Got just a few days in Tenerife and want to see the best of the island? 🤔 This guide’s got you covered with the must-see attractions, organized geographically to make getting around a breeze.
From hidden gems to the most famous must-sees, here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure! 🌺
🌲 NORTH TENERIFE – Free Attractions
🌋 Teide National Park
The most visited national park in Europe is waiting for you with stunning lunar landscapes that look like they’re from another planet! 🚀 You can explore it by car, stopping at different viewpoints like Roques de García, or get the full experience by taking the cable car to the top (€40).
⚠️ To reach the actual peak of the volcano, you need a free permit that you should book on the official website months in advance. Or, you can rely on local tour operators who often have last-minute availability.
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Check out Mirador La Tarta – it’s a must-see! Afterward, swing by Minas de San Jose for some stunning views and local vibes!
Check out Mirador El Tabonal Negro!
Don’t miss La Ruleta Vista Point (Roques de García – You’ve gotta see it!) – and swing by Ethnographic Museum Juan Évora.
Check out the Sendero de Montaña Blanca! This is where the famous hike to the peak starts. The first part takes about an hour and is pretty easy, but after that, it’s off-limits. Happy hiking!
🌿 Anaga Rural Park – The Green Lung of the Island
The only tropical jungle in Tenerife is an enchanted world of trails winding through moss and giant ferns! 🧚♀️ Don’t miss Pico Inglés for spectacular views, the Enchanted Forest near Chamorga that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, and the famous Taganana-Playa Tamadiste hike for serious trekking lovers. Make sure to stop by Benijo for the most beautiful sunsets on the island 🌅 and Roque de Bodega, one of the most photographed spots in the Canary Islands.
🗺️ Check out Pico Inglés (it’s about a 1.5-hour round trip hike that’s totally worth it!)
Mirador De Jardina (beautiful view of La Laguna)
Casa Forestal (a little hike that’s totally worth it!)
Mirador Los Catalanes (You can’t miss this!)
Mirador Bailadero
Chamorga (Enchanted Forest) / Enchanted Forest! You can’t miss it!
🏘️ Pueblo de Taganana – The Oldest One
Taganana and the whole northern area is a paradise for trekking lovers! 🥾 If you’re not up for strenuous hikes, don’t miss Roque de Bodegas and Benijo. You can even stroll through El Draguillo, which packs all the magic of the north without too much effort. This old village nestled in the Anaga mountains offers pure authenticity and some of the best guachinches on the island, where you can taste the real Canarian cuisine. 🍽️
🗺️ Taganana
🍝 Guachinche Bibi y Mana – Casa Picar – Bar Chiringuito El Drago
Playa del Roque de las Bodegas (You can’t miss it!)
Playa de Almáciga (Google has the names messed up)
🌅 Playa de Benijo – Picture-Perfect Sunsets (Don’t miss it!)
The beach is currently closed to the public, but you can still catch an incredible view from above! 📸 You can’t miss Guachinche Casa Paca, the most local spot not just in Tenerife but in the whole world! There’s a nice little walk to Draguillo, perfect if you want to easily soak up the authenticity of Northern Tenerife.
🗺️ Check out the Mirador de Playa Benijo (the beach is closed, but this is where the trail to El Draguillo begins!)
🍝 Check out Casa Paca – the most local spot in the world!
🏛️ La Laguna (UNESCO) – The University City
Aguere, the ancient name of La Laguna de San Cristóbal, the former capital, is the oldest city on the island and a UNESCO World Heritage site. 🎓 The historic center is super authentic and fascinating, always cooler than the rest of the island thanks to its altitude. It’s perfect for a stroll among colonial architecture, churches/cathedrals, and a vibrant university vibe, with historic cafés and hidden bookstores waiting to be discovered.
☕ Café 7 (A lovely uni café, perfect for a barraquito)
🍕 Pizzería Manammè La Laguna (Italian pizza for the nostalgic)
Guachinche La Cueva de Casiano – La Laguna (wrinkled potatoes and mojo)
🗺️ Check out the Catedral de San Cristobal de La Laguna!
Check out the Museum of Science and the Cosmos
🏄♂️ Playa de Los Patos + Puerto de la Cruz
Los Patos and Bollullo are hidden gems that need a bit of a hike to reach the beach. You can park at a nearby restaurant for a small fee, where you can enjoy a delicious barraquito—it’s the Canarian way to drink coffee! ☕ Don’t miss out on the nearby Puerto de la Cruz: a stroll through this historic city will leave you speechless with its beautiful botanical gardens and perfectly preserved colonial architecture.
🌺 La Orotava – Gardens and Viewpoints
La Orotava is super beautiful and authentic, famous for its stunning historic gardens. If you’re into that, definitely pair your visit with the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz. 🌸 I always recommend checking out multiple cities, so make sure to visit it alongside Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Úrsula, or one of the viewpoints overlooking the sea like Mirador Los 500 Escalones, Playa de Rojas, or Mirador de El Lance.
🏊♀️ Natural Pools of Bajamar + Punta de Hidalgo
These family-friendly natural pools are perfect for a safe dip in the ocean! 👨👩👧👦 Pair them with Punta de Hidalgo, where you can stroll around the charming town, and check out Playa del Arenal. It might be a bit tricky to get to, but the crystal-clear waters are totally worth it, just like Playa Montana Amarilla. The natural pools in Hidalgo are stunning too!
🍦 Garachico – Historic Town and Volcanic Pools
Garachico is super pretty, but there’s not a ton to do: grab an ice cream, stroll around the volcanic natural pools, and wander through the village— and that’s about it! It’s perfect for pairing with Masca (which is right next door), Punta de Teno (even closer), or as we mentioned earlier, Icod de los Vinos and the Drago Milenario for a full day in the northwest.
🐉 Drago Milenario (Icod de los Vinos) – Only in Combination
This 800+ year-old tree is visible from the square for free, but it’s a quick stop that you’ll want to pair with something else during your day. ⏰ You could check it out along with Garachico or Puerto de la Cruz, which are way prettier spots to explore and stroll around without the ups and downs that sadly come with Icod.
🚌 Punta de Teno Lighthouse – The Most Remote Spot
One of the most remote and stunning spots on the island, reachable only by a bus that runs from 8 AM to 6 PM, every hour. It’s perfect for spending an entire afternoon or morning soaking in the dramatic views between the Masca mountains and the roaring ocean! 🌊
🏄♂️ Playa del Socorro – Surf Spectacle
Spectacular scenery where you can catch surfers in action! It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the north to admire the surf and soak up the authentic vibe of the Canaries. The powerful, consistent waves make it a go-to spot for surfers from all over Europe. 🌊
🤙 Bajamar – Surfing Up North
Another awesome surf spot up north in Tenerife, with consistent waves and a chill vibe compared to the southern beaches! It’s perfect for anyone wanting to experience the authentic side of the island away from the tourist crowds. 🌊
🌲 NORTH TENERIFE – Paid Attractions
🕳️ Cueva del Viento – Volcanic Caves Get ready to explore one of the coolest natural wonders in Tenerife! Cueva del Viento is a stunning volcanic cave system, and it’s perfect for adventurers like you. You’ll wander through unique tunnels, see incredible rock formations, and learn about the fascinating geology of the island. Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!
One of the longest volcanic caves in the world (18 km), and you can only visit it through specialized tour operators that you need to book in advance! ⏰ It’s a unique experience to explore the island’s volcanic depths and discover ancient geological formations.
🦜 Loro Parque – Award-Winning Zoo
An award-winning zoo with the largest parrot reserve in the world, plus lions, tigers, orcas, and penguins! 🐧 Named “Best Zoo in the World” multiple times by TripAdvisor, it’s an educational and fun experience for all ages.
☀️ SOUTH TENERIFE – Free Attractions
🏔️ Masca Village + Barranco Hiking
The “Machu Picchu of Tenerife” is also reachable by bus from Santiago del Teide, so you can skip the hassle of finding parking in the tiny village! 🚌 If you’re a trekking enthusiast, there’s even a chance to hike there from Santiago del Teide for a totally immersive experience in the wild nature of the Teno Mountains.
🌅 Cliffs of Los Gigantes – The Best Sunsets
The best spot on the island for breathtaking sunsets! 🌇 Enjoy the show from the Los Gigantes viewpoint or the Playa de la Arena. You absolutely have to spend time at Playa de los Guíos and check out the natural pools formed by the waves crashing against the volcanic cliffs.
🤙 El Médano + Montaña Roja – Surf and Hippie Vibe
El Médano is a little town with a super chill surf and hippie vibe! 🏄♂️ The walk around Montaña Roja is pretty easy, but don’t forget your sunscreen like everywhere else on the island! Getting to Tejita Beach from El Médano is a stunning experience that’ll let you soak in the beauty of the island’s south. In the town, you’ll find restaurants and bars for every taste, including El Timón with delicious fish served on a terrace right above the ocean. 🐟
🏖️ Playa de Las Teresitas – The Most Touristy
It’s a super touristy beach with golden sand imported from the Sahara, perfect if you’re looking for comfort and services! 🏨 Just a bit further is the famous Las Gaviotas, mostly nudist, for those wanting a more free and alternative vibe.
🤿 Puertito de Adeje – Crystal Clear Waters
A total must if you’re around the south! It’s another spot like Montaña Amarilla where the water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. 🐠 Close by is the famous Playa de Diego Hernández, known as the “hippie beach” (mostly nudist), considered the best place to chill for days with calm, transparent waters.
💎 Playa Montana Amarilla – Hidden Paradise
You absolutely have to check this out if you’re nearby! It pairs perfectly with the pools at Los Abrigos, El Médano, and Montaña Roja for a full day of discovering the authentic south. ✨ The crystal-clear waters and unique volcanic landscape make it one of the island’s most spectacular beaches.
🏊♂️ Natural Pool of Los Abrigos
A little hidden gem near El Médano, perfect for anyone looking to chill in some protected waters! 💎 You can easily pair it with a visit to Montaña Amarilla and El Médano for an awesome day in the island’s southeast.
✨ Duque Beach + Fañabe Viewpoint
In just one day, you can easily do both: chill at one of the most stylish beaches in the south and then head up to the Fuñabe viewpoint in Costa Adeje, which is especially stunning in the evening when it gets dark! 🌃 You can soak in the views comfortably from your car, admiring the coast’s lights and the moon’s reflection on the ocean.
COSTA ADEJE
Adeje, South Tenerife is an absolute must! You’ll get to see these magnificent creatures up close while enjoying the stunning views of the coast. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
🏔️ Barranco del Infierno – A Spectacular Canyon
This stunning gorge requires an online reservation on the official website (max 200 people per day)! 📝 The hike takes about 3 hours round trip and wraps up with a hidden waterfall. You can easily get there from central Adeje, and there’s free parking at the trailhead.
🏄♂️ Playa las Américas – Surf and Nightlife
Even though it’s more touristy, it’s still one of the best surf spots in the south of Tenerife! Perfect for those looking to mix water sports, nightlife, and that classic backpacker vibe, with hostels and bars open until the early hours. 🌙
☀️ SOUTH TENERIFE – Paid Attractions
🎢 Siam Park – The Best Water Park in the World
Voted the best water park in the world for two years running, with stunning Thai architecture and heated pools at 24°C all year round! 🌊 It’s also perfect in winter when it’s less crowded but still packed with fun.
🏙️ Santa Cruz – Quick Mention If you’re heading to Tenerife, you can’t miss Santa Cruz! This vibrant city is bursting with life, culture, and a bunch of cool spots to explore. From the stunning beaches to the lively markets, there’s always something happening. Don’t forget to check out the impressive architecture and grab some local bites at one of the many cafes. It’s the perfect place to soak up the island vibes and meet fellow travelers. You’ll love it!
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital, but honestly, there’s not a ton to do if you came to soak up the island’s natural beauty! 🤷♂️ Cities like Candelaria or La Orotava are way more authentic to visit. If you swing by, take a quick peek at the Auditorium and the market, but save your precious time for the natural wonders that make Tenerife one-of-a-kind in the world! ✨
💡 Local tips: Group attractions by area to save on travel time and gas! The north’s great for hiking and authenticity 🥾, while the south’s all about beaches and social life 🏄♂️.
❤️ Don’t try to see everything in one day – it’s way better to truly enjoy a few places! ❤️
And remember: sunscreen is a MUST ☀️ (the sun in the Canaries doesn’t mess around) and a hat for those brave souls who dare to venture out during peak hours! 🧢
Who wrote this guide? The tips you’re about to read come from Artur, who’s been living in Tenerife for several years and has guided dozens of friends visiting the island! 🏠 Here, you’ll find smart combos to make the most of your time, the most authentic spots to check out (the ones you won’t find in the usual guides), and above all, how to experience Tenerife like a true local, not just any tourist!
