Tenerife Island - guide: attractions, how to get there, what to see, trip plan and the best excursions. Tenrife beaches, island attractions or our impressions of the Canary Islands Tenerife Canary attractions

Tenerife is the largest of the islands of the Canary archipelago. It is one of the most attractive tourist areas in Spain, replete with a variety of interesting and amazing places, incredible landscapes, landscapes, beaches and museums. Some of them are real symbols of Tenerife for the whole world.

Below are the main and most popular attractions of the island of Tenerife among tourists, which you can see on your own or in excursion format.

The Teide volcano can be considered one of the symbols of Tenerife and one of the most popular attractions. All tourists visiting Tenerife try first to see Teide, the highest point in Spain and the Canary Islands, called the “white mountain” by the indigenous people.

The volcano itself, its slopes and surroundings are stunning with their extraordinary, almost lunar landscapes, which have more than once served as a platform for filming science fiction films, without even needing scenery.

Pine forests, amazing plants and bizarre figures of petrified lava of different shapes and colors grow around. All this creates an amazing alien atmosphere at the foot of the sleeping volcano, which will leave a lasting impression. Intrepid visitors can climb to the top on foot or by car for €25 or €19 (children). Such a walk will allow you to look at the surroundings from the highest point and fully appreciate the beauty and scale of Teide.

Amazing landscapes, valuable tree species, popularity among tourists and the beauty of the area have made it a national pride. On the slopes and at the foot of the volcano it is organized national park.

The surrounding area of ​​Teide is exactly what you need to see in Tenerife.

Observation platforms

You can see all the beauty of the island and enjoy its landscapes by visiting observation platforms. Opportunity to view from above interesting places found in many parts of Tenerife.

From observation platforms you can see entire cities and valleys, plantations and mountain ranges, gorges, nature reserves and many other beauties, revealed in all their glory from the heights of the platforms.

The most interesting of them are:

  • El Bailadero allows you to see the valley and the city of Taganana, surrounded by mountain ranges and vineyards.
  • From Pico de Inglés you can see evergreen forests, the Taodio Gorge and the Afur Gorge, the cities of Santa Cruz and La Laguna. The same Anaga forests and the city of La Laguna can be seen from Cruz del Carmen and Jardina.
  • Montaña Grande also offers views of the La Laguna valley.
  • From the San Pedro platform you can see the coast of the island, and it can be seen from the Masape observation deck.
  • The view from Altos de Baracán will be breathtaking. It allows you to clearly see the differences and boundaries between the green, thicket-filled north and the deserted, rocky south.
  • From the Cruz de Hilda site you can see the gorge and the village of Masca.
  • Rocks and cliffs are visible from the Archipenke site.
  • The mesmerizing sea of ​​clouds can be seen from the heights of Cumbres del Sur or Cimage.

Only by visiting at least one of them can you fully appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the area in all its manifestations, from mountains and cliffs to lush green thickets and beautiful beaches. Thanks to the large number of options, you can choose exactly those landscapes that you want to see up close, comparing the diversity and contrast of the local nature.

The village is lost among the mountains, and the road to it lies along a steep and dangerous serpentine road. And half a century ago it was possible to get here only along paths in the mountains. Now only 120 people live in Mask, who love to meet tourists and tell them all sorts of stories about pirates and their treasures hidden in these places. And looking at the landscapes and nature of these places, it’s very easy to believe.

It is not known for certain who built these pyramids and why. Some scientists claim that the pyramids are the work of farmers and do not carry any magical meaning or special purpose. However, the pyramids have always been a mysterious heritage of humanity and have attracted researchers. Many of them believe that the pyramids of Tenerife had a special meaning for people, and their creation is attributed to the ancient civilization that lived on Tenerife long before the Spaniards.

It will be interesting to view and explore the pyramids regardless of which version of their origin is correct.

Museums

The island's museums will also be interesting to visit.

Thus, the Pueblo Chico Miniature Museum is often the first point that tourists visit before sightseeing. All the sights of the island are reproduced here in miniature. You can view the most interesting places on a kind of map before traveling and decide where you most want to go. The museum will be of interest to both adults and children.

Among the interesting things for both children and adults, one can also highlight the Museum of Science and Space. An educational journey through this museum will reveal to visitors the laws of physics in nature, starting from the smallest particles and ending with the movement of huge celestial bodies in space.

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of seven islands. Tenerife is a bright, slightly daring and very majestic lady in this family. This island, like all the Canaries, is very popular tourist destination: More than 10 million guests from all over the world come here every year. Many are attracted by the island's active nightlife, sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts.

But take a step beyond this tourist monotony and you will get to know Tenerife from a different side. You will see that this is a cultural and civilized island, full of interesting and unusual things. Today we will tell you about the most diverse attractions of Tenerife. Photos and descriptions of these amazing places will make you realize that it is not worth traveling many thousands of kilometers just to stay in a “star” hotel for a few days.

Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary


Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. | Photo: wikimedia.

While in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it is difficult not to notice the striking bell tower itself old church cities. The current church was built in the 17th-18th centuries, but by that time there was already a sanctuary on this site, built in 1498, i.e. immediately after the conquest of the island by Europeans.

The church boasts its beautiful wooden ceilings in the Mudejar style (an architectural style developed in medieval Spain under the influence of Muslim masters). However, its main treasure, kept in the center of the silver altar, is Santa Cruz de la Conquista - the Holy Cross of Conquest, dating back to 1494 and giving the city its name.

Address: Iglesia La Concepción, Plaza de la Concepción, 10, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Museum of Nature and Man. | Photo: wikimedia.

One of the main attractions of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and, perhaps, the best museum in the Canary Islands is the Museum of Nature and Man, located in the former building of a civil hospital, introducing its visitors to natural wealth region and archaeological finds made on the island.

The main highlight of the museum collection is undoubtedly the mummies of the Guanches, the indigenous inhabitants of Tenerife. Their faces, dried to the point of acquiring distorted and grotesque expressions, invariably make museum visitors freeze for a while and think about something.

Address: MUNA, Museo de Naturaleza y Arqueología, Calle Fuente Morales, s/n, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



TEA Arts Center. | Photo: Jose Mesa / Flickr.

The highlight of this magnificent modern building is the exhibition space, which combines three large and bright galleries. Don't miss the permanent exhibition of paintings and audiovisual exhibits dedicated to the life and work of Oscar Domínguez, a native of Tenerife who, along with Joan Miro and Salvador Dalí, is considered one of the most important Spanish surrealist artists.

TEA often hosts temporary exhibitions of works by young but up-and-coming Spanish artists, reflecting pressing contemporary themes.

Address: Centro De Fotografia Isla, Av. de San Sebastián, 8, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Auditorio de Tenerife


Auditorio de Tenerife.

This magnificent concert hall, shaped like a billowing white wave, was designed by the world famous Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The Auditorio de Tenerife is often compared to the Sydney Opera House: the same unusual design solution, the same smooth lines, the same grandeur...

Main concert hall The Canary Islands also boast excellent acoustics. Having joined one of excursion groups, you will be able to go behind the scenes of this wonderful temple of culture.

Address: Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, Av de la Constitucion, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



The exciting adventure park Forestal Park is undoubtedly the best family attraction in the Canary Islands (at least not located inland). This sports and entertainment complex offers a wide selection of zip lines, bungees, rope ladders, and treetop routes.

The routes differ from each other in their level of difficulty. The longest zip line has a length of 230 meters - this is a record for Canarian parks. If you are not an extreme sports fan, you can find a more relaxing pastime here, for example, just take a walk in the park, enjoying the beauty pine forest. Forestal Park is located in close proximity to the Teide National Park.

Address: Forestal Park, Ctra. TF-24, Km 16, 38290 Las Lagunetas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Siam water park. | Photo: Alberto Varela / Flickr.

The largest in Tenerife theme park– Siam Park – is very popular among tourists who come to the island. The park is decorated in Thai style (hence its name). There is water attractions for people of all ages, as well as a huge wave pool, sandy beach and a mile-long lazy river.

To experience thrill, go on the Tower of Power attraction: when descending from an almost vertical slide 28 meters high, the speed reaches 80 km/h, and at the end of this path you “fly” through a pool full of sharks - you will agree that this entertainment is not for the faint of heart. Of course, the best time to visit the water park is during the hot summer months.

Address: Siam Park, Av. Siam, s/n, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Botanical Garden. | Photo: John6536 / Flickr.

The magnificent botanical garden of Tenerife, founded in 1788, contains thousands of plant species brought here from all over the world. In addition to the main collections of tropical and subtropical plants, here you can see a wide variety of palm trees, a garden of fragrant herbs, and a giant 200-year-old Australian eucalyptus. You simply cannot find a more suitable place to while away the evening, inhaling the scent of roses.

Address: Jardín Botanico, Calle Retama, 2, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Risco Belle water gardens. | Photo: Till Krech/Flickr.

Risco Belle is not just any old Victorian garden. Step inside and you'll be greeted by a wide lawn, citrus trees and exotic tropical plants such as bird of paradise strelitzias and poinsettias.

For a small fee, you can also go to the ponds, where you will have the opportunity to admire herons, swans, ducks, fish and other wildlife. Just sit on a bench and contemplate quietly. There is a café in a historical building located in the park.

Address: Risco Bello, Ctra. Taoro, 15, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Price calendar for tours to the island of Tenerife:



Built in 1632, the magnificent rooms of this luxurious mansion contain historical photographs and a variety of interesting items. In one of the rooms there is a shop with lace and other local handicrafts. There is also a wine cellar with an original Lagar wine press (be sure to try the banana liqueur!).

Address: Casa de los Balcones, Calle San Francisco, 3, 38300 La Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Gardens


Gardens of Marchesado de la Quinta Roja. | Photo: wikimedia.

These 18th-century gardens, also known as the Victoria Gardens, cascade down the hillside, at the top of which stands a relatively small marble mausoleum, built as a tomb for the gardens' then owner, the Marquis de La Quinta Roja.

However, when he died, the Marquis's wife and mother decided to bury him elsewhere. As a result, the crypt was not used for its intended purpose, and no one knows what (or who) is inside.

Address: Jardines del Mar quesado de la Quinta Roja, Plaza de la Constitución, s/n, 38300 La Orotova, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



The exhibitions of the Tenerife History Museum tell about different periods of the life of the island. Here you will see many interesting documents, maps, artifacts and descriptions. Don't miss the two magnificent carriages from the 18th and 19th centuries, housed in a separate exhibition space at the rear of the museum.

No less interesting is the museum building itself - a 16th-century mansion, notable for its skillfully carved wooden gallery and beautiful courtyard.

Address: Museo de la Historia, Calle San Agustín, 22, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



The easiest way to get to the top of the Teide volcano is to take the cable car leading there. If you choose this path, you will have a magnificent view as you climb (unless, of course, a large cloud covers the top of the mountain, otherwise you will not see anything).

On clear days, you can admire the valley adjacent to the volcano below, and even see the islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro peeking out from the Atlantic. Lifting with cable car to an altitude of 1200 m will take only eight minutes.

A few words of warning: if you have heart or lung problems, then you better refrain from climbing to the top, as there is a noticeable lack of oxygen up there in the clouds. Keep in mind that the mountains are quite chilly, so no matter what the weather is like down there, bring a jacket.

The cable car cars, each of which can accommodate about 35 passengers, depart at intervals of 10 minutes. It is better to arrive at the lift before noon, as during peak hours you can stand in line for an hour or even two! Last descent at 5 pm.

Address: Pico del Teide, 38300, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Rocks de Garcia


Rocks de Garcia.

A few kilometers south of Teide is the Roques de Garcia, a geological ensemble of intricately twisted lava rocks. These rock formations are the result of the erosion of old volcanic "dams" or vertical flows of magma and have names such as "Finger of God" and "Cathedral".

The strangest and therefore most interesting of the rocks is Sinchado. To the west of the Garcia Rocks lies the volcanic sand plain of Llano de Hucanca, with absolutely unearthly landscapes.

Address: Roque Cinchado, 38300, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



When traveling around Tenerife, you will see the Loro Parque flag almost everywhere. It occurs so often that you might even think that this park sponsors the island. But we will forgive this obsession, because the park is truly wonderful.

Where else can you see over 350 species of parrots at once (the largest collection in the world!)? Today, not only parrots live here, but also tigers, gorillas and chimpanzees. Loro Parque also has a dolphinarium where killer whales and dolphins perform in daily shows.

It’s not clear whether to be happy or sad about this, because studies have shown that captivity is debilitating and stressful for these creatures.

Address: Loro Parque, Av. Loro Parque, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Pico Viejo translated into Russian means “old peak”. However, calling this mountain “old” is not entirely correct, given that in fact this volcano is the most recent one to erupt in Tenerife. In 1798, its southwestern slope split, resulting in a 700-meter fault.

Today you can clearly see the place where the magma "soared" into the air more than 1000 m and fell to the ground in disordered heaps. Streams of lava gushing from a second, lower crack froze on the slopes of the mountain.

Address: Pico Viejo, 38300, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Park Drago


Drago Park. | Photo: John6536 / Flickr.

Drago Park is located in the town of Icod de los Vinos, behind the Plaza de la Constitución, which is lined with historic Canarian houses. It is in this park that you can see the pride of the island - a tree that is considered the largest and oldest dragon tree in the world (it has been standing here for more than 1000 years).

Address: Parque Del Dragó, 38430 Icod de los Vinos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Teide Observatory


Teide Observatory. | Photo: Victor R. Ruiz / Flickr.

The Teide Observatory is one of the best places in the northern hemisphere for stargazing. Astronomers from all over the world come here to conduct scientific research. You can take a free tour of the observatory and even look at the sky through the giant telescopes stationed here from December to March.

Address: Observatorio del Teide, 38205 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Sitio Litre Gardens


Gardens of Sitio Litre. | Photo: Julie anne Johnson / Flickr.

This delightful garden, designed according to English designs, is decorated with exquisitely laid paths, fountains, tropical and subtropical plants and flowers. The oldest dragon tree in the city of Puerto de la Cruz grows here.

The highlight of this place is the orchids, of which there are many (this is why the Sitio Litre garden, named after the first owner, is often called the orchid garden). There is a cozy cafe on the terrace and a gift shop (surprisingly tasteless, I must say). The history of this garden can be found in the free booklet that you will receive at the entrance.

Address: Jardines Sitio Litre, Camino Sitio Litre, S/N, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Palmetum Park. | Photo: Palmetum Santa Cruz / Flickr.

Opened in 2013 on the site of a former city dump, this 12-hectare botanical garden has Europe's largest collection of palm trees, brought here from all over the world. A detailed map of the park and signs installed throughout help identify the trees growing here.

Under the central octagonal transparent canopy, the walls of which are decorated with volcanic rocks and waterfalls, a special microclimate with high humidity is created: this place is intended to accommodate more delicate species, including palm trees from the Yucatan.

Palmetum is great for calm, leisurely walks. Thoughtfully placed benches allow you to combine relaxation with contemplation of the magnificent view of the sea.

Address: Palmetum, Av la Constitución, 5, 38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Museum fine arts. | Photo: Jose Mesa / Flickr.

The excellent Museum of Fine Arts, founded in 1900 and formerly part of the adjacent church (check out the fabulous stained glass windows!), has an eclectic collection of paintings by predominantly Spanish, Canarian and Flemish artists, including Ribera, Sorolla and Bruegel.

There are also sculptures here, including works by Rodin. Museum visitors are especially impressed by the paintings of the Spanish painter Manuel Villegas Brieva with their grandiose battle scenes. Please note that the galleries can only be accessed by stairs; there is no elevator in the building.

Address: Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes, Calle José Murphy, 12, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Museum of the Monastery of St. Clare


Of all the monasteries in La Laguna, this is the most interesting. Its building is famous for its beautiful wooden balconies and covered gallery. The nine rooms that the museum occupies display some of the most valuable works of art and artifacts from the monastery's collection, including a magnificent 18th-century silver altar.

A ten-minute audiovisual presentation (in English and Spanish) tells the fascinating history of the monastery, dating back to 1547, when it was founded by ten Franciscan nuns.

Address: Museo de Santa Clara Arte Sacro, Calle Viana, 38, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Basilica of Candelaria


Basilica of Candelaria. | Photo: wikimedia.

This church, built in 1959, is located on the edge of the city center, next to the waterfront. On the square near the basilica you can see another attraction of the city and the entire island - nine huge statues of Guanche warriors.

Every year on August 15, during the official celebrations of the feast of Our Lady of Candelaria, considered the patroness of the Canaries, the square next to the basilica is filled with pilgrims from all the islands.

Address: Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, 1, 38530 Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Fort San Juan


Castle-fortress Castillo de San Juan Bautista. | Photo: wikimedia.

The central part of the embankment has recently undergone serious reconstruction, and now you can enjoy have a nice walk, heading towards the squat 17th-century Castillo de San Juan.

Don't be fooled by the name - this is more of a modest fortress than a castle. Stand in the shadow of this fort and reflect on its past - when there was an active trade in African slaves.

Address: Castillo de San Juan, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Cathedral of San Cristobal de la Laguna


Cathedral of San Cristobal de la Laguna. | Photo: wikimedia.

The Cathedral of San Cristobal de La Laguna was completely rebuilt in 1913. Its beautiful Baroque altarpiece is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Los Remedios, Our Lady of Healing, and dates from the 16th century.

Other highlights of the cathedral include impressive paintings by Cristóbal Hernández de Quintana, one of the island's leading 18th-century artists, and a magnificent Carrara marble pulpit carved by Genoese sculptor Pasquale Bocciardo in 1762.

Address: Laguna Catedral, Calle Obispo Rey Redondo, 25, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



House of Lercaro. | Photo: wikimedia.

This 16th-century mansion is considered the most representative building built in the traditional style of the Canary Islands. Particularly noteworthy are the exquisite Baroque wood carvings, including the magnificent traditional balconies. The plant-filled patio now houses a restaurant, and part of the building is occupied by a decor store.

Address: Sede Casa Lercaro, 22, Calle San Agustín, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Church and former monastery St. Augustine. | Photo: wikimedia.

It is impossible to get into the ruined church of the Monastery of St. Augustine today, but you can look through a gap in the wall at the cacti and other plants that have “taken over” the building.

The monastery cloisters, open to the public, are also filled with tropical plants and flowers and are therefore probably the most beautiful in the city. The monastery premises houses a gallery of works by local artists.

Address: St Augustine's Church, Calle San Agustin, 46-48, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Pools Martianez


Pools Martianez.

Huge salt Lake Martianez, artificially created on the north coast of Tenerife in the 1970s, is part of the modern entertainment complex of the same name. This holiday park includes seven ponds of varying sizes, a number of sun terraces and picturesque landscapes designed by the well-known artist and architect of the Canary Islands, Cesar Manrique.

Be sure to pay attention to the huge geyser - one of several interesting fountains located in Lago Martianez. The on-site restaurants, bars and cafes mean you and your kids can happily spend the whole day here (and adults can return at night to visit the underground casino).

Address: Lago Martiánez, Av. de Cristobal Colón, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Monkey Park. | Photo: Linda De Volder / Flickr.

The inhabitants of the monkey park are not only monkeys, of which there are as many as 20 species, but also lemurs, iguanas, crocodiles, turtles, snakes and other animals. Little visitors, as a rule, are delighted with everything they see. If you wish, you can treat the monkeys to dried fruits and nuts, which are sold right in the park.

But giving bananas to four-legged animals, oddly enough, is strictly prohibited. Despite the fact that this is a small zoo, the cages housed here are not cramped at all, and the animals are treated well here. The park has a breeding center for endangered primates.

Address: Zoo Tenerife Monkey Park, Camino Moreque-Llano Azul, 17, 38627 Los Cristianos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Science and Space Museum


Museum of Science and Space. | Photo: Wojtek Gurak / Flickr.

If you like pushing buttons and pondering the great mysteries of nature and the universe, if you were a why-guy as a child and still are, then you'll want to linger longer in this museum, which introduces key scientific concepts in a fun and thought-provoking way. form.

There is even a planetarium at the Science and Space Museum, so you will never be bored. Overall, this place can easily be called the best and worth seeing in Tenerife if you are on holiday with teenage children.

Address: Museo de la Ciencia y El Cosmos, Av. de los Menceyes, 70, 38205 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



If you head to the southwest of the island, you won't want to miss Los Gigantes, a stunning array of vertical cliffs located along coastline. The "Giants" cover a long stretch of the western coast and reach an altitude of more than 600 meters above sea level.

This natural wonder is best viewed from the resort town of the same name, which still manages to maintain an exceptional atmosphere, probably thanks to its lack of high-rise buildings.

However, you can admire the majestic rocks from different places: from an observation deck located on the way into the city, from a black sand beach sandwiched between the sea and the rocks, from the sea during one of the popular whale and dolphin watching excursions, or even from above, during helicopter tour time.

Address: Los Gigantes, Calle las Adelfas, 53, 38683 Santiago del Teide, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Maska Valley. | Photo: Raico Rosenberg / Flickr.

The wild landscapes of the Masca Valley, with its steep rocky cliffs, forest paths and cascading waterfalls, are some of the most beautiful in Tenerife. In the upper part of the Maska gorge, at an altitude of about 600 meters, there is a village of the same name, aptly nicknamed the “lost village”.

You can get there via a steep, winding road. Those who were able to overcome this difficult path will have a breathtaking view of the valley. From the village of Maska to the seashore there is a popular 5 km hiking route that runs along the bottom of the gorge, past hidden caves, lagoons and black sand beaches.

Address: La Masca, 38489 Masca, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Orotava Valley


View of the Orotava valley. | Photo: wikimedia.

The Orotava Valley, located in the shadow of the Teide volcano and framed by the sloping peaks of the Teide mountains, offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Tenerife. With its lush banana plantations and vineyards, steep cliffs and pine-covered mountains, this valley is perfect for... hiking, and a number of famous routes do pass through it.

Among the attractions of Orotava is the Mirador del Humboldt viewpoint, which offers magnificent views panoramic view to the valley, the historic city of La Orotava, famous for its unique architecture and botanical gardens, the beaches of El Bollullo, Martin Alonso and El Rincon with volcanic sand.

Address: Valle de la Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.



Anaga mountain range. | Photo: Patrick Müller / Flickr.

This picturesque mountain range is one of the oldest natural landscapes on the island. It was formed more than 7 million years ago as a result of volcanic activity. Today Anaga is an officially recognized biosphere reserve and protected natural park.

Home to many native plant species found only in this area, these forests are considered the most biodiverse in all of Europe. The mountain range attracts many tourists from all over the world. Several paths wind through its forests leading to different parts of Anaga.

The highest points of the hiking trails offer beautiful views of the coastline. Along the way you will encounter many small streams and lakes that complement the landscape.

Address: Macizo de Anaga, 38139 Las Casas de la Cumbre, Spain.



Volcanic crater Caldera. | Photo: El Coleccionista de Instantes Fotografía & Video / Flickr.

The caldera is a volcanic crater located in the Orotava Valley, which covers the northern part of the central coast of the island. La Orotava not only abounds in beautiful scenery, but also in hiking trails, including around the Caldera. Getting to the Caldera Crater is very easy.

In addition, all conditions have been created here for comfortable rest: There are picnic tables, a play area and even a restaurant. But still, this forest wonderland is more attractive to lovers of active pastime. You'll probably want to follow the hiking trails, especially the loop that circles the crater and goes further into the mountains.

One of the options available to you is a 3-hour tour that starts at the recreation area, passes through mossy, fern-covered terrain and offers impressive views of Tenerife.

GPS coordinates: 28.500007, -16.383334.



Las Vistas Beach (Playa de las Vistas). | Photo: wikimedia.

Many beaches in Tenerife literally beckon, but for some reason the wide strip of golden sand on Las Vistas surpasses the rest in its popularity. The water in the two coastal bays is especially calm and therefore good for swimming. Vacationers have access to a wide range of amenities here: bright blue umbrellas and sun loungers, many bars, restaurants and shops, both on the beach itself and nearby.

Address: Playa de Las Vistas, Paseo las Vistas, 38650 Arona, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Village of Vilaflor


View of the village of Vilaflor. | Photo: wikimedia.

The highest village of Tenerife, Vilaflor, is located on a rocky plateau, in the foothills of the Teide National Park, at an altitude of 1400 m. This picturesque place is surrounded by pine-covered mountains, lava plains and meadows overgrown with grass and flowers. The village is famous for its vineyards and wineries.

In addition, Vilaflor is the starting point of many popular hiking and mountaineering routes. Among the attractions that you will see as you descend along the hiking trails is the so-called “Lunar Landscape” - an unearthly lava valley where nature itself has “sculpted” unusual rock formations from white tuff.

We advise you to visit the nearby Fuente Altam mineral springs and the Santo Germano Pedro sanctuary, and also take a look at El Pino Gordo - the "thick pine" - the largest tree in the Canary Islands.

Address: Vilaflor, 38613 Vilaflor, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

We have already visited all or almost all interesting places in Tenerife. If you are coming to the island for the first time and want to do everything: lie on the beach, sleep, be with your family, see the island and get new impressions, we recommend a list of interesting places to visit in Tenerife, as they say, “minimum program”:

  1. Teide National Park + Esperanza Forest. Very beautiful, fantastic landscapes, the majestic Teide volcano, colorful lava. Be sure to take your cameras with you to capture the clouds passing under your feet. If you visit during the winter months, bring warm clothes with you. To go to the top of the volcano on a ski lift, apply for a permit in advance. In one trip you can visit the Esparanza National Park and the fabulous forest and even pick mushrooms during the season from November to January. There are many cafes and restaurants along the way where you can have a snack. The trip is safe and comfortable for children. The road is mountainous, but without extreme, everything is thought out, because... This is the most common tourist route on the island. You can rent a car and drive for half a day or a whole day, as you wish. If you want to see more sights in one sitting, it is better to book an excursion along a special route; on your first visit it will be difficult to find your way, you won’t be able to escape from the island, but it may turn out that you will spend the night in the mountains.
  2. Los Gigantes Cliffs + Masca Gorge. You can also visit both places in one trip. Very Beautiful places with beautiful legends. Just be careful on the way to the gorge - a very steep serpentine road and a narrow road. If you don’t feel confident behind the wheel, it’s better to book a tour.
  3. Santa Cruz + Las Teresitas Beach. In fact, all the attractions are described in detail on this site, so all the most interesting things you can see in the capital of Tenerife and about Las Teresitas beach can be found in the section about Tenerife. In Santa Cruz, you can successfully combine a walk around the city's attractions with shopping. And then have lunch at a local restaurant and go to the beach, relax and enjoy the ocean.
  4. Candelaria. You can stop by after Santa Cruz on your way home to the south. A very cozy town, the most delicious ice cream on the island is sold here. Stop by the Basilica of the Black-Faced Madonna and stroll around the main square with statues of the Guanche leaders - the first settlers of the island - impressive.
  5. Loro Parque. It's best to go when you want to take a break from the sun and the beach. This zoo is surrounded by greenery; it will be pleasant to walk in the shade. Interesting for all age categories. The killer whale show is impressive. Please note that the front rows of the auditorium are wet. During the show, killer whales deliberately hit the water with their tails at the edge of the pool, and a fountain of spray drenches the ignorant from head to toe. If you don’t want to continue walking around the park wet, rent a protective raincoat or sit further away. There are many other enjoyable shows. To better navigate and plan your route around the park, pick up a map and schedule of performances at the entrance. Don't forget to check out the penguins. The conditions in which they are kept there are an achievement of science and technology!
  6. Siam Park- entertainment for the whole family. It is considered the largest outdoor water park in Europe. My husband and I love to lounge on the white sand by the wave pool while the kids run around the park and ride their hearts out on the various slides. And if you want to get your adrenaline pumping, take a ride on the Kamikaze slide with a free vertical fall. You can go to the park with your whole family, even with your grandparents, for the whole day, just plan your trip on a weekday, then there will be fewer people. You can have a snack at the buffet; we recommend beer with ribs, and for children, soup, grilled chicken, vegetables and pizza. During the active season - July, August, September - it is better to team up with a large group and buy a VIP package, then you won’t have to stand in queues for slides and free sunbeds.
  7. Icod de Vinos (Dragon Tree)+ Garachico. If you have a free day and want to plunge into the Middle Ages and walk through old Spanish towns with their own history. Look at the ancient Dragon Tree, take the children to the Butterfly Park, where it is interesting to watch beautiful butterflies emerge from their cocoons. And the most active ones can go down to the volcanic cave Cueva del Viento, it’s all nearby, you just need to book tickets to the cave in advance.

If this is not your first time coming to Tenerife and you completed the minimum program on your last visit, you may not have been here yet:

  1. Monkey Park or Lemuryatnik. It is comfortable here with children from 1 year old. You can cuddle fluffy tame lemurs and hand-feed turtles, see a wide variety of monkey breeds from tiny ones that fit in the palm of your hand to huge gorillas. A non-intrusive walk of 1.5 - 2 hours.
  2. Miniature Park, Eagles Park, Botanical Garden, Aqualand, Ostrich Farm, Camel Park. Aqualand is also a water park, like Siam Park, but smaller and cheaper. Among the advantages are a variety of attractions for children, a conveniently timed dolphin show - like an afternoon rest, a large heated swimming pool-jacuzzi in the center of the park. It's really nice here. In the Park of the Eagles, as a continuation of the theme of Loro Parque, it is also interesting: there are different animals and a key show of eagles, and it’s also convenient to get here, because... The park is located near Las Americas, you don’t have to go far. In the Botanical Garden you can admire beautiful orchids and many other endemics, relax in the shade of trees and organize a picnic, and at the same time take a walk around the city of Puerto de la Cruz, where the park is located. But we recommend the ostrich farm with caution. Here you can see ostriches and taste the poor fellows for lunch, but the prices are steep, and the service is not very good. Camel Park - well, camels are just like camels, unless your baby has never seen them in his life, as they say for general development.

Updated 11/14/2019

Guide to Tenerife - what attractions to see and how to get there

Canary Islands are becoming more and more popular among tourists. Fed up with the crowded resorts and beaches of mainland Europe, many choose the Canary Islands Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura for many reasons:

  • Wild deserted beaches
  • Unusual volcanic landscapes
  • Colorful mountain ranges with trekking options
  • Endless ocean
  • Mild comfortable climate
  • Great Canarian food.

Tenerife is the most big Island from the Canary Archipelago. During our first visit to the island, we met a company who shared with us rave reviews about the island and told us that they had come to vacation here for the eighth time!

At first it seemed strange to us, but after getting to know the island more closely, we understood why many people fall in love with Tenerife - magnificent beaches, national parks with breathtaking panoramas, incomparable “cosmic” landscapes of the Teide volcano, boat trips with the opportunity to enjoy the sights islands from the ocean and see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, an abundance of theme parks, which will be especially interesting for those vacationing in Tenerife with children, activities active species sports (surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, paragliding, diving), Canarian and Spanish cuisine and of course more than reasonable prices for holidays. Days spent on the island are exciting at any time of the year, because here you can always easily find the answer to the question of what new things can be seen on the island!

Volcano Teide is the third highest island mountain in the world. Teide casts the world's largest sea shadow.

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How to Get to Tenerife, Canary Islands

Before planning a holiday in Tenerife, many people wonder where they are Canary Islands on the world map? The Canary Archipelago (Las Islas Canarias) is located in the Atlantic Ocean, near northwest coast Africa, namely off the coast of Morocco and Western Sahara. And accordingly, you can get to the Canary Islands either by air or by ferry.

Air- the most popular way to get to Tenerife. Seven airports are located in the Canary Islands, two of which are in Tenerife. Before purchasing tickets, make sure which airport you need tickets for. And remember that to visit Tenerife you need a Schengen visa.
Consider also visiting Tenerife and mainland Spain - for example, you could stay a few days in and then fly from Barcelona to Tenerife - there are flights between the regions several times a day.

  • Tenerife North (Tenerife Norte or Los Rodeos) is an international airport serving flights connecting the island with mainland Spain, Europe and other parts of the world. However, the most popular flight is Tenerife - Gran Canaria, operating about 40 times a day. The airport in the north of Tenerife is located near the capital of the island - Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
  • Tenerife South (Tenerife South or Tenerife Sur Reina Sofia) is another international airport on the island. It is located 20 km from the resort of Playa de Las Americas and 60 km from the capital of the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

How to get from Tenerife airports (South and North) to the main cities and resorts of the island:

  • There is a good bus service between the South Airport and the main resorts, the capital of Tenerife, as well as the North Airport. Therefore, getting from the southern airport to the resorts of Tenerife by bus is not difficult.
    • Bus number 111 runs between the capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, South Airport and the resorts of Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje
    • Bus number 343 connects Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife North Airport and Tenerife South Airport with Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje
    • Night bus number 711 runs from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Tenerife South Airport, Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje. And routes No. 711, departing from the Southern Airport at 23.20 and 01.05, do not run until bus station in Costa Adeje (Estación Costa Adeje), and then to the El Duque shopping center
    • Bus fares are €3-4. For example, to get from South Airport to Costa Adeje, you need to pay €3.70. And the cost of travel from the Northern Airport to the Southern Airport by bus No. 343 will cost €9.70.
    • As for the North Airport, there are also several routes to the main resorts of Tenerife.
  • By taxi - the most convenient way travel from Tenerife airports directly to your destination. Travel from Aeropuerto Tenerife Sur
    • To Costa Adeje costs an average of €20
    • To Playa de Las Americas €30-35
    • To Los Gigantos €65
    • To Puerto de la Cruz €110.

There is a single tariff for taxis, payment is carried out strictly according to the meter: the cost of a 1 km trip from or to the airport is €1.70 (this applies to both Yuzhny and Northern airports in Tenerife), but trips to cities inside the resorts of the island are cheaper. It should be remembered that in the evening after 22:00 a taxi costs about 25% more. If you want to save money, you can take a bus from the airport to your resort and take a taxi from the bus station directly to the hotel or booked apartment.

  • Another convenient way to get from the airport to one of the Tenerife resorts is to use a rented car. If you are planning to rent a car for a holiday in Tenerife, it is convenient to rent it directly at the airport, this way you will immediately begin exploring the island and make your trip from Tenerife airport to your hotel your first real adventure on the island.

Weather in Tenerife by month - When is the best time to vacation on the Island

Tenerife is an evergreen island or, as it is also called, the island of “eternal spring”. The proximity of western Africa influences the island's weather. There is no sweltering heat in Tenerife, and the tourist season lasts all year round. Those who like the beach and educational tourism without sweltering hot weather.

The island has several climatic zones, the weather in the north of Tenerife differs from the weather in the south, and there can be snow on the top of the Teide volcano even in summer.

However, like everywhere else, the island has low and high tourist seasons. Below we will describe in detail monthly weather in Tenerife, and we’ll also tell you when it’s better to go on vacation to the Canary Islands, depending on the climate and more.

The island actually has several climatic zones, and if you drive throughout Tenerife, you will notice the difference not only in the weather, but also in natural conditions. The north of Tenerife is greener, while the south is drier.

The tourist season in Tenerife lasts all year round, and you can also swim in the ocean at any time of the year - the water on the island does not drop below 19C even in the coldest month (January).

Peak tourist season falls on September and October— during the velvet season, the water in the ocean is the warmest, and the climate on the island is the most comfortable. As elsewhere, the high season in Tenerife is accompanied by an increase in prices for rental housing, air travel, and big amount tourists on the island.

The low season in Tenerife is not as pronounced as in holiday destinations with large differences in temperatures depending on the seasons, and yet a slight decline in tourists in Tenerife is usually observed in December, January, March, April and May.

As we wrote above, the swimming season in Tenerife lasts all year round, but with April to November the water is warmest and the warmest months for ocean swimming in Tenerife are September and October.

In terms of climate, Tenerife has a subtropical climate with dry, warm, comfortable weather all year round. The south and west are usually warmer than the north of the island. Rains in Tenerife are not a frequent occurrence; there is no clearly defined rainy season on the island, but in December and January, it happens that it rains more often.

On average, year-round temperatures in Tenerife range from +15C at night to +25C during the day.

In spring, Tenerife has comfortable weather with sunny days and rare rains, the water temperature at this time of year rises to +20C, and the average air temperature in Tenerife during the day is +21C in March, +22 in April and +24C in May. Spring in Tenerife is a pleasant time without crowds of tourists, with comfortable weather for traveling around the island with a guide and enjoying the atmosphere of the Canary Islands.

What makes the island of Tenerife attractive for many tourists is the absence of sweltering heat even in summer. At this time of year, cool weather with low humidity prevails on the island of Tenerife. average temperature in the afternoon June, July and August in Tenerife is +26+29C, and the water temperature is +21+23C. In the north of the island the wind blows during the summer months, which is attractive for lovers aquatic species sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, etc.

By autumn in Tenerife, daytime temperatures drop slightly, but the weather remains comfortable. The velvet season in Tenerife is held in high esteem by many tourists, despite the fact that the number rainy days increases slightly - up to 8 days per month. However, the water temperature in autumn in Tenerife is the warmest (+22+23C), which is a key point for many tourists when choosing the time to go to Tenerife. Daily average temperatures in September, October and November in Tenerife they are also more than comfortable (+23+28С).

Winter in Tenerife attracts a large number of tourists due to its mild climatic conditions. Despite the increased rainfall, warm weather also prevails on the island in December, January and February, and with the exception of rainy times, Tenerife's climate allows tourists to spend time on the beaches. In winter in Tenerife, the weather is warmer in the south of the island, but do not forget that everywhere the evenings and nights at this time of year are cool by the standards of the Canary Islands.

IN December, January and February in Tenerife the water temperature is +19C, and average daytime temperatures are +20+21C. An important advantage for many is that winter is a time of not only a comfortable climate, but also the lowest prices for holidays on the island of Tenerife.

Map of Tenerife - attractions, beaches, best accommodation, cafes, entertainment and other important points on Google Maps

For your convenience, we have marked on the map of Tenerife all the useful points that we talk about in this article. With our map of Tenerife you can clearly see where the island's attractions are located, as well as our recommended accommodation in the island's resorts and Canarian restaurants. With the help of a map, it will be more convenient for you to create a route around Tenerife and break it down by day.

Study the map of Tenerife and create your ideal route around one of the islands of Spain!

Take care of yourself in advance - Get Insurance Online in Tenerife

We recommend getting insurance before your trip, although at first glance this may not seem necessary. Tenerife - the best place for surfing, swimming, walking, motorcycling and much more, so it is better to insure yourself for the duration of your trip. Like many travel sites, we personally recommend the service. The various insurance options that the company offers are truly beneficial compared to others, especially when it comes to active tourism. Check it out for FREE your insurance price is lower ⤵

Main Resorts of Tenerife: Description + Housing Rental Options

Below we describe the main cities and resorts of Tenerife, and also provide a recommended list of rental housing based on reviews of tourists who visited spanish island. We recommend booking accommodation in advance - 3-6 months before travel, because... good options It’s already difficult to find within a month, especially during the season.

Use the accommodation search ⤵ or see the properties we found below.

Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is the second most popular resort in Tenerife, which is located in the north of the island. In the past it was main resort, but after the construction of Las Americas in the south, Puerto de la Cruz lost its primacy. These days, Puerto de la Cruz is an original, special city in Tenerife, where those who don’t quite like the touristy south of the island relax (it’s worth noting that mostly older tourists vacation here; young people will be bored in this area).

Puerto de la Cruz is a landmark of Tenerife and a truly Canarian city, with its own traditions, foundations and atmosphere. It’s definitely worth coming here for at least a day, even if you’re vacationing in the south of the island. In Puerto de la Cruz it is worth strolling along the streets and promenade, spending time in numerous cafes and restaurants and enjoying Canarian cuisine.

Restaurants in this part of Tenerife are famous for their cuisine, largely due to the fact that there are not as many tourists here as in the south of the island, and many establishments are popular with local residents, which is an absolute indicator. And as often happens, good establishments in Puerto de la Cruz are located not only on the main street, but also on small streets inside the city. And the fact that a restaurant is inconspicuous from the outside says absolutely nothing about its cuisine. Puerto de la Cruz has many nice little places where you can try fish, seafood and Canarian cuisine.

There is a large selection of hotels and holiday apartments in this area of ​​Tenerife. It is difficult to find hotels with a large area here, because in Puerto de la Cruz urban hotels prevail, and for walking in the city there are many green gardens and squares with colorful plants. Puerto de la Cruz is also home to one of the main attractions of Tenerife - Loro Parque, where you can see many species of animals and birds, as well as rare species of plants and flowers. Almost everyone who comes to Tenerife visits Loro Parque, and this trip can be combined with a walk around the city of Puerto de la Cruz.

The best rental properties in Puerto de la Cruz, based on tourist reviews:

  • 52€ per night – , with rating 9,2 points
  • 57€ per night – , with rating 9,6 points
  • 76€ per night – , with rating 9,8 points

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island, the name of the region of the same name and important city not only for tourists, but also for local residents. Surrounded by the mountains of the Anaga chain, Santa Cruz lies on the gently sloping part of one of the mountains in the northeast of the island. Mainly the capital of the island - Santa Cruz attracts tourists great opportunities for shopping. There are many shopping centers and shops here, but the most popular shops and boutiques are in Plaza La Candelaria and the pedestrian street Calle de Castillo. Also in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it is worth visiting the city market Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa, where you can buy fruits, vegetables and rare spices. In addition to the assortment, the market in the capital Tenerife attracts tourists with its unusual and unique appearance.

If you prefer to stay at one of the resorts on the island, take a day to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife also for the sights of the city. Take a walk through the “old town” of Santa Cruz, or better yet, take a sightseeing tour and visit the sights of the capital Tenerife, starting from Plaza de España and moving towards Palace Map, Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, Baroque churches - Saint Francis(17th-18th centuries) and Iglesia la Concepcion(16th-18th centuries). Museum natural history , museum military history , Municipal Museum of Painting and Sculpture— in the capital Tenerife you can spend interesting and educational time.

And if city tours are not interesting to you, go to the outskirts of the capital Tenerife, visit 2 popular beaches - Las Teresitas(Playa de las Teresitas) and Las Gaviotas(Playa de las Gaviotas), go to the foothills of Anaga and enjoy the views national park.

If you are staying in one of the southern resorts of Tenerife, take the time to visit the north of the island and its capital - you will have a vivid impression of the trip.

The best rental properties in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, based on tourist reviews:

  • 46€ per night – , with rating 9,5 points
  • 57€ per night – , with rating 9,7 points
  • 60€ per night – , with rating 9,5 points

Costa Adeje

Costa Adeje- the most comfortable resort in Tenerife, located in the south of the island. This is our favorite part of the island and twice we lived in Tenerife in Costa Adeje. Geographically to the right of Costa Adeje is the resort of Las Americas, and the further away you are from it, the more relaxed and comfortable your holiday can be enjoyed in Costa Adeje. This part of the island is preferred by families and those who love a relaxing holiday.

The westernmost part of Costa Adeje - in the area of ​​​​the Plaza del Duque shopping center and the hotel - is the most expensive and privileged on the island; the most comfortable and expensive hotels in Tenerife are located here.

However, here you can find hotels and apartments at very reasonable prices.

Costa Adeje has a very well developed infrastructure and everything is conducive to a comfortable stay.

  • Several beaches for every taste
  • Restaurants
  • The shops
  • Shopping centers
  • Car rental
  • Comfortable public transport

make this part of Tenerife attractive to tourists. Many people, when choosing where to live in Tenerife, choose the resort of Costa Adeje.

Here is the most beautiful beach in Tenerife, namely - Playa del Duque(Playa del Duque), with sky blue water. Two beautiful headlands separate Playa del Duque from the longest beach in Costa Adeje - Playa Fanabe. Along Fanabe beach there is a shopping street with bars, restaurants, shops and entertainment, where tourists prefer to stroll both during the day and in the evening.

It is worth noting that all these establishments are designed only for tourists, and you should not hope for good cuisine with Canarian dishes here.

In the area of ​​Fanabe beach there are hotels and apartment complexes of middle class; it is convenient to live here, because in the immediate vicinity there is everything you need for have a nice rest in Tenerife.

Further east of Fanabe beach in Costa Adeje there is a small beach Playa de Puerto Colon and the pleasure boat port of the same name, from where you can go on a boat trip. In the evening, the Playa de Puerto Colon beach area has many bars and restaurants and, compared to the western part of Costa Adeje, the evenings are really full of life here. The closer you get from Costa Adeje to the east, to Las Americas, the noisier and more fun you can have here in the evenings.

In the Costa Adeje area there are several shopping centers, a large grocery supermarket in Gran Sur shopping center and streets with shops offering a wide range of goods. There is also a large shopping mall— Siam Mall.

Water parks are popular entertainment options in Costa Adeje Siam Park And Aqualand, as well as visiting attractions in the area, for example, the most beautiful rocks in Los Gigantes or a village hidden in the mountains - Mask.

The best rental housing options in Costa Adeje, based on tourist reviews:

  • 42€ per night – , with rating 9,5 points
  • 47€ per night – , with rating 9,3 points
  • 57€ per night – , with rating 8,7 points
  • 65€ per night – , with rating 8,0 points
  • 80€ per night – , with rating 9,3 points


Playa de Las Americas

Playa de Las Americas- the second part of the main resort in Tenerife. At the same time, Las Americas is radically different from Costa Adeje. It's always noisy and partyy here. This is a favorite resort among young people; it is here in Tenerife that young people who do not like a calm, measured holiday prefer to relax. Las Americas is one of the few places in Tenerife where there is a lively night life.

The infrastructure here is well developed, and prices for rental housing and entertainment are affordable (this is another reason for the popularity of the resort among young people). In Las Americas, hotels and apartment complexes of middle and economy class predominate. Las Americas has many sandy beaches, it is sunny, it rarely rains, and therefore the resort is popular with tourists at any time of the year.

The best rental properties in Playa De Las Americas, based on tourist reviews:

  • 56€ per night – , with rating 8,6 points
  • 63€ per night – , with rating 9,2 points
  • 82€ per night – , with rating 9,3 points
  • 90€ per night – , with rating 9,6 points

Los Cristianos

Geographically Los Cristianos is the eastern part of the resort area in the south of the island of Tenerife. The town of Los Cristianos is located between the Montaña de Guasa mountain and the resort of Playa de las Americas. The border between the resorts of Las Americas and Los Cristianos is only conditional; in fact, one of the cities smoothly passes into the other. However, Los Cristianos is radically different from its neighbor, Las Americas.

Los Cristianos itself is divided into 2 parts: western and eastern.

The western part of Los Cristianos is located next to Las Americas; this part of the resort is characterized by its originality and special flavor - a neat Canarian town with narrow streets, small but cozy restaurants, fruit shops and the measured life of local residents. This area of ​​Tenerife is preferred by those who enjoy a relaxing holiday without the fuss.

The eastern part of Los Cristianos is a classic holiday destination with many hotels and apartment complexes for tourists. However, this is also a quiet and peaceful residential area of ​​one of the most popular resorts in Tenerife. If you like a relaxing holiday, the only drawback in this part of Los Cristianos may be the distance from a good beach - Playa de las Vistas and the presence of a port. There is little entertainment for tourists in Los Cristianos - beaches, walks along the promenade and promenades, but at the same time, in search of entertainment, you can easily get to Las Americas from here, where everyone will find an interesting and fun way to spend their time.

The best rental properties in Los Cristianos, based on tourist reviews:

  • 54€ per night – , with rating 8,8 points
  • 77€ per night – , with rating 9,3 points
  • 81€ per night – , with rating 9,3 points

San Andres

To be more precise, San Andres This small village 7 km from the capital of Tenerife - Santa Cruz. The popularity of the village of San Andres was brought by one of the most famous and visited beaches of the island - Playa de las Teresitas, which is located in San Andres at the very foot of Anaga. Playa de las Teresitas is a white sand beach, lined with palm trees and with breakwaters on the water side, so there are no big waves, making the beach a popular holiday destination in Tenerife for both tourists and locals.

If you go uphill a little, you will reach the Mirador de Las Teresitas viewpoint. It is from here that you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Las Teresitas beach, which is often depicted on postcards, guidebooks and souvenirs about Tenerife. The contrast at the Mirador de Las Teresitas observation deck is also interesting: on the right there is a view of Las Teresitas beach with white sand brought specially from the Sahara, and on the left there is a view of Playa de las Gaviotas beach, with black volcanic sand, characteristic of Tenerife.


view of Las Teresitas beach with white sand View of Playa de las Gaviotas beach, with black volcanic sand

Holidays in San Andres are relaxing, and an undeniable advantage is the proximity to the capital of the island of Tenerife - Santa Cruz, where you can go shopping, as well as have a useful, educational and fun time.

The best rental housing options in San Andres, based on tourist reviews:

  • 56€ per night – , with rating 9,4 points
  • 62€ per night – , with rating 9,7 points
  • 80€ per night – , with rating 9,2 points

Services we used to book hotels in Tenerife

Sights of Tenerife - what to see and visit on the island

National Park and Volcano Teide, Los Roques de Garcia (Volcano Teide)

One of the main attractions of Spain, symbol of the island and place mandatory visit in Tenerife is the Teide volcano and the national park of the same name. Teide is a place of attraction for both locals and tourists of the island. The national park surprises with its unusual, “cosmic” nature and endless landscapes. An excursion to the volcano and Teide National Park is very popular; the undoubted advantage is the location of the volcano - in the center of the island, and therefore here Easily accessible wherever you stay in Tenerife.

The height of the Teide volcano is more than 3500 meters. We recommend taking the funicular to get to the top (don't forget to bring warm clothes) and enjoying the views of Teide National Park from above along the way. The territory of the main national park of Tenerife reaches 17 km in diameter, and the panoramas from the funicular to the park offer beautiful views. If you are going to Teide with a rented car, you can drive to the parking lot right next to the funicular to the top.

Well-prepared tourists sometimes cover the 2,000-meter-high path on foot and then board the funicular. You can get to the top of the Teide volcano by cable car all year round, but sometimes it is closed due to weather conditions.

Before traveling to Mount Teide, check the weather forecast for the area

Cost of the funicular ride is €27 for adults and €13.50 for children under 14 years old.

Opening times of the funicular to Teide volcano— from 9.00 to 16.00.

The funicular does not reach the very top of Teide, and if you wish, you can climb to the highest point by covering another 200 m. But it is worth keeping in mind that for this you need to obtain a special permit from the administration of the national park. The permit is issued free of charge upon presentation of a passport.





A distinctive feature of Teide National Park are the colorful lava rocks. Over time, these areas acquired bizarre shapes, and the most famous of them are the Rocks de Garcia (Los Roques de Garcia). There are many legends about these rocks in Tenerife, and the rocks themselves are one of the symbols of not only Tenerife, but throughout Spain.

Loro Park

Loro Parque (Parrot Park) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tenerife and the most popular theme park in Spain. Almost every tourist who comes to Tenerife visits Loro Parque during their stay on the island. Not a single list in guidebooks of what to see on the island is left without mentioning the park, and this is not just like that.

Loro Parque is one of the projects of the Kisling family, who own several of the largest entertainment venues on the Canary island. Initially, the park was conceived as a habitat for various species of parrots in natural conditions. But over its sixty-year history, Loro Parque has expanded significantly, and now it is a park with an impressive territory, home to one of the world's largest collections of parrots (350 species and subspecies), various species of animals, penguins and sharks.

In the territory of Loro Parque in Tenerife there is

  • Zoological Garden
  • Oceanarium
  • Pools with entertainment shows and much more.

Usually, visiting Loro Parque takes a significant part of the day; we spent time in the park from morning until 17:00; there is really a lot of interesting and exciting things to see here. For example, the area at the entrance to the park is decorated in Thai style, with a pond in which carps swim.

Price entry to Loro Parque is €37 for adults and €25 for children. “Twin ticket” (visit to Loro Parque and Siam Park) - €64 for adults, if you plan to visit both parks, it’s better to buy a twin ticket to save a little.

After paying for the entrance fee, do not forget to take a map with the plan and schedule of performances in the most visited park on the island. Plan your route around Loro Parque according to the start times of the shows you want to attend.

Keep in mind that if you want to sit in the front rows at shows in pools with killer whales, etc., it is better to take a cape, as your clothes may get wet (and take care of your photographic equipment!)

Loro Parque is located in the city of Puerto de la Cruz in the north of the island. If you are traveling to Loro Parque by car, there is parking next to the park (costs €4).

You can also visit Loro Parque by bus with an excursion from the main resorts of the island. And it definitely makes sense to visit the park, because it’s not for nothing that 45 million people have already visited it since its founding in 1972.

Working hours park daily, seven days a week: park territory - from 8:30 to 18:45, penguinarium - from 08:30 to 18:00, aquarium - from 10:00 to 18:45.

Siam Park

Siam Park this is a water park and a relatively new (compared to Loro Parque) project of the same Kisling family. Siam Park appeared in the south of Tenerife in 2008 and essentially replaced the already outdated Aqualand water park. Siam Park in Spain is one of the three best water parks in Europe and this is not surprising, because despite the small number of water attractions, they all have their own flavor.

Aqualand

Aqualand- the first water park in Tenerife. After the construction of the new Siam Park water park, Aqualand had a hard time, because most visitors went to new park water activities. The situation was aggravated by the fact that Aqualand is also located in the south of Tenerife in Costa Adeje, in close proximity to Siam Park. Therefore, Aqualand management changed its policy and focused its activities more on visitors with young children (from 3 to 9 years old). Unlike Siam Park, in Aqualand the water attractions are suitable for children, which is what the park emphasizes. Another distinctive feature of Aqualand is the dolphin show, which is considered the best in Loro Parque.

On the Aqualand website you can find discounts on entrance tickets or promotions for visitors with children. Regular price admission to Aqualand is €28 for adults and €11.50 - €20 for children.

Twin ticket(visit to Aqualand and Eagle Park) for €39 for adults and €14.50 - €29.50 for children. If you know in advance that you want to visit both Aqualand and the Park of the Eagles, buy a twin ticket right away, so you can save, for example, on other entertainment in Tenerife.

Aqualand is located in Costa Adeje with outside motorways. Residents of neighboring hotels can get to Aqualand on foot. The rest get to Aqualand by car, taxi or free buses with the logo of the water park, running from Costa Adeje to Los Cristianos.

Working hours Aqualand water park: daily from 10.00 to 17.00, in summer until 18.00.

Eagles Park or Jungle Park

Orlov Park in Tenerife, this is a variation of a jungle park, where wildlife is acutely felt and birds of prey live. Previously, Park of the Eagles was a serious competitor to Loro Parque in the entertainment sector. And despite the fact that the parks specialized in different performances, they were equally popular among tourists on the island. However, Loro Parque has developed over time, constantly stirring up the interest of tourists, which cannot be said about the Park of Eagles. And currently, Loro Parque is considered a much more interesting and popular attraction in Tenerife than the Parque des Eagles.

However, the Park of Eagles retains its position as a popular attraction on the island, and time spent here will be truly interesting and exciting. In the Park of Eagles, tourists attend performances with exotic and birds of prey, sea lions and watch penguins feeding.

The Park of the Eagles was opened in Tenerife in 1995. The Eagles Park is located in the south of the island near the resort of Playa de las Americas.

In order to get there to the Park of the Eagles, you need to turn off the TF-1 motorway onto TF-28, drive to the town of Chayofa, at the entrance to which you need to follow the sign for Parque Las Aguilas.

Tourists from nearby resorts - Costa Adeje, Las Americas and Los Cristianos can get to the Park of the Eagles on a free bus that runs between the resorts.

Cost of visit Orlov Park - €27 for adults, €10.50 - €19 for children. A double ticket to visit the Aqualand water park and the Eagles Park costs €39 for adults and €14.50 - €29.50 for children.

Working hours Park - daily from 10.00 to 17.30.

Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park

Monkey Park not a particularly popular attraction in Tenerife, the territory of the park cannot boast of attractiveness, as well as the living conditions of the park’s inhabitants. Mostly tourists visit Monkey Park in order not only to see, but also to communicate with lemurs. The peculiarity of lemurs is that they are curious and only make contact with visitors while they are hungry. After the Monkey lemurs of the park are satisfied with the treats of visitors, they become lazy and have no desire to communicate.

Therefore, it is better to come to Monkey Park in the morning, immediately after it opens. The park sells treats for lemurs for €3.

Price for visiting the Monkey Park in Tenerife - €10 for adults and €5 for children (from 5 to 12 years old). It is noteworthy that children’s emotions from visiting the Monkey Park are much brighter than from Loro Parque.

The monkey park is located in the south of the island, near the resort of Los Cristianos. There are no buses to the park, so you can get to the Monkey Park either by rented car or by taxi.

Working hours Parka - daily from 9.30 to 17.00.

Puerto Colon Pleasure Boat Port and Tenerife Marine Activities (Puerto Colon)

Located in Costa Adeje Puerto Colon yacht port will be of interest to those who want to go on a boat trip around the island. In the port of Puerto Colon you can rent a yacht, sailboat or catamaran to enjoy the landscapes of Tenerife from the ocean, as well as see whales and dolphins in the wild or go fishing.

Tickets Boat trips and fishing trips can be purchased at the resort’s numerous tourist offices or directly at the port of Puerto Colon.

Tenerife is truly an island rich in entertainment and interesting pastimes. Puerto Colon is the largest yacht port (marina) in the south of the island. In addition to boat trips and fishing, they offer diving off the coast of the island.

Boat trips in Tenerife usually involves whale or dolphin watching, swimming and lunch. The trips vary depending on the duration, as well as the type of boat (catamaran, yacht or ship). For those who suffer from motion sickness, it is better to choose a trip on a larger flotation device. The largest possible is the catamaran Royal Delfin, which is based in Puerto Colon.

Typically, the route of boat trips runs along the coast of the island to the west, to the Los Gigantes rocks and Masca Bay. Be aware that it takes a 5-hour boat trip to get from Puerto Colon to Masca itself.

In the port you can also rent an individual yacht and go on a sea voyage along the island on your own or with a small group.

Price such a boat trip with a group will cost €30-€55 per person, depending on the duration of the trip.

Yacht rental for your company - from €120 per hour to €1000 for the whole day.

Fishing in Tenerife

Concerning fishing, then in Tenerife there are 2 options: fishing from the shore or on board a boat. Many people actually fish directly from the breakwaters at the resorts; it is less expensive, because you only need to have fishing gear. But in this case, you should remember the ban on fishing in ports; this is prohibited due to the fact that broken fishing lines are wound around the screw structures of ships.

If you want to fish in Tenerife from the shore, it is better to go to the west of the island, behind the village La Caleta, in this region fishing will be more interesting and eventful. They bite in Tenerife all year round, the only difference is in the necessary bait.

Best used as bait

  • Raw shrimp
  • Sliced ​​squid
  • Crab pieces

And if you want other emotions and don’t want to bother with finding fishing gear, go fishing from a boat in the open ocean. All gear will be given to you.

Group fishing price usually ranges from €60 for 4 hours to €120 for 7 seven hours per person.

Whole vessel rental for fishing it costs from €400 for half a day to €700 for the whole day.

Diving in Tenerife

Diving in Tenerife is unique due to its natural conditions - after all, the island is located in the open ocean, and the landscapes are formed on solidified lava. The water around the island is cool and there are no coral reefs or tropical underwater scenery. However, diving in Tenerife is quite a popular activity, because here you can feel the special atmosphere of the open ocean.

Diving groups are usually small - 4-6 people, which allows you to fully enjoy diving without crowds of people. The main diving sites are in the south and west of the island, but not in the resorts.

Diving off the largest Canary Island, you can

  • Visit numerous caves and grottos
  • Feed the stingrays
  • See turtles, moray eels, fields of garden eels

Visibility underwater is more than 30 meters.

The wish of many tourists when diving in Tenerife is to be accompanied by a Russian-speaking instructor. And if previously it was not easy to find a Russian diving instructor in Tenerife, now in the south of the island there are entire diving centers for Russian-speaking tourists.

Approximate diving cost in Tenerife:

  • 1 dive – €45
  • 10 dives – €300-€350
  • Dive at night – €50

Botanical Garden of Tenerife

Botanical Garden in Tenerife (Jardin de Aclimatacion de la Orotava) - another paradise island located in Puerto de la Cruz. The original purpose of the garden, back in the 18th century, was to grow exotic plants and acclimatize them to mainland Spain. At the present time, the botanical garden is an even rectangle of only 200 * 100 meters.

In truth, it makes no sense to travel specially from afar to the botanical garden of Tenerife. But if you are vacationing in Puerto de la Cruz, it is definitely worth visiting the botanical garden. Despite small sizes Botanical Garden of Tenerife, there is a large number of exotic plants that these days are no longer represented anywhere except in their “homeland”.

Working hours Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz - daily from 9.00 to 18.00 (19.00 in summer).

Price entrance ticket to the botanical garden of Tenerife - €3.

The garden is located in the east of Puerto de la Cruz, if you are by car, take the TF-31 to TF-312 and follow the sign for El Botanico.

Taoro Park

First of all Taoro Park will be of interest to those who vacation in Puerto de la Cruz, because it is located on a hill in the city center. Taoro Park is a favorite vacation spot for both residents of Puerto de la Cruz and tourists. A large number of exotic plants and flowers grow in Taoro Park, fountains and waterfalls are equipped, and walking here is a pleasure.

The park is divided into three zones; there are several cafes and an observation deck from where you can look at Puerto de la Cruz.

Taoro Park is open to the public at any time and admission is free.

La Orotava

La Orotava is an ancient city in Tenerife, on the site of which the local population (Guanches) lived on the island even before the Spaniards arrived here. And all because the city is located in a fertile and water-rich valley. With the arrival of the conquistadors on the island, the situation did not change, and the division of territories in the valley of fertile lands continued.

These days La Orotava is a popular tourist place. It’s definitely worth coming here to stroll through the historic city center and enjoy the views of classic Canarian houses built in the 17th and 18th centuries.

From that what to visit in La Orotava, we can highlight:

  1. Casa de los Balcones is an example of classic Canarian architecture with traditional balconies. It is the balconies that are the highlight of Casa de los Balcones, since during construction they were the most expensive part of the building, made of the best pine species. Such balconies at one time were a sign of wealth and high cost of buildings. Currently, the building houses a colonial museum and a craft shop where you can buy souvenirs self made, made by the hands of Canarian craftsmen. Souvenirs from the “House of Balconies” craft workshop are an unusual alternative to Chinese magnets. Opening hours of Casa de los Balcones are daily from 8.30 to 19.00. Entrance fee is €4.
  2. Casa del Turista is located opposite Casa de los Balcones, this is the oldest house in La Orotava and can also be visited and seen not only from the outside.
  3. The Iglesia de la Concepción is the most monumental church in La Orotava. The church is really worth visiting, it resembles the buildings South America and is a prominent representative of the Canarian Baroque of the 18th century.
  4. Also visit the Mirador de Humboldt observation deck, which offers incredible views of the La Orotava valley.
  5. Tourists often combine a trip to La Orotava with a visit to the Meson el Monasterio restaurant. The restaurant is a complex of establishments within the walls of a former monastery.

If you visit La Orotava in June, you will have a great opportunity to catch the solemn procession dedicated to Carpet Day. A procession passes through the streets of La Orotava on the eighth day of the Catholic feast of Corpus Christi. For this occasion, the streets of La Orotava are decorated with so-called carpets made of flower petals, sand and stones.

The most colorful carpet in La Orotava is built in the central square near the city hall, and multi-colored sand brought from the Teide volcano is used for the carpet. In 2019, Carpet Day will be celebrated in La Orotava on June 27, and in 2020 - on June 18.

To get to La Orotava, take the TF-5 highway, exit at the sign for La Orotava and head towards the city center to find parking.

Anaga Mountains

Anaga mountain range is located in the northeast of Tenerife, near the capital of the island. Anaga is home to the largest concentration of endemic species in Europe and has received the status of a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The Anago Nature Reserve is also famous for being one of the most ancient parts of Tenerife.

Thanks to the Anaga Mountains, this area has created a unique zone of evergreen deciduous forests (“Monteverde”). In terms of its uniqueness, the Anaga Biosphere Reserve competes with the main attraction of Tenerife - Teide National Park.

Attractions located on the territory of the Anaga Nature Reserve, in addition to natural ones:

  1. Church of Our Lady of the Snows - Taganana
  2. Church of St. Andrew the Apostle - San Andres
  3. Church of St. Peter the Apostle - Igueste San Andrés
  4. Chapel of St. Catherine
  5. San Andres Tower
  6. Anaga Lighthouse
  7. Lots of viewing platforms.

If you are tired of the classic attractions of Tenerife and the lists of what to see on the island, which are usually described in guidebooks, go to the Anaga mountain range and a completely different island will open up for you.

Mask

Mask- a very small, but pretty and popular village among tourists in Tenerife. The mask is located in the mountains, and to get to the village you need to drive along a steep serpentine road. There are legends around Mask that it was in this gorge on the island that pirates once hid.

Today, only about 120 people live in the village of Maska, but there are establishments and shops for tourists. You can go to Masca either independently or during a bus sightseeing tour of the island. And if you love leisure- then you should definitely set aside time to visit the village of Maska, because it is from here that the hiking route along the gorge towards the ocean begins.

Having covered the walking route from Maska to the ocean, you will see much more than from the observation deck. The route lasts about 9 km, and here you do not need any special skills; even children and the elderly can overcome the walking route in Tenerife from Masca to the ocean. If during your holiday in Tenerife you want to go on a walking adventure from the village of Masca, all you will need to have are sneakers, drinking water and a camera to take colorful photos of the Canary island as a souvenir.

The route from Maska to the ocean ends on a small rocky beach. To avoid having to travel 9 km in both directions, many people prefer to go from the beach to Los Gigantes by boat, which runs several times a day. The schedule and cost of boat travel can be easily found in Mask before starting the walking route.

How to get there to the Maska gorge?

If you are traveling around the island by car, it is better to drive to Los Gigantes and leave the car there, then take a taxi to the village of Masca, and after completing the walking route (expect about 4 hours on the way) return to Los Gigantes by boat. We advise you not to delay and go to Masca as early as possible in the morning; the last boat leaves for Los Gigantes at around 16:00, and if you don’t catch it, there is a risk of returning along the route in the dark.

If you decide to drive directly to Masca, follow the TF-1 highway west to Santiago del Teide, and before the church turn left onto the TF-436 highway following the sign for the village of Masca.

On public transport You can also get to Maska. For example, from Las Americas, take bus number 460 to Santiago del Teide, and then change to bus number 355 to the village of Masca.

Los Gigantes

Majestic and beautiful rocks Los Gigantes have long amazed guests and the local population of the island. The cliffs rising 300-600 meters out of the water are unlikely to leave anyone indifferent, no matter whether you admire them from an observation deck on land or from the water. In the town of Los Gigantes on the island of Tenerife there are several observation platforms at different heights, the views of the rocks from each of them are stunning. And if you go down to the port, you can go on a boat trip and see the Los Gigantes cliffs from the ocean; many believe that this is how their beauty is fully revealed.

Los Gigantes is also accessible by pleasure boats from Las Americas, so you can combine a visit to this place in Tenerife with others during a sea adventure and not go to Los Gigantes specifically by car or public transport.

Surprisingly, the rocks go only 30 meters deep above ocean level, which attracts diving and fishing enthusiasts to this place.

We visited Los Gigantes at sunset, this was the last point of our route around the island by car. And at this time the rocks were a little hazy, and the sun was setting right behind them, so the views were not very colorful. If you want to see Los Gigantes in bright colors, go here in the morning.


To get to Los Gigantes by car, take the TF-1 highway and then turn onto the TF-46, the road here is very colorful and in some places runs through banana plantations. Going down the highway, you will reach the town of Los Gigantes.

You can get to Los Gigantes by bus No. 473 and No. 477 from Costa Adeje, and by bus No. 325 from Puerto de la Cruz.

Cape Teno (Punta de Teno)

Cape Teno attracts with its mystery, special energy and photogenicity. This is where you should go on the island of Tenerife if you want to do beautiful photos. There is a lighthouse on Cape Teno, with the cliffs of Los Gigantes towering in the background. And to be more precise, there are two lighthouses on Cape Teno - an old one, now not working, and a new one, rising 20 meters in height.

From the south of the island to Cape Teno you can drive along the same road as to the village of Masca - TF-436, and in the town of Buenavista del Norte take the TF-445, which will lead directly to the lighthouse at Cape Teno.

Please note that from Thursday to Sunday and on holidays, travel along TF-445 to the lighthouse by private vehicle is closed; on these days you must leave the car in Buenavista del Norte and transfer to the bus.



Esperanza Forest (Bosque de la Esperanza)

The north and south of Tenerife are radically different from each other in natural conditions. There are forests in different parts of the island, but the Esperanza forest, located in the northeast of Tenerife, cannot be compared with the forests in the south. Thanks to the high humidity, plants feel great here, the forest is full of living creatures and mushrooms. You can drive through the Esperanza forest along the TF-24 from Mount Teide to La Laguna. Stop anywhere you like and take a walk through the Esperanza Forest and you are sure to have a blast.

We advise you to pay special attention to the forest area near the town of La Esperanza; here the pines are replaced by eucalyptus trees, and the air is filled with an indescribable fresh aroma.
It is logical to combine a visit to the Esperanza forest with a trip to the Teide volcano. To do this, follow TF-21 around the Teide peak to the north of the island, and then at the intersection with TF-24, turn onto this road and continue until the dense forest begins. You can get to Esperanza Forest by bus from the La Laguna bus station.



Teide Observatory

Astronomical Observatory Teide was founded in Tenerife in 1964. This is one of the first international observatories in the world. The Teide Observatory in Spain has favorable climatic conditions, mainly due to its location - the observatory is at an altitude of 2,390 meters. That is why there are telescopes at the observatory different countries.



Garachico and El Caleton

In past Garachico was the richest city in Tenerife. At that time, Garachico was the site of the most significant and busiest port of the island and one of the main ports of Spain, from where sugar and wine were shipped to mainland Europe, and goods were brought for the inhabitants of the island. The inhabitants of Garachico were considered the most prosperous on the island, but soon the fate of the most prosperous city on the island changed dramatically. On May 5, 1706, most of the city of Garachico, including its port, was destroyed by the eruption of the Montaña Negra volcano.

Hot lava began to approach the city early in the morning, the residents of Garachico managed to escape, but the city itself was hopelessly destroyed. Garachico was subsequently rebuilt, but it was no longer a prosperous city on the Canary island, but rather a fishing village. In 2012, a new port was opened in Garachico.

Nowadays, Garachico is a small town quite popular among tourists, the peculiarity of which is a rocky coast made of solidified lava. The shore has weird shape, thereby forming natural pools that are very popular among locals and visitors to the island. If you are visiting Garachico not on a group sightseeing tour of Tenerife, but on your own, take time for a swim in Garachico's natural pools.

And if you are passing by and just want to look at the Tenerife city of Garachico - stop at the Mirador de Garachico observation deck - from here you can see best view to the city. Garachico is included in the list of must-see places according to many Tenerife guidebooks; do not miss the opportunity to see the city at least from above.

Taganana

A small village in the north of Tenerife, whose inhabitants are represented by a leisurely life - this is Taganan. It's worth going here if you want to feel the true atmosphere of the Spanish island. The road to the village of Taganana is a separate adventure, running along the serpentine Anaga mountain range in the north of the island, it reveals the most beautiful landscapes of the island and the ocean.

If you are vacationing in the south of Tenerife, it is wise to combine a trip to Taganana with a visit to the capital of the island - Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Teresitas beach. The village of Taganana is famous for its small neat houses located on the slopes of rocks, as well as small family fish restaurants. Stop for lunch or dinner in the village of Taganana, try Canarian cuisine and rose wine - this is a day you will remember for a long time!

Near the village of Taganana there are three interesting and wild Tenerife beaches:

Castle of San Miguel

If you love the atmosphere of medieval castles and knightly battles, during your holiday in Tenerife, go to Castle of San Miguel. It is located near the town of the same name and attracts a large number of tourists. All visitors to the San Miguel Castle are treated to a fascinating tour of the castle and colorful knightly fights; in addition, guests are treated to dinner in medieval traditions. At the San Miguel Castle there is a souvenir shop where you can buy something to remember the Canary island.

You can visit the Castle of San Miguel on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays (on summer time) and Saturdays. The performance usually starts at 20.30.

Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín

Auditorio de Tenerife is perhaps the most famous modern building in Tenerife, which attracts the attention of absolutely everyone passing by. And many tourists go to the Auditorio de Tenerife specifically, because according to experts, it has one of the best acoustics in the world among orchestral and symphony halls. It’s not difficult to get inside, because it’s at the same time Opera theatre and concert venue, tickets for performances can be purchased at the building's box office in advance or 2 hours before the event.

Working hours Auditorio de Tenerife box office: Monday to Friday 10.00-15.00, Saturday 10.00-14.00, and 2 hours before each performance.

The Auditorio de Tenerife is located in the capital of the island - the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and is one of the main attractions not only of the Canary Islands, but throughout Spain. The Auditorio building is located in the city center, close to the city port and the Cesar Manrique Marine Park.

Pyramids of Güímar

Go to Pyramids of Guimar(the most mysterious place from the guide to Tenerife) during the holiday we advise those who are interested in archaeological sites. The pyramids are located in the town of Guimar in the southeast of the island.

The history of the origin of the pyramids in Spain has not yet been determined for sure. According to one version, the pyramids were gradually built by peasants who piled here stones found during agricultural work. This was done in order to protect against mudflows. However, the refuting version says that mudflows and mountain streams are not terrible for this region of Tenerife; moreover, no signs of settlements or cultivation of the land were found near Guimar.

According to another and more logical version, the Pyramids of Guimar have some astronomical meaning. It has been proven that at the top of the highest of the six Pyramids of Guímar on the summer solstice it is possible to watch the sun set twice. These Spanish pyramids are very similar in shape to the pyramids of Mexico and Peru, but scientists from different countries still cannot unravel the meaning and main purpose.

The Pyramids of Guimar are quite a tourist place in Tenerife. An ethnological park has been built here with a museum, a photo exhibition and an exhibition dedicated to research into versions of the origin of the Guimar Pyramids.

Entry fee to the park to the Guimar pyramids is €18 for adults, €5.50 for children from 9 to 12 years old and €12.50 for students under 25 years old.

Visiting time Pyramid Guimar - daily from 9.00 to 18.00, except December 25 and January 1.

Basilica of Candelaria

The Basilica of Candelaria is the main religious landmark of Tenerife. The Catholic Church, which is located in the town of the same name, has a beautiful interior, and a high bell tower adjoins the temple outside. Every year on February 2 and August 15, pilgrims from all over the Canary Islands come to the Basilica of Candelaria to pay homage to the patroness, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Candelaria.

Time to visit Basilica of Candelaria: Monday to Friday 7.30 - 13.00, 15.00 - 19.30, Saturday and Sunday 7.30 - 19.30.

Entrance to the main shrine of Tenerife - the Basilica of Candelaria is free.

Icod de Los Vinos and the Dragon Tree

small town Icod de los Vinos was founded by Spanish conquistadors in the 15th century. Local residents are mainly engaged in winemaking, as you can guess from the name of the city. Icod de los Vinos can be visited either independently or during a sightseeing one-day tour of Tenerife. The excursion usually includes a visit to a winery and wine tasting in Icod de los Vinos. In addition to the fact that this is one of the small and cozy towns on the island, Icod de los Vinos is famous in Tenerife for its interesting attraction - Dragon tree.

The dragon tree is one of the oldest plants in the world. Its exact age is unknown, according to some sources it is 2,500 years old, and according to others - 3,000 years.

However, this impressive figure in any case, the Dragon Tree is often included in the TOP places to see in Tenerife.

The dragon tree was considered alive and sacred in Spain's past, but now it is a popular attraction in Tenerife, which has impressive dimensions - about 25 meters in height, 10 meters in girth and weighing about 80 tons. Opposite the Dragon Tree there is an observation deck where you can look at one of the most ancient plants in the world and take a photo against its background for free.

If you want to come up and inspect the tree closer, you need to pay €4. The dragon tree in Icod de los Vinos is located in a park that, among other things, has a garden of Canarian plants that are used for medicinal purposes. If you visit Dragon Tree in good weather, you may also be lucky enough to see many butterflies, which often fly here from the tropical butterfly center located nearby.

Cave of the Wind (Cueva del Viento)

As you know, the Canary Islands, now owned by Spain, are of volcanic origin. And those who are interested in natural attractions should go to the main lava cave of Tenerife - Wind Cave. This is a rather unusual place, and it is definitely worth including on the list of “things to see in Tenerife”. Cuevo del Viento is located in the north of the island, near the town of Icod de los Vinos, and it was formed 27 thousand years ago after volcanic eruption. 17 km of tunnels with lava stalactites, cascades and even lakes through which winds blow - this is what the Wind Cave looks like today.

During a tour of the cave, all visitors simultaneously turn off their flashlights for a while - this way you can feel the true atmosphere of the cave.

Wind Cave located at: Tenerife, Icod de los Vinos, Camino los Piquetes, 27, 38438
A visit to the Wind Cave is only possible as part of a guided tour (maximum 16 people).

Price visits - €20 for adults and €8.50 for children from 5 to 12 years old. It is better to buy tickets online or book on the official website.

Working hours Wind Caves and other information can be found on the official website.

Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife (Museo de Historia de Tenerife - Casa Lercaro)

A place to visit in Tenerife for educational purposes is Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife, which is located in La Laguna. The museum building is located in a mansion built in 1593 in the historical center of La Laguna. By visiting the Tenerife History Museum, you will learn about life on the island from the 15th to the 20th centuries. Various exhibitions presented in 11 halls will not leave you indifferent. In the museum you can get acquainted with the cultural and social heritage of the island, maps of the Canary Islands dating back to the 16th century.

Price visiting the Tenerife History Museum - €3.

Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 - 19.00

Lago Martianez

The north of Tenerife, unlike the south, is often not suitable for swimming due to the steep and rocky coast. But for vacationers in this part of the Canary island there is an excellent alternative - a complex of swimming pools with sea water Lago Martianez. The Lago Martianez complex is located in the eastern part of Puerto de la Cruz on the ocean. This is a place for complete beach holiday in Tenerife.

The architect and artist Cesar Manrique worked on the creation of the Lago Martianez lake complex. The complex consists of a large artificial lake and several small lakes. Lago Martianez has everything for a comfortable stay - sun loungers and parasols, showers, changing rooms, cafes and restaurants. For tourists with children, Lago Martianez is also a good holiday destination in Tenerife - one of the pools is shallow and good for children.

In Lago Martianez, not only the amenities for visitors, but also the external beauty of the complex are carefully thought out. In the middle of the lakes, islands made of volcanic lava and fountains are designed, and the lakes are surrounded by beautiful gardens.

If possible, visit Lago Martianez and you will not regret it!

Nuestra Señora de Africa Market (Municipal Market Our Lady of Africa La Recova)

Market Nuestra Señora de Africa, which is located in the capital of the island - Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is itself an attraction that is included in guides to Tenerife. In addition to the fact that you can buy the freshest and most exotic products here, the market building is of great interest to tourists.

If you arrive at the market in the capital of the island early in the morning, you will find market stalls full of fresh fish and seafood, exotic fruits, spices and flowers. And on Sunday mornings there is also a swap meet, where you can buy memorable little things about your holiday in Tenerife.

Address Nuestra Señora de Africa Market: Avenida San Sebastián, 51, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife



Tourist Routes in Tenerife

Tenerife is a very small island; there is no need to rent accommodation in different parts of the island in order to travel around it completely and get to know it better. If you want to travel around the entire island with short stops, you can do it in 1 day; to do this, you must first select the places that you would like to visit.

At the resorts of the Canary island there are numerous travel agencies where you will be happy to select options for excursions around the island, including sightseeing tours and exciting routes throughout almost the entire island. Everyone knows the disadvantages of group excursions - traveling with a large number of people and lack of time in places where you would like to stay longer and strict adherence to the trip program.

We offer some tourist routes around the island for those who rent a car and travel around Tenerife on their own:

  1. Teide National Park and visit to the volcano - Esperanza eucalyptus forest - La Orotava - Puerto de la Cruz - Taganana - Las Teresitas viewpoint - Santa Cruz de Tenerife
  2. Teide National Park - La Orotava - Icod de los Vinos - Garachico - Masca Gorge - Los Gigantes
  3. Tejita beach + El Medano - Santa Cruz de Tenerife - Las Teresitas - Taganana - Benijo beach

These are route options for a busy day around the island of Tenerife. Along the way, you can always stop at any place you like. We advise you to keep an eye on it, there are even small observation platforms marked there, sometimes turning onto one of which you can see the most beautiful landscapes of the island.

Beaches of Tenerife

There are a large number of beaches in Tenerife, they are all different and many have their own flavor. In the north of the Canary island there are beaches with natural black volcanic sand, while the light sand for the beaches in the south of the island was brought specially from Africa. We drove along almost all the beaches of the island, and now we can talk about best beaches in Tenerife which impressed and liked us the most, as well as which beaches you don’t need to waste time visiting on the island.

So, best beaches Tenerife:

Playa El Duque Beach

El Duque Beach always included in the TOP beaches not only of the Canary Islands, but also of Spain. Many also put El Duque beach in first place in the TOP beaches of Tenerife. Indeed, El Duque beach is the most beautiful and luxurious among the beaches equipped for relaxation in Tenerife, which guidebooks always include in the list of places to visit in Spain.

El Duque beach is located in the resort of Costa Adeje in the south of the Canary island. Everything has really been thought out here for a comfortable stay. On the beach you can rent sun loungers of different comfort levels (from €5 to €19); there are bars, restaurants and shops nearby, including a grocery store.

Of course, El Duque attracts vacationers not only with its infrastructure, but also with the beautiful landscapes surrounding the beach. El Duque beach is replete with exotic vegetation; on the left it is surrounded by a rocky cliff, where the famous villa is surrounded by greenery (it is often depicted on postcards about Tenerife), and directly above the beach is located the most beautiful and fashionable hotel in Tenerife -.




There is an embankment along El Duque beach, which is pleasant to walk along, and in the mornings many vacationers run here. The sand on El Duque Beach is fine and light, and the water has an indescribable turquoise hue. From the cliffs on the left side of the beach you can admire El Duque from above, and also take a souvenir photo of the most beautiful beach in Tenerife.

During both our first and second trips to Tenerife, we lived near El Duque beach and enjoyed our time here. Despite the popularity of the beach, the atmosphere on El Duque is always calm and measured.

Las Teresitas Beach

Not far from the capital of the island of Tenerife - Santa Cruz there is another famous beach - Las Teresitas. This beach is often depicted in pictures, postcards, guidebooks and souvenirs about Tenerife. The sand for Las Teresitas beach was specially brought from the African Sahara Desert; it has a golden color unusual for an island of volcanic origin. Las Teresitas beach in the north stretches for 1.3 km, a strip of golden sand is surrounded on one side by a row of palm trees, and on the other there is azure water without the high waves characteristic of many other Tenerife beaches.

There are no waves on Las Teresitas due to the presence of breakwaters along the beach, which makes it safe for swimming, including for small children. The only negative When visiting Las Teresitas beach there can be a large number of holidaymakers. If you decide to come to Las Teresitas beach from the south of the island, choose a weekday for your trip. Las Teresitas is always crowded, but especially on weekends, because this beach is preferred for relaxation not only by tourists, but also by local residents.

However, even if you do not plan to relax on Las Teresitas beach, it is definitely worth seeing. To do this, it is better to go to the observation deck of Mirador Las Teresitas, from where you can see the most beautiful landscape of Las Teresitas beach and its surroundings. There are no barriers at the Mirador Las Teresitas lookout and you should be extremely careful here. The highlight of this place in Tenerife is that on one side the observation deck overlooks Las Teresitas beach with golden sand, and on the other, Las Gaviotas beach with natural dark volcanic sand. These landscapes clearly demonstrate the diversity and beauty of nature in Tenerife.

View of Las Teresitas beach with white sand View of Playa de las Gaviotas beach with black volcanic sand

It is impossible to get to the Mirador Las Teresitas lookout on foot from the beach. You can get here by car - to do this, at the entrance to Las Teresitas beach you need to take the road to the left, which goes up to the Anaga mountain range.

You can admire Las Teresitas beach from the observation deck by arriving here by bus - to do this, in the village of San Andres, take bus #945 to the Mirador stop.

Benijo Beach

The most beautiful wild beach of Tenerife is located in the north of the island and is called Benijo. This is a natural beach with black volcanic sand and clean clear ocean.

It is worth considering that Benijo beach can only be admired; it is not equipped for swimming. Moreover, swimming on Benijo is dangerous due to the rocky shore, strong winds and currents. Tourists and locals come to the protected area in the north of Tenerife to enjoy the view of the elements reigning on Benijo beach. Some people prefer to lie on the shore, others take pictures of one of the most beautiful beaches islands, some windsurfing - there is something for everyone on Benijo.

Before going to Benijo, check the tide times, the beach looks more attractive during low tide. And of course, it is better to go to Benijo beach on weekdays.



Tejita Beach

Spacious beach in El Medano, Tenerife. It is always not crowded here; if you wish, you can rent a sun lounger. Tejita Beach This is the epitome of the beauty of the island of Tenerife. There are waves here, but swimming on Tejita is quite pleasant - the entrance to the water is gentle and without stones.

To the left of Tejita beach is Mount Montana Roja - there are stairs and walking paths, the view from the mountain to the surrounding area of ​​the beach is impressive. Part of the beach near Montana Roja is reserved for nudists. We liked Tejita Beach in calm weather, but on days when the wind blows here, the beach is more suitable for walking than for relaxing - the wind raises waves and sand on land.



Leocadio Machado Beach

Surfer Beach Leocadio Machado located with reverse side mountains of Montana Roja. It is also incredibly beautiful here, and the colorful kitesurfs and windsurfs give this beach in Tenerife a special atmosphere.

You can take surfing lessons on the beach, and if you don’t surf, this beach in Spain is definitely worth a stop to enjoy its beauty. Be prepared for strong winds on Leocadio Machado beach.





El Boyuyo Beach (Playa del Bollullo)

El Boyuyo- a good beach to relax in the north of Tenerife. Black volcanic sand and the colorful towels and umbrellas of beachgoers make it attractive when viewed from above at Playa del Bollullo. There is a gentle entrance to the water and plenty of space to relax. The only drawback when visiting may be difficulties with parking and the road leading directly to the beach.

The road is narrow, two cars in different directions They don’t pass each other here, so someone always has to back up into the pockets of the road to give way. When several cars meet in one place, it may take time to disperse. As for the time spent at Playa del Bollullo, we liked it here.



Beach in the town of Los Gigantes (Playa de los Gigantes)

There is both a small regular beach and natural pools in solidified lava. Swimming pools like those in Los Gigantes are rarely seen anywhere, so we recommend coming here before sunset to also enjoy the romantic atmosphere of this place.



Other Tenerife beaches

Above we have indicated only the beaches that we liked in Tenerife more than others. In general, the island has a considerable number of beaches, although not all of them are suitable for swimming. The beaches in the main resorts of the south of Tenerife are mostly similar to each other (perhaps with the exception of El Duque beach). Resort beaches are usually crowded, noisy and have well-developed infrastructure and leisure activities for tourists.

For example, the beach Fanabe in Costa Adeje (Playa de Fanabe) is a spacious beach with bars and restaurants, rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as entertainment for tourists. The beaches in Las Americas are similar in description.

There are several more beaches that we visited in Tenerife and which I would like to mention separately:

Mareta Beach- a classic “wild” beach for the island of Tenerife. Dark volcanic sand, rocky coastline and often big waves make Mareta Beach not very pleasant for swimming, but here you can have a good rest and spend time alone with nature.

El Horno Beach- a small beach next to Mareta beach. There are no such dangerous rocks here, the wind blows, and therefore there are waves - the beach is popular with surfers.

Beach Honda- a small beach in a town in eastern Tenerife. It’s definitely not worth going here on purpose, but if you happen to be vacationing nearby, consider this beach for relaxation. Playa Honda is convenient for swimming and relaxing. When we visited Playa Honda, there were groups with diving equipment, so we concluded that there are good conditions nearby for those who like to watch the underwater world of the island.

Rent a car in Tenerife

If you want to get to know the Spanish island of Tenerife better, see the island’s sights and travel through its different climatic zones, it’s more convenient rent a car(and don’t forget about Tenerife). Undoubtedly, there are many advantages to traveling independently in Tenerife - you choose which attractions and places on the island you want to visit, and you don’t have to wait for anyone (as happens with group excursions) and you are completely left to your own devices.

A rented car in Tenerife will allow you to visit different beaches that are radically different from each other, and your impressions of your holiday on the island will be brighter. And of course, it is convenient to visit Tenerife shopping centers by car, of which there are a large number on the island. Of course, during your holiday in Tenerife you can do without a car, especially if you are not going to travel outside your resort (as an exception, you can take a group sightseeing tour of the island). But if you want to really get to know the island, renting a car is the key to saving time, convenience and pleasant impressions.

There are a large number of car rental companies in Tenerife - from the largest Sixt, Hertz, Europcar to local Cicar, etc. If you plan to rent a car for the entire trip to Tenerife, it is convenient to take the car directly at the airport and return it there. And if you are going to rent a car for just a few days to explore Tenerife, for your own convenience, use the “delivery to the hotel” and “pick up from the hotel” service, and you won’t have to go anywhere to get the car.

You can choose a car both on the company’s websites and upon arrival in Tenerife. On the central streets, as well as along the beaches of large resorts, such as Costa Adeje and Las Americas, there are a large number of car rental companies. Of course, if you are traveling to Tenerife during high season, for your peace of mind it is better to book a car in advance, but even on the spot you can always find a suitable option.

The longer the car rental period, the better the price. The highest cost of renting a car will be accordingly if you rent a car for just 1 day. During high season, car rental prices in Tenerife start from €35 per day. What you should pay attention to when choosing a car to rent is insurance. Options with full insurance usually cost more, but such insurance covers any damage to the car (in addition to that caused by an accident due to your fault, or drunk driving).

We prefer to rent a car with full insurance to avoid further possible controversial issues. The second insurance option is a deductible. With this insurance option, a certain amount is blocked on your card as a deposit for possible damage. When renting a car with this insurance option, you should be prepared for the fact that the money on the card will not be released immediately after you return the car, but within a month (if no controversial issues arise).

find out current prices car rental for the dates of your trip to Tenerife:

Surfing in Tenerife

Tenerife is a popular destination in Spain for water sports enthusiasts. There are wonderful conditions here for surfing— winds blow on the island all year round (but on different spots). Many people come to Tenerife specifically for surfing; there are also schools for beginners on the island. If you are a beginner, you should not learn to surf in Tenerife on your own in a place you like - the elements here are unpredictable and it can be dangerous.

Spots for beginners are located in the Las Americas resort area:

  • Derecha del Cartel
  • La Fitenia
  • El Medio
  • El Conquistador
  • La Izquierda

All these spots in Las Americas have similar conditions (the waves here reach 1-4 meters), but are intended for different levels of skiing.

Basically, all beginners start surfing in Tenerife at the El Medio spot. Nearby there are not only international surf schools with instruction in English and Spanish, but also with Russian-speaking instructors. And of course there is a board rental service here. Don't forget that to surf in Tenerife you will also need a wetsuit and corrals (as the bottom is rocky and slippery).

Spots for advanced surfers are mainly located in the north of Tenerife.

Estimated prices for surfing in Tenerife:

  • Surf schools often offer accommodation and group lessons, with an average cost of €450 per person for 7 days.
  • Surf lessons without accommodation cost on average €35 per person for 1 group lesson and €70 for an individual lesson. Many schools offer a price of €100 for a private lesson for 2 people.

Don't forget to get travel insurance when traveling to Tenerife
We recommend that you take out insurance, especially before surfing, because... there is a risk of injury ⤵

Shopping in Tenerife

Shopping is main goal visiting Tenerife for many tourists. Besides the fact that Spain is famous for shopping, the main advantage of shopping in Tenerife is that the Canary Islands are duty free and prices are lower than in mainland Spain.

Traditionally, tourists bring cosmetics and perfumes, clothing and shoes from the Canary Islands, and Tenerife in particular. Sales start in Tenerife twice a year and prices become even lower during this time.

Summer the sale lasts from July 1 to August 31, winter- from January 7 to March 6.

On the main streets of the major resorts of Tenerife you can easily find a large number of shops with mass market goods. In addition, Tenerife also has large shopping centers (often called Centro Comercial). Below we will provide more information about shopping centers and shopping in the resorts of Tenerife.

Costa Adeje and Las Americas are the main shopping center in the south of Tenerife. And its heart is the main street of the Las Americas resort - Avenida de las Americas, which has the unspoken name “Golden Mile”.

There are countless stores here, both mass market and more expensive brands, for example

  • Armani
  • Prada
  • Gucci
  • Hugo Boss
  • Escada, etc.

Shopping mall Plaza del Duque is in fashionable area Costa Adeje, near Playa El Duque beach. The small shopping center was designed for expensive boutiques, but now there are also inexpensive brands on the ground floor.

Gran Sur- another shopping center in Costa Adeje. There are very few shops here, and none at all. The only thing that makes Gran Sur attractive is its large grocery supermarket. Mercadona. Here in Costa Adeje you can buy all the necessary products, including fresh fish and seafood, to cook them yourself.

Siam Mall(Siam Mall) is an impressive shopping center located next to the Siam Park water park.

There are a large number of brands for every taste here.

  • Mango
  • Pull&Bear
  • Bershka
  • Calzedonia
  • Intimissimi
  • Pandora
  • Springfield
  • Stradivarius
  • Swarovski
  • Timberland
  • Zara Home
  • Women'Secret and others.

The shopping center can be reached by free buses to nearby resorts or by taxi.

If you are vacationing in one of the resorts in the south of Tenerife, first visit the shopping centers in this part of the island; it makes no sense to go north specifically for shopping. But if you are vacationing in the north of the island, visit the shopping centers of the island’s capital, Santa Cruz.

Particularly popular among tourists in the capital Tenerife shopping centers

  • El Corte Inglés
  • Meridiano
  • Tres de Mayo

At the entrance to Santa Cruz, next to the highway, you can easily notice a shopping center with a sign Carrefour(in fact, the shopping center is called Centro Comercial Santa Cruz Carrefour) - there are a large number of stores for budget shopping, as well as a grocery hypermarket.

Many shops are located on the pedestrian street Calle Castillo in the island's capital. It is convenient to combine shopping and a walk around the capital of the Canary island.

Shopping in Tenerife can really be productive and varied, it has nothing in common with the typical shopping in resorts, which usually offer souvenirs, beach accessories and cheap jewelry.

The cuisine of the Canary Islands, like the cuisine of Spain, has traditionally consisted of the freshest ingredients and simple, healthy recipes. Fish and seafood make up most of Canarian cuisine.
Small, cozy family restaurants are very common in Tenerife, where you can taste truly Canarian food and wine. Of course, you shouldn’t expect much from establishments in the island’s major resorts, where everything is mostly aimed at tourists. If you want to try authentic Canarian food while on holiday in Tenerife, go to small towns and villages where there is not such a large flow of tourists.

In the south of Tenerife there is the village of La Caleta, which is famous for its fish restaurants. If you are vacationing in this part of the island, visit La Caleta, dine on the ocean shore with Canarian cuisine - and this evening will remain in your memory for a long time.

10 Traditional Canarian Dishes

  1. Types of fish prepared in various ways include dorado, cherne, tuna, sardines and mackerel. The fish is usually served with sauces, including the Canarian sauce Mojo picon, consisting of pepper, cumin, marjoram, olive oil, and garlic.
  2. Prawns and langoustines cooked in oil, with pepper or garlic
  3. Seafood with sauces: oysters, squid, mussels, octopus and much more
  4. Boiled Vieja Parrotfish
  5. A traditional Canarian dish is Carne con Papas. The dish is a combination of potatoes with meat: pork, lamb, chicken, rabbit or beef
  6. Rabbit with spicy sauce (Conejo en salmorejo) - which is marinated for 10 hours before cooking. Usually served with Canarian potatoes
  7. Canarian potatoes (Papas arrugadas) are a popular dish among tourists. Salt-crusted boiled potatoes usually served with Mojo picon, a spicy Canarian sauce
  8. Rancho Canario - meat mix with the addition of vermicelli, peas, potatoes and vegetables
  9. Banana desserts flan - banana desserts soaked in rum and drizzled with caramel
  10. Truchas navidenhas are small pastries filled with sweet potatoes, pumpkin syrup, almonds and raisins.

7 Places We Recommend: Bars and restaurants in Tenerife that we visited and can safely recommend visiting to enjoy Canarian food

  1. Restaurante Roque las Animas in the village of Taganana in northeast Tenerife
  2. Masei del Mar is a fish restaurant on the ocean in the town of La Caleta in the south of Tenerife
  3. Almar Tenerife is a restaurant with Italian cuisine on the coastline of the Costa Adeje resort. The seafood here is always fresh and well prepared, the menu is small, but all the dishes are really tasty. The establishment is located on the second floor, and on the first floor, right under Almar Tenerife, there is an inconspicuous cafe with a completely simple interior, but this is the place that the locals recommended to us to enjoy paella. La Gran Paella Valenciana - if you want to eat paella, this is the place for you
  4. Meson Castellano is a restaurant in Las Americas that received the title of winner in the title best restaurant Spanish cuisine. The prices are high, but this is not surprising, the cuisine here is excellent
  5. El Cordero in Guargacho is an excellent place with a beautiful interior to discover Canarian cuisine
  6. El Taller Seve Diaz in Puerto de la Cruz is the #1 restaurant according to tripadvisor, and it really is.
  7. Family restaurant Familiar in El Medano.

TOP 10 Places Worth Seeing and Visiting in Tenerife

  1. Teide National Park and Volcano
  2. Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz
  3. Ancient city of La Orotava in the north of Tenerife
  4. Anaga mountain range in the northeast of the island
  5. Los Gigantes cliffs
  6. El Duque Beach in Costa Adeje (Playa El Duque)
  7. Las Teresitas Beach in San Andreas (Playa de las Teresitas)
  8. Maska Gorge
  9. Wild beach of Benijo (Playa de Benijo)
  10. Eucalyptus forest Esperanza (Bosque de la Esperanza)

⭐ Book Your Trip to Tenerife: Helpful Tips and Tricks

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    You can book your hotel on , as it always shows the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. We use this service all the time. If you prefer to stay in apartments or rent villas, we recommend Airbnb service. , which on your next booking will give you up to $45 off .
  3. Don't forget about travel insurance
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After relaxing for several days on the beautiful beaches of the island of Tenerife, tourists begin to look for what they can see on their own or with a tour. And the Canaries have something to surprise even the most discerning travelers. Various theme parks, walking routes through forests and volcanoes, well-preserved historical buildings in old cities - this is what attracts us in the first place. In this article I have collected the main attractions of Tenerife, which definitely deserve attention.

Before making a list of interesting places on the island, you need to decide how you plan to visit them. You can see the main attractions on your own, moving around, rent a car b or . A combination of several options would be ideal. Personally, we did just that. We went on several excursions that covered the most interesting places, and the rest of our list traveled by bus. There are enough interesting objects in Tenerife, so during a week-long vacation you are unlikely to be able to see everything with your own eyes.

List of natural attractions:

  1. Volcano Teide

On the Teide volcano

The main attraction of Tenerife is the mighty Teide volcano. Like a gray-haired giant, he towers over the island, watching all its inhabitants from above. Tourists have a great opportunity to climb the volcano by cable car in 8 minutes. Trekking enthusiasts can go to the volcano on foot, but it’s worth calculating your strength correctly. The path is not close, the journey will take several hours. From the top there is a beautiful view of the coast; you will be lucky if there are not many clouds. On the other hand, when will you still have the opportunity to walk above the clouds. The Teide National Park with fantastic landscapes lies around the volcano. When you are in this place, it seems as if you are on another planet. Nature has done its best - the rocks have a bizarre shape. The most famous are the Garcia Rocks. Romantics and astronomy lovers can recommend a visit to the Teide Observatory. This is a unique structure, created far from cities, at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level. You won't see so many stars in other places.

2-3. Red and yellow mountain

There are also smaller volcanoes in Tenerife. This is a red and yellow mountain. They are not as high as Teide, so you can climb them on foot, and absolutely free.

View of the Maska Gorge

The Maska Gorge is very popular among tourists. There is a legend that it used to serve pirates, who raised their untold riches along it. It is not difficult to overcome this route, but the journey will take several hours. After descending, a wonderful beach awaits you, from which boats regularly go to the neighboring resort.

  1. Los Gigantes cliffs

The cliffs of Los Gigantes are one of the slopes of the Teide volcano. Their height reaches 500 meters. At the resort of the same name there is an observation deck from which you can see them best. But they look most impressive from the sea, like a sheer wall soaring into the sky.

  1. Esperanza Forest

This is a real forest with pine trees, laurels and eucalyptus trees. In the morning and evening, fog falls on the forest, making the forest seem magical. The forest is popular for walking. There is fresh eucalyptus air, beautiful nature and no crowds of tourists.

  1. Anaga relict forest

The Anaga forest in Tenerife has been given a variety of epithets: relict and enchanted. One thing is for sure, nature has remained untouched and unchanged in it. Tourists and locals come here to contemplate this beauty. In the forest, trees intertwine with each other, forming complex patterns, and the clean air makes your head spin. Maybe this is where the illusion of witchcraft arises. The forest is also amazing because many species of laurel trees grow in it. Well, isn't this a miracle?!

  1. Teno Park

Parque Rural de Teno is located in the northwestern part of the island of Tenerife. The park features magnificent scenery and natural diversity. More than 100 km are laid across its territory. walking routes. There are valleys, cliffs and laurel forests here.

  1. Hell's Gorge (Barranco del Infierno)

A gorge with lush vegetation, stunning views and a scary name. But don't be afraid of him. It is safe and has a hiking trail. Unless you need to be careful with falling stones. The length of the route is about 6.5 km, the walk will take approximately 3 hours. At the end of the trail is a waterfall, the only source of fresh water on the island. On the way you can see caves. Legend has it that the Guanches, the natives of Tenerife, are buried there.

10.Cave of the Winds

The Cave of the Winds (Viento) is the largest cave in Europe and the fourth in the world. It is a network of intricate labyrinths about 18 kilometers long and three levels of passages. The cave was formed more than 27 thousand years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption and lava flow. Entrance to the cave is paid; visits are only possible with a guide in groups.

  1. Pyramids of Guimar

Did you think that pyramids were only preserved in Egypt or Mexico? But no, they are also in Tenerife. In the east of the island there are six step pyramids. Their origin remains a mystery, but it is believed that they predate the arrival of the Guanches. Researchers tend to believe that they are similar to similar buildings in other parts of the world.

  1. Lunar landscape

Moonscape (Paisaje lunar) is one of the hiking trails near the village of Vilaflor. He looks truly fantastic. Stone cone-shaped light peaks directed into the sky create the impression of something unearthly. Its shape is a bit reminiscent of the landscapes of Turkish Cappadocia. Walking route getting to the lunar landscape is not very easy: there are elevation changes, and part of the road will have to go uphill. But it's worth it.

  1. Lava pools in Garachico

During a storm, the ocean floods the pools, splashes fly in all directions.

As a result of the volcanic eruption in Tenerife, not only unusual landscapes were formed, but also the lava pools of Garachico. The hot lava flowed down and, colliding with the cold ocean, froze. Now these pools have been slightly improved by constructing convenient stairs for descent. Swimming pools naturally provide protection from waves, and the water in them is warmer than in the ocean. Garachico has several pools of different shapes and depths.

  1. dragon tree

The Dragon Tree in Icod de Los Vinos is the oldest tree in Tenerife. A special park was created for its preservation. This tree has seen a lot in its life's journey, but it cannot tell about everything. Dragon blood flows inside the tree, a red resin that has healing powers. There are amazing legends about this tree, and it itself looks unusual.

Theme parks in Tenerife

In the selection below you will find the most interesting and popular theme parks:

  1. Siam Park

At the Siam Park water park

A pleasant change of holiday in Tenerife will be a visit to the Siam Park water park. It is more intended for adults; there are not many slides for children. The water park is built in Thai style. The park area is quite large and beautifully decorated. It is best to come to the water park when it opens; there are a lot of people, especially at the height of the season.

  1. Aqualand

Unlike Siam, the Aqualand park is more suitable for children, so couples often choose it for their vacation.

  1. Loro Park

Loro Parque Zoo is also an excellent holiday destination for families with children. It was originally created as a parrot park, but now there are many other animals, including predators. There are shows with penguins and killer whales several times a day. Loro Parque is a real amusement park where you can spend the whole day.

  1. Monkey Park

Monkey Park Tenerife has been operating in Tenerife for over 20 years. It is small in size. Best time for visiting - in the morning, when the animals are active. You can bring vegetables and fruits with you and feed the inhabitants. They especially love bananas and apples.

  1. Eagles Park

The hallmark of the eagle park (Jungle Park Tenerife) is a show featuring these birds of prey. The park is a nature reserve with recreated wild conditions. Animal world The zoo is represented not only by eagles, but also by other animals. It will be interesting for both children and adults.

  1. Camel Park

Interesting and colorful place. This is not so much a park as a camel farm. Guests of the park are offered an exciting camel safari, and then taste local dishes in a family cafe. You can not only look at the animals, but also touch them. Children are delighted with this.

  1. Butterfly Park

The Butterfly Park is a glass building containing dozens of species of butterflies from all continents. They will fly around you, spinning in an unknown dance. Maybe you will be lucky and you will see how a clumsy, voracious caterpillar turns into a beautiful and graceful butterfly.

  1. Publo Chico Miniature Park

Miniature Park

The miniature park contains in a reduced form the main attractions of Tenerife and other Canary Islands. If you don’t have time to see all the places I described in this article, then the miniature park will complement your impressions.

  1. Taoro Park

Calm and quiet place with exotic trees, flowers and fountains. The park is divided into three zones: an observation deck with a beautiful view of Puerto de la Cruz, a casino area and a ring road around the perimeter of the park, along which locals go for morning jogs. Entrance to the park is free.

  1. Botanical Garden

In the territory Botanical Garden(Jardin Botanico Tenerife) you can find trees and flowers from different parts of the globe. In total there are about 4000 plant species. This is one of the oldest botanical parks in the world. Its development began in the 18th century. Entrance to the park is paid.

  1. Orchid garden in Puerto de la Cruz

The Orchid Garden of Sitio Litre is a small park in the center of Puerto de la Cruz. A beautiful garden in which, in addition to orchids, many other exotic plants grow. Since its creation, many famous people have visited the garden. One of the first to visit it was the German biologist Humboldt.

Entertainment places in Tenerife

List of the most popular entertainments:

  1. Knight's tournament in the castle of San Miguel

An entertaining show consisting of horse and foot knight competitions. The show will take guests back to the Middle Ages with its colorful atmosphere. The performance takes place in the evening, when the battle looks more realistic under the spotlights.

  1. Flamenco show

Spain is the birthplace of flamenco, so it is not surprising that this show is held in Tenerife in the Pyramid of Arona. Flamenco is not just a dance with clicking heels and castanets, it is a whole performance in which unbridled passions seethe to the sounds of music.

  1. Lago Martianez

Lago Martianez is a unique park with swimming pools and artificial islands. It has everything for a comfortable stay - restaurants, beaches, view terraces. Lago Martianez was built in 1971 according to the design of the architect Cesar Manrique.

  1. Market Nuestra Signora de Africa

Not far from the Santa Cruz de Tenerife bus station is the Nuestra Signora de Africa market. Here you can buy local products and delicacies. On Sundays, the market hosts a flea market with souvenirs and antiques. The market building was built in North African traditions.

Architecture of Tenerife

Several objects of the island that are interesting from an architectural point of view:

  1. Auditorio de Tenerife

Auditorio de Tenerife

The Auditorio de Tenerife is impressive for its architectural design. The object is well recognizable; its image can often be found in advertising brochures and postcards of Tenerife. There is a concert hall inside the building. The Auditorio de Tenerife can be called the symbol of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

  1. Downtown San Cristobal de La Laguna

In the north of the island is the city of La Laguna, which used to be the capital of the island. It has perfectly preserved architectural buildings. Currently, the historical center of the city is included in the list of UNESCO sites.

  1. Lighthouse in Teno

In the very west of Tenerife there is Cape Teno, on which there are two lighthouses - an old stone one from the 19th century and a new, higher one, which was erected in 1987. Once on the cape, every traveler can feel like a lighthouse keeper.

  1. Basilica of Candelaria

The main value of the basilica is the statue of the black Madonna. She is considered the patroness of the Canary Islands. Every year Tenerife holds a festival dedicated to the patroness, for which thousands of pilgrims flock to Candelaria. But even on ordinary days, Canarians and tourists visit sacred place. The story of the discovery of a shrine on the island is interesting.

  1. Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

It is considered the most significant temple in the capital of the island of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It contains the Holy Cross of the Conquistadors, brought to Tenerife by the Spanish conquerors. This church had an important influence on the spread of Catholicism on the island, and therefore has the title “mother church”.

  1. Cathedral of La Laguna

Catholic church in neo-Gothic style, the spiritual heart of the island. Inside it are the remains of the conqueror and founder of the city, Alonso Fernandez de Luga. On Catholic Easter and September 14, the Cross with Christ of La Laguna, revered on the island, created in the early 16th century, is brought from the storage room. These days the city is filled with pilgrims from all the islands.

Museums of Tenerife

  1. Museum of Science and Space

An interactive and technological museum, the purpose of which is to demonstrate the achievements of science visually and demonstrate mechanisms in action. There are no boring exhibits in this museum; it will be interesting for both children and adults.

  1. Archaeological Museum

The collection of the Archaeological Museum located in Puerto de la Cruz is dedicated to the culture and life of the Guanches, who inhabited the island before the arrival of the Spaniards. There are several exhibition halls with archaeological artifacts.

  1. Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife in San Cristobal de La Laguna

The museum brings together human nature and the history of the island. It consists of three sections: the House of Carta and the House of Lercaro (in San Cristobal de La Laguna), the Castle of San Cristobal (in Santa Cruz de Tenerife).

  1. Museum of Nature and Man

The museum's collection consists of archaeological, botanical and paleontological exhibits discovered in Tenerife. The Guanche mummies located there brought fame to the museum. The museum building in the neoclassical style is also of interest.

  1. Malvasia Wine Museum

In Icod de Los Vinos there is an unusual museum of Malvasia wine, which has been produced according to a traditional recipe for several centuries. In the museum, visitors will not only learn the history and secrets of winemaking, but will also be able to taste local drinks.

Excursions in Tenerife

In the widget below, select the most interesting excursions in Tenerife.

Map of Tenerife attractions in Russian

You can see the location of attractions on the map below.

Of course, these are not all the attractions of Tenerife. In this article I tried to collect the most interesting places on the island. My book will help you prepare for your trip to Tenerife.

 

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