Things to do in Tenerife

The island of Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. Dominated by Mount Teide, the highest peak of the country, this island is renowned for its incredible natural landscapes. Also, there are beautiful beaches with volcanic sand and Atlantic Ocean waters. Tenerife is also music, dance and colour, well known for the Carnival of Santa Cruz. To discover what to see in Tenerife, it is necessary to divide the island into north and south. In this way, you can organise your travel routes according to the location of the spots. Both parts of the island offer a different image and history of Tenerife Spain that will complete your trip in an exciting way. Let yourself be surprised by the island’s natural wealth, and fall in love with its beauty.

Things to do in the North of Tenerife

There is a lot to see in the north of Tenerife, especially for those who are looking for a more natural and adventurous type of tourism. Here you can connect with the true essence of the island. The natural landscapes of this part of the island, the architecture of its cities, as well as the gastronomy, the views and the volcanic sandy beaches will create an unforgettable experience. All these charms make this area of the island, for many, their favourite place to visit in Tenerife Spain. And the truth is, looking at its landscapes, they are right.

1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been the capital of Tenerife since 1833 and is one of the places where you can go sightseeing and taste the local gastronomy. The combination of historic and modern buildings is one of the best things to see in Tenerife Spain. You can visit the 17th century castle of San Juan Bautista, the unique market of Nuestra Señora de África, stroll around Plaza España and visit the beach of Las Teresitas. Moreover, visiting the capital is a different type of experience on the island, but a very essential one, to discover its authenticity. Besides, this is the perfect plan for a rainy day.

2. Punta de Teno

Punta del Teno is one of the most beautiful and unmissable places in Tenerife Spain. From there, you can experience a unique moment watching the sunset over the immense ocean. Next to the old lighthouse, you will be able to enjoy an incredible landscape that will change colour as the sun sets. In this area there are several very interesting villages and hamlets such as Teno Alto, El Palmar and Los Carrizales, which are maintained thanks to agriculture and livestock farming.

3. Anaga Rural Park

The Anaga Rural Park is one of the essential places to visit in the north of Tenerife. This park is considered a Natural Biosphere Reserve, due to the large number of endemic species living there. It is surprising how much there is to see in Anaga. There are several routes to do in this park, which go deep into the laurel forest. The most famous is the Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses). This route lives up to its name and follows a path invaded by the mist, where the sun’s rays filter through the trees, creating a film-like scenery. This route is an overwhelming tour of forest, viewpoints and beaches, each one more spectacular than the last. It is certainly a special place, and even more so for nature lovers.

4. Viewpoints to visit in Tenerife

Visiting viewpoints is one of the best things to do on the island. Among them, the Tacoronte viewpoint stands out, located in a beautiful natural setting where you can enjoy incredible views. This viewpoint is one of the places you cannot miss if you go to Tenerife. There are also other viewpoints near Teide, such as the Chipeque viewpoint, where you can see the best sunsets in Tenerife Spain.

Other impressive views to see in the north of the island are in park of Anaga. In this park there is a wide variety of viewpoints, which you will discover, depending on the route you choose. On the route of the senses you will find: Mirador Pico del Inglés, Mirador de Cruz del Carmen, Mirador Roque Mogote, and Mirador de Jardina. The Jardina viewpoint is a very good option on sunny days to admire San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

5. Bathing in the Calentón de Garachico

It is a must on the island, and one of the most touristic places in the north of Tenerife. The natural pools of Garachico were formed as a result of the volcanic eruption of 1706. In this way, El Caletón de Grachico was formed naturally, with different pools that make up this set of natural pools. These natural pools are located at the foot of the Castillo de San Miguel. El Calentón de Garachico is one of the most popular, so it is best to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

6. San Cristóbal de La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is another of the star cities to see in Tenerife, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a very characteristic colonial architecture, and its historic quarter, with its stately buildings, is a sight to behold. Some of the most interesting sights in San Cristóbal de La Laguna are the cathedral, the Leal Theatre, the Plaza del Adelantado and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Must-see beaches in the north of Tenerife

While you’re thinking about what else to see on the rest of your trip to Tenerife, these beaches are a must-see in the island. Do not miss them!

1. Benijo Beach

Benijo beach is of volcanic origin and stands out for its characteristic black sand. Here you will have an unbeatable view of the Roques de Anaga, and if you like photography, this beach is one of those places that is sure to impress.

2. Fabián Beach

Next to Benijo beach is Fabián beach, a beautiful wild beach, also with dark sand. It is one of the most isolated and unspoilt beaches. Access is on foot, so it is not suitable for people with reduced mobility, but there is an intercity bus that takes you to the beach.

3. Bolullo Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches on the island of Tenerife, and one that you absolutely have to see. This incredible beach is characterised by its calm and captivating atmosphere. It is the perfect beach to relax, disconnect and enjoy the surroundings. It has fine black sand and easy access, despite being a practically wild beach.

4. Castro Beach

This is a beach located in an isolated and practically unspoilt environment, in the municipality of Los Realejos. Playa de Castro is a small paradise of black volcanic sand, with very calm and clean waters.

5. El Socorro Beach

This beach, also located in the municipality of Los Realejos, has volcanic sand. It is the ideal place to enjoy unbeatable views of the rugged silhouette of the north of Tenerife. If you surf, this will be one of your favourites, as it is the surfers’ favourite.

Things to do in Tenerife South

The south of the island is also known for its wonderful sandy beaches, which run along the entire coastline. If you are wondering what to see and do in the south of Tenerife, the answer is; beaches for relaxing, villages for sightseeing and hiking to appreciate nature in all the stunning landscapes of this part of the island.

1. Teide

The Teide National Park in the centre of the island of Tenerife, is the highest peak in Spain at 3,718 metres, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For this and many other reasons, it is more than a must-see, it is mandatory. Although it is located in the centre of the island, it is a place you must not miss, whatever route you take, and whichever part of the island you visit. It is the essence and soul of the island.

The Teide National Park has a wide variety of routes to visit, comprising 37 itineraries, which allow access to all the places of interest. The most recommended and special way to reach the summit is on foot. But, of course, it is also possible to reach Teide by cable car, although to get to the highest point you will have to walk the last 200 metres. If you decide to climb to the top of Mount Teide on foot, it will take you approximately 4 hours to cover the 8 kilometres of the Montaña Blanca trail. Bear in mind that this visit will take up practically the whole day. So, set aside a day of your trip to enjoy this unique experience.

Upon arrival at the Cañadas del Teide National Park, you can also find places of interest that are worth a stop to discover and appreciate them, as they are:

Teide Observatory

The Teide Observatory is considered one of the most important solar observatories in the world. The Teide Observatory can only be visited by booking a guided tour during daylight hours. The visit does not include the telescopes where researchers are working, but you can access a nocturnal telescope and learn about its fascinating history. There, you will observe the sun with professional telescopes, and you will learn why the Teide sky is so special.

Ucanca Valley

In the heart of Las Cañadas del Teide National Park, we find this unique and unforgettable spot. It is one of the most visited spots on Teide, and due to its strategic location, the Llano Ucanca viewpoint is the perfect place to observe it.

What to see in Costa de Adeje

Costa Adeje is one of the most important points of interest in the South of Tenerife. Costa Adeje is home to some of the best-known beaches on the island of Tenerife, such as Las Américas and Los Cristianos. But if you are looking for a less crowded swimming area, you can go to Costa del Silencio. There you will enjoy clean waters and a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere. You can also visit Puerto de Adeje, a nature reserve where you can discover the local wildlife, including crabs, seahorses and turtles in the wild.

1. Malpaís de Güimar

The Malpaís de Güímar nature reserve is a natural area located in the southeast of Tenerife. It is a protected area covering some 290 hectares dating back 10,000 years, creating a very special landscape. Situated in a huge valley, it offers a different, more local and authentic tourist attraction. This nature reserve is another unique place to hike on the island.

The best beaches in the south of Tenerife

If you go to Tenerife looking to connect with nature, absorb the authenticity of the island, admirethe incredible landscapes and escape from mass tourism, we recommend visiting Diego Hernández beach and the beaches of Montaña Pelada.

1. Diego Hernández Beach

In the south, we find this small oasis of white sand and turquoise waters, known as the hippies’ cove. It is also accessible on foot and is located between El Puerto de Adeje and La Caleta. The best access is from a path that starts next to the Costa Adeje Golf Course.

2. Beaches of Montaña Pelada

These beaches form a volcanic cone that opens out into the ocean between cliffs and small coves of dark sand. The fact that it is an isolated, almost wild area, and that access is on foot, makes it a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.

But if adventure is your thing, and you are looking to discover landscapes to capture on film, you should definitely visit one of these beaches:

3. El Médano Beach

El Médano is one of the most charming beaches in the south of Tenerife, whether you go surfing or just want to enjoy a fantastic day at the beach. It has the Blue Flag certification, which guarantees the high quality and optimal water conditions for swimming. It is next to the town of the same name, and is a paradise for surfers. But if sunbathing is your thing, the area closest to the town enjoys calm, shallow waters.

The beach of El Médano stands out for the beauty of its fine grey sand and the majestic volcanic view of the Montaña Roja.

4. La Tejita Beach

Just on the other side of the Montaña Roja, we find this spectacular beach, the beach of La Tejita. Even more impressive and wild if possible, La Tejita usually appears in all the rankings of the best beaches in the Canary Islands.

5. Los Guios Beach

This place is also a blue flag beach, called Los Gigantes beach. Los Guios beach has calmer waters for swimming, it is not a surfing beach. This may be the most photographed beach in Tenerife, as it is in front of the Los Gigantes Cliff. This craggy rocky silhouette has become a symbol of the island and this beach is the exact spot to see it.

6. Lesser-known places in the south of Tenerife

As little known and hidden places in this part of the island, we present the villages of Tijoco, Taucho and Ifonche. The hiking routes offered by these three villages are the perfect way to get away from the tourist areas and into the essence of Tenerife. The trails are not very frequented, but they offer beautiful landscapes and are accessible to anyone in terms of duration and difficulty.

These trails not only allow you to enjoy the local nature, but also to discover part of its history thanks to its farmhouses, old cisterns and small fortifications. In addition, many of these routes cross protected natural areas.

Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife city

1. Market of Nuestra Señora de África

The Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, with its neo-colonial architecture, is still a reference point for the city today. This market opened its doors in 1943 and is the heir to the old 19th-century recova.

In its beginnings, it was an essential place for the sale of food, not only in Santa Cruz de Tenerife but also in the whole island. Nowadays, it offers the locals of Santa Cruz and its visitors a wide variety and flavourful commercial offerings. It has a modern shopping centre attached to it, is open on Sundays and has free parking for customers.

2. Palace of San Juan Bautista

Popularly known as the Black Castle, it was built in the first half of the 17th century. This circular coastal fort stands out between the modern Parque Marítimo César Manrique and the Auditorio de Tenerife. It is the best-preserved castle on the island, considered a Spanish Historical Heritage Site.

3. Plaza España

This is the largest square in the whole city, built in 1929 on top of the castle of San Cristóbal. It is situated between Calle del Castillo and the port, next to the Alameda del Duque de Santa Elena. The square was recently renovated by the architects Herzog & de Meuron to include a lake and several pavilions. Opposite is the seat of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Spain.

4. Palmetum

This 12 hectare botanical palm garden was created on the site of a rubbish dump. Today, it is home to the largest botanical collection of tropical island palms in the world. It is open every day and offers up to 400 species of palms.

What to see in Tenerife in 3 days

Here is an itinerary that you will find in our App, which you can use as a guide in your personal itinerary, or add the stops that most interest you to your travel route.

Itinerary by @maitemartin1701:

How to create your Tenerife itinerary?

• Get inspiration from the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the app’s suggestions to it.
• Add the spots you are most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
• Organise your itinerary by days and according to their location (you can take inspiration from the routes presented in the post).
• Check the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make the necessary modifications and you are ready for your trip.
• Finally, share your experience. Upload photos of each of the places you have visited to the app so you can inspire other users.

If you have any doubts about how to plan your itinerary, you can read our post: How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter.

Frequently asked questions for a trip to Tenerife