Things To Do
in Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, known for its stunning landscapes and mild climate. The island features diverse ecosystems, from beautiful beaches to volcanic mountains, most notably Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak. Tenerife is a popular tourist destination, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and rich cultural experiences.

Its vibrant cities and charming towns are filled with history, art, and gastronomy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Santa Cruz and La Laguna
morning
:

Start your day in Santa Cruz, visiting the Auditorio de Tenerife and the Parque Garcia Sanabria.

afternoon
:

Head to La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its colonial architecture and vibrant streets.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in La Laguna and experience tapas before heading back to Santa Cruz.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Teide National Park
morning
:

Take a cable car ride up Mount Teide for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

afternoon
:

Explore the unique volcanic landscapes and take a guided tour to learn about the geology and flora of the park.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening at a local beach, perhaps catching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🍺Local beer$2-5
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night stay$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
  • Mild climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Some areas can be commercialized and touristy.
  • Limited public transport options outside major cities.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Tenerife

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Teide

Capture stunning landscapes and the iconic volcano, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Los Gigantes Cliffs

These towering cliffs provide dramatic backdrops for photography, particularly from the beach or boat.

La Laguna

The colorful buildings and historical architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage site make for beautiful photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tenerife

Tenerife offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique fusion of Spanish and local Canarian flavors, showcasing fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional dishes.

Tenerife Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Papas Arrugadas

Wrinkled potatoes served with spicy mojo sauce, a staple Canarian dish.

Must-Try!

Gofio

A flour made from roasted grains, commonly served with stews or as a side.

Ropa Vieja

A dish made of shredded beef and vegetables, flavored with spices and served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África

A bustling market in Santa Cruz where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisan products.

La Laguna Street Food

Various vendors offer local snacks like churros and empanadas in the streets of La Laguna.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tenerife enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. Winters (December to February) are cooler with average temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F), while summers (June to August) can reach 25-30°C (77-86°F). The island experiences low rainfall, mostly in the winter months, making it a popular year-round destination. Coastal areas are generally warmer than the higher altitudes, where temperatures can drop significantly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly greeting with a handshake or kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and say 'Buen provecho' to others when dining.

Dress Code

Dress casually but respectfully, especially when visiting churches and formal settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tenerife is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, keeping an eye on personal belongings, and being cautious around tourist hotspots. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Tenerife

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave around 10% as a tip for good service in restaurants, although it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Mild temperatures with occasional rain; great for hiking and exploring the island without the summer crowds.

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, and flowers bloom, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather; perfect for beachgoers, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists; great for hiking and enjoying local festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Tenerife at Night

Tenerife boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Playa de las Américas and Santa Cruz, where you can find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The nightlife ranges from laid-back beach bars to energetic nightclubs featuring international DJs. Many venues offer themed nights and local performances, providing a lively atmosphere for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

Hiking in Tenerife

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Anaga Mountains Trail

A stunning trail in the Anaga Rural Park, featuring lush forests and breathtaking coastal views.

Masca Valley Hike

A picturesque hike through the scenic Masca Valley, leading to a beautiful beach at the end.

Airports

How to reach Tenerife by plane.

Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

The main international airport serving the island, located approximately 60 km from Santa Cruz, with numerous flight connections to Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tenerife offers varying degrees of walkability depending on the area. Cities like Santa Cruz and La Laguna are pedestrian-friendly, with ample sidewalks and pedestrian zones. However, some coastal areas may require more walking along busy roads, and rural areas can be less accessible without a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Canarians

The native population characterized by a rich cultural heritage, known for their hospitality and traditional customs.

Tourists

A diverse group from various countries who visit for the island's natural beauty, warm climate, and recreational activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Tenerife, with local teams like CD Tenerife playing in the Spanish leagues.

Surfing

The island's beaches offer excellent surfing conditions, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers from around the world.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tenerife can be moderate, especially in urban areas during rush hours. The island is connected by a network of roads, and driving can be a good way to explore. Public transportation is available through buses (TITSA), which connect major towns and attractions, though schedules may be limited in rural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tenerife.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; however, it’s advisable to ask as some dishes may contain fish or meat.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in many places, but it's important to check with the staff for cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Tenerife has a good healthcare system with both public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are accessible, and many healthcare professionals speak English. Travelers are advised to have health insurance to cover any medical needs during their stay.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide