Anda
Do you have plans to jet off to Tenerife this year? Follow this Tenerife trip guide to learn how to design a trip that gives you the best possible experience of the island for guaranteed life-long memories.
The largest of the Canary Islands, with its reliably sunny weather, beach culture, and beautiful historical sites and natural landscapes, has so much to offer travelers of all ages. Let’s check it out!
Explore the different areas of Tenerife
Tenerife is extraordinarily diverse with a wealth of beautiful places to discover. In the center, you’ll find Teide National Park with a towering volcano at its heart and trails through striking rocky valleys leading up to the summit. Head west to Pico Viejo for crater views, and don’t miss the dramatic rock formations including the iconic Roque Cinchado column.
To the north, beautiful towns are offering a taste of traditional Tenerife. Wander the streets of La Laguna, the colorful old capital, and the cobbled lanes of Garachico lined with well-preserved 16th and 17th-century colonial mansions, monasteries, and churches. While you’re in the area, spend a day on the black-sand beaches of Puerto de la Cruz.
For the best beaches with water sports and ample facilities, travel along the island’s southwest coast. Many of these beaches are man-made, but that doesn’t detract from their beauty.
Include must-see attractions on Tenerife island
When you’re browsing Tenerife holidays online, identify options that include activities that pique your interest. Devoted beach days will likely take up much of your itinerary, but there are plenty of other ways to occupy yourself if you can tear yourself away to explore further afield.
Outdoor adventure lovers must visit the national park. You can get a cable car to the top of the volcano, follow guides on half-day walking trails, or challenge yourself on the steep cycling routes. Independent exploration is possible too, but only if you have decent fitness.
Another fantastic spot for active travelers is Los Gigantes on the western coastline. Tall basalt cliffs plunge abruptly into the sea, providing sensational trekking terrain with breathtaking views and the chance for water sports on the waves below. Sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are popular, or you can dive to see marine life including stingrays and turtles.
The UNESCO-listed center of La Laguna is a must if you’re interested in history. Crowned by a cathedral combining many architectural styles, the town boasts centuries-old mansions with pretty courtyards painted in vibrant shades and a museum showcasing local artifacts.
Sample the local cuisine on your Tenerife trip
No trip to a new country is complete without trying the local cuisine, so ensure your trip takes you to the best spots for traditional food and drink.
Experience a slice of local life at La Orotava, a town hidden in a lush valley in the north. This peaceful spot feels a world away from the touristy areas, surrounded by picturesque vineyards and plantations where you can enjoy gentle hikes and taste local vintages.
At the opposite end of the spectrum (and the island) is Santa Cruz, Tenerife’s thriving capital. Behind the glorious golden beaches are restaurants serving mouthwatering fusion cuisine with strong Spanish and Latin American influences. There are also smaller eateries where vegetables grown in the rich volcanic soil are the highlight, offered alongside grilled sardines and lashings of the sweet mojo rojo sauce. This is the best place for fresh seafood in the sun.
Can’t get enough of the Canary Islands. Check out the best of Lanzarote island, as well!