What to See in Tenerife: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know to discover the most spectacular island in the Canaries. Dream beaches, volcanoes, charming villages and unique cuisine await you.
In this guide
The 10 must-see places in Tenerife
The highest-rated experiences by our visitors. From the majestic Teide to volcanic black sand beaches.
Jungle Park (Las Aguilas)
Wildlife park with shows, jungle walks and adventures
Bollullo Beach
Pristine black sand beach in the north
Roques de García
Iconic volcanic formations
Anaga Rural Park Guided Tour
Hike through ancient laurel forests
Where to stay in Costa Adeje
The most upmarket area in the south: 4-5★ hotels, calm beaches and good dining.
TITSA Buses & ten+ Card
The island-wide bus ("guagua") network at very low fares with the ten+ travel card.
Wines of Tenerife
5 origin denominations with unique varieties
Tenerife Auditorium Adán Martín
Iconic Calatrava auditorium by the sea
Yoga Retreat in Anaga Mountains
Weekly retreat with yoga, meditation and nature
Apartments, villas & rural houses
More independence and space: ideal for families, groups and long stays.
Tenerife by area
Every corner of the island has its own personality. Discover what each area has to offer.
Anaga Mountains
Biosphere Reserve with ancient laurel forests, spectacular hiking trails and remote beaches.
Costa Adeje
The most exclusive tourist area in southern Tenerife, with golden sand beaches, luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife.
Los Cristianos
Former fishing village turned lively tourist hub with family-friendly beaches and a charming promenade.
Los Gigantes
Spectacular cliffs rising 600m above the sea, whale watching and unforgettable sunsets.
Puerto de la Cruz
The jewel of northern Tenerife, with its historic old town, botanical gardens and iconic Lago Martiánez.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
UNESCO World Heritage city, historic university town and the cultural heart of Tenerife.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The island capital, cultural and commercial center with impressive architecture and the famous Carnival.
Teide National Park
Spain's highest volcano and UNESCO World Heritage site, with lunar landscapes and Europe's best stargazing.
The best beaches in Tenerife
From the golden sands of Las Teresitas to the volcanic beaches of the north, Tenerife has over 150 beaches for every taste.
Apartments, villas & rural houses
More independence and space: ideal for families, groups and long stays.
Pino histórico
Behind the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, on the Paseo de la Iglesia, rises the Historic Pine, one of the municipality's most cherished symbols. Tradition holds that beneath its branches the first mass of thanksgiving was celebrated after the second and definitive Battle of Acentejo, won by the Castilians on 25 December 1495; popular memory says its trunk served as an improvised bell tower before any church existed. The imposing, centuries-old specimen embodies the living link between nature, faith and the event that gave La Victoria its name, and is an essential stop for understanding its origins.
Jungle Park (Las Aguilas)
Wildlife park with shows, jungle walks and adventures
Bollullo Beach
Pristine black sand beach in the north
Senderos del Parque Rural de Teno
Los Silos is one of the gateways to the Teno Rural Park, one of the best-preserved natural areas in Tenerife. Historic routes set off from the town, climbing through ravines and old cobbled paths towards the midlands and the high country. The most representative trail is the PR-TF 53 Los Silos – Cuevas Negras – Erjos, which crosses the Cuevas Negras ravine, with its traditional cave-houses, and ends at Erjos, beside the famous pools: former clay-extraction pits reclaimed by nature, now seasonal wetlands that host aquatic and migratory birds at around 950 metres altitude. The route offers spectacular panoramas of the Isla Baja, laurel forest, heath and fayal-brezal woodland, and reveals the contrast between the green of the midlands and the blue of the ocean.
Unique nature and landscapes
Tenerife is a natural paradise: the third-tallest volcano in the world, ancient laurel forests and spectacular ravines.
Teide National Park
The highest peak in Spain (3,718 m). Lunar landscapes, cable car and stargazing under a Starlight-certified sky.
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Anaga Forest
A Biosphere Reserve with ancient laurel forests, spectacular viewpoints and isolated villages.
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Masca Gorge
Tenerife's most famous hiking trail. A spectacular descent from the village down to the sea.
Learn moreTowns steeped in history and tradition
UNESCO World Heritage cities, towns rebuilt over lava and museums telling centuries of history.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
A UNESCO World Heritage city. Cobblestone streets, colourful mansions and a vibrant university atmosphere.
Garachico
The town reborn from lava. Natural pools of El Caletón, historic architecture and Atlantic charm.
Museums & Cultural Spaces
From TEA in Santa Cruz to the Museum of Nature and Man with its Guanche mummies.
Flavours of Tenerife
Tenerife's cuisine is a fusion of Canarian, Spanish and Latin American flavours. Exceptional local produce, wines with their own denomination of origin and a culinary tradition that never fails to surprise.
- •Papas arrugadas with mojo: the quintessential Canarian dish, a must-try at any guachinche
- •Tenerife wines: 5 denominations of origin with unique pre-phylloxera grape varieties
- •Guachinches: family-run eateries serving authentic Canarian cuisine at local prices
Suggested itineraries
Optimised plans to make the most of your trip depending on the days you have.
Frequently asked questions about Tenerife
We answer the most common questions from travellers visiting the island.
What is the best time to visit Tenerife?
Tenerife can be visited year-round thanks to its subtropical climate. Temperatures range between 18°C and 28°C. Winter (December-February) is ideal for escaping the European cold, while spring (March-May) offers green, blooming landscapes. Summer is perfect for the beach, though the south always has good weather.
How many days do I need to see Tenerife?
We recommend a minimum of 5 days to see the essentials: Teide, southern beaches, Anaga and La Laguna. With 7 days you can add Masca, Garachico and enjoy at a leisurely pace. If you only have 3 days, focus on Teide, one beach area and La Laguna.
Is the north or south of Tenerife better?
It depends on your preferences. The south has wider beaches, resorts and guaranteed sunshine. The north offers lush nature, charming villages, authentic cuisine and greener landscapes. Ideally, combine both areas.
Do I need a car to get around Tenerife?
Highly recommended. While there is public transport (buses and tram), having a car gives you the freedom to explore spots like Masca, Anaga or the more remote beaches. Rental prices are reasonable, from around €20-30/day.
What to see in Tenerife with kids?
Tenerife is ideal for families. Don't miss Siam Park (world's best water park), Loro Parque, the calm beaches of Costa Adeje, the Teide cable car and Garachico's natural pools. There are also boat trips to see dolphins and whales.