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Tenerife Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Tenerife. We've got 17 trips going to Tenerife, starting from just 6 days in length, and the longest tour is 12 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.

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17 tenerife tour packages with 6 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural

Tenerife North & South, Self-drive

The apartments in the North and South were both clean and well kept. The breakfasts were good. Our room location in the North was a major problem. Our room was 415 which sounds good, but we had to take the elevator to the 4th floor and walk 49 stairs one way to our room. As we are in our 70's and we were vacationing in Europe for 6 weeks we had a large suitcase and carryons also. With no help on the stairs with our suitcases it was difficult to get to and from the room. We discussed this with the receptionist and we could not change as the hotel was full. I feel that we should never have been given this room to start with. The staff was excellent in both apartments both North and South.

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking the Canary Islands: Tenerife, Anaga, and Beyond

• Mountain Hikes

Walking Paradise Tenerife

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Self Guided Walking Holidays
• Christmas & New Year

Hiking in Tenerife

Southern Trails of La Gomera

Contrasts of Tenerife Walk

• Road Cycling

Gran Canaria & Tenerife

• Intl. Flights Included
• Sightseeing

Tenerife Signature: Road Trip to Volcanic Fire & the Sound of Waves

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Wine tasting

Canary Islands Adventure Tour - 12 days

Hiking in Northern Tenerife

Tour of Gran Canaria & Tenerife

Hike Tenerife

Tenerife for Singles and Solo Travellers (8 days)

Hike Tenerife (Comfort)

• Off-Road Cycling

Canary Islands Gravel

What people love about tenerife tours.

The apartments in the North and South were both clean and well kept. The breakfasts were good. Our room location in the North was a major problem. Our room was 415 which sounds good, but we had to take the elevator to the 4th floor and walk 49 stairs one way to our room. As we are in our 70's and we were vacationing in Europe for 6 weeks we had a large suitcase and carryons also. With no help on the stairs with our suitcases it was difficult to get to and from the room. We discussed this with the receptionist and we could not change as the hotel was full. I feel that we should never have been given this room to start with. The staff was excellent in both apartments both North and South.

Tenerife Tours starting in:

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• Private (6)
• Self-Guided (6)
• Small Group (4)
• 10 Day Tours (10)
• Spring 2024 (11)
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• Fall / Autumn 2024 (12)
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• Spring 2025 (1)
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• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1)
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• October 2025 (1)
• November 2025 (1)
• December 2025 (1)

Other Regions in Spain

• Andalucia (156)
• Southern Spain (144)
• Northern Spain (137)
• Costa Brava (76)
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• Cantabria & Asturias (11)
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• La Gomera (8)
• La Palma (5)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (11)
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International Versions

• Deutsch: Teneriffa Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Tenerife
• Español: Circuitos por Tenerife
• Nederlands: Tenerife Rondreizen

Top Tours in Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Night Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Transfer and Buffet

2. No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first - we care

3. Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing with Dinner (Star Safari)

4. Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje

5. Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Tour in Tenerife

6. Jet Ski Excursion (1H or 2H) in South Tenerife

7. Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop

8. Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip

9. Teide by Night: Sunset & Stargazing with Telescopes Experience

10. Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife

11. PADI discover scuba diving

12. Small Group Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise with Transfer, Food & Snorkeling

13. Full Day Guided Tour to La Gomera from Tenerife

14. Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes

15. Monster Quad Teide Tour

16. Full-day Bus Tour to La Gomera Island with Professional Guide - Lunch Included

17. 6 Hrs Private Tour In Tenerife

18. World Class Fishing Charter Trip in Tenerife

19. Off-Road Quad Tour from Woodlands to Volcanic Heights

20. Astrophotography Tenerife

21. Tenerife: Quad Adventure Teide Tour

22. Teide Sunset Quad trip

23. Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience

24. Private Luxury Motor Boat 2, 3 and 4 Hour Charters

25. Private Scubadiving with Professional Instructor, photos included

26. Biking Adventure from Teide to sea with wine and cheese tasting

27. Scuba Dive for Beginners in a Turtle Area in Costa Adeje

28. Royal Delfin - 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise

29. Tenerife: Whale and dolphin watching

30. Tenerife: Hiking in Anaga Mountains and Enchanted Laurel Forest

What travellers are saying.

• Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Transfer and Buffet
• No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first - we care
• Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing with Dinner (Star Safari)
• Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop
• Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Tour in Tenerife
• Whale Watch Tenerife
• Third Element Luxury Charters
• White Tenerife
• Atlantic Eco Experience
• Monte Cristo Catamaran
• Canary Charter Yacht Club
• Seaduction Yacht
• Galatea Sailing
• West Tenerife
• Tenerife Host
• Sailing Excursion Gulliver

YOUR PRIVATE TENERIFE TOURS & EXCURSIONS EXPERTS

Your Private Tenerife Tours & Excursions Experts

Tours tenerife.

TENERIFE TOURS / TENERIFE EXCURSIONS / SHORE EXCURSIONS / TENERIFE TRANSFERS

Our tenerife tours & excursions services, your unique tenerife tours excursions experience.

Tour Tenerife is a team of  Tenerife Tours Excursions Experts  providing the  Best Private Tenerife Excursions and Services . Create your Exclusive  Tailor-made Tenerife Experience  with us. From Tenerife Day Trips and Shore Excursions to Private Tenerife Transfers and Services.

TENERIFE EXCURSIONS

Tenerife day trips, cruise shore excursions, cycling tours tenerife, tenerife transfers, tenerife vip services, popular tenerife tours & excursions.

Tour Teide + Tenerife Wine Tasting Shore Excursion

Shore Excursion to the discovery of Teide Park with a Tenerife Wine Tasting Experience.

TOUR ANAGA – TAGANANA & FOOD TASTING SHORE EXURSION

Shore Excursion to the discovery of Anaga Park and the village of Taganana.

Teide Shore Excursion

Exclusive Tenerife Shore Excursion to the discovery of Teide National Park

North Tenerife Shore Excursion

Exclusive Tenerife Shore Excursions to the disovery of Norh Tenerife.

Grand Tour Tenerife – Shore Excursion

An exclusive Grand Tour of Tenerife with pick up from your desired port in Tenerife.

Teide National Park & Tenerife Wine Tasting Tour

A Unique Tenerife Day Trip where a tour of the Teide National Park is combined with a fantastic wine tasting tour experience.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR TENERIFE TOUR

Create the best itinerary and personalize your Vip Service: we do our best to respond your request.

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On this page you find a selection of the best Tenerife Tours available on the island .

We care about our customers, therefore we offer top quality. We personally check the Tenerife tours published here. This certainly ensures a good service is provided.

There are different Tenerife Tours available according to your needs. From a half day trip to Mount Teide to an island tour visiting the most popular places. It is also possible to discover the island of La Gomera on a day trip.

Moreover transportation is available for most of the Tenerife Tours. This is offered from the vicinity of your accommodation or right in front of the main entrance of the building where you are staying, depending on the area. Make sure to tell us your location when booking; after that we can confirm the availability of this service.

Tenerife is a very special island because here sea and mountains coexist. This makes it possible to enjoy fantastic Tenerife tours to visit the best places. For example in Tenerife we find wet and dry microclimates, hot and cold temperatures. This is due to its particular physical shape which has high mountains in the center of the island. These act as a barrier against the winds thus making it possible to have different climatic conditions depending on the area. That is to say, they stop clouds in the northern part of the island. As a result, the south of Tenerife presents sunny and dry weather during most of the time.

So have a look at the Tenerife Tours and see the detailed description. In addition watch the video; we produce almost all of the images and videos on our website, so you can see original and exclusive content; for example in this section most of the multimedia material published is ours. this way you can already experience what the trip would be before booking it. M eanwhile you get an idea of all important details like price, schedule, etc.

Finally we want you to know that what makes us different from other companies is our customer service. Above all we want to help you to have fun and to organize your Tenerife tours. On the other hand we ask you a bit of patience if we can’t get back to you straight away because our office is rather busy. Probably it will take just a short time to answer your questions so don’t get stressed. We will certainly do our best to be as quick as possible.

We prefer to get contacted by message through the live chat or WhatsApp. This is the easiest and quickest way to organize the Tenerife tours.

So get in touch with us now for further information. We are happy to answer during the whole year!

Book your Tenerife tours with us, you certainly will not regret!

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5 Days in Tenerife – The Ultimate Itinerary

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Canary Islands | Tenerife | 5 Days in Tenerife – The Ultimate Itinerary

If you’re going to spend 5 days in Tenerife and you’re wondering what’s the best route to take around the island, this guide will show you the perfect itinerary.

There are many interesting things to do in Tenerife in 5 days , so you should have enough time to explore the most important sites, like Mount Teide. Of course, to make the most of your time, I recommend renting a car at the Tenerife airport , so you can travel the island at your own pace. We always use DiscoverCars since they offer great service and the cheapest prices.

If you prefer not to drive, don’t worry. The public transportation throughout the island is very good, plus there are lots of tours you can take to do this 5-day Tenerife itinerary .

Best Tenerife 5-day itinerary

To start, this is the itinerary I suggest you follow if you want to make the most of Tenerife in 5 days :

• Day 1 : Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Teresitas
• Day 2 : San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Anaga, and Benijo
• Day 3 : Mount Teide
• Day 4 : Puerto de la Cruz and Icod de los Vinos
• Day 5 : Masca, Los Gigantes, and Playa de Las Américas

With this 5-day Tenerife itinerary , you’ll be able to visit both the northern and southern parts of the island, including Teide .

Day 1: Santa Cruz Tenerife & Las Teresitas, the start of the 5-day trip to Tenerife

♦ 38 km (54 mins by car) from Tenerife North Airport ♦ 81 km (1 hr, 15 mins by car) from Tenerife South Airport

First, I recommend picking up your rental car as soon as you land at the airport. This way, you can drive to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the island, and my preferred starting point for this 5-day Tenerife itinerary . We always use DiscoverCars to get the best prices and vehicle options. Moreover, you can book your rental car before your trip so it’s ready to go once you arrive at Tenerife airport.

If you fly into Tenerife North Airport, it’s only about 20 minutes to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, while it’s about 40 minutes from Tenerife South Airport.

When you get to Santa Cruz de Tenerife , you can take this free tour to get an overview of the city’s highlights. You’ll visit the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , including the Castle of San Cristóbal, Our Lady of Africa Market, and the Plaza de España.

In the afternoon, grab some lunch and head to Las Teresitas , one of the best beaches in Tenerife . This beach is about a 15-minute drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and is one of the few white sand beaches in the northern part of the island. It also has a breakwater, so the waves are calm and ideal for swimming.

Later, I recommend going back to Santa Cruz de Tenerife to spend the night. These are the best accommodation options depending on your budget:

• Luxury : Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey , which is one of the best 5-star hotels in Tenerife
• Mid-price : Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz , which is where we stayed
• Budget : Hotel Principe Paz , a cheap and beautiful hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Day 2: La Laguna, Anaga & Benijo, must-sees on a 5-day Tenerife itinerary

♦ 74 km (2 hrs, 5 mins by car)

For day two of this Tenerife 5-day route, I suggest rising early to go to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, which is about a 20-minute drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Once you get to San Cristóbal de La Laguna , you can take this free tour to explore the city. It will introduce you to the best places in San Cristóbal de La Laguna , like Plaza del Adelantado, the Santa Catalina de Siena Convent, and the Casa de La Alhóndiga.

Afterward, head to Anaga Rural Park , a spectacular laurel forest you can’t miss during your 5 days in Tenerife . This beautiful forest looks like something out of a fairytale, and to make the most of your visit, I recommend reading our guide to Anaga Rural Park before you go. It’s free to visit, although you won’t regret taking this guided tour . During our visit, we walked along the Trail of the Senses, one of the most popular trails, and it was magical.

To end the day, spend some time at Benijo Beach , which is just a 30-minute drive from Anaga Rural Park. Benijo Beach is considered one of the most beautiful wild beaches in Tenerife, so it’s worth a visit. Just be careful while swimming since the waves are usually quite big.

Before it gets too late, take the 45-minute drive back to Santa Cruz de Tenerife and stay overnight at the same hotel as the previous night .

Day 3: Mount Teide, the best thing to see during your 5 days in Tenerife

♦ 119 km (2 hrs, 36 mins by car)

The third day of this 5-day Tenerife itinerary is dedicated to Mount Teide , one of my favorite places on the island. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most beautiful national parks in Spain .

During our trip, we got an early start at around 6 am and went to Puerto de la Cruz, about 35 minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Since our next hotel was in Puerto de la Cruz, we went there first to drop off our things and the rental car before taking this tour , which departs from Puerto de La Cruz at 7 am. There are many other excursions from Puerto de la Cruz , so this town is an awesome place to stay.

We really enjoyed this tour because it included access to the Teide cable car, which is 2,356 meters above sea level and takes you to La Rambleta, at 3,555 meters. The tour also includes a permit to ascend the summit of the mountain peak. So, if you prefer exploring this impressive landmark with a guide, this is definitely one of the best Mount Teide tours .

Of course, you can choose to hike Teide on your own. If you prefer this option, you can also go straight to Mount Teide from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which is about 1.5 hours away. Just be aware that you’ll have to request a permit and get a cable car ticket in advance, which you can do here .

For the last 200 meters leading to the summit, you’ll have to go by foot. The permit to access this area is a bit exclusive and can run out in advance, so I recommend reserving it up to three months before your trip.

Mount Teide, the best thing to see during your 5 days in Tenerife

Without a doubt, Mount Teide is a must-see during your 5 days in Tenerife , so even if you can’t get a permit, you can do one of the excursions that include it. Another option is to spend the night at the Altavista Refuge, then head out at dawn to reach the summit at sunrise. During one of our trips, we hiked up Mount Teide and stayed at the refuge, which was an incredible experience. I share all the details in our guide on how to climb Mount Teide .

If you plan on continuing your journey in Puerto de la Cruz, these are the best accommodations:

• Luxury : Hotel Best Semiramis , one of the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz
• Mid-price : Hotel Las Águilas Tenerife , the hotel we stayed at, and the pick-up/drop-off point for the tour we took
• Budget : Hotel Puerto Palace , one of the best cheap hotels in Puerto de la Cruz

Day 4: Puerto de la Cruz & Icod de los Vinos, two places to visit in Tenerife in 5 days

♦ 77 km (2 hrs by car)

If you stayed overnight in Puerto de la Cruz , you could spend the morning getting to know this northern Tenerife city.

To see the most important places in Puerto de la Cruz , I recommend this free tour (in Spanish). You’ll see interesting sites like the Plaza del Charco and the Church of Our Lady of Peña de Francia, so it’s a must-do during your 5 days in Tenerife .

After your tour through Puerto de la Cruz, stop in La Orotava for lunch, which is just 15 minutes away. Here, you can take some time to get to know the best attractions in La Orotava , like La Casa de los Balcones, the Plaza de la Constitución, and the Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja.

Day 4: Puerto de la Cruz & Icod de los Vinos, two places to see in Tenerife in 5 days

That said, I suggest leaving enough time to visit Icod de los Vinos , which is about 30 minutes from La Orotava. One of the must-see places in Icod de los Vinos is the famous Drago Milenario , the oldest living dragon tree in the world. To see this legendary landmark, you must book a ticket here .

Then, you can spend the day in Garachico , another beautiful town that’s just 15 minutes from Icod de los Vinos. There are lots of fun things to do in Garachico , like going for a swim in El Caletón, a lovely natural pool. If you have enough time, you can visit the Punta Teno Lighthouse , which is about 30 minutes from Garachico. It’s a gorgeous sunset spot, although I recommend giving yourself enough time to drive there since the roads aren’t in the best condition.

To finish up day four of this 5-day Tenerife itinerary , get a good night’s rest in Garachico. We stayed at the Hotel La Quinta Roja , which is well-located and made it easy to travel around the northern part of the island .

Day 5: Masca, Los Gigantes & Playa de las Am éricas, the end of your 5 days in Tenerife

♦ 72 km (1 hr, 45 mins by car)

If you didn’t have enough time to watch the sunset from the Punta Teno Lighthouse, you can get up early to see the sunrise. Remember, it’s about a 30-minute drive from Garachico, so make sure you wake up early.

To round out your 5 days in Tenerife , I suggest going to the Masca gorge . During our trip, we did the descent down the gorge to the pier, where we took the boat to Los Gigantes. Unfortunately, the jetty is closed now, so the entire round-trip route must be done on foot, which takes about 7 hours.

Day 5: Masca, Los Gigantes & Playa de las Américas, the end of your 5 days in Tenerife

If you have enough time and you’re in good physical shape, it’s worth hiking the Barranco de Masca, as it’s one of the best trails in Tenerife . It’s free to access the Masca gorge, but you’ll need a permit, which you can request here .

If you’d rather not spend the entire day hiking the ravine, you can still see the Masca Gorge from above. The view is just as beautiful, and you can even see the small nearby village. Then, drive to the Los Gigantes cliffs , which is the departure point for some of the best tours to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife . This is one of the best things you can do during your 5 days on Tenerife , and I recommend the tour we took , which was fantastic.

Masca, Los Gigantes & Playa de las Américas

If your plane home departs that same day, you’ll want to go to the airport from Los Gigantes. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Tenerife South Airport and an hour and 15 minutes to Tenerife North Airport.

However, if your flight doesn’t leave until the next day, you can make the most of your time here by visiting Playa de Las Américas , one of the liveliest areas of Tenerife. Alternatively, you can stay at one of the best hotels in Los Cristianos .

We opted to spend our last night in Playa de Las Américas, and these are the best accommodations there:

• Luxury : Sir Anthony , one of the best luxury hotels in Tenerife
• Mid-price : Olé Tropical Tenerife , one of the best all-inclusive hotels in southern Tenerife
• Budget : Catalonia Oro Negro , one of the best cheap hotels in Tenerife

How to get around Tenerife in 5 days

The best way to get around during your 5 days in Tenerife is by renting a car. This way, you can maximize your time, and you’ll have total freedom with your schedule and where you want to go.

Tenerife does have a public transportation network, and it’s well-connected to all the cities and towns. The downside is that it’ll take much longer to get to each place, so you may not be able to hit all the destinations in this itinerary.

If you don’t want to drive, you can book a transfer from the airport to Los Cristianos or Playa de Las Américas through this link . From there, you can book day tours around Tenerife to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz, Mount Teide, and many other places.

If you choose to drive, I highly recommend DiscoverCars . This website offers the best deals and conditions, and you can reserve a vehicle ahead of time so it’s ready for you at the airport. In my opinion, it’s the best way to see Tenerife in 5 days .

5-day Tenerife itinerary map

To help you organize your trip to Tenerife and to give you a better idea of what to see in Tenerife in 5 days , here is a map with all the attractions and accommodations I recommend:

I hope this 5-day Tenerife itinerary helps you enjoy everything this island has to offer. If you have any questions or you’d like to share your experience, leave me a comment below. Enjoy your 5 days in Tenerife !

Ascen Aynat

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Tenerife Shore Excursions – 12 Epic Tenerife Shore Trips & Tours on a P&O Canary Islands Cruise 2024

Posted on Last updated: December 22, 2022

Tenerife is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why.

With its year round sunshine, beautiful beaches and huge variety of natural landscapes, it’s an island that offers something for everyone.

I love Tenerife because you can tan on a beach in the morning, discover cute historical towns in the afternoon, and watch the Milky Way from the top of a 3,715m high volcano at night.

Few places offer that kind of variety in such small distances!

When P&O Cruises asked me to help them showcase all the amazing shore experiences that you can do on a cruise to Tenerife, I couldn’t have been more thrilled.

Enjoying golden hour at Roque de Garcia viewpoint in Teide National Park, Tenerife

We didn’t do a cruise, but we spent five days on the island, trying out all the amazing shore excursions they offer.

If you’re planning a Canary Islands cruise, but aren’t sure what to expect once you arrive on land, this is the guide for you!

I have outlined all the best tours you can do once you arrive in Tenerife, including some logistics about the P&O shore experiences.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover the best shore experiences you can do in Tenerife, as part of a P&O Canary Islands cruise!

• 1 About P&O Cruises to the Canary Islands & Tenerife 
• 2.1 Sea kayaking at Los Gigantes cliffs
• 2.2 Catamaran adventure & Whale watching
• 2.3 Jet Ski safari & beach time
• 2.4 The Water Kingdom: Siam Park
• 2.5 Mount Teide Half Day & Cable Car
• 2.6 Stargazing at Mount Teide
• 2.7 Dinner & Show at Hard Rock Cafe
• 2.8 Wine & Food Canary style
• 2.9 Abaco Mansion lunch & San Pedro Walk
• 2.10 Beach yoga and mojitos
• 2.11 UNESCO Forest Walk & La Laguna World Heritage
• 2.12 Gardens & Puerto de la Cruz

Enjoying the view over Tenerife from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

About P&O Cruises to the Canary Islands & Tenerife  

P&O Cruises is the most popular cruise lines in Britain, and it’s easy to see why. They have a variety of ships, which all offer the best of modern British cruising, but each ship is unique and has something different to offer.

Cruises are a great way to see a variety of different places, to get a taste for different cultures, while also travelling in style, thanks to all the comforts that cruise ships provide.

If you want to do a cruise to the Canary Islands, P&O Cruises offers a cruise starting in Southampton, as well as the new Fly-Canaries Cruises starting in October 2024.

On a Fly-Canaries Cruise you will fly to the Canary Islands, and start your cruise there, thus maximising your time in the sun!

After all, Tenerife is one  most popular winter sun destinations in Europe  for a reason. Here you will find warm weather and sunshine all year round; the perfect climate for all the exciting things to do on this island!

Click here to learn more about the Fly-Canaries Cruises by P&O Cruises!

Enjoying the view over Masca Valley in Tenerife

The unique volcanic landscape of Roque de Garcia and Mount Teide in Tenerife

12 epic shore excursions in Tenerife

Sea kayaking at los gigantes cliffs.

Tenerife is famous for its water sports scene, but it’s not just about surfing and windsurfing, it’s also an incredible place to go kayaking!

Los Gigantes (or “The Giants”) is a series of cliffs on the coast of Tenerife, which reach up to 400 metres in height. It’s an imposing natural spectacle, and one of the best ways to admire it is by kayak.

We started our kayaking tour from Puerto de Santiago, the town just next to Los Gigantes cliffs. There are a variety of different tours, all of varying lengths, but the one we did was two hours.

I found this was enough to get a feeling for this incredible experience, without it getting too long or getting tired from the kayaking.

In two hours you will do a loop starting from the harbour, and kayaking all the way below these imposing cliffs. Paddling on your kayak, looking up at these 400m high cliffs, sure has a way to make you feel small.

It’s also a great activity for bird spotting fans, as the cliffs are covered with seagull nests! You can see them flying over the cliffs, and hear their cries as they accompany you on your kayaking experience.

Kayaking in Los Gigantes, Tenerife

Kayaking along the Los Gigantes cliffs in Tenerife

Catamaran adventure & Whale watching

Did you know Tenerife was the first Whale Heritage Site in Europe? It goes without saying that it’s an incredible place to go whale and dolphin watching .

Here you’re pretty much guaranteed to see whales at any time of year, which makes it perfect for these catamaran tours.

We did the half day shore experience on board a spacious and luxurious catamaran, setting off from Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje.

The tour started off with a swimming stop at Playa Diego Hernandez, where we were served a tasty paella for lunch.

One of the pilot whales we spotted during our whale watching catamaran cruise in Tenerife

The catamaran we did our whale watching cruise with

From there we then started the whale spotting part of the cruise!

The captain sailed us to the protected part of the sea, where he knew it was most likely to spot them, and we soon saw our first pod of pilot whales.  

You obviously can’t get too close to the whales so as to not disturb them, but from the comfort of your catamaran you’ll be able to see them swimming past, their fins occasionally poking out of the water.

If you want to see whales and dolphins, this shore experience is the best way to do so, thanks to how likely it is to spot them in Tenerife.

Before boarding we were told there was a 99% to see whales and 60% to see dolphins, which are pretty good odds if you ask me!

The paella lunch during our catamaran whale watching cruise in Tenerife

A pod of pilot whales that we saw during our whale watching cruise in Tenerife

Jet Ski safari & beach time

Another fun water-based experience you can do in Tenerife is a jet ski safari. Starting in Puerto Colon, you will board your jet ski and embark on a safari along the coastline of Tenerife.

You will have the option of choosing whether you want a single or double jet ski. This is ideal because, if like me you don’t want to drive the jet ski, you can still experience it as a passenger.

The tour lasts around 2 hours, and the exact distance travelled will depend on the group and how fast the jet skis are being driven.

Regardless of where you get to, you’re guaranteed to enjoy an adrenaline rush and thrilling experience!

You will whizz by the coast of Tenerife, enjoying the view of the mountains and fancy resorts dotted along the coast, and maybe even do a quick swim stop during the tour!

This is a half-day shore experience, so you could pair it with another activity in the south of Tenerife, like whale watching or kayaking.

Me and The Curious Pixie jet-skiing in Tenerife

The Water Kingdom: Siam Park

This one is a bit different as it isn’t exactly an organised tour. Through the new system “Musement”, you can purchase entry tickets to Siam Park, the biggest waterpark in Europe, at a competitive price.

There won’t be an organised shuttle bus so you will have to make your own way there from the Tenerife cruise terminal.

This gives you considerably more freedom than the standard organised tours, as you can go and come back at the time you want, without having to wait for the rest of a group.

Floating along the lazy river at Siam Park with Brogan Tate XO and The Wanderlust Within

Going through the “Shark Tank” during one of the water slides at Siam Park, Tenerife

Siam Park offers loads of different types of rides, both scary and relaxing, both for adults and for children. It’s a very fun way to spend a day, and especially if you’re on a family cruise, the children are sure to love it!

One thing you can do to make your time at Siam Park more enjoyable is to book the Fast Pass or VIP ticket. Especially if you’re visiting in high season, the queues can be huge!

You’ll spend a bit more money, but if you’re only at Siam Park for a day you don’t want to waste it queueing.

We had the Fast Pass bracelet and never waited more than 5 minutes for a ride. Make sure to go on The Dragon, it’s my favourite as it’s both thrilling and terrifying at the same time!

Enjoying the rides at Siam Park in Tenerife

Welcome to Siam Park!

Mount Teide Half Day & Cable Car

Mount Teide is without a doubt one of the most incredible sights of Tenerife . With its 3,715m, it’s the highest peak in Spain and the second highest volcano in Europe.

Teide National Park stretches for just under 190km squared, and covers a huge variety of landscapes and views.

Driving from the cruise terminal at sea level, all the way up to Mount Teide, watching the landscape change as you drive past is already an amazing start, just wait till you reach the peak!

This shore experience lasts half a day.

Exploring the unique volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park in Tenerife

They will take you to a number of viewpoints in Teide National Park, where you can enjoy the view over the Mount Teide peak, the sea of clouds and island below, and the unique volcanic landscape of Teide.

If the weather allows it, you will also take the cable car up to the peak of Mount Teide.

Unfortunately we weren’t able to do so as the winds were above 55 km/h, but standing at the top of the highest Spanish peak, enjoying the view over Tenerife, the sea and surrounding islands is a breathtaking experience.

This shore experience is perfect for the nature lovers, who want to be outdoors and enjoy vast and unique landscapes and views.  

Stargazing at Mount Teide

Thanks to the Fly Canaries cruises, which will spend a night in the cruise port of Tenerife, you’ll be able to experience Tenerife, and Teide, by night.

Mount Teide is one of the best places to go star gazing in Europe.

Being so far above the cities of the island means that the sky, as seen from Mount Teide, is almost entirely free of light pollution. It’s part of the reason why Teide is home to a number of international telescopes.

From Tenerife you can see 83 of the 88 officially recognised constellations, a fact which enabled the sky of Teide National Park to be recognised as a “Starlight Destination”.

The incredible Milky Way you can see from Mount Teide National Park in Tenerife – photo by @londonviewpoints

In this shore experience you will have the opportunity to admire the Milky Way, as well as all the stars and galaxies visible from Tenerife.

We had a super knowledgeable and passionate guide, who gave us loads of information on the constellations we were seeing.

You will not only learn about the history and conformation of the night sky and galaxies, but you’ll be able to see them first hand! In my opinion it’s one of the most magical experiences you can have in Tenerife.

Taking in the beautiful night sky at Mount Teide National Park, Tenerife

Dinner & Show at Hard Rock Cafe

Similarly to the stargazing at Teide, this is a tour that you’ll be able to experience thanks to the overnight stay in Tenerife of the new Fly Canaries cruises.

If you want to see the nightlife of Tenerife and the Golden Mile, there is no better place to do so than Hard Rock Cafe!

Here you will be treated to a delicious meal, the exact menu will change depending on the package you choose, but you can expect tasty burgers and ribs to be on the menu!

During the dinner the show will start, and you’ll get to hear some epic rock music.

The artists playing change all the time, but the music style is usually similar. It’s Hard Rock Cafe after all! This shore experience is available both as an organised tour or through “Musement”.

The entrance of Hard Rock Cafe in Tenerife

Personally, I would suggest purchasing it through “Musement” and combining it with another experience in the south of Tenerife, like Siam Park, whale watching or kayaking.

Hard Rock Cafe is located on the south of the island, whilst the cruise terminal is in the north. 

Unless you’re a very hardcore rock and Hard Rock Cafe fan, driving an hour there and then another hour back for a dinner show will be a bit much.

If you combine it with another activity in the south then you can optimise the travel time, and turn it into a full Tenerife exploring day!

The tasty burger you can eat at Hard Rock Cafe, Tenerife

Wine & Food Canary style

Tenerife isn’t just an island of stunning natural beauty, it’s also rich in culture and history. Part of that history is reflected in Tenerife’s culinary traditions.

If, like me, you love trying local foods when travelling, this half day Wine & Food Canary Style shore experience is perfect for you.

You will visit El Calderito de la Abuela, a local restaurant in the north of the island, run by two brothers.

Here you will first see a fun cooking show, where brothers Mario and Fabian will show you how to make traditional Canarian “mojo verde” sauce.

Mario and Fabian at “El Calderito de la Abuela” showing us how Mojo Verde sauce is made

Tasting Mojo Verde sauce with Canarian potatoes

During the cooking show they will also tell you about the history of their restaurant, their family and the cuisine they serve. After the show, it’s time to actually try their delicious food!

The restaurant itself is in a very scenic spot, with huge windows overlooking the coastline of Tenerife.

You can sit back, relax, enjoy the view and taste a variety of Canarian delicacies, the perfect way to learn more about the traditions of this beautiful island!

One of the delicious dishes we ate at “El Calderito de la Abuela” in Tenerife

The dessert and view at “El Calderito de la Abuela” in Tenerife

After lunch you will be taken to Bodegas Monje, a local family winery for the wine tasting part of the experience.

They will first give you a tour of the winery, showing you the vineyard, the wine barrels and various machines involved in the wine making process.

You’ll then relax sit on their lovely outdoor terrace, enjoying the view over the vineyards and sea, while tasting delicious local wine and some typical Canadian nibbles like almogrote cheese.

Tasting wine and nibbles during our wine tasting tour

The vineyards and sea view from Bodegas Monje in Tenerife

Exploring the winery at Bodegas Monje in Tenerife

Abaco Mansion lunch & San Pedro Walk

This is another great shore experience, which combines food, history and even nature.

This tour starts at a traditional Canarian mansion, where you will be served a delicious local lunch, followed by a lovely coastal walk at one of the most scenic trails of the island.

Abaco Mansion isn’t only where you will be eating, it’s also a historical mansion and you will be taken on a tour of the mansion before lunch.

The lady that gave us a tour of the mansion is called Rebecca, and she was super passionate about the work they do there.

The mansion is perfectly maintained in the local Canarian style, with wooden beams and the vintage architecture style.

You will learn about the history of the mansion, its owner, the tours and events they carry out there and the history of Canarian architecture more widely.

The beautiful interior of Abaco Mansion in Tenerife

Enjoying some sangria in the garden of Abaco Mansion, Tenerife

After lunch you will do the beautiful San Pedro Walk, also known as Rambla de Castro. This is a linear coastal trail, which is often ranked amongst the best hikes in Tenerife , thanks to its beautiful coastal views.

As you walk in the shade of tall palm trees you can enjoy views over the sea on one side, and lush green vegetation on the other.

It’s the perfect walk to get some movement in after the delicious lunch at Abaco Mansion!

Playa de Castro seen from the Rambla de Castro trail

Enjoying the coastal views during the Rambla de Castro hike

Beach yoga and mojitos

If you’re not too fussed about spending hours sightseeing around Tenerife, but still want to do something unique on the island, then this beach yoga and mojitos experience is perfect for you!

You will be taken to Playa de las Teresitas, one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife.

Stretching for 1.5km, this incredible artificial beach is is characterised by its golden sand, which was imported from the Sahara Desert, its turquoise water and the towering cliffs that surround it.

It’s a beautiful beach to just sit and relax, but when you add to it a fun activity like yoga, it becomes the perfect setting!

You will spend around one hour moving from position to position through your yoga flow, and then reward yourself with some delicious mojitos.

We all know that mojitos taste better on the beach right?!

Trying out some beach yoga at Playa de las Teresitas, Tenerife

Enjoying some well deserved mojitos on the beach after yoga!

UNESCO Forest Walk & La Laguna World Heritage

This shore experience is perfect if you don’t fancy spending hours driving around the island, while still seeing some beautiful sights.

Located in the north of Tenerife, close to the cruise terminal, you’ll find the gorgeous town of San Cristobal de La Laguna, and the unique Anaga Rural Park.

San Cristobal de La Laguna, colloquially shortened to just La Laguna, is a UNESCO world heritage site, and was the capital of Tenerife until the 18th Century.

In La Laguna you will find cute cobbled streets lined with colourful houses, characterised by their unique colonial architecture.

Many of the museums and historical houses also still display the unique Canadian style patios, with wooden columns and beams.

It’s a lovely town to discover, which I highly recommend adding to every Tenerife itinerary .

Exploring the courtyards of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife

Exploring the cathedral of La Laguna, Tenerife

After La Laguna you will visit Anaga Rural Park, my favourite part of the island. Anaga is a place of stunning natural beauty, with rolling green hills, fairy-like forests and jagged mountain tops.

You will start at the beautiful Mirador Cruz del Carmen, and then go for a walk in Anaga forest.

From the viewpoint you will enjoy a stunning view over the surrounding green countryside, with the peak of Mount Teide towering above it.

If you’re visiting Tenerife in winter , then you might even be lucky enough to see Mount Teide with snow, adding more contrast to the green rolling hills below!

The walking part of the tour will take you through some of the iconic spots of Anaga. Walking through the forest of Anaga feels like walking through an enchanted forest, with the occasional unexpected viewpoint over the sea.

The panoramic views and mountains of Parque Rural de Anaga

Gardens & Puerto de la Cruz

This shore experience combines a bit of city sightseeing with nature sights. You will be taken to Puerto de la Cruz, one of the biggest cities on the island, and to its unique botanical garden.

Located in the north of the island, Puerto de la Cruz is one of the main hubs of Tenerife, without being overly touristy. Here you will have a more local experience, discovering the city life of Puerto de la Cruz.

The botanical garden of Puerto de la Cruz is a lovely place to explore, filled with exotic plants waiting to be discovered. It’s also home to the largest orchard in Tenerife!

Exploring the botanical garden of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

Walking along the seafront of Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife

Final thoughts on the best shore excursions Tenerife

There you have it, the ultimate compilation of best Tenerife sightseeing tours that you can do as part of a P&O Cruise shore experience!

Have you been on a Canary Islands cruise before before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Tenerife is an amazing destination, which offers a huge variety of things to do. If you’re visiting the island on a cruise, these shore experiences are the best way to discover it.

By joining one of these tours you won’t have to worry about transport around the island, and will have a knowledgeable local guide always with you.

Enjoying the views over Teide and the sea of clouds from Teide National Park

Whether you want to go star gazing at the top of Mount Teide, discovering cute colonial towns, trying thrilling water sports or tasting the delicious local cuisine, Tenerife has something to offer for everyone!

And the best part is you don’t have to worry about finding and arranging a place to stay in Tenerife , regardless of if you’re visiting Tenerife at Christmas or in summer, as you’ll be sleeping on board your cruise ship!

Joining one of these shore experiences also takes the hassle out of arranging travel around the island.

I hope you find my guide about the best shore excursions you can do on a Tenerife cruise useful, and that they help you in planning your P&O Cruise to the Canary Islands.

If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

* Disclaimer: This blog post was sponsored by P&O Cruises, all thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Enjoyed reading about the best Tenerife cruise excursions? Pin it!

Wednesday 13th of July 2022

Tenerife is such a great place for a cruise. Year round nice weather and so much to do! Also those photos in front of Mount Teide wow!

Thursday 21st of July 2022

Thank you! And I totally agree, the weather and huge variety of things to do make it an amazing cruise destination!

Tenerife Bus Tours

Tenerife island tours.

Most booked Tenerife bus tours

This is the most comprehensive bus tour of Tenerife that Club Canary can offer you. It is perfect for people who want to discover the island.

Visit the most iconic places of Tenerife

The first stop is the Teide National Park, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can take a peaceful walk in the middle of nature. Then the gran bus tour will go to Icod de los Vinos with its famous Dragon Tree and next to Garachico where you can admire the unique natural swimming pools. The last stop will be in the village of Masca where you can enjoy possibly the most beautiful view Tenerife has to offer.

Leisure time during the Teide Masca tour

During this approximately 8-hour excursion you will visit several beautiful locations. At each location you can enjoy free time and you do not have to stay with the group. Because of this reason many people choose to participate in the Tenerife Gran tour instead of renting a car.

Discovering the whole island during your vacation

Should you like to get to know the whole island, you can add a bus tour. The best tour to see the whole island, and not overlap places, is to book in addition to the Teide – Masca tour also the Tour to the North of Tenerife .

New Tenerife island tour

This bus trip has been specially added for people who would like to avoid visiting El Teide, or do so via another Tenerife excursion . Since this bus trip skips the volcano Teide, we have lots of extra time to explore other unique locations on the island.

Visit Candelaria and La Laguna

The Tenerife tour will take you to the essence and history of the ancient north of the island. The island tour begins in Candelaria where you will visit the sacred basilica commemorating Tenerife’s patron saint. The bus excursion then goes to the colorful town of La Laguna which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Unique bus trip locations

This is the only Tenerife bus trip that also visits La Orotava which is known for its impressive ‘House of balconies’.

Visit Garachico and Masca

The Tenerife island bus trip also stops at the natural pools in the town of Garachico. After a stop for lunch, the Tenerife bus tour takes you to the last location which is Masca. At Masca you can enjoy breathtaking views before returning to your hotel.

Discover the northern part of Tenerife

This Tenerife bus tour takes you to the north of Tenerife, where you will discover the modern capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Besides a visit to the current capital of Tenerife, you will also visit the ancient capital of Tenerife known as La Laguna. La Laguna is known as a colorful student city with a lot of fascinating history.

Tour to the green part of Tenerife

Many people do not know that Tenerife also consists of a beautiful nature reserve known as Anaga Park, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. In this beautiful natural area you can take a short walk before the tour continues to Taganana where the trip stops at a traditional Canarian restaurant.

Guided Tenerife wine tour

This guided half-day tour in Tenerife will let you sample both Tenerife and its most typical flavors.

Includes a visit to a banana plantation in Tenerife

After the pick-up, the tour will start at Finca Las Margaritas , a banana plantation where the history, the cultivation of this fruit and other interesting facts will be told, you will also get some free bananas at the end of the tour.

Visit the wineries of Tenerife

The Tenerife bus tour continues to one of the most famous wineries of the island called the Mencey de Chasna where a fun and interesting tour will be done along with wine tasting.

A wine bodega in Vilaflor with beautiful views

As you continue your journey to another winery you will have the chance to admire the beautiful view of Vilaflor. The bodega is called ‘Lagar de Chasna’ where you will also get to taste a typical Canary lunch along with the wine tasting.

Stargazing tours

One of the best stargazing tours in the world

Come to the Teide National Park and behold the magic of the stars. The Teide National Park is a starlight tourist destination, which means it is one of the best places on earth to see the stars.

Professional astronomer

Each stargazing tour is accompanied by a professional astronomer who will answer all your questions and give information about the astronomical spectacle using lasers, among other instruments.

Romantic tour

During this Tenerife tour, we will first stop to enjoy the sunset from the Park with a glass of cava. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to accompany the experience with dinner at over 2,000 meters. Later, the unique Stargazing activity will begin and you will have the opportunity to view planets with the help of professional telescopes. The feeling of seeing the sky face to face will be hard to forget. We guarantee you an unforgettable experience.

Private Teide stargazing trip

For people who are looking for an unforgettable stargazing experience, this private trip is very well suited.

Your own astronomer

You will be picked up from your hotel in southern Tenerife for the private trip and then the driver will take you to a beautiful stargazing location.

VIP stargazing trip

During this exclusive stargazing trip, you will have your own telescope at your disposal. This allows you to view the stars and planets at your own pace while the guide explains the milky way and interesting facts about the universe.

Tenerife bus transfers

Bus trip to El Teide

This bus trip in Tenerife will give you a unique experience. You will get to admire the highest peak in Spain and the highest volcano in Europe: El Teide.

Discover the national park

You will have time for a walk in the beautiful National Park of el Teide, declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, located at about 2000 meters above sea level. A walk in this location, will feel very unique as the landscape is regularly compared to the landscape of planet Mars.

Take the cable car up

During this Tenerife tour, you will also have the opportunity to take the cable car up Teide and enjoy stunning views of the island and the volcano. Please note that cable car tickets can be purchased in conjunction with this bus tour.

Trip to Santa Cruz

Join this bus excursion to the lovely and modern capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This Tenerife tour with only a few stops along the way is perfect for those who want to discover this city and go at their own pace, as you will be free all day.

Day of shopping in Santa Cruz

Take a walk through the main streets of Santa Cruz, in this beautiful area you can enjoy shopping at a decent price. Santa Cruz is known for its extensive shopping centers, with a large selection of brands and stores.

Tenerife history tour

Besides the many things you can do in Santa Cruz, the city is also a wonderful place for lovers of history and culture. In the city you can visit, among others, the Museum of History and Archaeology, or a museum entirely dedicated to the famous Tenerife Carnival. You will also find an African market and a “Palmetum”, a famous botanical garden known for one of the largest collections of palm trees in the world.

Bus tours to other Canary Islands

Day trip to La Gomera

Board the ferry and discover the ancient island of La Gomera. On this excursion, you will depart from Tenerife and reach the neighboring island after a ferry ride of approximately 50 minutes.

Culturally rich island to explore

During this day excursion, you will discover the iconic places of this small but friendly island, such as the Hermigua Valley, the capital San Sebastián de la Gomera, the evocative La Laguna Grande. La Gomera has a reputation as a calming island, where time stands still. You can see this reflected in the locals and the architecture.

Nature of La Gomera

La Gomera has a beautiful National Park called Garajonay. In Garajonay you can find hundreds of different species of flora, a nature reserve that has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. During the bus trip we will have a stop here, and people who want can take a nice walk in this nature park.

Day trip to La Palma

This bus tour is perfect for those who want to spend a day on beautiful La Palma and discover the most iconic places of this island.

Wonderful La Palma day tour

Arriving on La Palma, the first stop will be the capital and most modern city, then we will go to the historic castle of Santa Catalina and admire in the rainforest the beautiful waterfalls of La Palma. After that you will be taken to the beautiful natural swimming pools called Charco Azul, similar to those of Garachico in Tenerife and then to the beach known as Playa Puerto Espindola where you will visit the famous rum factory and have a guided tour.

Famous volcano eruption in 2021

In late 2021, the natural disaster in the island of La Palma made world news. The long-lasting volcanic eruption called Cumbre Vieja eruption affected a large part of the west side of the island of La Palma. During this bus tour you can find some traces. But the emphasis of the bus tour is on discovering the culture and nature of La Palma.

Private Tenerife bus tours

Private excursions to the volcano El Teide

If you are looking for a more exclusive way to visit the Teide, this private tour is a great choice to give you a unique experience to the Teide National Park. The natural park of this volcano is an eye-catching destination, either during the day or at sunset. A day trip to Teide is more often booked, because the views at this location are breathtaking. Meanwhile at sunset, one of the best sunsets in Tenerife can be seen fro the Volcano Teide.

Teide private tour route

After picking you up at your hotel, we will stop in Vilaflor, a little beautiful village. Here it is possible to see the famous and old Pino Gordo tree. Throughout the tour we will visit different breathtaking viewpoints. Los Roques de Garcia is the most remarkable place in Teide National Park. Another important stop is at Pico Viejo, the second highest peak in Tenerife.

Cable car option

During the private Teide tour, it is also possible to take the cable car up Teide. It is a great option, since from here the views will be even better. You will have to arrange your own tickets and we can advise you a time to choose.

Private tours Tenerife North

This is the most exclusive way to visit the North of Tenerife, where you will receive greater comfort and a professional guide. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the most important points of La Laguna, Anaga, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Candelaria.

La Laguna city tour

La Laguna is the first destination of this trip. Here you will have enough time to admire the beauty of the architecture of the place, while enjoying a delicious ‘ barraquito ’ coffee.

Private hiking tour in Anaga

During the journey through Anaga, it is possible to have a very pleasant walk in an amazing green environment.

Santa Cruz guided private tour

The first stop in Santa Cruz will be at Las Teresitas beach, one of the most famous beaches in Tenerife. Later, you will visit the capital city, where you will have time for a break to visit the African Market.

Transfer to Candelaria

This beautiful village is recognized for being the most important religious center in the Canary Islands. Candelaria also stands out for its caves and natural beaches.

Private island tour to the west of Tenerife

During this private tour, you will discover the amazing volcanic landscapes that were formed after volcanic eruptions. You will have the opportunity to visit the island in a more exclusive way.

Private tour to Masca village

In Masca there are deep ravines and cliffs that end up in the Atlantic Ocean. During the stop at the viewpoint of Masca, spectacular photos of the landscape can be taken.

Private tour to Garachico

Garachico has an extensive historical and artistic heritage preserved for the enjoyment of its inhabitants and visitors. Here you will visit important spots.

Masca and Garachico tour

The Small West Tenerife island tour will be a shorter tour, but with everything you need to discover the West part of the island. During this tour you will not visit the Teide, therefore you will have more time to enjoy the highlights.

Masca, Garachico and Teide tour

On this Extended West Tenerife island tour you will also have time to visit the highlights of Masca and Garachico. After visiting these two important villages, we drive towards the Teide National Park.

Tenerife bus trips

Guided tenerife bus tours.

The best way to see Tenerife and the neighbouring islands is with a guided bus tour from Club Canary. You will be picked up from the vicinity of your accommodation in the south of Tenerife or Puerto de la Cruz and dropped off after the tour has finished. The nice thing about this is that these bus tours are accompanied by an experienced guide in your chosen language. 

About the buses

For the Tenerife bus tours, good quality buses are used with an average capacity of 30 people per tour. These buses do not have a toilet, as they are slightly smaller to be able to drive through the mountain roads of the Canary Islands. They do have air conditioning, enough leg room and storage space for two wheelchairs. In addition to an experienced bus driver, a guide accompanies each bus trip.

Large selection of Tenerife bus tours

Many people who visit Tenerife are unaware of how wonderful the Canary Islands are in terms of scenery. There are many other wonderful things to see besides the volcano El Teide. These include local villages, natural parks and natural swimming pools. Hence, there is a great selection of Tenerife tours that are all individually focused on seeing certain highlights and beauties of the Canary Islands.

Tenerife VIP tours

Club Canary is known as the top provider of luxury private boat trips in Tenerife . To fulfill certain wishes of luxury travelers, we also have a selection of private island tours in Tenerife available. These private island tours can be customized and give you the option to explore the island together with a licensed guide.

Best Tenerife island tours

In this selection of island tours you will find the most popular Tenerife bus tours. There are several ways to explore the island as you can find in the selection of Tenerife excursions , among which quad tours are a very popular choice among tourists. Still, the bus tours are the best options for people who would like to receive some information from a guide. If you would also like to go hiking, there are Tenerife hiking trips that take you deeper into the nature of Tenerife.

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Tenerife is probably the most visited island in the Canary Archipelago. The reasons for this are obvious. In addition to idyllic enclaves and paradisiacal beaches, Tenerife offers spectacular nature. In a Tenerife walking holidays you will be able to discover the Teide peak, rising majestically to 3715 metres; the Anaga forest in the north and the imposing ravines in the south; the cliffs of Los Gigantes… Tourists are captivated by the beautiful architecture of its villages and the friendliness of its people. The joie de vivre is a vital constant in the Canarian people, which is manifested in the enormous friendliness with which they welcome their visitors.

Sublime tenerife .

What to do in Tenerife?

24 hours a day is not enough time to do all the activities that the island has for its visitors. In Tenerife there is an activity for every taste, style, age and requirements, from the most relaxing activities to those for adventure lovers. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the beauty of its beaches or take a gentle hike along its nature trails, there are hundreds of great options on the island. Water sports and marine activities are a spectacular alternative in Tenerife with the best plans for scuba diving, nature watching and dreamy coastal tours. But if you are more of an adventure and adrenaline lover, the island’s most demanding routes await you to enjoy the best moments in the open air. Tenerife’s cultural, nightlife and entertainment infrastructure is infinite, with the best entertainment offer in the world.

The incredible natural diversity of the island is a marvel to locals and visitors alike for its impetuousness and rawness that contrasts with the sublime beauty of a delicate balance with natural settings that captivate our senses. Tenerife’s natural landscapes are infinite, but we can take a 360º tour of the island by visiting its most iconic natural monuments.

Essential activities:

Cueva del Viento : an impressive volcanic cave that can be visited on guided tours. It is located in the upper part of Icod de Los Vinos.

Whale and dolphin watching: Boat trips to watch whales and dolphins from the south, in Los Cristianos.

Cable car to Pico del Teide : The most comfortable way to get to the top of the Teide. From the Rambleta del Teide, an easy path leads to the Mirador del Pico Viejo.

Las Teresitas beach: Located at the northern end of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this is a beach for locals, with a very authentic atmosphere.

Drago from Icod: Although it is not certain that it is a thousand years old, the dragon tree of Icod is undoubtedly the oldest botanical specimen on the island. Masca Canyon : A “must” for every hiker on Tenerife. After a dizzying descent through a spectacular gorge, we return by boat along the cliffs of Los Gigantes.

Lago Martianez: Natural swimming pools created by Cesar Manrique to beautify Puerto de La Cruz and provide sheltered bathing.

Barranco del Infierno: Hiking trail from Adeje to a spectacular natural waterfall, through Hell Gorge.

Tenerife in nature

There is no certainty whether Eden existed, but there is no doubt that it would have been very similar to Tenerife. This paradise contains within its territory all the magic and beauty that nature has sculpted with great mastery.

Tenerife is known as the island of eternal spring, an idyllic island that contains all the climates of the world in its small but very diverse extension.

However, there is a paradise still unknown to the masses of tourists who come from the furthest corners of the planet: Tenerife’s incredible hiking trails.

With one of the greatest diversities of routes of varying complexity, demand, length and challenges, the nature trails of Tenerife are framed within the most perfect scenery of nature.

365 days a year, the island’s routes offer us the perfect conditions of temperature, rainfall and the freshness of its breeze, to walk along its paths in a way that is unique in the world. From the most impressive volcanic landscapes to coastal paths that end at unspoilt beaches, Tenerife’s routes are one of the greatest treasures of hiking in the world.

Discovering Tenerife through its cliffs, peaks and valleys allows us to fall in love with the lesser-known side of the island and, at the same time, gives us an unforgettable experience.

There is no better way to get to know the island of eternal spring than by exploring its beautiful landscapes and wonderful biodiversity. Tenerife is home to the largest biosphere reserve on this side of the Earth. Landscapes full of charm that take us on a journey through the whole world just a few steps away.

His Majesty… the Teide

Spain’s highest peak and the third largest volcano on the planet is a must-see in Tenerife. Without a doubt, this will be an experience that will take your breath away. The colossal magnitude of the sleeping giant dwarfs us before its magnificent beauty and the secrets hidden in its hiking trails.

Malpaís de Güímar

The brutality of volcanic activity has for centuries shaped one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. An exquisite contrast between the rawness of the sulphurous remnants of magma with the turquoise sea as a backdrop for one of the most beautiful destinations on planet Earth.

Lunar landscape of Vilaflor

Not content with having the most beautiful landscapes in the world, Tenerife dares to copy the surface of the moon to give its walkers a lunar experience that will undoubtedly be unequalled. The lunar landscape of Vilaflor has been catalogued as one of the few places on earth that most resembles the surface of our satellite.

Eternal Spring

Our INDEPENDENT HIKING programmes:

Tenerife HIGHLIGHTS

Tenerife ESSENTIAL

Our guided group walking programmes :.

Tenerife-La Gomera-La Palma

La Palma walking holidays

Do you run your own group , …and if you prefer a tailor-made plan for your group that combine different islands or visit special places we will adapt it to your prerogatives., your own group ask us , if you wish a tailor-made plan for your group that combine different islands or visit special places, we will adapt it to your prerogatives., our small & charming hotels :.

see the accommodation related to our hiking programmes.

Tenerife one day activities:

Daily hiking tours  for a perfect Tenerife walking holidays, bus tours to see the island, boat trips to see dolphins and whales, stargazing and much more…

Masca Canyon

Secrets of Teno

Teide under the Stars

Tenerife Dolphin

The Teide Summit

One-day activities.

Tenerife is a privileged enclave for adventure lovers. There are many active tourism options on offer on the island. Although hiking occupies a prominent place, we must not forget the infinite options for enjoying the sea and its marine fauna, including dolphin and whale watching . It is also possible to go horse riding, paragliding, mountain biking or scuba diving, among other options. Not forgetting stargazing in Tenerife’s spectacular night sky, from an altitude of 2,500 metres above sea level.

And when hunger comes…

Tenerife’s gastronomic offer is one of the most varied in the Canary Islands. With restaurants that offer us the best of international gastronomy and the most delicious options of Tenerife’s ancestral culinary culture.

The geographical condition of the island has been a blessing for the kitchen and the development of one of the most diverse gastronomies in Europe. The island’s constant contact with its children who have returned from the Americas has brought us Caribbean and American dishes that have been seasoned with a touch that only the island’s kitchens have known how to give.

Of course, seafood is present on every table on the island. With a coastline rich in hundreds of varieties of fish, shellfish and molluscs, Tenerife’s cuisine is full of delicious dishes with a taste of the mare nostrum.

The island is home to the best of Tenerife’s Iberian, Mediterranean, Caribbean and indigenous food. Papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo picón (spicy mojo), sancocho (a kind of stew) and the sea varieties are pleasures we can’t pass up just like that.

To recharge your batteries and indulge in a sweet treat, there is nothing like the desserts of Tenerife. Desserts based on the legendary Canarian gofio with local fruits and the seasoning of the best cookers will make your taste buds explode.

Tenerife is not only home to renowned restaurants, but also to the famous guachinches . These are simple-looking places where the owners make the most of their traditional cooking cookers. Here are some of the best “ guachinches ” and restaurants in Tenerife where you can enjoy hearty, flavourful food from the island:

Restaurants for sophisticated pleasures:

• Furancho La Zapateria : Paseo Canarina, Icod de los Vinos
• M.B : Carretera TF 47, Guía de Isora
• El Rincón de Juan Carlos : Avenida Virgen de Guadalupe 21, Adeje
• Nub : Avenida de Bruselas, Adeje
• Goxoa : Avenida Antonio Domínguez, Playa de las Américas
• Maguro : Cineasta Miguel Brito 4, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Brunelli´s : Bencomo 42, Puerto de la Cruz

You will find the individual refreshment stops marked on the map below…

Typical “Guachinches” in the north:

• Guachinche El Primero: Calle Malpais 10, 38390 Santa Úrsula, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Guachinche Parralito : Calle San Cristobal, 66, 38379 La Matanza de Acentejo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Guachinche Nunca es Lejos : Calle Las Turcas, 38399 Sta Úrsula, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Guachinche Los Gómez : Camino Los Gómez, 21 Guachinche Los Gomez, 38314 La Orotava
• Guachinche El Ramal: Carr. Enlace el Ramal, 18H, 38311 La Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Guachinch & Fusión: Calle San Agustín, 42, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Typical “Guachinches” in the south:

• Guachinche Los rincones
• Guachinche Chajuana 
• Guachinche de Leti

Tenerife Gastronómico

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• Gran Canaria
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• Tenerife - Best Places to stay
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One day in Tenerife - Advice & Itinerary for Cruise Passengers

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

One day itinerary in Tenerife for cruise passengers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Largest Canary Island - Facts about Spain's Canary Islands archipelago

22 Best things to do in Tenerife & Best places to visit (2024 Guide)

15 Best Things To Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

9 BEST Things To Do in San Cristobal de La Laguna

Driving in Tenerife - Practical Guide for Visitors - Updated 2024

10 Best Things To Do in Tenerife North

Footsteps and Journeys

Best travel itineraries for unforgettable experiences around the globe

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

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

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

TENERIFE ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Getting to Tenerife (Tenerife Itinerary)

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

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

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

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

Travel Tips:

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

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

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

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

Museum Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Playa De Las Americas and Garachico

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taste traditional Canarian flavors at Casa Gaspar .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Return to your accommodation and relax.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Northern Tenerife

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

Where to Stay in Southern Tenerife

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

Car Rental Companies for your Tenerife Itinerary

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

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

Best time to visit Tenerife

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

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

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

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

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

Special Considerations:

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

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

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

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

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

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What to see in Tenerife in four days

If you’re planning a 4-day break in Tenerife, the Teide National Park is bound to be at the top of your list. And you’re spot on, because the Park is Tenerife’s number one attraction.

Teide National Park

Puerto de la cruz, useful information for your visit to tenerife (day 1), anaga rural park, las teresitas beach, useful information for your visit to tenerife (day 2).

• Icod de los Vinos

Useful information for your visit to Tenerife (day 3)

Los gigantes, whale spotting, useful information for your visit to tenerife (day 4).

• What to eat in Tenerife
• How to get around in Tenerife 
• Where to stay in Tenerife 

But there’s a lot more you can see in Tenerife in 4 days.

Cities where time seems to have stood still; natural parks where you can see the island’s volcanic origins; beaches where you can lie in the sun or bathe in the crystal-clear waters, or you can sample our delicious gastronomy—these are just some of the essentials in Tenerife.

Break free, open your mind and go and pack your suitcase, because we’ve prepared a 4-day itinerary for you , to make sure you don’t miss anything of what Tenerife has to offer. So let’s get started!

But before we start our run-down of what you can see in Tenerife in 4 days , here is a map on which we’ve marked the points of your tour, to help you feel that you’ve already arrived on the island of eternal spring.

Book the best Tenerife excursions

Day 1. Visit Mount Teide, La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz: ideas for you Tenerife tour that you won’t want to miss

Your first day on Tenerife, so get off to a flying start with the places that are bound to be at the top of your list.

To space out the power and excitement, we suggest the Teide National Park for the first half of the day, and for the second half, two delightful cities: historic La Orotava and the coastal city of Puerto de la Cruz , which could well be where you’ll stay overnight.

But think about it carefully, because the order of your visits has consequences. 

We say this because if you decide to go to to Mount Teide during the morning, you will have very clear views and be able to enjoy the morning freshness and, if it’s the weekend, you can have a delicious lunch in Spain’s highest restaurant

On the other hand, if you go in the evening, you can stay to see the sunset, as well as the star-studded sky above Mount Teide, one of Tenerife’s great highlights.

If you want to make the ascent in the Teide cable car, watch the sunset from one of the volcano’s free-access paths, and do some star-gazing with specialist Starlight Guides and long-range telescopes, we recommend you book the Sunset & Stars excursion. The most comprehensive Teide night-time experience.

So now, let’s move on with our other plans for what to see in Tenerife, because we have a lot of ground to cover.

Take me to the best Tenerife Excursions

To give you an idea of the significance of the Teide National Park, and so that you can see why it is top of our list of recommendations for things to see in Tenerife in 4 days , we’ll tell you three facts about it:

• The Teide National Park is the largest of the Canary Islands’ National Parks, and owes its name to the Teide volcano, which is...
• The third-largest volcano in the world from its base on the ocean bed. 
• At 3,718 m, it is the highest peak in Spain.

Apart from the actual experience of ascending to the summit to enjoy the views, on Teide’s lunar-like surface you can see craters, ancient volcanoes, rivers of petrified lava, and active fumaroles, making this a geological treasure-house .

As well as a feast for the senses, of course.

So how do you reach this wonder of nature?

There are plenty of excursions to Mount Teide , but to get the most from your visit, the best plan is to take the trip up in the cable car, which is physically more practical and convenient.

To make your adventure as enjoyable as possible, it is best to prepare for your visit to Mount Teide , find out beforehand all you need to know about the ways of making the ascent, prices and timetables , the minimum age requirement, the weather, suitable clothing, and so on.

Having said all that, let’s get started on Tenerife’s most popular day out, and the most important excursion from Puerto de la Cruz .

Are you coming along?

I want to book my Teide excursion in Tenerife

1. Mount Teide Tour with Cable Car Tickets

As we said earlier, if there’s one experience you can’t afford to miss among all the things you can do in Tenerife, it’s a cable-car trip up Mount Teide.

The ascent up the sides of the volcano is an experience in itself, and travelling above the geological remains of the world’s third-largest volcano with views of the Canary Islands’ biggest National Park is a never-to-be-forgotten adventure.

One idea that cannot fail to succeed in Tenerife is the organised Mount Teide Tour with Cable Car Tickets —one of the island’s top excursions because, over the course of a few hours, you will explore the Teide National Park with no thought for anything but enjoying yourself.

The excursion includes bus pick-up at a point near your hotel, and you will be accompanied by a guide who will tell you about all the wonderful sights to be seen on the tour.You also have the option to book your tickets for the ascent and descent on the cable car.

The perfect early-morning excursion that will leave you with plenty of time to enjoy other activities in Tenerife for the rest of the day.

Take me to book this Teide excursion in Tenerife

2. Evening excursions to Mount Teide

If you prefer to visit Mount Teide later in the day, you can choose whether to visit during the evening or at night—there are several excursions that may interest you:

The first is a trip with transport provided that will take you to watch the sunset from one of the viewing points in the National Park, and then do some stargazing with Starlight guides and long-range telescopes. This excursion is called Mount Teide Night Tour , and is especially popular. 

You could also go up the side of the volcano at twilight to see how the sky undergoes a transformation from the clearest blue through a countless series of darkening shades until night fall.

If you fancy a sensational evening on Mount Teide after travelling up in the cable car outside normal hours, followed by stargazing, the Sunset & Stars excursion is for you. This excursion includes bus pick-ups in both the north and south of Tenerife, a ticket for the cable car at twilight, the use of long-range telescopes , an accredited Starlight guide to accompany your observation of the stars, and a picnic if you wish.

And if you love science and astronomy, you should definitely book the Astronomic Tour , which includes a visit to the Teide Observatory, and stargazing with the help of a Starlight guide , as well as transport from a point near your hotel, naturally.

No matter which option you choose, getting a sense of the vastness of the universe using long-range telescopes from Mount Teide is one of the activities that Tenerife offers which is available in very few places in the world—in fact, it can only be compared with certain parts of Chile and Hawaii.

So are you going to book one of these excursions for your 4-day trip to Tenerife?

Take me to book my night-time Teide excursion in Tenerife

3. Excursions to the summit of Mount Teide 

As we have already said, there are lots of ways to discover the Teide National Park, and one of them is to visit the summit, an experience that requires a degree of preparation—we suggest therefore that you check this complete guide on how to get up Mount Teide Peak .

The first thing to bear in mind is that to make the ascent to the peak of Mount Teide, you need a special permit from the National Park authority , because visitor numbers are restricted in order to protect the site. You need to apply weeks or even months beforehand, depending on the time of year.

Making the ascent with an organised excursion has several advantages: 

• You will be accompanied by an expert guide who will show you all the secrets of the volcano.
• You will save the stage of applying for the permit, and of obtaining cable car tickets to fit in with your designated visiting slot. The company will take care of this process for you. 
• The excursion includes transport from the north or south of the island, and your ticket for the cable car ascent and descent.

You won’t need to worry about a thing!

And if you’d like to go one step further, you can book a VIP ascent to the peak with an exclusive guide who will go at a pace that suits you.

The plan for this Tenerife activity is to take the cable car at the base station, at an altitude of 2,356 m , which will leave you at La Rambleta, the departure point for the trails at the summit of Mount Teide (there are three distinct paths high up on the volcano that you can take with a manageable degree of difficulty; the path that leads to the crater requires a permit) and from there you ascend on foot to the top of the volcano. 

Take me to book this Tenerife excursion to ascend to the peak of Mount Teide by cable car

If you’re fit enough and keen enough to dedicate more time to Mount Teide, you can climb with a guide along the Montaña Blanca trail and then make the descent by cable car. But bear in mind that this adventure will take at least 6 hours, and that you will have to miss other things you could do in your 4 days, such as discover La Orotava, which we are just about to discuss.

But don’t worry, because whichever way you choose, Tenerife’s Mount Teide Peak is one of those adventures that is never the same twice —as the time of year and the atmospheric conditions make the landscape appear different every time.

We continue with our list of things to see in Tenerife in 4 days, moving on to La Orotava, the island’s biggest municipality—and one of its most attractive.

You will find plenty to see in this town, 8 kilometres north of Puerto de la Cruz: architectural heritage, fascinating gardens and a stately air, thanks to the excellent state of preservation of its streets and old houses. 

With good reason, it has been designated a Historic-Artistic Site since 1976.

With most of its area lying inside the Teide National Park, La Orotava is pure, undiluted, Canary Island history, something that can be seen in its historic quarter and its steeply climbing streets.

The Casa de los Balcones [House of Balconies] is one of Tenerife’s not-to-be-missed attractions, as it is one of the most traditional buildings in this town, with its magnificent wooden balcony and its well-preserved interior.

Other famous buildings are the Canary Island Baroque-style church Iglesia de la Concepción, and the Town Hall ; the square on which it stands is also worth seeing.

Another place to visit in La Orotava are the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Gardens , also called the Jardines Victoria . The gardens are worth seeing, not just for their flowers (although that is reason enough) but also because of the views offered by their location at the highest point in the town.

If you plan carefully, this is the perfect place to visit just before, or just after, Mount Teide. Moreover, you can even visit Puerto de la Cruz on the same day, as it is very near.

Puerto de la Cruz lies on the coastal side of the Valle de la Orotava. The city has been synonymous with tourism since the tourism trend began in the Canary Islands—although it is Tenerife’s smallest municipality.

Puerto de la Cruz is the ideal place to stay on the coast , because the range of hotels is huge, the city has good communications, and it offers every possible service and convenience. What’s more, it has a historic quarter and an authentic working port .

If you follow this itinerary of places to visit in Tenerife in 4 days, you could spend a couple of hours in Puerto de la Cruz, which should include a stroll around its historic centre.

See the Casa de Miranda and the Casa de la Real Aduana [Customs House], sit and have a meal in the Plaza del Charco , and watch the waves breaking on the Costa de San Telmo—these are the essentials for any traveller keen to discover Tenerife.

After this, the first of your 4 days in Tenerife, it’s quite possible that you won’t have the energy to go out in the evening but, if you do, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Puerto de la Cruz. And if you start your day with La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz, and leave it until the evening to enjoy your visit to the National Park, Mount Teide and its star-filled sky, you still have no shortage of options.

Otherwise, go to bed, and prepare for the second stage of your 4-day visit to Tenerife.

Check all your options for excursions from Puerto de la Cruz here

Click on the following links to see the information you’ll need to prepare for the first day of your Tenerife tour:

• Guide to the Teide National Park
• Prepare for your visit to Mt Teide
• The best excursions for discovering Mount Teide
• Price list and timetable for the Teide cable car
• Complete guide to your ascent to the summit of Mount Teide
• All you need to know about access permits to Mount Teide
• How to ascend Mount Teide from Montaña Blanca
• Information about La Orotava’s Historic Quarter 
• Information about Puerto de la Cruz
• The main excursions from Puerto de la Cruz

Day 2. Visit La Laguna, the Anaga Rural Park and Playa de las Teresitas 

We’re going to spend our second day in Tenerife exploring the north-east of the island and seeing stunning scenery along with one of the island’s most characterful cities, San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

We will also stop off at a wonderful beach to unwind: Playa de las Teresitas .

Just like your first day in Tenerife, you can do urban sightseeing first, and then move on to nature, or vice-versa, whichever you prefer.

If you accept our recommendation, however, you’ll start in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, because after a visit to the Anaga Rural Park and the beach, you may not have the energy.

Off we go on our second full day of places to see in Tenerife.

We can assure you that La Laguna is one of the essential places to visit in Tenerife, because it is an idyllic city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 , due to its excellently preserved colonial architecture.

The island’s former capital, it is evident in the city’s fifteenth-century streets and buildings that this was the cradle of this Canary island’s aristocracy and its culture.

Mansions such as the Casa del Corregidor and the Casa de los Capitanes Generales amply demonstrate the city’s splendour, as does the Plaza del Adelantado , which is home to one of its most iconic buildings, the Palacio de Nava .

And, of course, a city such as this must have a suitably glorious church, a role perfectly fulfilled by the Baroque Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción , whose tower commands a view of the entire city—another Tenerife sight that no visitor should miss.

Take advantage of your stay in San Cristóbal de La Laguna to recharge your batteries in one of its restaurants and get ready for Anaga, another fabulous stop on your 4-day tour of Tenerife.

To help you get the most from your trip, a tour is a great idea, because it takes you from the north of Tenerife—Puerto de la Cruz—or the south—Playa de las Américas—to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and from there to the Anaga Rural Park, Las Teresitas beach, and other places well worth a visit.

What more can you ask?

I want to book a tour to Anaga and La Laguna

The Anaga Rural Park is a haven for hikers and, if you enjoy hiking, you’ll find no end of possibilities in Tenerife. But everyone can enjoy the park’s beauty and its obvious geological splendours. What’s more, there are trails suitable for all types of visitor.

Whatever route you choose in the Parque Rural de Anaga, you’ll find spectacular mountains, beaches with volcanic sand, and Europe’s biggest range of endemic plant species .

Moreover, in Anaga you’ll find the largest forests of laurel—the island’s native species par excellence. This natural wealth is complemented by the area’s geology, as here you can clearly see rock formations such as the famous Roques, volcanic chimneys, the walls of gorges and deep ravines.

For this activity, you are advised to dress as if for the jungle, as you can move from dense forest to the beach in just a few minutes.

One of the advantages of going on a minivan tour , as we suggested a few moments ago, is that you can take clothing to change into if you get wet.

Book your tour to Anaga now

And so we end the second stage of your four-day trip to Tenerife, with one of the most photogenic sights of your tour.

We are sure that, when you see the Playa de las Teresitas, you will want to show the world that you are there: the turquoise waters, the golden sand beneath your feet, the palm trees watched over by the little village of San Andrés on the side of the hill—all fit for a postcard.

The perfect end to a day in Tenerife that has provided both culture and exercise.

Click on the following links to see the information you’ll need to prepare for the second day of your Tenerife tour:

• Information about La Laguna
• Information about the Anaga Rural Park
• Information about Las Teresitas beach

Day 3. Visit Icod de Los Vinos, Garachico and Los Silos

Ideas for a day exploring the north-west of Tenerife , one of the island’s most fascinating areas thanks to its landscape, its wines and its flora, the highlight of which is a dragon tree that is at least 800 years old, el Drago Milenario , a rara avis that can only be found in Tenerife.

This will be a day dedicated to the culture of the Canary Island and of Tenerife, a day of strolling, eating well, taking photos and sampling the area’s wines, which are different from anything you may have drunk until now.

Wearing comfortable footwear and with camera in hand, we set out for Icod de los Vinos on the third of our 4 days in Tenerife.

Icod de los Vinos 

The great thing about Icod de los Vinos is that its manageable size allows you to explore it without worrying that you’re going to miss anything. What’s more, we recommend you follow your nose through its narrow streets lined with brightly-coloured houses , pausing to admire its whitewashed hermitages and churches .

During your stroll through the town, stop off at the Plaza de la Pila which (in addition to being a very pleasant square) is home to a place where you can try the area’s wines, particularly the Malvasia—a native variety of grape vine—along with Canary Island mojo sauce at the Museo de Malvasía .

And, of course, you can meet the Drago Milenario in the Parque del Drago .

And from one delightful town to another, where you can stroll along marvelling at its structure—a cliff divides the historic quarter from the rest of the town: Garachico .

On the way to this town, which was granted the title of Burg and Port by King Alfonso XIII , you can see a large number of banana plantations and huge tracts of Canary Island pine forest that give the area an immense environmental value.

The interesting fact about Garachico is that, in 1706, it disappeared almost completely beneath lava that poured from the Trevejo volcano, but the town sprang up again, more beautiful than ever. It is astonishing to see how humanity recovers from natural disaster.

We end the day in Los Silos which, while it may not appear in the rankings of places to see in Tenerife, we can recommend it because it imbues visitors with a great sense of calm, and shows the importance of agriculture in the island’s economy .

In fact, Los Silos owes its name to the three cereal stores that were built when the town was founded.

To make the most of your visit, the best plan is to start in the Plaza de la Luz , as you can walk out from here and see the streets built around it long ago (which are still well preserved today).

After this third day, filled with Tenerife culture, it’s a good idea to rest, because the last day of this 4-day tour of the best of Tenerife will be action-packed.

Click on the following links to see the information you’ll need to prepare for the third day of your Tenerife tour:

• Information about the Drago Milenario dragon tree in Icod de los Vinos
• Information about Garachico
• Information about Los Silos

Day 4. Visit Los Gigantes and Masca, and enjoy the thrill of whale spotting

To complete our tour of recommended sights in Tenerife, we now make our way to the south-west of the island , to another place that is full of life with accommodation to suit all tastes, from which there are plenty of excursions to Mount Teide .

But we’re not taking you out shopping or partying, although we could: we’re going to focus on the natural world.

Here, you can sail past imposing volcanic cliffs, enjoy a Jeep safari adventure through Masca, a landscape of immense geological interest , and see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Are you ready?

The fact is that swimming under the Los Gigantes cliffs is an experience not to be missed in Tenerife. And if you can sail a kayak, surf board or a boat, all the better.

The thrill of seeing these spectacular, vertical, 600-metre-high cliffs from the water is difficult to describe—hundreds of metres of volcanic rock standing out of the water like a black guillotine. Impressive to say the very least.

Los Gigantes is in the Teno Rural Park, which is also the site of our second visit today: the Masca Gorge.

In Masca, the word ‘hiking’ is synonymous with a tour of deep gorges, cracks caused by water erosion down the centuries , which allows you to see materials from different ages in the vertical walls.

A hiking trail through the Masca Gorge offers two other attractions: the Caserío de Masca, a hamlet in an incredible setting, and the beaches of black sand at the end of some of the paths.

You will feel like an explorer discovering another world. If you’d like to undertake this hike in Tenerife, remember that to visit the Masca Gorge you need to book online beforehand, as access is restricted.

I want to book my hike through the Masca Gorge

And to end this packed day of things to see in Tenerife, another natural spectacle that will leave anyone open-mouthed with wonder: cetacean spotting , which you can do from Los Gigantes and other points along the south-western coast, such as Costa Adeje.

Watching bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales in the wild unleashes a whole torrent of emotions—all of them good ones!

A boat trip is always a pleasure, but when you see something break the surface of the water, and realise it’s a dolphin or a whale, followed by another, and you watch them jump and play, you could stay there for ever.

And here we finish our comprehensive recommendation of things to do and places to see in Tenerife in 4 days.

Now, all that remains is to go through practical matters : places to eat, transport and accommodation, so that you have all you require on your stay on the island of eternal spring.

Click on the following links to see the information you’ll need to prepare for the fourth day of your Tenerife tour:

• Excursions to Mount Teide from southern Tenerife
• Information about the Los Gigantes Cliffs
• Information about Masca
• Information about cetacean spotting in Tenerife

What to eat in Tenerife 

Tenerife’s gastronomy is one of the island’s most highly-appreciated aspects, as it is flavourful, seasonal, based on locally-grown produce and, although simple, has great character.

Examples of typical Canary Island cuisine include papas arrugadas [‘wrinkly’ potatoes], gofio [a toasted flour grain], almogrote [a pâté made from hard cheese], and sancocho [a traditional stew], all made with ingredients from the Canary archipelago, and which you will find in any of Tenerife’s many restaurants.

There is also an abundance of fish dishes, a true reflection of the Canary Archipelago’s marine diversity: grouper, horse mackerel, red-banded sea bream, yellowfin tuna, to name just a few.

As you can imagine, Tenerife has thousands of restaurants where you can eat and drink the classics of the local gastronomy.

Click here to see restaurants on the island.

Having resolved the question of what to eat and drink, let’s turn to the best way for getting around Tenerife.

How to get around in Tenerife

Let’s start by saying that the best way to conveniently, reliably and sustainably discover all there is to see in Tenerife if you only have 4 days, is with an organised excursion .

Convenient because you don’t have to worry about how to get to places, or parking, or filling up with fuel, or planning.

Reliable because you know for certain where you are going and at what time you will arrive.

And sustainable, because you will be sharing a vehicle with other people, thereby reducing CO2 emissions and not contributing to vehicle congestion in the areas you will be visiting, especially the protected natural spaces such as the Teide National Park.

Having said that, to plan how to get around Tenerife , you need to know that buses or guaguas (as they’re known in the Canary Islands) serve almost every corner of the island, and that you have the option of public transport and an endless range of organised excursions. In Santa Cruz-La Laguna, there is a tram network, and all the towns have taxis .

Show me organised excursions in Tenerife

Where to stay in Tenerife

Where can you stay so that you get to see everything in Tenerife in 4 days?

As you might imagine, the range of accommodation in Tenerife is enormous : hotels, holiday cottages, apartments, guest houses, houses with a swimming pool... the island offers all types of accommodation, and for all budgets.

To help you orientate yourself, we would say that the areas offering the broadest range of hotels and services are:

• In the north, Puerto de la Cruz and the metropolitan area of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna.
• In the south, Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje.

We suggest you look for somewhere to stay in a place that suits you in any of these resorts or cities, and use it as a base from which to set off every day.

If you are travelling as a family, the perfect solution is to stay in a hotel in the south on half board or on full board, and in the north, in a hotel located close to public transport services.

And that brings us to an end of our recommendations on all you can see and do in Tenerife in 4 days .

You could follow this 4-day Tenerife itinerary closely, or adjust it to your personal circumstances and preferences—every traveller is different, and holidays are for getting to know new places and people, but they’re also for resting body and mind. And for that, there is nowhere like Tenerife.

But whatever you do on your tour of this orchard in the Atlantic, there’s one thing you really mustn’t miss in Tenerife if you only have 4 days, and that is a visit to the Teide National Park , in any of the ways we told you about at the beginning.

The only thing you need to bear in mind is to book your excursion in advance because places fill up quickly, especially if you want to go up to the peak .

So now do you know how you can see all the essential sights of Tenerife in 4 days?

A good way to start is by booking your excursions and activities.

Book your Tenerife excursions here

Tags : What to do in Tenerife , excursions to Tenerife

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• Hiking (11)
• Mount Teide (11)
• What to do in Tenerife (7)
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• Teide Observatory (3)
• excursions to Tenerife (3)
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FULL Tenerife Road Trip Guide | Itinerary, Places To Visit in Tenerife, Car Hire!

Categories Canary Islands , Europe , Itinerary , Spain

Tenerife is a small and compact island filled with so many different landscapes and terrains so a Tenerife road trip really is the perfect way to see the island and get an alternative look at the island away from the hotel resorts!

We spent a super quick 3 days in Tenerife recently and we saw so much of the island in that time and worked out the perfect Tenerife road trip itinerary. We saw towns that reminded me of being in South America, we saw incredible coastline and natural swimming pools. We saw remote mountain villages and climbed Spain’s highest mountain – Mount Teide, which is also a volcano… impressive hey!

For your Tenerife itinerary, you could do a 1 week road trip in Tenerife and easily spend your whole holiday travelling around the island because there are so many places to see in Tenerife, or you could spend a few days relaxing in one place and then a few days on a Tenerife road trip exploring the island.

Either way, this post of places to visit in Tenerife, things to see in Tenerife and my Tenerife road trip itinerary will help give you some ideas for your trip!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Tenerife Road Trip

Car Hire in Tenerife

Tenerife has 2 airports. From the UK with TUI , we flew into Tenerife South Airport . We hired a car through Rentalcars which checks all the top car rental companies and although it makes sense, we were still so surprised to see most of the airport car parking as car hire !

Because Tenerife is an island, it’s not like you can bring your own car so you will need to hire a car in Tenerife for this road trip and although there are many residents and locals living in Tenerife, a lot of the cars you’ll see on the roads in these tourist places in Tenerife, will be hire cars.

We hired a car through Top Cars which was a company we hadn’t used before but we had no problems with them, Cicar (Canary Islands Car) was another company we saw a lot of cars from on the roads.

Check out prices and availability for car hire on Rentalcars here!

Driving in Tenerife

In Tenerife, like in the rest of Europe (except the UK), they drive on the right side of the road . Which is great for Europeans and North Americans! Not as much for Brits and Aussies!

Generally, we found the driving in Tenerife to be ok . There is definitely an island feel to driving here with locals doing as they please in certain situations, plus, with a lot of tourists on the road you do have to be cautious, but it is in no way a dangerous driving situation like in Morocco for example. Roads are all marked and there are rules of the road in place.

As for driving licenses for Tenerife. At the time of writing this, UK driving licenses are still valid in Tenerife as they are in the rest of Spain. Tenerife Guru’s page is a great place to look for updated license information though, more detailed information on driving in Tenerife and travel rules to Tenerife.

We used a mixture of Google Maps and Waze for getting around Tenerife and both worked really well despite the internet dropping here and there in the more remote places.

Check out prices and availability for car hire in Tenerife on Rentalcars here!

Roads in Tenerife

A Tenerife road trip is perfect because of the amazing roads in Tenerife with their spectacular scenery and later in this post I’ll tell you more about these roads and where to go in Tenerife to see such incredible roads.

For now, let’s focus on the practical side. We did find the roads in Tenerife really good to drive on . The main dual carriage way roads are all well kept and well sign posted . The smaller side roads are the same, and even the windy mountain roads, although narrow, are well kept from pot holes etc.

However, one major thing to note about the roads in Tenerife for tourists driving around the island is the amount of narrow and windy roads there are.

From our experience, many of the narrow windy roads were suitable for 2 cars to pass at once but both cars had to really slow down and go as far as they could to their sides.

We didn’t travel down many 1 way roads. Luckily, many of us from the UK we are used to small 1 way roads but I know most American drivers aren’t so these small 2 way roads might still be worrying to you and you do need to drive slowly around the bends and be cautious of what traffic is approaching.

From a passengers point of view, I actually got pretty car sick from all of the windy roads so if you do suffer from car sickness or motion sickness you might want to pack something for this for driving around Tenerife!

Tenerife Road Trip Map

A Tenerife road trip is a brilliant idea because of how small the distances are from place to place in Tenerife and that the majority of the island has a ring road around it .

On this note, just because the island is small and just because there are many main roads in Tenerife, many of the roads are windy country roads meaning they will take longer to drive than you might expect from just looking at a map.

Here is a Tenerife road trip map with the below places to visit in Tenerife I have mentioned and our 3 day Tenerife road trip Itinerary

Tenerife Road Trip Itinerary

The perfect road trip itinerary for Tenerife will break the island up into areas and focus on one area per day ideally.

We focused on the West Coast, North and Middle of the island mainly and we found so many gems here that really surprised me and gave us a totally alternative look at Tenerife than the ‘Brits Aboard’ and ‘All-Inclusive Hotel’ image Tenerife has been given to many.

Tenerife Itinerary

Our Tenerife itinerary looked like this:

• Arrive into Tenerife South Airport Friday Evening
• Hire a car and drive 40 minutes to a small town called Santiago del Teide
• Stay overnight in a local and traditional hotel called Hotel La Casona del Patio

• Drive 10 minutes straight to Masca Valley
• Drive the windy roads and explore Masca Valley and Masca Village
• Drive 40 minutes to Garachio , have lunch and soak up this beautiful colourful town
• Head up the West Coast to Icod de los Vinos and Charco del Viento
• Drive into Northern Tenerife through Anaga Rural Park and Chinamada
• Stay overnight in the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna in La Laguna Gran Hotel

• Drive down the middle of the island to Teide National Park
• Spend 8.5 hours hiking up Mount Teide , Spain’s highest mountain
• Drive back through the middle of the island to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Stay overnight in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife at AC Hotel by Marriott

• Explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Drive down the East Coast back to Tenerife South Airport to fly home

What I liked and didn’t about our Tenerife Road Trip Itinerary

Looking back at our trip to help you with your Tenerife travel, I wish we hadn’t gone to Santa Cruz de Tenerife . This is really just a big city and although there are some noteworthy places to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , we didn’t enjoy it.

I reallllyyyy wish we had stayed in the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna for another night because this city is smaller with a lot more charm and really reminded me of many South and Central American cities.

I loved La Laguna Gran Hotel too and wish we had booked another night here.

I am really glad we left the airport in the evening on Friday and drove 40 minutes close to Masca Valley as this enabled us to wake up in the mountains and be close to the first stop on our Tenerife road trip itinerary. I also really liked Hotel La Casona del Patio because it was so traditional.

We packed a lot in on Saturday because on Monday my husband had to work from the hotel. In a way, we were lucky because the weather wasn’t great on Saturday, it was warm and clear but very windy so we couldn’t go swimming. If it had been nice weather and we had swam and enjoyed the beaches, we wouldn’t have been able to fit as much in on one day in Tenerife as we did.

Best Places to Visit in Tenerife

Here are many of the top places to visit in Tenerife that you’ll want to go on a road trip in Tenerife because many of these can only be accessed with your own car!

Masca Valley

Masca Valley is an absolute highlight in Tenerife and if you’re like me, you definitely didn’t know such places existed in Tenerife and it’s top of my list in best places to visit in Tenerife!

Masca is a small hidden village within the Masca Valley with a very small population. Now, it is one of the major tourist destinations in Tenerife with lots of tours visiting as well as tourists like us hiring a car and going as part of a Tenerife road trip or day trip, but there’s a reason why it’s so popular!

The road leading to Masca has a lot of sharp hairpin turns so it definitely requires some concentration and cautiousness.

After passing through the town of Santiago de Teide (we stayed overnight here so we could go to Masca first thing the next day which was not only a great way to start the day, but a great time to miss a lot of the crowds! We stayed at Hotel La Casona del Patio which we really liked!) you’ll come across lots of viewpoints and lay-bys to stop in to take in the view before you decend into the village.

I was wondering how far you need to travel down into the village to get the iconic shot with the village and the rock above it and to get these photos, we parked up just before the roundabout turning into the village which was a popular spot for many with car parking spaces.

If you have time, you can go for a wander into the town of Masca and get a coffee in one of the cafes in Masca . There are many walking and hiking opportunities in the area, hiking the Masca Canyon is one of the popular things to do in Tenerife. Or you can carry on down the windy roads to Masca Beach / Playa de Masca!

When I asked on my Instagram, where to visit in Tenerife, a few people told me to go to Garachico and I’m so glad we did.

It’s one of the prettiest towns in Tenerife with lots of colourful buildings and a fantastic coastline to walk along. I loved it as it reminded me so much of towns I’ve seen in South and Central America.

Garachico is one of the popular places to visit in Tenerife on a day trip , especially from the South Coast so do expect it to get busy, but when I went on a Saturday lunchtime at the start of October it was lovely.

Most of the top things to do in Garachico are visiting lovely buildings and churches , plus relaxing in the main square which we did whilst eating some authentic Churros! This is great if like us, you’re going your road trip around Tenerife out of the summer season where the beaches and ocean are more off limits.

If you are doing this road trip in Tenerife in Summer, you can also enjoy the natural swimming pools of El Caleton and Garachico Beach .

Icod de los Vinos

Like probably most people, we got pulled to the town of Icod de los Vinos because of Drago de Icod de los Vinos which is the lone Dracaena Tree estimated to be 1000 years old that sits in the middle of the town.

Although the tree is impressive, we didn’t pay to see it up close and we weren’t a huge fan of Icod de los Vinos, however it’s on this list of places to go in Tenerife because if you are doing this driving around Tenerife with children, it does have some good tourist attractions like a Butterfly farm and plenty of places to eat to break up a drive with kids.

Charco del Viento

There are many natural pools in Tenerife to swim in, and and Charco del Viento is one of the best natural pools in Tenerife to visit because it’s not hugely close to a town and therefore is going to attract fewer people than the likes or Garachico I mentioned above where the El Caleton pools are right in the town.

It was a bit of a random drive down a side road along a huge banana plantation to get here but well worth it for what was waiting for us.

Although the weather was not good enough for us to swim, we could see how amazing these natural pools were along with the small pebble beach areas, and even if you are aren’t coming to swim as we weren’t, it’s a great place to add to your Tenerife road trip itinerary, and I read it’s lovely at sunset !

Rambla de Castro

If you’re looking for an alternative trip to Tenerife visiting more off the beaten path destinations , Rambla de Castro and it’s hike, is for you and should be on your Tenerife itinerary!

This is a nature preserve in Tenerife with spectacular views across the ocean. The Rambla de Castro hike starts in the city of Puerto de la Cruz, here’s a great post on how to do the Rambla de Castro hike .

Puerto de la Cruz

Known for being one of the first tourism destinations in the world, as you creep up West Coast from Southern Tenerife to Northern Tenerife, you’ll come across the popular resort town of Puerto de la Cruz.

With just a few days in Tenerife, we didn’t visit, but if you have 1 week in Tenerife, it should be on your list to see how this popular resort has kept some of its old charm.

There are many things to do in Puerto de la Cruz like visiting its famous black sandy beach , chill and swim at the huge Lago Martianez swimming pool and visit the Old Quarter .

Piscina natural de Jover

Another one of the popular natural swimming pools in Tenerife, this one is much further up North so perfect if you are focusing on Northern Tenerife more on your Tenerife road trip, in fact, there are so many gems and amazing places to visit in Northern Tenerife !

One of the great things about being up in this part of the island is that there are not lots of resorts around here and therefore, this swimming pool is going to be much quieter, or at least quieter from tourists and more popular with locals.

We really pushed ourselves to visit Chinamada at the end of a long one day in Tenerife and I’m so glad we did!

We had to drive through the beautiful, and windy, roads of Anaga Rural Park to reach here (more on that soon) and when we arrived in the small remote village of Chinamada we couldn’t believe it.

It’s a remote place but definitely not cut off, there was one restaurant, a church and a few houses. We walked up a track and got an incredible view of the mountains and I saw many footpaths carrying along the mountains in different directions.

Playa de Benijo

Benijo Beach is one of the popular and best beaches in Tenerife to visit because of the rock formations along the coastline , known as the Roques de Anaga rock formations.

Because of it’s location it’s a great place for sunset in Tenerife too so try to plan this into your Tenerife road trip itinerary!

Anaga Rural Park

We drove through Anaga Rural Park to get to Chinamada in the North from San Cristobal de la Laguna and we were so surprised by this mountainous forest! This is not what we expected Tenerife to look like at all!

After some research , I found that the forest is called a laurel forest made up of laurel trees which is a type of subtropical forest that grows in areas of mild temperatures and high humidity, this is probably why it looked so unique.

If you have more time in Tenerife than we did with our long weekend in Tenerife, perhaps you have 1 week in Tenerife, I really recommend planning in time here to do some hikes and walks . Just from driving along the (windy) road up to Chinamada we saw so many lay-by’s to park in and footpaths leading from the road into the forest, or you can go to the visitor centre at Cruz del Carmen and start a walk from there.

For unique things to do in Tenerife, going walking here, or even just driving through Anaga Rural Park is something you should do!

San Cristobal de La Laguna

We stayed overnight in this city and I really liked the vibe. It’s a much smaller city than the nearby capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife but has plenty of amentities, and therefore felt like it had more charm , especially in the old town area . We stayed at La Laguna Gran Hotel which we loved and we loved the old surrounding streets.

These really reminded me of being in South America and I later read that the city was the model for several colonial cities in Latin America, so that now makes sense!

Before you leave San Cristobal de La Laguna, or as you arrive, be sure to drive out of the city and up to Mirador de Jardina which is a viewpoint that looks over the whole city and the surrounding mountains!

It’s also easy to add into your road trip Tenerife itinerary because its on the way to Anaga Rural Park and Chinamada so you can visit them all in one go as we did!

Mount Teide National Park

This is one of the main places to visit in Tenerife that would bring me back to this Canary island because driving through here and seeing all of the places to go in Teide National Park was so spectacular!

We had just stayed overnight in San Cristobal de La Laguna at La Laguna Gran Hotel which was the perfect place to drive from the North of the island into the middle of the island to Teide National Park. Firstly we drove through Las Lagunetas which is a natural reserve and we were blown away by the forestry here and all of the beautiful pine tree’s lining the roads, especially as we were driving in the morning with the morning sun rising.

Then, we entered Teide National Park and drove along the mountain roads where with amazing views, especially as we started to see Mount Teide – the highest mountain in Spain, emerge!

For your Tenerife road trip, I’d really recommend driving into Teide National Park from the North of the island as it was the best drive in Tenerife for us !

Because we spent our one day in Tenerife in this area hiking Mount Teide we didn’t get to explore much of the area but there are many things to do in Teide National Park and ways to see Mount Teide National Park like taking the Mount Teide Cable Car close to the Summit, hiking , go Stargazing , visiting the Teide Observatory and if you don’t have a plan or know what to do in Teide National Park, there are plenty of lay-bys you can just pull into with signs leading away from the road that you can just follow and explore for yourself!

Mount Teide

Finally, easily one of the top places to visit in Tenerife is Mount Teide! This is Spain’s highest Mountain at 3715m and it’s the third largest volcanic structure in the world with the first 2 being in Hawaii!

There are many ways you can visit Mount Teide, if people don’t have a car they can get a tour bus to Mount Teide and then get the cable car up to see the amazing views from very near the top of Mount Teide. For those that are doing a self drive road trip in Tenerife like we did, you can either get the cable car to the top too, or hike as we did!

Here is my full post on how to hike Mount Teide from the bottom, all the way to the top! To go to the very peak and summit of Mount Teide you do have to apply for a permit in advance , the permit is free but they do sell out a few months in advance so you do have to be organised and book this a few months out.

Otherwise, from hiking or from the cable car , you can go very close to the summit, see the views and have a little walk before returning to the bottom by cable car or by foot.

East Coast of Tenerife

For even more ideas of where to go in Tenerife, the East Coast looks like it has some nice places too, especially the North East. Unfortunately, I did not have time to see this side but I love this post on places to visit on the East Coast of Tenerife so have a read of this too!

South Coast of Tenerife

For more places to visit in Tenerife, there is the South coast of Tenerife . This is generally where holiday tourists go and many of the Tenerife tourist attractions like Siam Park are. If you’re looking for places off the beaten path in Tenerife, the South might not be for you, like it wasn’t for us, but just incase, here are the top places to visit in South Tenerife .

I hope you have found this Tenerife road trip post helpful and it has helped you with your Tenerife road trip itinerary and places to visit in Tenerife!

• For more of my posts you might like see:
• Hiking Mount Teide! How To Hike Spain’s Highest Mountain at 3715m, Easily!
• 16 BEST Winter Sun Destinations in Europe & Nearby!
• Southern Spain Itinerary – Where To Visit & Things To Do. Complete Guide!
• Visiting Marrakech in August, The Weather & Things To Do in Marrakech in August!

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10 Amazing Things To Do In Tenerife Cruise Port + Port Guide

Welcome to Tenerife cruise port, Spain’s second-busiest port after Barcelona and the Canary Islands’ most visited island! Upon sailing into the Tenerife port, you’ll be blown away by the dramatic beauty of the volcanic mountains surrounding Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital and its main port. Extraordinary sceneries, picturesque towns, golden and black sand beaches, amazing food and shopping… all of that awaits you in this vibrant cruise destination! In this Tenerife cruise travel guide, I share with you:

• Tenerife cruise port info (Tenerife cruise terminal, getting around, useful cruise tips)
• 10 best things to do in Tenerife Canary Islands and the best Tenerife shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , La Palma , Barcelona , Vigo ,  Madeira , Lisbon

Tenerife Cruise Port

Cruise ships dock at Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the island’s capital and its largest and most populous city. Santa Cruz de Tenerife also shares the status of the capital of all the Canary Islands with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria .

Cruise port Tenerife (Puerto de Santa Cruz de Tenerife) lies on the northeastern coast of the island and features one of the deepest natural harbours in the world. The majority of the cruise ships dock at Muelle Sur, a long breakwater that can accommodate up to five vessels at a time.

Santa Cruz Tenerife downtown is located around 1 km (0.6 miles) to 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the Muelle Sur ship berths, depending on where your ship docks. To get into the town center, you can either turn right and walk along the breakwater (a 15-20 minute walk to the downtown) or take a free shuttle bus provided by the port authority.

The shuttle bus drop-off/pick-up point is Plaza de España , the city’s main and largest square. The ride takes only a few minutes. Taxis are also available on the pier outside of the ship, however, there may be a limited number of them.

In 2016, a new cruise ship terminal was inaugurated only a 5-minute walk from the city center. It is located at Muelle Norte quay, and features a 395 m berth and the largest cruise terminal building in the Canaries, with a huge check-in hall with 50 desks, a large waiting hall, and parking for buses and taxi ranks. In case your cruise ship docks here, Plaza de España and the city center will be on your left, only a 5-minute walk from the terminal.

Getting Around Tenerife Port

• Tenerife Island has a well-developed infrastructure and is easy to navigate. Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s downtown and cruise terminal areas are flat and wheelchair-friendly .
• TITSA company (Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife SA) operates the only public bus service in Tenerife. The island has an efficient network of public buses that connect most towns and cities on the island. Getting around Tenerife by local bus is easy and cheap, however, it’s not a recommended option if you stay on the island only for a day.
• The  Intercambiador Santa Cruz (aka Tenerife Transport Interchange) is the main bus station in Tenerife. It is located in the city center across from the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife, around 1.5 km/0.9 miles (a 20-minute walk) from the shuttle bus drop-off point at Plaza de España.
• Tenerife tram is a light rail service that consists of two lines: Line 1 is 12.5 km/7.8 miles long and connects Intercambiador Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Avenida de la Trinidad in San Cristobal de La Laguna town. Line 2 links La Cuesta and Tíncer.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers amazing shopping opportunities. The old town is centered around Plaza de España, Plaza de la Candelaria, and Calle del Castillo – the main pedestrian street in Santa Cruz. If you are looking for a shopping mall, El Corte Inglés expands on 7 floors and offers everything you can imagine! It is located on Avenida Tres de Mayo, 1.5 km/0.9 miles (a 20-minute walk) from Plaza de España. It is open from Monday to Saturday 09:30 to 21:30.
• The majority of beaches in Tenerife are located on the island’s south coast around the town of Los Cristianos (Playa de las Américas, Playa de las Vistas, Playa de la Tejita, Playa de Torviscas, Puerto Colon, Playa del Dugue, Playa de los Cristianos, Playa de El Médano). Playa de Las Teresitas is the most popular beach near Santa Cruz de Tenerife (a 15-minute drive) and boasts golden sands imported from Africa. Read more about this beach below in the article.
• The currency in the Canary Islands is EURO (€) like in the rest of Spain. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs ( telebanco and cajero in Spanish) and currency exchange are available downtown.
• The Canary Islands are part of Spain and thus European Union, however, they enjoy some exceptions in the fiscal and economic areas and are outside the VAT area. Instead, they are within the Canary Islands Special Zone (ZEC), a low-tax zone . What does it mean for cruise passengers? If you plan to shop for watches, perfumes and other goods, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a paradise!
• Tenerife has two airports: Tenerife Norte Airport (TFN) (aka Tenerife North–Ciudad de La Laguna Airport, formerly Los Rodeos Airport) is located 15 km/9.5 miles (a 20-minute drive) northwest of the Tenerife cruise port, while Tenerife South Airport (TFS) – Reina Sofia Airport is located 62 km/38.5 miles (a 45-minute drive) southwest of the port.
• Book a private transfer to/from Tenerife cruise port
• Explore Tenerife tours and activities
• Find accommodation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Check out the Tenerife rent-a-car deals and prices

10 Best Things to Do in Tenerife Cruise Port

It is not easy to plan your day port day in Tenerife because this island has so much to offer! On one hand, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a beautiful, vibrant city that you can easily explore on foot, but on the other hand, you shouldn’t miss the island’s stunning beaches, Mount Teide, amusement parks, and picturesque, historic cities.

Before I share the best things to do in Tenerife, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Tenerife) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The island’s capital boasts unique architecture, grandiose squares, historic monuments, and a lively cultural, gastronomical and entertainment scene. Below is the list of the most famous Santa Cruz de Tenerife attractions:

• Plaza de España – The imposing Spanish Square is the largest square in the city known for the ruins of the historic Castle of San Cristóbal (Castillo de San Cristobal) and a round-shaped seawater lake. It is dominated by the Monument to the Fallen (Monumento a los Caídos), a memorial dedicated to the victors of the Spanish Civil War. The vast plaza is a great starting point to explore the city, as it’s located across the port entrance and the shuttle bus drop-off/pick-up location is here.

• Auditorio de Tenerife “Adán Martín” – Often associated with Sydney’s iconic Opera House, Auditorio de Tenerife is the symbol of the city designed by architect Santiago Calatrava at the beginning of the 21st century. The building overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is nestled along the Avenue of the Constitution, near the Parque Marítimo César Manrique and the port area. Distance: A 20-minute walk from Plaza de España.
• Candelaria Square (Plaza de la Candelaria) – This square is adjacent to Plaza de España and is famous for the 18th century Triunfo de la Candelaria (aka Obelisco de la Candelaria), an imposing white marble obelisk dedicated to the Virgin of Candelaria, the patroness of the Canary Islands.
• Calle del Castillo – The main pedestrian street connects Candelaria Square and Weyler Square (Plaza Weyler) with its lavish fountain. The street is around 1 km long and runs through the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s old town. In this area, you’ll find designer stores, shops, banks, cafes, bars and eateries.
• Parque Marítimo César Manrique – The iconic aquatic and entertainment complex lies next to the Auditorio de Tenerife and features three seawater pools surrounded by waterfalls and palm trees, restaurants, terraces, sunbathing areas, and many other facilities. The park covers 22,000 m 2 and was designed by the famous Lanzarote artist César Manrique. Distance from Plaza de España: A 25-minute walk.
• Palmetum – Located right next to Parque Marítimo César Manrique, the beautiful botanic garden spreads over 12 hectares and overlooks the ocean. The gardens specialize in palm trees and are home to the greatest collection of palms in Europe.
• Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) – The Tenerife Arts Space is a modern art museum and cultural space that sits in the old town area next to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology. The arts center is known for its state-of-the-art architecture featuring a facade made of concrete, with 1,200 glass windows of 720 different sizes and shapes. It consists of two exhibition halls, one housing a permanent exhibition of the works of Óscar Domínguez, a Spanish surrealist painter, while the second one hosts temporary exhibitions. Distance from Plaza de España: A 10-minute walk.
• Our Lady of Africa Market (Mercado Municipal Nuestra Señora De África) – Situated on Avenida San Sebastián in the old town, right next to the Tenerife Arts Space, the African Market is a bustling, traditional bazaar of over 300 stalls selling fresh local produce, from meats, fish, fruit, and vegetables to flowers, herbs and spices. It is a lively place full of colors and smells, a great way to feel the city’s unique vibe and authentic life!

• Museum of Nature and Archaeology (Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueología) – Less than a 10-minute walk from Plaza de España, this museum is housed in a neoclassical building overlooking Plaza de Europa. Also known as the Museum of Man and Nature (MUNA), it offers an insight into the island’s natural history, with an important collection on the culture of the “Guanches”, a native people who inhabited the island of Tenerife before the arrival of the first European settlers.
• Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción – The Baroque church dates from the 1500s and is located in the Santa Cruz de Tenerife old town, across from the Museum of Nature and Archaeology. The church is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and is renowned for its beautiful bell tower.
• Historical Military Museum of the Canary Islands – History buffs who want to explore the island’s military history must visit this impressive museum located less than a 15-minute walk north of Plaza de España, along the new cruise terminal building on Muelle Norte.
• Castle of San Cristóbal Interpretation Center – Another great history museum in an underground tunnel that showcases the island’s history and defensive system. It is located on Plaza de España.
• Guimerá Theater – The 19th-century building is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands. It is located in the old town, next to Art Room Recova (Centro de Arte la Recova).

Check out Santa Cruz de Tenerife tours and activities

2. Playa de las Teresitas

The beaches in Tenerife are known for their black volcanic and golden sands and crystal clear turquoise waters. Las Teresitas Beach is Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s most popular beach and one of the most visited beaches on the island. It is nestled along the northeastern coast near the town of San Andrés, approximately 10 km/6.5 miles (a 15-minute drive) from the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

This breathtaking beach stretches 1.5 km along the coast and is lined with palm trees and large parking. The beach is man-made and boasts silky golden sands imported from the Sahara desert in Africa. Due to its incredible beauty, great facilities (toilets, showers, changing rooms, accessible walkways, boat rentals, chairs, umbrellas, hammocks, eateries and beach clubs), and proximity to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the beach is extremely popular with both tourists and locals. It can get very crowded in the summer months and on weekends. If you plan to go shopping, you can visit the little town of San Andrés located right next to the beach.

You can access Playa de Las Teresitas by car, bus (line #910 from the main bus station or Plaza de España), or taxi. Cruise lines normally offer shore excursions to Las Teresitas beach (transfer options), however, I suggest you take a taxi if you travel with a group as it’s going to be cheaper.

Explore beach tours and activities in Tenerife

3. Mount Teide

Probably one of the most impressive sites to visit in the Canary Islands is Mount Teide, home to Spain’s highest peak (3,715 m/12,188 ft) and the third-highest volcano in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and geological wonder is part of Teide National Park (Parque Nacional del Teide) which covers an area of around 18,900 hectares in the municipality of La Orotava.

The jaw-dropping landscapes made up of rugged lava fields, ancient calderas, and volcanic peaks will take you back to another dimension and make you experience Mars on Earth. Teide’s most recent eruption took place in late 1909 and the volcano is still considered active.

Mount Teide is located approximately a 1-hour 30-minute drive from the port of Tenerife, however, already after a 45-minute drive you’ll access the entrance to the national park. I suggest you visit the park on a guided shore excursion because the drive through the park itself may take hours. Guided tours usually stop at different points of interest in the park, such as the Roque Cinchado – a 27-meter-high volcanic rock pillar and the most photographed rock formation in the park.

Teide Cable Car station is available at the foot of the mountain and it’s possible to take a cable car to the top. However, don’t be disappointed if it’s canceled last minute for safety reasons, due to the strong winds.

Explore Mount Teide tours and activities

4. Loro Park

This fantastic animal adventure park ranks among the top-rated zoos on the planet. It is located on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz, about 42 km/26 miles (a 40-minute drive) southwest of Tenerife port. Originally conceived as a parrot reserve (“Loro Parque” means “parrot park” in Spanish), Loro Park has developed into a 13.5-hectare (33 acres) facility that is home to over 400 animal species. Some of these species include dolphins, sea lions, gorillas, otters, red pandas, alligators, penguins, tigers, chimpanzees, sloths, and many more.

The park is famous for being home to 5 orcas and is the second place in Europe to house killer whales! In the park, you can join spectacular orca shows, dolphin shows hosted in Europe’s largest dolphin show pool, and the world’s largest indoor penguin exhibition. Don’t miss visiting the impressive collection of birds, the aquarium, and the longest shark tunnel in Europe!

The majority of cruise lines and independent tour operators offer shore excursions to Loro Parque. Alternatively, you can take a taxi which is a convenient and cheaper option if you travel in a group or with a family. On the official Loro Parque webpage, you can find timetables, prices, and a map of the park: https://www.loroparque.com/

Check out Loro Parque tours and activities

5. Siam Park

Another spectacular adventure park is located in the south of the island near the town of Los Cristianos, approximately 77 km/48 miles (a 50-minute drive) southwest of Tenerife cruise port.

Siam Park has been voted many times the best water park in the world by Trip Advisor users. Set in a lush, green tropical environment, this Thai-themed water park offers unlimited fun for families and adrenaline seekers. The park features a purpose-built sandy beach with beach facilities, bars and restaurants, a large wave pool, children’s play areas (the Lost City, Jungle Snake, The Giant…), and adrenaline attractions including Mekong Rapids, Dragon, Tower of Power, The Vulcano, and Singha water roller coaster.

Explore Siam Park tours and activities

6. Puerto de la Cruz

This charming town is located on Tenerife’s western coast, near Loro Park, around 38 km/24 miles (a 30-minute drive) from the port of Tenerife. Tucked in the scenic Orotava Valley, Puerto de la Cruz is a lively resort and one of the top destinations in Tenerife. The bustling town is known for its old harbour, black volcanic sand beaches, narrow cobbled streets and quaint plazas. The main attractions include:

• Lago Martiánez – a large, artificial seawater lake and swimming pool complex designed by the famous Canary architect César Manrique
• Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico) dating from the 18th century
• Plaza del Charco – the main square
• Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia
• Numerous parks and black sandy beaches such as Playa Jardín , Playa del Castillo , and Playa de Martiánez

Loro Park is located only a 10-minute drive from the town. Cruise lines and independent tour operators usually offer tours to Puerto de la Cruz.

Check out Puerto de la Cruz tours and activities

7. La Orotava

La Orotava Valley stretches from the Teide Volcano to the sea and is one of the most idyllic regions dotted with vineyards, banana plantations, green palm groves and black volcanic beaches.

La Orotava is a historic town located in Orotava Valley near Puerto de la Cruz, about 37 km/23 miles (a 35-minute drive) southwest of the Tenerife cruise terminal. The picturesque town is famous for its heritage-listed old town filled with colorful houses, churches, museums, manor houses and gardens. Wandering around its streets, make sure you taste the local wine and traditional cuisine in one of the quaint coffee shops and restaurants. The town of La Orotava is hilly, so make sure you wear comfortable footwear. Some of the main attractions include:

• Church of Our Lady of Conception (Iglesia de La Concepción) – The 18th-century Baroque church
• Church of San Agustín (Iglesia de San Agustin) from the 17th century
• La Casa de los Balcones – a historic house that houses the museum
• Plaza del Ayuntamiento – Town Hall square
• Jardines Marquesado de la Quinta Roja
• Liceo de Taoro
• Mirador de Humboldt – a viewpoint offering the magnificent panoramic views of the island

La Orotava Valley is also popular for activities such as hiking, horseback riding, cycling, walking, sailing, or diving. With their black sands and spectacular surroundings, Playa del Socorro and Playa El Bollullo are the best beaches in this area. Due to the region’s centuries-old winemaking tradition, local wine tasting is a must in one of the local “bodegas” (wineries). Tenerife boasts premium quality wines and numerous wine-tasting tours are available.

Check out La Orotava tours and activities

8. San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Commonly known as La Laguna, this city is the ancient capital of the Canary Islands and the only city in the Canaries that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Laguna is known for its picturesque colonial architecture and old town where you’ll find a large number of churches and other historic religious buildings ( Catedral de San Cristobal de La Laguna , Iglesia de la Concepción , Real Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna, Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán ) , palaces ( Salazar Palace , Nava Palace ), squares, and museums ( Museum of the History of Tenerife ).

Plaza del Adelantado is the main square of the city, while those of you who look for authentic tastes can visit La Laguna Market or one of the many tapas bars. The city is also home to the University of La Laguna , the first university in the Canary Islands founded at the beginning of the 20th century.

The charming city of La Laguna is located only 12 km/7.5 miles (a 20-minute drive) northwest of Santa Cruz de Tenerife cruise port. Tram line 1 connects Santa Cruz and La Laguna and is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the cities.

Check out San Cristobal de La Laguna tours and activities

9. Anaga Rural Park

Spreading over 14,419 hectares, the protected area of the natural park of Anaga occupies a large part of the Anaga mountains located at the northeastern tip of Tenerife. With impressive mountain peaks, peaceful valleys, rugged cliffs, rural settlements and diverse endemic flora and fauna, Anaga National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts!

Here, you can hike on one of the numerous hiking trails, do mountain biking or horseback riding, or enjoy watersports on one of the black volcanic beaches (Playa de Benijo is ideal for surfing). Anaga National Park is located around 25 km/16 miles (a 40-minute drive) north of Tenerife cruise port.

Explore Anaga Rural Park tours and activities

10. Masca Valley

Masca Valley is nestled in the far west of the island, around 80 km/50 miles (1h 30 min drive) from Tenerife port. Known for its wild landscapes and dramatic sceneries, the valley got its name after the small Masca village that lies at the head of the Masca Gorge. The most popular activity here is a fascinating hike through the gorge from the village to the black sand beach, surely one of the most scenic hikes you’ll ever do!

Explore Masca Valley tours and activities

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