Imagine a place where time seems to slow down and the air is filled with the scent of vineyards and ancient legends. Welcome to Icod de los Vinos, a charming town in the north-west of Tenerife that feels as though it has stepped straight out of a storybook. Its most iconic resident is the legendary Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario), but Icod de los Vinos offers far more than just an encounter with this botanical wonder.
In the Heart of the Vineyards: The History of Icod de los Vinos
The history of Icod de los Vinos dates back to the 15th century, when Spanish conquistadors established a settlement here. Originally, the town was simply called Icod — a word from the Guanche language, spoken by the island’s indigenous people, meaning “fire” or “burning”. The addition de los Vinos (“of the wines”) appeared in the 16th century, highlighting the central role of winemaking in the town’s life. Fertile soils and a favourable climate encouraged the cultivation of vineyards, and Icod soon became one of Tenerife’s most important centres of wine production.
Over the centuries the town experienced both prosperity and hardship, including a major fire in 1798 that destroyed many buildings. Yet Icod always managed to rebuild, preserving its unique character and architectural heritage. Today it is not only a historic enclave but also an active centre of Canarian viticulture, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the flavours and traditions of local wine.
Things to See in Icod de los Vinos
The centre of Icod de los Vinos is a picturesque maze of narrow cobbled streets, colonial buildings with carved balconies, and tranquil squares imbued with an air of calm. Every step here feels like a small discovery.
The Legendary Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario): A Living Monument of Nature
The undisputed symbol of Icod de los Vinos, and one of Tenerife’s most recognisable landmarks, is the ancient Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario). This extraordinary specimen of Dracaena draco is regarded as a true emblem of the island. Its exact age remains a matter of debate: some studies estimate it at between 300 and 800 years, while for centuries it was believed to be over 1,000 years old. Regardless, its impressive dimensions — reaching up to 18 metres in height with a trunk circumference of around 6–8 metres — and its fantastical form are simply awe-inspiring.
The tree takes its name from the red resin that seeps from its bark when cut, resembling blood. The Guanches, Tenerife’s indigenous people, believed these trees grew from the blood of slain dragons, a legend that adds to its mystical aura.
To visit the Dragon Tree up close, you can purchase a ticket to Parque del Drago, a beautifully landscaped botanical garden that also showcases other endemic plants of the Canary Islands. Visitor reviews often praise the park’s upkeep and the opportunity to enjoy the tree’s majesty in a peaceful setting. Many highlight the shady paths, birdsong, and relaxed atmosphere as part of the experience. For those who prefer not to enter the park, the Dragon Tree can also be admired free of charge from the viewpoint at Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, directly opposite the garden.
The Heart of the Town: Plaza de San Marcos and Plaza de La Pila
Here, in Plaza de San Marcos, which flows seamlessly into Plaza de La Pila, you will feel the true pulse of Icod. This is one of the town’s most photogenic spots, where you can soak up the atmosphere of the old quarter and admire its architecture. The square is always lively, yet it retains a sense of tranquillity.
At its centre stands the Church of San Marcos (Iglesia Mayor de San Marcos), built in the 16th century and admired for its architectural beauty. Nearby, on the same square, rises the Casa de los Cáceres, a fine example of Canarian architecture. Though privately owned, it offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the noble families who once lived here centuries ago.
A Quiet Corner: San Agustín Square and Church with Panoramic Views
Slightly removed from the main tourist flow lies another hidden gem – the square in front of the Church of San Agustín (Iglesia de San Agustín). Built in the 17th century in the refined style of Canarian Baroque, the church lends the square a distinctive charm. Next to the historic town hall, this area offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a quiet pause.
From here, you can also enjoy sweeping views over the townscape of Icod de los Vinos, and on clear days, admire the striking silhouette of Mount Teide rising on the horizon. The steps surrounding the church add a touch of photogenic elegance, making this spot well suited to tranquil walks and beautiful photographs away from the crowds.
Butterfly Park (Mariposario del Drago)
Next to the famous Dragon Tree lies another enchanting attraction – the Mariposario del Drago, Tenerife’s Butterfly Park. This tropical glasshouse is one of the most unique things to do in Icod de los Vinos, especially for families with children. It is home to hundreds of butterflies from around the globe, representing around 150 different species. A carefully maintained microclimate with high humidity and warmth allows the butterflies to thrive and flutter freely among the lush vegetation. Visitors are often delighted not only by the chance to observe these delicate creatures up close, but also by the magical moments when butterflies land gently on their hands.
Banana Museum (Casa del Plátano)
Discover another cornerstone of Tenerife’s culture at the Casa del Plátano, the island’s charming banana museum. This small yet fascinating attraction is dedicated to the history and banana heritage of Tenerife, offering an insight into the cultivation of one of the Canary Islands’ most important crops. Here you can learn about the agricultural processes behind these much-loved fruits, their role in the local economy, and even enjoy a tasting of banana wine – a rare product that makes for both a memorable souvenir and an intriguing gastronomic experience.
Wine Cellars and Culinary Delights
As its name suggests, Icod de los Vinos is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by numerous wineries and traditional wine cellars, many of which offer guided wine tastings in Tenerife. Here you can sample distinctive varieties grown on the island’s volcanic soils and learn about centuries-old local winemaking traditions. Several bodegas organise tours explaining the production process before inviting visitors to taste different wines paired with regional delicacies such as cheeses, jamón, and freshly baked bread. Reviews often highlight the warm hospitality of the hosts and the exceptional quality of the wines. A visit to one of these bodegas is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the culinary culture of the Canary Islands.
Beyond wine, make sure to explore the town’s restaurants to discover authentic Canarian food. Specialities include freshly caught seafood, the iconic papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauces, and traditional desserts such as bienmesabe or truchas. These dishes perfectly complement the wines of Icod, offering visitors a true taste of Tenerife.
Cueva del Viento: A Journey into Tenerife’s Volcanic Underground
For those fascinated by adventure and geological wonders, the surroundings of Icod de los Vinos are home to Cueva del Viento – the “Cave of the Wind”. This extraordinary site is one of the longest lava tubes in the world and the longest in Europe, formed around 27,000 years ago during an eruption of Pico Viejo, a volcano located next to Mount Teide.
Exploring Cueva del Viento on a guided tour takes visitors deep into an underground labyrinth where you can see remarkable geological formations such as lava channels, terraces, stalactites, and stalagmites. It is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins and the hidden landscapes beneath Tenerife’s surface.
As places are strictly limited, tickets should be booked in advance. Guided tours often sell out quickly, particularly during peak season. Be aware that parts of the cave can be dimly lit and noticeably cooler than the surface, so it is advisable to wear suitable clothing and comfortable shoes.
Icod de los Vinos is a place where history intertwines with nature, and tranquillity goes hand in hand with remarkable discoveries. It is the perfect choice for travellers seeking an authentic Tenerife experience, far from the busy tourist resorts of the south.
👉 Explore more island highlights in our Tenerife attractions guide.