Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, with a volcanic landscape, warm weather for much of the year and a range of resorts, beaches and mountain villages. The towering peak of Mount Teide sits in the middle of the island.
The south is dry and sunny and has the main beach resorts. The north is greener and wetter and has older towns, banana plantations and a more local feel.
How many days: 7
A week allows time for beach days, the national park and a visit to the north. A long weekend is enough if you stick to one area.
A car makes the island much easier to explore. Public buses cover main routes but take time.
What to do in Tenerife
- Visit Teide National Park
- A vast volcanic landscape around the highest mountain in Spain. A cable car runs near the summit, and permits are needed for the final climb. Check the official site in advance.
- Walk in the Anaga mountains
- Ancient laurel forest covers the hills in the northeast. Trails lead to hamlets and coast, with misty views.
- Explore La Laguna
- A university town with a well-preserved colonial centre and a World Heritage listing. A good place for a relaxed lunch.
- Visit Masca
- A tiny mountain village above a dramatic gorge. The road is narrow and winding, so take care.
- Go whale and dolphin watching
- Boats leave from the southwest coast to see resident pilot whales and dolphins. Choose a responsible operator.
- Spend time on a beach
- The south has golden and black sand beaches. Check the flag signals before swimming, as currents can be strong.
- Look at the stars
- Tenerife has some of the clearest skies in Europe. Observatories and night-time tours let you see them.
- Visit Garachico
- A pretty north-coast town rebuilt after a volcanic eruption, with natural rock pools you can swim in. A good lunch stop.
- Drive the south coast
- Cliffs, small towns and quiet bays lie beyond the main resorts. Stop in small villages for a coffee.
What to eat and drink
- Papas arrugadas
- Small wrinkled potatoes boiled in salty water and served with spicy mojo sauce. A Canarian classic.
- Fresh fish
- Grilled fish is served at harbour-side restaurants. Ask for the catch of the day.
- Gofio
- A toasted grain flour used in bread, desserts and stews. A traditional food of the islands.
- Local wines
- The volcanic soil produces distinctive wines. Try some in the north of the island.
- Barraquito
- A layered coffee drink with condensed milk, liqueur and cinnamon. Popular with locals.
- Bananas
- The small Canarian banana is sweeter than the usual kind. Buy them from local markets.
- Mojo sauces
- Red and green sauces made from peppers, garlic and herbs. They are served with potatoes, fish and bread.
Getting around
A hire car is the easiest way to explore, although mountain roads are narrow and winding. Drive carefully.
Buses connect the main towns and resorts. A tram runs between the north towns of Santa Cruz and La Laguna.
There are two airports, in the north and south. Check which one is closer to your accommodation.
Good to know
- Weather differs sharply between north and south, and the mountains are much cooler. Bring layers if you go up high.
- The sun is strong all year, so bring sunscreen and a hat.
- The island is part of Spain and uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted.
- Respect the volcanic environment. Stay on marked trails and do not remove rocks.
- The south of the island is the main resort area, with long beaches, golf and nightlife. The north is quieter and better for walking and local life.
- The island has microclimates. It can be cloudy in the north while the south is sunny, so check the forecast for the area you are in.