Tenerife: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Tenerife — the Island of Eternal Spring — is the largest and most diverse of Spain’s Canary Islands, and one of the most popular destinations for travellers seeking sunshine, nature, and adventure all year round. Known for its mild climate, volcanic landscapes, and golden- and black-sand beaches, Tenerife offers an incredible variety of experiences in one place.

Whether you’re here for a beach holiday in Tenerife’s sunny southwest, exploring ancient laurel forests in the lush green north, or chasing unforgettable adventures like hiking Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, there’s no shortage of things to do. You can dive or snorkel in the Atlantic Ocean’s rich marine life, go surfing, or take a boat trip to see wild dolphins and whales.

Between outdoor adventures, stroll through the historic streets of towns like Garachico and San Cristóbal de La Laguna, both brimming with history and charm. Families and thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss Loro Parque and Siam Park, often ranked among the best theme parks in Europe.

If you’re planning your trip, this Tenerife travel guide will help you discover the island’s best attractions, hidden gems, and tips for making the most of your stay.

Tenerife Weather: Best Time to Visit and What to Expect Throughout the Year

Tenerife truly lives up to its title as the Island of Eternal Spring. Thanks to its mild climate and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, the weather remains pleasant throughout the year. Even in the middle of winter, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 20 °C (68 °F), while summer averages are typically around 26–29 °C (79–84 °F), making it warm yet comfortable, even in July and August.

Seasonal differences here are subtle, but they do exist. In winter, particularly from December to February, the north of the island tends to see more cloudy days and occasional short showers, while the south often enjoys sunshine. Spring and autumn are especially appealing for swimming, with the ocean warming up to 23–24 °C (73–75 °F) and beaches offering calm, sunny days without the summer crowds. Summer itself, from June to September, is typically dry, bright, and breezy, with minimal rainfall — perfect for beach holidays and water sports.

A volcanic ridge running through the centre of the island creates two distinct climate zones. The south coast — home to Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos — is warm, dry, and sunny for most of the year, making it the top choice for a traditional beach holiday in Tenerife. The north — including Puerto de la Cruz and La Laguna — is cooler, greener, and more humid, with lush landscapes and a higher chance of rain.

Rain here is rare and usually short-lived, most common in autumn and winter. And even on overcast days, the island’s varied microclimates often mean you can find sunshine just a short drive away. That’s why Tenerife is a great destination at any time of year — it’s simply a matter of choosing the season and location that best suit your travel plans. If you’re after winter sun, the southwest is your safest bet; if you want lush scenery and great hiking, head north.

👉 For more detail, see our guide to Tenerife’s month-by-month weather and the best time to visit.

Time Zone and Time Difference

Tenerife is in the same time zone as the rest of the Canary Islands, following GMT+0 in winter and GMT+1 during daylight saving time. This means the island is one hour behind mainland Spain and most of continental Europe.

For travellers, this usually works in your favour — especially if you’re arriving from countries like Germany, France, or Italy — as you’ll gain an extra hour of daylight on your first day. The minimal time difference also makes Tenerife a convenient choice for short holidays, since there’s no need to deal with jet lag.

Regions of Tenerife: Where to Stay and How to Choose the Perfect Holiday Base

Tenerife is more than just an island — it’s a mosaic of landscapes, climates, and travel experiences. The north and south can feel like completely different worlds, and that contrast is part of the island’s magic. Here’s what makes each region unique, and how to decide where to stay depending on your interests.

South Coast: Sunshine, Beaches, and Lively Holidays

The south of Tenerife is all about reliable sunshine almost year-round, inviting beaches, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure.

Playa de las Américas is the heart of nightlife and youthful energy, with beach clubs, bars, water sports, and parties running late into the night. Costa Adeje offers a more upscale vibe, with luxury hotels, water parks, boutique shopping, and sheltered coves — ideal for couples and families looking for comfort. Los Cristianos is a smaller, laid-back coastal town with a charming promenade, local markets, and calm beaches for relaxed days in the sun. Further west, you’ll find Los Gigantes, where dramatic basalt cliffs — some rising up to 600 metres — plunge straight into the Atlantic Ocean. From here, boat trips set out to spot dolphins and whales or to visit the stunning Masca Gorge, one of the most picturesque locations on the island.

North Coast: Nature, Green Landscapes, and Authentic Canarian Charm

The north of Tenerife is cooler, greener, and more atmospheric, offering a completely different side of the island.

The main hub here is Puerto de la Cruz, a laid-back resort with volcanic black-sand beaches, a beautiful botanical garden, and the world-famous Loro Parque. It’s a great choice for those who value nature, peace, and a more local feel. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO-listed colonial city with stunning architecture and rich history, sits inland at a higher altitude — cooler in summer, with no beaches, but plenty of charm. Candelaria and Las Caletillas, on the east coast, are quiet escapes with simple beaches, a slower pace, and important religious landmarks.

One of the north’s biggest natural treasures is the Anaga Rural Park, a protected area of ancient laurel forests, mountain trails, and spectacular viewpoints — perfect for hiking and those seeking solitude.

The Island’s Heart: Volcanoes, Craters, and Otherworldly Landscapes

At the very centre of Tenerife rises Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak and surreal, almost Martian landscapes. You can reach the summit area by cable car or tackle the climb on foot — the latter requires good preparation and a special permit. Visiting Teide is an absolute must for anyone coming to the island.

👉 Full details in our guide on where to stay in Tenerife (south or north and the best towns to choose).

Where to Stay in Tenerife Depends on Your Priorities:

☀ If you want endless sunshine, beaches, and vibrant nightlife — head south.

🌿 If you prefer nature, tranquillity, and authentic charm — explore the north.

🌋 If volcanoes and otherworldly scenery fascinate you — the centre is your destination.

The good news? Tenerife is relatively small, so no matter where you stay, you can reach almost any point on the island within 1–1.5 hours by car. This makes it easy to explore all the major Tenerife attractions, regardless of your base — just decide which atmosphere you want to enjoy most during your stay.

How to Get to Tenerife: Flights, Airports & Getting Around the Island

Reaching Tenerife is easier than you might think, thanks to frequent direct flights from across Europe and a well-connected transport system once you arrive.

The island has two international airports:

Tenerife South Airport (TFS), also known as Reina Sofía, is the main hub for international flights. Most visitors land here, arriving from Germany, the UK, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and many other European countries. Airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, easyJet, Vueling, Norwegian, and others operate regular services, making it a convenient entry point for most travellers.

Tenerife North Airport (TFN), or Los Rodeos, mainly handles domestic flights within Spain and inter-island connections. The main carrier here is Binter Canarias, offering frequent services to Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, and the mainland Spain, including Madrid and Barcelona.

Enter your planned dates and departure city to compare fares from dozens of airlines:

For those coming from other Canary Islands or even mainland Spain, there’s also the option of arriving by ferry via the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife — a scenic alternative to flying.

👉 Full details in our guide on how to get to Tenerife (flights, airports & transfers).

🚍 Getting from the Airport to Your Destination

• By bus: Tenerife’s public buses, run by TITSA, are modern, comfortable, and cover most of the island. From Tenerife South Airport, you can reach Playa de las Américas or Costa Adeje for around €3.70 on routes 40, 111, or the night service 711. From Tenerife North Airport, the direct bus 343 will take you to Costa Adeje in about 1 hour 20 minutes for €5–8.

• By taxi: A taxi from Tenerife South Airport to popular resorts usually costs between €25 and €40, depending on your destination.

• By rental car: All major car hire companies — including Cicar, TopCar, Goldcar, and Hertz — have desks in both airports. Renting a car is the best choice if you want the freedom to explore Teide National Park, Anaga Rural Park, or Tenerife’s secluded beaches at your own pace.

Where to Stay in Tenerife: Best Areas, Hotels & Apartments

Tenerife offers accommodation for every taste and budget — from affordable oceanfront studios to luxury resorts with infinity pools and panoramic views. The right choice depends on the kind of holiday you’re after: beach time and nightlife, peace and nature, active adventures, or a culinary escape.

📍 Choosing the Right Area

• The southwest (Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos) is the island’s tourist hub, blessed with year-round sunshine and a wide range of hotels and apartments. Expect to pay from €100–150 per night for hotels, with apartments starting at €80–120.
• The southern towns of Candelaria and Las Caletillas offer a quieter, more authentic atmosphere with good value for money. Hotels here start around €70–90 per night, apartments from €60–80.
• In the north (Puerto de la Cruz, La Laguna), you’ll find cooler temperatures, lush green landscapes, and more Canarian charm. There are fewer beaches, but more nature and local character. Hotels typically cost €80–130 per night, with apartments from €60–90.
• The central and mountain areas (Masca, Vilaflor, Teide) are perfect for solitude, hiking, and surreal, almost Martian landscapes. Prices are similar to the southwest: hotels from €100–150, apartments from €80–120.

🛏 Hotel or Apartment?

Hotels are ideal if you value service, breakfast included, and central locations. Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos are particularly good choices.

Apartments suit longer stays, families with children or anyone who prefers cooking at home. You’ll find plenty of affordable options in the north and in less touristy areas.

👉 Tips for Booking Accommodation in Tenerife

• Check whether your accommodation offers parking, especially if you plan to rent a car.
• Ask about air conditioning — you might not need it in the north, but in the south it’s essential.
• For families or larger groups, villas or apartments with a kitchen are often the best value.

Since Tenerife enjoys a year-round tourist season, it’s best to book early to secure the best deals and locations.

Ready to see what’s available? Pick an area you like and add your dates to compare current prices across hotels and apartments:

Public Transport in Tenerife

Getting around Tenerife without a car is perfectly possible thanks to a reliable network of buses and trams. While public transport won’t take you everywhere — some remote hiking trails and hidden beaches are best reached by car — it covers all major towns, tourist resorts, and many smaller villages.

Buses (TITSA)

The island’s buses are run by TITSA, easily recognised by their distinctive green colour and the local nickname “guagua”. Routes connect key areas, from busy tourist hubs to quiet mountain villages. Fares range from €1.45 to €6.00, depending on the distance. You can pay in cash (drivers accept notes up to €10) or with a Ten+ card.

Trams (Metrotenerife)

Tenerife also has two modern tram lines linking Santa Cruz de Tenerife with San Cristóbal de La Laguna. A single ticket costs €1.35, payable in cash, by bank card, or with a Ten+ card. The trams are fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility and for families with strollers.

The Ten+ Card (Tenmás)

If you plan to use public transport often, getting a Ten+ card can save you up to 30% on fares. This reusable contactless card works on both TITSA buses and Metrotenerife trams. It costs €2.00 and can be purchased at airports, bus stations, or kiosks marked with a green sign. You can top it up with amounts from €5 to €100.

There are also unlimited travel passes — a 1-day pass for €10.00 and a 7-day pass for €50.00 (temporarily unavailable at the time of writing). You can even use the Ten+ Móvil mobile app to avoid buying a physical card altogether.

Important to know:

• Outside the main tourist zones, buses may run only once every 1–2 hours.
• Last departures for some routes are before 8:00 p.m., so if you’re out late — say, hiking or enjoying the beach — your only way back might be a taxi.
• Between major southern resorts (Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos) and along the Santa Cruz – La Laguna – Puerto de la Cruz route, services are frequent, reliable, and punctual.
• The main airport routes to look for are buses 111, 343, and 40.

If you’re planning to rely on public transport to get around Tenerife, take a look at our in-depth guide to public transport in Tenerife. It covers buses and the tram, ticket prices and where to buy them, sample routes and timetables, plus the places that are tricky — or impossible — to reach by bus.

Taxis in Tenerife

Official taxis in Tenerife are easy to spot — they’re white with a green light on the roof. All licensed taxis are equipped with meters, and fares vary depending on the time of day.

Day rate (06:00–22:00): €3.15 starting fare + €0.55 per kilometre.

Night rate (22:00–06:00, weekends, and public holidays): €3.45 starting fare + €0.63 per kilometre.

For example:

• Tenerife South Airport → Los Cristianos: €13–15 during the day, €15–17 at night.
• Tenerife South Airport → Costa Adeje: €17–23, depending on the time of day.
• Tenerife South Airport → Puerto de la Cruz (north): €90–115.
• Tenerife North Airport → Santa Cruz city centre: €10–14.

While meters are standard, you can sometimes agree on a fixed price for sightseeing tours or day trips.

Taxis can be ordered by phone, through your hotel, or via apps like PideTaxi. Uber is also available, but its coverage is mostly limited to the popular southern resorts.

Ferries from Tenerife

Tenerife is well connected to other Canary Islands — and even mainland Spain — by ferry services operated by Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. Most ferries can also carry cars, making them ideal for island-hopping adventures.

The island’s two main ports are Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the north and Los Cristianos in the south, providing convenient connections for travellers from different parts of Tenerife.

Popular routes and prices:

• La Gomera – from €27.59, around 50 minutes, up to 5 sailings a day.
• Gran Canaria – from €49, around 1h 20m, up to 8 sailings a day.
• La Palma – from €58, around 2h 30m, 2 sailings a day.
• Fuerteventura – from €150, around 4h 25m, twice a week.
• Cádiz (mainland Spain) – from €287, around 37 hours, once a week.

Taking a ferry is not only practical, but also a scenic way to travel between the Canary Islands. Routes to La Gomera and Gran Canaria are particularly popular among day-trippers and those planning multi-island holidays.

👉 Full details in our guide to ferries from Tenerife (main ports and inter-island routes, ferry companies, and where to buy tickets).

Car Hire in Tenerife: Freedom to Explore

Hiring a car in Tenerife isn’t just a convenience — for many travellers, it’s the best way to truly experience the island. With its winding mountain roads, secluded beaches, and charming remote villages, having your own set of wheels unlocks places that public transport simply can’t reach.

You can hire a car either in advance online or on arrival at the airport or near your hotel. During the high season, booking ahead is strongly recommended — not only will you secure the vehicle you want, but you’ll also avoid last-minute price hikes. The rental process is quick and straightforward, with most companies — both international and local — offering clear terms and paperwork that takes just 10–15 minutes.

Tenerife is home to well-known global brands like SIXT, Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, as well as popular local companies such as Cicar and Autoreisen. Many travellers favour the local providers for their all-inclusive deals: full insurance with zero excess, no deposit required, unlimited mileage, and often extras like a child seat or an audio guide — all included in the price.

Rental costs are very reasonable compared to other European destinations. Expect to pay around €20–30 per day for a mid-size car, €30–50 per day for SUVs, and €70–150 per day for premium models.

If you book through major platforms such as Booking, Rentalcars, or DiscoverCars, you can often add extended insurance right away. This usually works out cheaper than buying coverage at the rental desk, especially with international companies that advertise low base rates but add significant costs upon pick-up.

See available cars and compare prices from dozens of providers for your dates:

👉 For a full guide to choosing the right rental company, avoiding hidden fees, and making the most of your road trip, check out our detailed article on car hire in Tenerife.

💡 Pro tips:

• If you’re planning hiking trips, inland drives, or visits to secluded beaches, hiring a car will give you the flexibility you need.
• Public transport works well for many routes, but always check the schedule on the TITSA website or Google Maps before setting off.
• For certain attractions, especially if your time on the island is limited, it may be more efficient to book guided tours or private transfers instead.

Mobile Connection & Internet on Tenerife: What You Should Know Before You Go

Tenerife’s mobile coverage is generally good — but not flawless. Most towns, resorts, and major roads have a stable signal thanks to a well-developed mobile network. However, in certain mountainous areas — especially in Anaga, Masca, on the road to Teide, or in narrow valleys — you might encounter weak reception or even complete dead zones, particularly if you’re with a less reliable provider. If you’re heading off the beaten path for hiking or road trips, don’t rely solely on mobile data — download offline maps in advance.

Recommended offline navigation apps:

• MAPS.ME — A free, highly detailed app featuring hiking trails, including routes in Anaga and Masca. Works completely offline and supports walking and driving navigation.
• Organic Maps — A fast, ad-free alternative to MAPS.ME, focused on lightweight offline navigation. Perfect for trekking and exploring remote areas.
• Google Maps — Great for offline driving routes and city navigation; however, it may not always display hiking trails in the mountains.
• Komoot — Specialised in hiking and cycling trails, with offline maps that include elevation profiles — ideal for active travellers.

💡 Pro tip: Download the entire Tenerife map while you’re still at home with a strong Wi-Fi connection. This will be especially useful if you’re planning to visit Teide, Anaga, Masca, or any other remote areas.

If you want to avoid roaming charges or simply prefer unlimited local data, you can get a prepaid SIM card (tarjeta prepago) from major Spanish operators such as Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, or Yoigo — as well as budget-friendly brands like Lebara and Digi. These are available in airports, phone shops, and even some supermarkets. You’ll need your passport or ID for registration.

As of 2025, entry-level prepaid plans start from around €10 and include 20–60 GB of data plus 500+ call minutes.

If you’d rather skip the hassle of buying and registering a physical SIM card, consider getting an eSIM instead. You can activate it online in just a few minutes and start using mobile data and calls at local rates as soon as your plane lands. For example, you can install the Yesim app and set up an eSIM in minutes. Plans include Spain-only, Europe-wide and global data options for weekend breaks, longer stays, heavy data use (maps/video) and flexible top-ups.

Money on Tenerife

The official currency on Tenerife is the euro (€). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere — from hotels and supermarkets to restaurants and petrol stations. Apple Pay and Google Pay work seamlessly as well.

That said, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you. You might need it in small village cafés, at local markets, on buses (if you don’t have a Ten+ card), or for paying for sunbeds and parking in areas without card terminals. ATMs are widely available across the island, but keep in mind that some — especially in tourist hotspots — may charge extra fees for withdrawals.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Tenerife

Tenerife is far more than just beaches and sunshine — it’s a fascinating blend of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and exciting activities. Here’s an overview of some must-see places and things to do in Tenerife to include in your itinerary.

🌋 Natural Wonders

• Teide National Park – A true highlight of any Tenerife sightseeing trip. Home to Spain’s highest peak (3,718 m / 12,198 ft) and one of the world’s largest volcanoes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers landscapes that feel like another planet. Take the cable car near the summit or explore hiking trails with unforgettable views.
• Anaga and Masca – Two of Tenerife’s most breathtaking hiking areas. Anaga enchants with its misty laurel forests and lush trails, while Masca is a hidden mountain village surrounded by dramatic gorges.
• The Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos – An ancient and iconic tree that has become one of the most famous natural landmarks in Tenerife.

🐬 Parks and Entertainment

• Loro Parque – Regularly ranked among the best zoos in Europe, with world-class shows featuring orcas, dolphins, and sea lions, plus an extensive parrot collection.
• Siam Park – Frequently named the best water park in the world, with thrilling rides, a lazy river, and an artificial beach with giant waves.
• Nightlife in Las Américas and Los Cristianos – These resort towns are hotspots for Tenerife nightlife, offering beach clubs, live music, and late-night parties.

🏛 Cultural & Historical Highlights

• San Cristóbal de La Laguna – A UNESCO World Heritage city full of colonial charm, colourful buildings, and cobblestone streets.
• Garachico and El Caletón – Once a thriving port, this historic town was partially destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706. Today, it’s famous for its natural lava pools and scenic coastline.
• Pyramids of Güímar – Mysterious stepped structures that continue to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike.
• Auditorio de Tenerife – An architectural masterpiece by Santiago Calatrava, hosting concerts and cultural events in Santa Cruz.

🌌 Unique Tenerife Experiences

• Stargazing in Tenerife – Thanks to its clear skies and high-altitude locations, Tenerife is one of Europe’s top stargazing destinations. Whether you book a guided tour or explore on your own, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable night sky.

👉 This is just a glimpse of what Tenerife has to offer. For a deeper, photo-rich look at the island’s headline attractions, see our guide to Tenerife’s must-see sights.

Diving in Tenerife

Tenerife is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the Atlantic, offering volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a rich variety of marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find plenty of exciting spots to explore.

📍 Best Areas for Diving

The most reliable conditions are on the south and southwest coasts, where the waters are calmer, winds are lighter, and visibility often reaches 30–40 metres. The north and southeast also have interesting dive sites, but the weather there can be less predictable.

🌊 Top Diving Spots in Tenerife:

• El Condesito – a sunken cement ship at 18–21 m near Punta de la Rasca. Great for beginners and underwater photography.
• Montaña Amarilla – volcanic arches, caves, and abundant marine life. Suitable for all levels.
• La Cueva de Palmar – a system of underwater caves at 30–40 m. Recommended for experienced divers.
• El Bajonito – an underwater hill off Las Galletas with depths up to 45 m, where you can see barracudas, tuna, and other large fish.
• Tabaiba – El Peñón – a shipwreck accessible from shore, with depths up to 30 m.

🐠 Marine Life You Might See

The waters around Tenerife are home to turtles, rays, barracudas, octopuses, moray eels, and many tropical fish. In rare cases, divers have even encountered dolphins and whales — sightings that require an extraordinary combination of luck, the right season, and specific dive locations.

👉 Learn more about scuba diving in Tenerife and how to choose the best dive centre and location for your dives.

Beaches in Tenerife

Tenerife’s beaches are as varied as the island itself. Here you’ll find black volcanic sands that glisten under the sun, golden lagoons with soft Saharan sand, wild hidden coves framed by cliffs, and wide sheltered shores perfect for families.

Swimming is possible year-round, but every beach has its own character. Some offer calm waters for safe swimming, others attract surfers with their powerful waves. The south is known for well-equipped beaches with warm, gentle waters — great for families and comfort seekers. The north and northeast have wilder, more dramatic landscapes and stronger waves, while the southeast (especially El Médano) is a paradise for wind- and kitesurfers.

All beaches are public and free, so you can simply pick the spot that matches your mood. Here’s a quick snapshot of some of the island’s highlights.

🌴 Golden Sand Beaches

• Playa de las Teresitas – 9 km from Santa Cruz, this man-made beach with Saharan sand and calm waters feels almost Caribbean. Perfect for a relaxed day with kids.
• Playa del Duque – In Costa Adeje, an elegant beach with golden sands, palm-lined promenades, and luxury hotels in the background.

🌋 Black Volcanic Sand Beaches

• Playa de la Arena – In Puerto de Santiago, famous for its jet-black sand and crystal-clear waters, with full facilities and a Blue Flag award.
• Playa del Bollullo – Near Puerto de la Cruz, a wild black-sand beach surrounded by cliffs — peaceful on calm days, but powerful during swells.

🏄 Active Beaches

• El Médano – Tenerife’s windsurfing and kitesurfing capital with steady winds, long sandy stretches, and a laid-back surfer vibe.
• Playa de la Tejita – Next to El Médano, a vast golden-sand beach ideal for solitude seekers and naturists.

🌿 Wild & Remote Beaches

• Playa de Benijo – On the northeast coast, black sands and towering ocean stacks create one of Tenerife’s most photogenic sunsets.
• Playa de las Gaviotas – Close to Las Teresitas, a small and often breezy beach, popular among naturists looking for seclusion.

⚠ Note: Be careful when swimming at wild beaches with strong currents (including rip currents) and no lifeguard presence.

👉 Planning more beach time? Discover our hand-picked guide to the best beaches in Tenerife for more standout spots across the island.

Cuisine & Dining in Tenerife

Tenerife’s Canarian cuisine is hearty, simple, and packed with flavour — not refined, but pleasantly straightforward. Among the must-try traditional Tenerife foods are papas arrugadas (salt-crusted potatoes) with red or green mojo sauces, garbanzas (stewed chickpeas), ropa vieja, rabbit in salmorejo sauce, and fried cheese drizzled with honey or mojo. You’ll find these dishes most often in authentic restaurants or guachinches — small family-run eateries serving homemade food and local wine. They’re usually tucked away from the main tourist streets, so it’s best to ask locals or check Google Maps when searching for the best restaurants in Tenerife serving local flavours.

In the main resort areas, the focus shifts toward Spanish classics — paella, jamón, croquettes — alongside popular international choices like pizza, burgers, and pasta. If you want a truly local taste, look out for specialities such as escaldón or slow-cooked goat meat, which are less common in tourist zones.

Tenerife also takes pride in its fresh produce. The small, slightly sweet papas negras potatoes, grown in volcanic soil, are considered a delicacy (around €10 per kg) and worth seeking out. Another island favourite is the plátano — the Canarian banana, often fried as a side dish, with a taste somewhere between banana and sweet potato.

Local markets and supermarkets are a paradise for food lovers, offering fresh fish, prawns, octopus, squid, and seasonal farm produce. Don’t miss trying Canarian bananas, papaya, passion fruit, dragon fruit, and pepino melon.

For a perfect evening, pair sliced jamón with sheep’s cheese and a glass of local volcanic wine. Whites (Bermejo, Flor de Chasna) are light and mineral, while reds (Cráter, Monje, Taganan) are bold and distinctive, shaped by the island’s volcanic terroir. Prices are pleasantly moderate, and even small bars often stock interesting bottles.

Service is relaxed and informal. Tipping is not mandatory, but leaving 5–10% is a nice gesture of appreciation.

Shopping in Tenerife

Shopping on Tenerife can be as varied as the island itself — it all depends on what you’re looking for. Some people want to browse boutique stores, others prefer picking up fresh fruit at a bustling market, and some are simply hunting for quality European brands at prices lower than on the mainland. And they really are lower — the Canary Islands are in a free economic zone, meaning taxes are lower than in the rest of Spain. This is especially noticeable on alcohol, perfumes, and electronics.

If you’re after “classic” mall-style shopping, head to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. You’ll find everything here: the massive El Corte Inglés with cosmetics, clothing, and electronics; the popular Meridiano shopping centre with international brands; and the pedestrian Calle del Castillo, lined with boutiques, cafés, and small shops. Everything is within walking distance — convenient and civilized.

In the south of the island — in Las Américas and Costa Adeje — there’s also plenty of shopping to enjoy. The standout is Siam Mall: modern, spacious, and with a great mix of stores from Zara and Mango to Guess and Levi’s. For something more upscale, there’s Plaza del Duque with luxury boutiques and a relaxed atmosphere. And if you want to combine shopping with a resort stroll, check out Avenida de las Américas (also known as the “Golden Mile”), where branded stores, salons, and souvenir shops sit side by side.

For a more local vibe, visit the markets. In Santa Cruz, don’t miss the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África — historic, lively, and very photogenic, selling fruit, cheeses, spices, and all sorts of odds and ends. Resort towns also host markets — for example, in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, they run a couple of times a week, offering everything from clothing and accessories to local souvenirs and crafts.

As for groceries and wine, most locals shop at supermarkets like Mercadona, Lidl, and HiperDino. Mercadona is especially good — great prices, a wide selection, and often better quality than in pricier chains. So if you want to take home some Canarian cheese, jamón, or wine — bring a big bag.

What to Bring Home from Tenerife

Tenerife isn’t just about beaches and volcanoes — it’s also a treasure trove of unique souvenirs that will let you take a little piece of the island back with you.

Gastronomic treats – A jar of mojo sauce is a must: the spicy red mojo rojo made with peppers or the fresh green mojo verde with coriander and parsley. Local honey is another highlight, especially the rare variety made from the flowers of the tajinaste plant, which blooms only on Tenerife. For those with a sweet tooth, palm honey from the nearby island of La Gomera is a thick, caramel-flavoured syrup worth trying.

Local delicacies – Canarian goat cheeses, especially the smoked varieties, have a rich, distinctive flavour. Wines from the island’s vineyards — particularly those made from the Malvasia grape — will delight wine lovers. And for something truly different, try banana wine or volcanic sea salt, which adds a unique touch to any dish.

Cosmetics & jewellery – Aloe vera cosmetics, made from plants grown on the island, are prized for their soothing properties. Jewelry crafted from volcanic lava, olivine, or obsidian is not only beautiful but also carries a piece of Tenerife’s natural energy.

Handcrafted items – Tenerife is known for its roseta canaria lace and volcanic ceramic pieces. You can find these in Artenerife shops across the island, including La Orotava and Santa Cruz.

Plants & seeds – For plant enthusiasts, dragon tree seeds make an original keepsake. This hardy plant — the symbol of Tenerife — is easy to grow and will serve as a living reminder of the island.

Tenerife with Kids

Tenerife offers plenty of ways to keep children entertained, blending fun, learning, and nature. It’s a place where every family can find something to enjoy together.

One of the island’s top family attractions is Siam Park in Costa Adeje. This Thai-themed water park has something for all ages — from safe splash zones and gentle slides for toddlers to thrilling rides for older kids and adults. “The Lost City,” a water playground filled with towers, bridges, and slides, is especially popular with younger visitors.

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz. Here, kids can see everything from colourful parrots to sea lions and dolphins. The “Kinderlandia” area features play areas and small rides designed just for children.

For families who enjoy combining leisure with learning, the Museum of Science and the Cosmos in La Laguna is a great choice. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium make science and astronomy both engaging and accessible.

Tenerife’s beaches also cater well to families. Playa de las Teresitas — with its golden sand and calm waters — is perfect for little swimmers, while Playa de Fañabé in the south offers an easy shoreline and plenty of facilities.

And for those who love the outdoors, gentle walks through natural parks such as Anaga or Teide let the whole family enjoy fresh air, striking landscapes, and a touch of adventure.

Festivals & Events in Tenerife

Beyond its famous beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Tenerife also bursts to life with vibrant celebrations that draw visitors from around the world.

🎭 Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

One of the most famous carnivals on the planet — second only to Rio de Janeiro in scale — this dazzling event takes place every year in February or March, depending on Easter. For two weeks, the capital fills with parades, costume contests, live music, and street parties. The highlights include the crowning of the Carnival Queen and the quirky “Burial of the Sardine”, marking the festival’s grand finale.

In 2026, it’s expected to take place from February 6 to 22 (exact dates will be confirmed closer to the event).

🌸 Corpus Christi in La Orotava

Every June, La Orotava transforms into an open-air gallery. Residents create intricate carpets from flower petals and coloured volcanic sand, covering streets and squares, especially the plaza in front of the Town Hall. These ephemeral works of art form the backdrop for religious processions honouring the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ.

In 2026, it will fall on June 4 (Thursday).

Final Thoughts

Reading about Tenerife is one thing — but nothing compares to standing on the summit of Mount Teide, breathing in the crisp mountain air, or wandering through the misty laurel forests of Anaga.

If you want to truly uncover the island’s hidden corners, consider booking a local guide. They can take you to remote spots like the Masca Gorge, share fascinating legends, and reveal the history woven into Tenerife’s landscapes. Whether it’s hiking, cultural tours, or stargazing under some of Europe’s clearest skies — your next unforgettable experience is just a booking away.