Your Ultimate Tenerife Travel Guide
- Eliška Brotánková
- Oct 9
- 4 min read
If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked getaway with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless adventure, Tenerife should be at the top of your list. We've been so grateful to call this Canary Island gem our second home, and are excited to share everything we know to help you plan your perfect Tenerife trip.
Tenerife Trip Planning - Where to Start?
Planning a trip to Tenerife can feel overwhelming at first. The island offers so much variety - from lush forests to desert-like volcanic terrain, bustling towns to quiet villages. Here’s how we break it down to make your planning smooth and stress-free:
Choose your base wisely: Tenerife is divided into two main areas - the north and the south. The south is sunnier and more touristy, with resorts like Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. The north is greener and more authentic, with towns like Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava. We recommend staying in the south if you want beach vibes and nightlife, or the north if you prefer nature and local culture.
Decide on your must-dos: Are you here for hiking Mount Teide, relaxing on volcanic beaches, or exploring charming villages? Make a list of your top activities to help shape your itinerary.
Book your accommodation early: Tenerife is popular year-round, especially in winter when many Europeans escape the cold. Booking ahead ensures you get the best spots at reasonable prices.
Rent a car: Public transport is decent but limited if you want to explore beyond the main towns. A car gives you freedom to discover hidden gems and travel at your own pace. Read this article with the most important information about renting a car in Tenerife.
Essential Tips for Tenerife Trip Planning
Once you’ve got the basics down, here are some practical tips that will save you time and money:
Pack layers: Tenerife’s climate varies a lot depending on where you are. The coast is warm, but the mountains can be chilly, especially early morning or evening. Bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes for hiking.
Avoid tourist traps: Some beach bars and restaurants near popular spots can be overpriced and underwhelming. Ask locals (us, for example! 🙌) or check trusted guides for authentic places to eat and drink. We also mention our favourite spots in our e-book and their exact locations in our virtual map.
Book Teide tours in advance: Mount Teide is the island’s crown jewel. If you want to take the cable car or join a guided hike, book early to secure your spot.
Try local food: Don’t miss out on Canarian specialties like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, and gofio (toasted grain flour). Small family-run restaurants often serve the best dishes. (Again, you can check our e-book or map for our best recommendations!)
Respect nature: Tenerife’s landscapes are fragile. Stick to marked trails, don’t litter, and be mindful of protected areas.
Discovering Tenerife’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known attractions, Tenerife has plenty of secrets waiting to be uncovered. Here are some of our favorite off-the-beaten-path spots:
Masca Village: Nestled in a deep ravine, this tiny village offers breathtaking views and a chance to hike through dramatic gorges. It’s a bit of a drive but totally worth it.
Anaga Rural Park: A lush, green area in the northeast with ancient laurel forests and quiet trails. It feels like stepping into another world.
Garachico: A charming coastal town with natural lava pools perfect for swimming. It’s less crowded than the southern beaches and full of character.
Punta de Teno: The westernmost tip of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, offering breathtaking views of the sea, Los Gigantes cliffs, and neighbouring islands of La Gomera and La Palma. This area is popular with nature lovers, hikers, and photographers - the sunsets here are just the best, and although access by car is limited, it is easily accessible by public bus.
Los Gigantes Cliffs: Towering cliffs that plunge into the sea, best admired from a boat tour, kayaks or a viewpoint in the town of the same name.
Local markets: Visit markets like the one in La Laguna or Santa Cruz on Saturdays for fresh produce, crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
Exploring these places gives you a deeper connection to Tenerife beyond tourist resorts. We encourage you to venture out and see the island’s diverse beauty for yourself.
How to Make the Most of Your Tenerife Trip
To truly enjoy Tenerife, balance your days between adventure and relaxation. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive and settle in your accommodation. Explore the local town, try some tapas, and watch the sunset by the beach.
Day 2: Head to Mount Teide National Park. Take the cable car up and hike one of the trails to enjoy the views before taking the cable car back down. Bring water, snacks, and dress warmly.
Day 3: Drive to Masca for a morning hike, then relax in Garachico’s lava pools in the afternoon.
Day 4: Visit Anaga Rural Park for a forest walk and lunch in the mountains.
Day 5: Spend a beach day in the south or north, depending on your base. Try water sports or just soak up the sun.
Day 6: Explore La Laguna’s historic center and markets, then enjoy a farewell dinner with local wine.
This plan mixes iconic sights with hidden treasures and gives you time to unwind. Adjust it based on your interests and pace.
Your Next Steps for an Unforgettable Tenerife Experience
Planning your trip with insider knowledge makes all the difference. If you want a detailed, easy-to-follow itinerary and insider tips, check out our tenerife travel guide. It’s packed with curated recommendations and practical advice to help you skip the tourist traps and discover the real Tenerife.
Remember, the best travel memories come from authentic experiences and a bit of spontaneity. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with Tenerife’s magic.
Happy travels!
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