and experience average weather in the mid 20 degrees. Though it might vary in different locations on Tenerife, it is considered to be pleasant all around the island. It is also said to have the best sea temperature which is a perfect time for swimming. The best part about going on a holiday to Tenerife in spring is Semana Santa. It is a famous event that includes various religious processions, a week before Easter. Since it is a very important holiday and an amazing way of experiencing Spanish culture, it is no wonder that Semana Santa during spring is a good time to visit Tenerife.

During spring, in such a beautiful climate, you can not find enough reasons to not visit the beach and dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters. And yes, not to forget, the onset of spring is one of the times where you can witness snow in Mount Teide. Since it is not the most-visited time, you can have a relaxing Tenerife spring holiday.

2. Tenerife in Summer

Summer months Tenerife: June to August Average Tenerife weather summer: 30-degree Celsius Average Tenerife daylight and sunshine hours in summer: 13 hours of daylight and 9 hours of sunshine Average summer rainfall Tenerife: 3 mm

‘Summer Vacation’ – The one term we would have surely come across. It is said that Tenerife is one of the many beautiful islands for a summer holiday in Spain. This is exactly why people flock here in summer. You can expect the flight and hotel rates to go up as summer is one of the busiest months to visit Tenerife.

Wondering what to do on your Tenerife summer holiday? Here it goes. As it is quite obvious that the Tenerife summer weather is high, you can jump into the waters on the beach and get the best swimming experience. And because the island gets almost null rainfall, can you resist yourself from imagining how amazing your sightseeing at this place is going to be?

So, if you are looking for a lively Tenerife holiday, then summer is the best time to go on a Tenerife holiday.

3. Tenerife in Autumn

Autumn months Tenerife: September to November Average Tenerife weather autumn: 26-degree Celsius Average Tenerife daylight and sunshine hours in autumn: 11 hours of daylight and 8 hours of sunshine Average autumn rainfall Tenerife: 8 mm

Followed by the heavy summer months, the onset of Autumn seems to be quite hot and the temperature seems to fall as the months go by. The weather is pretty good to explore the best of Tenerife as there wouldn’t be much rainfall during these months.

But what’s special about planning Tenerife autumn holiday? Since the climate seems quite pleasant with no rainfall, it becomes a perfect time to go hiking the thrilling trails including one inside Teide National Park. Just because the watersports weren’t mentioned at first, doesn’t mean that it’s a bad time. You can either hike or sightsee or swim – Whichever you would like or even try everything out.

More than being a usual Tenerife holiday, visiting this island in autumn is a little exciting and adventurous.

4. Tenerife in Winter

Winter months Tenerife: December to February Average Tenerife weather winter: 18-degree Celsius Average Tenerife daylight and sunshine hours in winter: 10 hours of daylight and 6 hours of sunshine Average winter rainfall Tenerife: 40 mm

It’s time for some freezing cold. Though every location in Tenerife wouldn’t be freezing, the places of high altitudes such as Vilaflor experience much lower temperature. But remember visiting Tenerife during winter would be one of the wettest days that you could have.

But let’s forget about the heavy winter rains. Don’t you think the winter sun would be amazing? Just imagine yourself taking a stroll in one of the beaches with the most romantic climate and the cool breeze against your face. Also, the best celebration of the year would be the one from Christmas to New Year and the best time to plan any trip. So why not Tenerife this time? Enjoy these amazing festivals in Tenerife like no other. So, that’s everything about visiting Tenerife in winter.

Get your jackets ready to break the freezing cold and enjoy the most out of your Tenerife winter holiday.

So, what next?

Doesn’t visiting Tenerife sound like a perfect getaway? Hope the season-wise weather guide to Tenerife helped you plan your holiday better. So, it’s time that you visit this incredible island and discover the best of Tenerife.

But wait. There is a quick tip. If you are planning to visit Tenerife in one of its peak seasons, then make sure you book the package in advance. Now that you know the best time to visit Tenerife, what are you waiting for? Visit the website of Pickyourtrail to book your holiday by checking out some amazing holiday packages to Spain . Reach out to us via Whatsapp in case of any inquires.

Unwrap Tenerife with Pickyourtrail!

Preetha Manivelan

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Related posts, 10 best restaurants in tenerife, spain for a comfort and ease vacation.

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Best Time to Visit Tenerife - When to go for a sunny holiday

Tenerife is the largest and most popular of the Canary Islands and during the past years, tourism has grown, reaching 6 million tourists in 2016. With these numbers, it's clear that the island has become a popular tourist destination, especially for European visitors. 

When to visit Tenerife

Visit tenerife in spring, visit tenerife in summer, visit tenerife in autumn, visit tenerife in winter, tenerife low season - when is the cheapest time to visit tenerife.

A few facts about Tenerife as a tourist destination

• Tenerife is a year-round destination
• Bars, restaurants and attractions don't close up for winter
• Winter is actually a busy time in Tenerife and the Canary Islands in general
• The south of the island is warmer than the north

Tenerife is a year-round tourist destination, due to its beautiful, warm and sunny weather throughout all seasons. 

There is a difference in temperatures during the winter season between the south of the island and the north of the island, which gets considerably cooler, so it's best to stay in the south of Tenerife if you're coming over in one of the winter months.

Tenerife is known as the island of the eternal spring as it gets temperatures in the mid-20s even during winter and spring.

The busiest time in Tenerife in spring is during the Easter period, especially the week before Easter, known as Semana Santa (Holy Week). During this time there are a lot of religious processions as it is a very important holiday in the Spanish culture, so many Spaniards take time off for a holiday and choose to come to the island to enjoy the beautiful weather.

The prices for accommodation and flights go up during Semana Santa in Tenerife and it gets very busy, so if you're after a more relaxed atmosphere, just avoid this time frame.

February and March are the months when it's most likely to snow on Teide and the weather, in general, is more fickle and moody, since the seasons are changing from winter to spring. 

If you're choosing to visit Tenerife in Spring and you're looking for warm weather, we would suggest you choose accommodation in the Tenerife south area : Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Playa San Juan and also Puerto de Santiago and Los Gigantes.

Summer is one of the 2 high seasons in Tenerife.

The island gets very busy during the summer months, especially between July and August, during the school summer holiday.

Tenerife is transformed during summer, chances of rain are almost null, temperatures often rise above 30°C during the day and there's the threat of calima, which sometimes happens during the summer season (at that point the temperatures often rise to abnormal values and it gets very hot).

However, Tenerife is beautiful and lively during the summer months and if you want to go swimming all day long, this is the best time to visit Tenerife.

Summer is also the perfect season to explore the north of Tenerife - you can choose to stay in Puerto de la Cruz and from there explore the beaches in Taganana, the Anaga forest or the natural pools in Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo.

If you're planning a holiday in Tenerife in July or August, make sure to book in advance, as the prices skyrocket and you might end up paying a small fortune.

Summer is also when people in their 20s choose to visit Tenerife and they usually choose the area around Playa de las Americas, where most clubs in Tenerife are located. Also, during the summer there are more music festivals and beach parties, so its a popular time for partygoers, who enjoy long nights out, followed by lazy days on the beach.

If you want to visit the island in summer, but you want to get away from the noise and the crowds, read our article about where to stay in Tenerife .

The month of September is usually still as hot as August and July, but by October the temperatures cool down a little, staying below 30°C most days.

It's the ideal season to walk and explore Tenerife on foot, not just spend time at the beach.

Autumn in Tenerife means that families with school-aged children leave the island and they are replaced by visitors from northern Europe, mostly couples, who come here to escape the cold back home.

The north and the south both have pleasant temperatures, so it's again the perfect season to go hiking in the north or to explore the trails inside Teide National Park.

Winter is Tenerife's second high season  since the Canary Islands are the warmest place in Europe , situated only 3-4 hours away from the mainland. 

When the rest of Europe is covered in snow, people in Tenerife are still enjoying temperatures above 20°C and sunny days on the beach.

The pace is a bit slower compared to summer since most of the visitors are elder couples from northern Europe who come here for the mild weather (the so-called "swallows").

Winter visitors in Tenerife are different from summer tourists and the days seem more relaxed and chilled, with fewer young people arriving in Las Americas for partying all night long.

If you're worried about the weather in Tenerife during winter, you can read more details in our article about the hottest Canary Island during winter ,

Also, see more photos and info about Tenerife in December , if you're thinking of spending a Christmas or New Year's Eve in the sun.

If you're looking for a cheap holiday in Tenerife, then you should avoid the summer months and also the months of December, January and February.

February is usually carnival month, with the carnival in Tenerife being the second largest in the world after the one in Rio de Janeiro.

Other busy and expensive times are Christmas , New Year's Even and Easter, so you should avoid those times also.

Low season in Tenerife means the months of October (except October half-term week), November and March, April, May, with the exception of Easter break.

During these months you'll find the best flight deals to Tenerife, as well as cheaper accommodation.

But if you're looking for a cheap holiday in Tenerife, you should still book ahead of time, since the island is pretty full all year long, especially since other beach destinations preferred by Britons have suffered setbacks due to safety reasons.

The upside is that Tenerife is a year-round resort island, meaning that you can enjoy its beauty at any time of the year since none of the attractions close down for winter or any other time.

Even during the winter months, when the ocean water is colder compared to the summer months, you still have plenty of heated pools as an alternative or water parks such as Siam Park, where you can enjoy swimming without having to worry about the water temperature.

So if you're wondering when it's the cheapest time to visit Tenerife, definitely go for one of the autumn or spring months and you'll still enjoy a fabulous time on this privileged island.

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

FAQ about the best time of the year for a holiday in Tenerife

In our opinion, the best months to visit Tenerife are December, February and March, when it's cold everywhere else in Europe, but your criteria may differ, depending on what you're looking for in a holiday.

Statistically, the winter months of January and February register the lowest temperatures, but it's still much warmer than continental Europe. Also, Tenerife south is much warmer than the north.

Tenerife Weather in February - Is it warm?

Tenerife Weather in March - How Hot is the South?

15 Best Things To Do in Tenerife South - Beach, Tours, Activities

10 Best Things To Do in Tenerife North

Where To Stay in Tenerife - 10 Best Areas & Hotels 2024/2025

Tenerife Weather in October - Is It Still Hot?

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Spain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Spanish Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Spain.

Passport validity requirements

Spain follows Schengen area rules . Your passport must: 

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area , which includes Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: 

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Spain are different.  

If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. 

If you are visiting Spain and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must  apply to the immigration authorities (‘Extranjería’) (in Spanish).

Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.

If you’re a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

British nationals living in Spain do not need their passports to be stamped. Actively show your proof of residence, such as the foreigner’s identity card (‘la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero’ or ‘TIE’), when presenting your passport at Spanish border control. 

At Spanish border control, you may need to show:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of your travel insurance
• you have enough money for your stay - the amount varies depending on your accommodation
• a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if you’re staying at your own property
• an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family, such as a ‘carta de invitation’ completed by your hosts

Using the e-gates

Use the desks staffed by border officers. If you’re aged 18 or over, and airport staff instruct you to, you may be able to use e-gates when they are working.

If you use an e-gate, make sure you get your passport stamped.

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period 

To stay longer, you must meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements . If you’re in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit. 

Read more about passport stamping if you live in Spain . 

If you cannot return to the UK before your visa-free limit expires,  contact the Spanish government’s national information service . Dial 060 from a Spanish phoneline (in Spanish, with English speaking operators available).

Travelling between Spain and Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays when crossing between Spain and Gibraltar. If you are travelling to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for entry requirements for Gibraltar .

There is no charge to enter or leave Gibraltar. Do not hand over money to anybody claiming there is a charge.

Unaccompanied minors

Spanish law considers anyone aged 17 and under to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital), they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minor’s centre until a parent or guardian is found.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Spain guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods can be taken into and out of Spain (PDF) . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Spain

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries . There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons. 

Taking money into Spain

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.

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Top tips for getting around Tenerife, from sky-high road trips to coastal cycle rides

Jun 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Tenerife has an efficient bus service that covers a sizable chunk of the island © svf74 / Shutterstock

Tenerife is an island, but it’s a big one, particularly when you venture off the autopista (highway) and onto the narrow roads that rollercoaster into the remote mountains rippling across the north. 

If you’re planning a road trip, you’ll be in your element on Tenerife, breezing through otherworldly landscapes with the volcanic peak of Teide hovering on the horizon, or feeling your stomach flip as you career along cliff-edge roads with the Atlantic raging far below. 

Renting a car makes it easier to reach off-the-radar places, but you can get around Tenerife in plenty of other ways. Buses dash between the big towns and resorts for small change, and inexpensive shuttles make airport transfers a breeze. If you want to go greener, rent a bike or an e-bike to see the island in glorious slow motion. 

Here are eight of the best ways to get around on your visit to Tenerife.

Rent a car to reach the beach and Tenerife's volcanic heights

With its cinematic volcanic landscapes and coastlines, Tenerife can be a joy to explore by car, but twisty roads and tailgating buses in the mountainous north can put even the most confident drivers on edge.

The island is pretty easy to navigate, especially if you stick to the big roads. The TF-1 highway links the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife  in the northeast to Costa Adeje in the southwest, while the TF-5 highway connects Santa Cruz to Puerto de la Cruz in the north. But more fun – and gear-crunching, camera-grabbing drama – awaits on the roads that swing around hairpin bends up to Teide National Park (TF-21), Masca (TF-436) and the Anaga Rural Park (TF-12). Avoid peak season if you don’t want to be harassed by impatient bus and coach drivers. The highways also can get jam-packed at rush hour. 

Finding a free parking space, particularly near the beach, can be a headache, especially in high season when roads are full of cars trying to cram into too few spaces (make sure you don’t park on any yellow lines). Paid parking generally costs around €1.80 an hour, which adds up over the course of a vacation, so it’s worth seeing if your accommodations offer parking. Never leave valuables in cars, as petty thieves have been known to pounce quickly in towns and resorts.

All the major car rental companies have desks at Tenerife South Airport, with car rental costing a reasonable €15 a day on average. If you want to up your eco game, Cicar rents out electric cars, and Chargemap lists e-vehicle charging points around the island.

Take the quick route to your resort in a taxi or shuttle

Ride-hailing services like Uber have yet to reach Tenerife, but official white taxis with meters are readily available at airports, in resorts and at taxi ranks in bigger towns. If you want to call one, good options include Servitaxi Tenisur in the south and 24-hour Official Taxi island-wide. Make sure you get an estimated cost for your journey before hopping in. A short 15-minute ride – from Tenerife South Airport to Playa de las Americas, for instance – will set you back around €26.

If you're traveling solo or as a couple, it’s cheaper to jump aboard one of the many shuttle buses that ply the island, doing the airport and door-to-door resort rounds. Some also offer affordable private transfers. Reputable companies include Holiday Extras and Hoppa . You can expect to pay as little as €4.50 for a 45-minute transfer from Tenerife South Airport to Costa Adeje.

Hop on a public bus for a budget-friendly spin around the island

No desire to drive? You don’t have to: Tenerife has an efficient bus service that covers a sizable chunk of the island. Titsa  runs guaguas – pronounced wa-was – or public buses. You can find timetables, routes and a handy journey planner on the website. 

If you intend to travel a lot by bus, invest in a Ten+ daily or weekly travel pass, which cost €10 and €50 respectively. You can buy contactless versions at ticket machines and bus stations or use the ten+Móvil app. 

Ride the tram from the old capital to the new

The most exciting way to get from La Laguna to Santa Cruz is by tram . The journey takes 40 minutes, and at €1.35, one-way tickets cost next to nothing. The tram runs from 6am to midnight Monday through Friday, and around the clock on weekends. Tickets can be purchased at machines and service centers, and refilled at newsstands and kiosks.

Get on your bike to breeze along the coast or climb to Mt Teide

Tenerife has taken off as a cycling destination recently, with  routes crisscrossing the island and a mild climate making it possible to get on your bike year round. Pro road cyclists often train here in the winter, limbering up on the phenomenal climbs to Mt Teide.

You can easily rent road bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes in all the main resorts and towns. Expect to pay between €15 and €35 per day, depending on how fancy the wheels are. On the south coast, Free Motion and Bike Point are both good bets; the latter has put together a great selection of GPS routes  and offers guided bike tours, both on and off-road. Cycling in Tenerife ’s tours swing from a road-bike tour to Masca to a downhill MTB trip at Teide.

Stretch your legs on seafront promenades and mountain trails

Whether it’s to be a sunset stroll along a wave-hammered seafront promenade or a hike into the fantasy laurel forests of the north, Tenerife is a terrific island for walking. Yes, you’ll need wheels to get from A to B, but you can break up the journey by stretching your legs on the paths threading along the coast and into the mountains.

For day or multi-day hikes, Rother and Cicerone publish walking guides that will point you in the right direction. The Tenerife Topo Maps app is also helpful if you plan to stray beyond the beaten track.

Accessible travel in Tenerife

Tenerife has made great progress to become more accessible in recent years. Modern south-coast resort towns have often been designed with mobility needs in mind, including well-equipped hotels with ramps, wheelchair-accessible rooms and traffic-free seafront promenades.

Shuttle companies such as Holiday Extras and cab companies like Official Taxi Tenerife offer wheelchair-accessible transport at no extra cost. Newer public buses are equipped with ramps, and the tram between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna is accessible. If you want to rent a wheelchair or mobility scooter during your visit, try Active Mobility Tenerife .

For more travel tips, download Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel eBook.

Why e-bike is my favorite way to travel in Tenerife

Tenerife is an island with a heck of a lot of altitude, with roads whipping up from the coast to 2000m (6562ft) above sea level, where the stark, rocky, red desert–like landscapes of Teide National Park make you feel like you’ve landed on Mars.

You can blaze up here by car, but to really see the landscape unfold – from ocean to pine forest to rugged, barren mountain – an e-bike is the way to go. It’s possible to road bike up here if you’re super fit, but for everyone else, an e-bike takes the sweat out of the grueling climb to the top, allowing you to focus on those sensational views.

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Tenerife Airport

Tenerife south airport (tfs).

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Covid-19 Travel Documentation for Tenerife South Airport

Over the last two and a half years, air travel required thorough preparation, due to frequently changing Covid-19 travel rules. As restrictions are being eased in most parts of the world, there is good news for travellers to Tenerife, as all health control measures on arrival at Tenerife South Airport have now been lifted.

Covid-19 Documentation for Arrivals from the EU and Schengen-Countries

Health controls for travellers arriving from the EU or Schengen-countries were discontinued in June 2022. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to provide proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result.

Covid-19 Documentation for Arrivals from Third Countries (including the UK)

From  21/10/2022 , health controls measures for arrivals from non-EU/non-Schengen countries are no longer in place . Arriving passengers do not need to provide proof of Covid-vaccination /-recovery or a negative test result.

Covid-19 Documentation for Arrivals from China

Passengers arriving from China are no longer subject to health controls.

Please note:

In addition to the information provided on this page, please also check with your airline or tour operator, as these may have additional requirements.

More Information on the Topic

What you need to know when travelling via Tenerife South Airport during Covid-19

Covid testing at Tenerife South Airport

Spanish Ministry of Health

Spanish Tourism Website

Boletín Oficial del Estado

For passport and visa information , please see our page “Entry requirements for Tenerife” .

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Cruise ships to return to Baltimore two months after bridge collapse

Royal Caribbean and Carnival temporarily relocated to Norfolk after the Key Bridge collapse in March.

Cruises will soon set sail from Baltimore again, resuming operations two months after a cargo ship took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

In an X post on Wednesday, the Port of Baltimore revealed that Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas would leave on May 25 for a five-night trip to Bermuda. It will be the first cruise from a major carrier that leaves from Baltimore since the deadly bridge collapse on March 26.

The cruise line confirmed the news, saying in a statement it “looks forward to returning to the Port of Baltimore once again.”

Three major cruise lines sail from Baltimore, though only two had ships based at the port during the spring. No cruise ships were in port when the accident happened. After some scrambling , Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line both moved their Baltimore-based operations to Norfolk.

Carnival said in a statement that it plans to sail the Pride from Norfolk on May 19. That ship is expected to finish the cruise in Baltimore a week later. Because of those plans, the cruise line is encouraging guests to make their way to Baltimore ahead of the trip, and take a free, Carnival-provided bus more than 200 miles to Norfolk.

The ship is scheduled to leave Baltimore for a 14-day Greenland and Canada itinerary on May 26 before resuming seven-day Bahamas or Caribbean cruises.

“We remain in close contact with local, state and federal officials regarding the return of our operations at the Port of Baltimore,” Carnival said. The port said Wednesday it could only confirm Royal Caribbean’s schedule.

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have any Baltimore sailings scheduled until September. American Cruise Lines, a smaller company that operates river and coastal cruises, was able to start operating Chesapeake Bay trips from Baltimore earlier this month.

More than 444,000 people cruised out of Baltimore’s port last year, according to a news release issued by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s office.

Baltimore bridge collapse

How it happened: Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship . The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers have recovered the bodies of two construction workers , officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . A mayday call from the ship prompted first responders to shut down traffic on the four-lane bridge, saving lives.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, which provides about 20,000 jobs to the area . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

Rebuilding: The bridge, built in the 1970s , will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars to rebuild , experts said.

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Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

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Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Poliomyelitis; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Meningococcal Meningitis; Rabies; Typhoid.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Yellow Fever.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Meningococcal Meningitis :  spread by droplet infection through close person to person contact. Meningococcal disease is found worldwide but epidemics may occur within this country, particularly during the dry season. Risk is higher for those mixing with locals for extended periods.
• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.
• Yellow Fever :  spread by the bite of an infected, day-biting mosquito. The disease is mainly found in rural areas of affected countries but outbreaks in urban areas do occur. Vaccination is usually recommended for all those who travel into risk areas. (View yellow fever risk areas here), and areas where there is an outbreak ongoing (check the 'news' section for outbreaks). In addition, certain countries may want to see proof of vaccination on an official yellow fever vaccination certificate - check above under Immunisations .

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is high throughout the year in all areas below 1800m.
• Malaria precautions are essential Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional Information icon below the map.
• High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever, schistosomiasis.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Polio Vaccination Exit Recommendations

If you are visiting this country for longer than 4 weeks, you may be advised to have a booster dose of a polio-containing vaccine if you have not had one in the past 12 months. You should carry proof of having had this vaccination. Please speak to a travel health professional to discuss.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. 

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times. Do not travel without adequate travel insurance . Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

Additional recommendations for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy

If you are planning pregnancy in the very near future you should consider whether you should avoid travel to this country.

• contact your GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• use barrier methods of contraception during and after travel and for the duration of your pregnancy, even in you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• If you develop symptoms of ZIKV infection, it is recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following your recovery
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male or if both partners travelled

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

• 67 additional items in the news archive for this country

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