Tenerife
Ultimate Travel Guide [2024]

The Best Things to See and Do

Why We Love Tenerife - The Island of Eternal Spring

What is there to say about our “Island of Eternal Spring”, Tenerife? If you haven’t visited yet, we assume you have at least heard about it from friends or family and your search for more information has brought you to this post!

Tenerife is the go-to destination for a nice holiday on the beach or the mountains – all year long. In fact, Tenerife offers almost everything: splendid beaches, giant mountains, and authentic, delicious food and beverages. You will fall in love with the landscapes, as well as with the vibrant Canarian culture and nightlife.

Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Islands. Many of you may wonder if Tenerife is part of Europe or Africa. Despite being geographically located in the Atlantic Ocean near Morocco and the Western Sahara, the Canary Islands belong to Spain.

There is a never-ending discussion about which part of the island is more beautiful, the north or the south. We can’t give you an absolute answer‌. Both the South and the North have their advantages. The South has a very stable warm climate and sand beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The best hiking trails, green landscapes, and small villages are found in the North. To experience this unique contrast, you should definitely check out our blog post about all the reasons to visit Tenerife – trust us, you’ll want to book a trip immediately.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Tenerife?

Did you know that Tenerife hosts a variety of microclimates? Based on your location on the island, there can be drastic changes in temperatures. Tenerife’s weather and landscape are very diverse. This is due to the 3718m-high volcano, Teide, located in the center of the island from which the rest of the island continues onto the coast.

Though the weather is stable all year round, the northern part of the island is a bit colder. You’ll be more likely to experience more rainy and cloudy days there than in the South. And there is a reason for that! Clouds usually accumulate on the north side of Teide and the Anaga Mountains creating a particular fresh humidity. Thus, you can find much more greenery in the north of Tenerife.

Indeed, the weather is one of the island’s most attractive aspects. Perfect for relaxing holidays under the sun in a far-away land as well as cool breezed hikes up in the mountains. It’s astonishing to have a European region that offers warm weather all year round!

On top of that, Tenerife has a very low average of rainy days per year. You will see it for yourself when you come here; we have great sun exposure almost every day!

Tenerife - A Holiday Destination for Everyone

For Beach Lovers

Tenerife offers its inhabitants and visitors an endless list of beaches. Here we introduce you to the most beautiful beaches the island has to offer.

As mentioned before, the North and the South of the island offer varied landscapes. The different beaches Tenerife offers are also a perfect example of this.

The most obvious contrast among them is the color of the sand: most beaches in the North are natural black sand beaches, while in the South, you encounter more man-made white sand beaches. Some of them even consist of white sand brought from the Sahara Desert, such as in Playa de la Teresitas and Playa Abama.

Let’s have a closer look at the typical differences between the beaches in the North and in the South!

Beaches in the North:

The beaches in the north have black volcanic sand, rocks, and pebbles. On the beaches located outside of the cities, usually, there are no facilities and no lifeguards. We ask you to be very careful when you go because the waves can be strong and there are usually no wave breakers. Some of the beaches are not safe to swim in, like the ones in the Anaga park, because the current can be very strong.

Yet, the stunning sunsets and incredible views on the cliffs are a must-see. Most of the time, they are less crowded and more peaceful because most of them are far away from the big tourist resorts.

Las Teresitas is located northeast of the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 10 minutes by car or bus (bus 910). Even though it is an artificial beach with sand imported from the Sahara, it’s one of our favorites!
Playa Jardín, located in Puerto de la Cruz, was created by the genius spirit of César Manrique. The Canarian artist dreamt of a unique and wonderful coastal landscape. The result is a combination of a botanical garden and a large beach where bright colors contrast with the dark tones of the volcanic sand.
Playa de Castro: We love the small waterfall that you can easily reach when there’s a low tide. If you walk from Puerto de la Cruz (around 2h), you pass an abundant water pump station that adds a dramatic tone to the scenery.

And a couple of secret ones…(both close to Puerto de la Cruz! 😉):

El Bollullo is one of the most spectacular and beautiful natural beaches in Tenerife. With its volcanic sand and rocks, it is a short walk from Puerto de la Cruz. You'll be wandering through banana plantations overlooking the ocean to get there, all along enjoying a majestic view you won’t soon forget!
Playa el Ancón is the small beach after el Bollullo, but it is surrounded by mountains so you feel completely disconnected from everything. It's easy to get to, but you have to walk a bit from the parking lot. Warm sand, silence, tranquility, big cliffs, and views of Puerto de la Cruz make up for the effort made.

Beaches in the South:

You will find long promenades along white-sand beaches in the South of Tenerife. Las Americas and Abama Beach, for example, are not natural but formed with sand from Africa. Some of them are also protected from the waves by long wave-breaker formations. This way the current is less strong and swimming is easier.

As there are hotels and resorts nearby, they usually have all sorts of amenities. You’ll find restaurants, lifeguards, beach bars, tour agencies, and sports centers, for example. There are also places with a family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere, like Playa del Duque. And in other beaches, like Los Cristianos, the beach is full of young people enjoying themselves or playing sports.

Of course, you can also find some natural beaches in the South that are more secluded and remote. Masca Beach, for example, is quieter and not so touristy, but you can only access it via a rather tough hike or by taking a water-taxi.

La Caleta de Adeje: You should definitely check out this pearl in the south of the island. There are several steel ladders on the rocks to enter the water. It’s a perfect place for snorkeling, full of colorful fish, corals, and other marine life. Remember to bring your googles!
Las Vistas is a beautiful beach located in Arona, in the South. It’s one of the most famous beaches in Tenerife! Thanks to its 850 meters of fine sand with crystal clear and calm waters, it’s perfect for a safe swim.

Blue Flag Beaches in Tenerife (2023)

Many of Tenerife’s beaches are Blue Flag-rated due to its natural beauty. A European Environmental Education Foundation award acknowledges their water quality and safety. At the moment, there are 16 Blue Flag Beaches in Tenerife. The most beautiful beaches are both in the north and in the south.

Playa Jardín in Puerto de la Cruz
Playa San Telmo in Puerto de la Cruz
Playa El Socorro in Los Realejos
Playa El Duque in Adeje
Playa De Troya I & II in Adeje
Playa De Las Vistas in Arona
Playa San Marcos in Icod de Los Vinos
Piscinas Naturales de Bajamar
Playa El Muelle in Garachico
Playa De La Jaquita in El Médano
Playa De La Arena in Mesa del Mar
Playa De Los Cristianos
Playa De San Juan
Playa de Fañabé
Playa De El Médano in Granadilla De Abona
Playa De Torviscas in Adeje

You should definitely check out all of them and tell us which one you like the best!

Natural Pools

Up for a unique swimming experience? You should definitely go for one of Tenerife’s natural pools (charcos). But, please be careful and only consider swimming when the currents are not too strong and the waves are moderate. The most popular natural pools are in the north near Garachico and Bajamar. Here’s a list of the most beautiful natural pools in Tenerife.

For Mountain Lovers

Tenerife is famous for its rocky landscapes, endless mountains, and dormant volcanoes. Mountain peaks here rise above the clouds, and the views are breathtaking. The giants of Tenerife will mesmerize you!

Here are some of Tenerife’s most famous mountains:

El Teide

El Teide is the third highest and most voluminous volcanic structure on the planet (following Mauna loa and Mauna kea in Hawaii). Moreover, it’s the highest mountain in the Canary Islands and of all Spain! El Teide, at 3718m above sea level, is the most popular tourist attraction on the island. El Teide reached a height of 4500m in the past but, since it erupted many eons ago, a caldera was created and it eroded to its current size.

What is the best time to visit Teide?

We would say that the best time to visit the volcano is in the summer months from June to September. However, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re not afraid of the cold, then any time is perfect!

There are several ways to visit Teide:

By cable car. You can take a cable car up and down the volcano to its 3,555m point (Cable Car tickets). And if you want to climb to the peak you need to obtain a permit beforehand. It’s free but you need to do it in advance (we’re speaking about weeks or even months) as the spaces are limited. Follow this link to request your permit.
Drive and hike around the national park. If your body doesn’t adjust well to high elevation, then consider just walking around the national park. Sometimes it is even more stunning to see Teide from the side than summiting it or being on the slope.
Hike to the peak during the day. If you are strong enough, you can hike Teide without taking the cable car; there is a hike from Montaña Blanca. You won’t get lost, it’s the only way to the top. However, don’t forget to reserve a permit.
Hike to the peak during the night. If you’re adventurous enough, you can hike Teide by night and see the sunrise from the top. You do not need the permit if you reach the peak of the volcano before 9am, so many people hike during the night without thinking about booking the permit. Please be sure that you’re physically prepared. Bring good hiking shoes and warm clothes as it can get quite cold during the night.

Anaga Rural Park

Anaga Rural Park is a huge mountain range at the northeastern tip of the island. Anaga is a mix of wonderful landscapes and biodiversity. On the top, which reaches a thousand meters in height, you will find one of the last remaining primary forests in Europe! This special type of subtropical forest flora is called Laurisilva. You can distinguish it by its evergreen plants. The natural beauty of this landscape is a must-see on the island.

There is an information center in Cruz del Carmen where you can go and kind workers will suggest a hike suited to your needs and abilities.

El Chinyero

The volcano Chinyero is 1,500 meters high and near the Teide and is also currently inactive. You can get amazing views of the volcano by visiting the “Chinyero Special Natural Reserve”.

Acantilados de Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes is definitely one of the most impressive views you will see in Tenerife. The “Acantilados de Los Gigantes” are in the municipality of Santiago del Teide. These massive 450m high cliffs that extend along the ocean will leave you speechless. The most visited viewpoint is the “Mirador Archipenque” which offers a platform where you can admire the unique landscape.

Roque del Conde

On the southwest of the island, you will find the Roque del Conde. With its characteristic plateau on its top, it’s hard to miss. Thanks to its position, the Roque del Conde is well known among paragliders.

Masca Village

For many tourists, Masca is the number one destination when it comes to unique views (check our guide if you want to visit it). It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and outdoor activities enthusiasts. The hidden village of Masca inhabits only about a hundred people. It has been accessible by car for the last decade, so you should visit it for sure. NOTE: the road is very narrow and there are usually quite a few cars, so if you are not an experienced driver better take a taxi or a bus.

Exotic fruits like mangoes, passion fruit, papayas, and avocados grow there which enhances the visit with its beautiful colors and smells. The surrounding scenery offers unspoiled nature: green forests, palm trees, and Canarian animals. To conclude, Masca is the perfect place to find yourself in nature, far from the busy life of the island.

There is a hike from the Masca village through the barranco to the ocean. The views are completely different from what you can usually see in Tenerife. You can reach the coast by hiking down and up the valley. As the access is limited check the website for the permit or simply book your excursion with a tour company.

For City Lovers

Puerto de la Cruz

Of course, Puerto de la Cruz, the location of our FU Internation Academy, is our favorite city. It combines a vacation feeling (as there are many nice beaches) with a local vibe since there are also a lot of local people just living their lives; hence, it doesn’t feel as touristy as the south of the island. There are plenty of things to do in Puerto de la Cruz, you will for sure never get bored by this city. We tell you all about it in our super detailed blogpost about what to discover in Puerto de la Cruz.

Many years ago, the volcano erupted and destroyed the village of Garachico which resulted in the port of Puerto de la Cruz flourishing and becoming the most important one. Today, thousands of tourists come to see the charming old city center!

A highlight is the Plaza del Charco, a beautiful central square with houses built in the seventeenth century. The old church “Peña de Francia” is a must-visit too. Built in 1697, it’s the most important religious building in the city; tourists admire it for its incredible artistic value.

During sunny days we recommend visiting Lago Martiánez, a complex with 7 pools in the shape of each Canary Island. The water is taken straight from the ocean, so you can enjoy the minerals from the ocean in a calm pool while admiring the wild waves surrounding it. It’s also a perfect place to enjoy a Piña Colada! The price to access the pool complex is only €5.50 and you can spend as much time there as you want before closing at 6pm.

Many of you will also love the plant diversity in the Jardín Botanico. For only €3, you can visit the oldest botanical garden of the archipelago. Discover unique trees, ficus, fruits, palms, dragon trees, and much more.

La Laguna

Another beautiful city to visit is La Laguna, the site of the Canary Island’s first university. Did you know that the old town of La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? It was once used as a role model for other colonial cities built in countries like Cuba.

While strolling through the city you will see ancient mansions, as well as cafés and restaurants. Plaza del Adelantado is both the center and the oldest square in the city. Obispo Rey Redondo Street is a fascinating sequence of historical buildings; they will capture your attention thanks to their colorful design. If you like architecture, you should visit the stunning Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

Another highlight for foodies is definitely La Laguna Food Market; you will find a wide offer of all sorts of local fruits, cheeses, pastries, and other delicious products.

Santa Cruz

The capital of the Island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is for the most part inhabited by locals. If you’re looking for authentic Canarian culture, then this is the place to go. On our blog you can follow us on a guided adventure all over the city to see the top attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

One of the places we recommend for food lovers is the “Mercado Municipal Nuestra Senora de Africa”. You’ll find a lot of local products, fresh food, handmade trinkets, and a charming atmosphere.

The best shopping area in Santa Cruz is in Calle del Castillo, the main pedestrian street of the city. Surrounded by buildings from the nineteenth century, this street leads you to the Plaza de España – a square known for its centerpiece large fountain which is surrounded by big “Santa Cruz” letters that both locals and tourists alike love to take pictures with.

Almost everyone who comes to Santa Cruz for the first time also notices a huge mysterious building that looks oddly similar to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. You may ask yourself what is it? It’s the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martin, which is well known for hosting the best musical artists in the world. Check the program and buy your tickets here.

Top Activities to Do in Tenerife

When you arrive on the island, you might ask yourself what you can do to enjoy it. See our 10 Best Places and Activities in Tenerife post for a full overview, or continue reading if you already know. The island has a wide range of activities to offer, and because of its unique geography, you shouldn’t only enjoy the beaches, but also its high mountains and national parks. For those looking for high-action and adrenaline-infused activities, Tenerife is the place to be. Find out all about the top adrenaline activities in Tenerife here; we tell you everything you need to know about where and what you can do and how to go about it.

Water

Tenerife is the right destination for you if you’re into watersports. Surf, Kitesurf, Windsurf, Bodyboard, Sup, Kayaking, and more. There is a reason why they call Tenerife the eldorado of surfing.

Surf

Due to its warm climate and constant good conditions, the island is one of the best surfing spots in Europe; frequent swells and warm water temperatures make Tenerife a perfect place for surfing. Although you can surf all throughout the year, the best months to find big waves are from October to February. If you are a beginner, you should try the smaller waves in summer. Luckily, you will encounter plenty of surf schools and camps all around the island.

Check out the best spots for surfing in Tenerife in our complete guide on Surfing in Tenerife.

Top 5 Surf Spots In Tenerife:

Playa Martiánez. A 15 min walk from FU International Academy, this is an excellent surf spot for beginners and advanced surfers. Check the tides before you go in order to prepare yourself. Accessible by car, there are restaurants and supermarkets around, plus there’s also a surf school “La Marea” right there on the beach.
Playa de Las Américas is without a doubt the most popular surf spot in Tenerife. Different beaches along the coast allow you to catch good waves almost every day. As the ground is rocky, we recommend wearing water shoes to avoid any injuries.
Bajamar is a surf spot with an incredible landscape. The spot is very popular amongst advanced surfers. The beach "El Arenal" offers consistent surf conditions and creates both left and right-hand waves.
Playa del Socorro is a beach next to Los Realejos in the North of the island which is only 10 km away from Puerto de la Cruz. Surrounded by impressive rocky cliffs, it offers great conditions throughout the whole year. Pro tip: there’s free wifi on the beach!

Do you want to combine learning Spanish and surfing at the same time? Join our Spanish and Sports Intensive course and learn these two things in one stay!

Kitesurf and Windsurf in El Médano

A dream spot for kitesurfers from all around the world is El Médano, in the south of Tenerife. Due to its great wind conditions, you can kitesurf all year-round. The water’s temperature is very consistent and varies between 18 and 23 degrees. However, you get the best conditions for kitesurfing from January to September. At El Médano beach, you can choose between several schools and stations; they are happy to equip you for Kiting, Windsurf, Sup, Wingfoil, and Surf. We assure you that learning how to ride the waves will be great fun.

Luckily, El Médano has the largest light sandy beach in Tenerife. There is plenty of space to set up and launch, and there are no obstacles on the beach that could be dangerous. After your session, you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the little village of El Médano. Why don’t you go for some tapas in one of the restaurants with a sea view?

Diving and Snorkeling

Want to see real turtles, barracudas, cuttlefish, and other marine animals in real life? Thanks to its unique underwater world, Tenerife is one of the best places to dive in the world. Due to the warm water temperatures, you can dive all year round in this very diverse seawater.

You may ask yourself what is the best time to go diving in Tenerife? The best months for diving are from April to November. During this period, the water visibility is the best and the currents are less strong. Crystal-clear waters allow divers to see as far as 30 meters most of the time.

Whether you’re a total beginner or a confirmed pro, Tenerife has dive sites for everyone. Read our guide to find out about different spots, schools, and marine life in each site. The best thing is that Tenerife doesn’t only have one but two underwater worlds. In the north of Tenerife, you will find the typical Atlantic marine world, whereas in the south you’ll find more of a tropical water world. On the one hand, tropical reefs are great for their biodiversity, and on the other, the Atlantic ocean offers you many wrecks and caves.

Due to the size and diversity of Tenerife, there are countless entry points from land as well as boat dives options. If you prefer to go with less equipment, snorkeling is the right choice for you; you will still stay above water or take a shallow dive and still discover some of the breathtaking marine life. Here are some of the best sites to see the Canarian underwater flora and fauna while snorkeling.

The best places for snorkeling and scuba diving in Tenerife

El Puertito: It’s a great spot for beginners as there are rarely any currents and it has a sandy bottom. Turtles, octopuses, bull rays and cuttlefish can be seen here.
Marazul: Meet amazing barracudas, angel sharks and rays here. In the reef areas, there are flower animals and crustaceans too.
Radazul: This is a popular dive spot only 12 km away from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. See sand eels, damselfishes, sardines, parrotfish, shoals, and angel sharks.

Sailing and Whale Watching

Meet exotic sea creatures you can only find in Japan, Hawaii, and … Tenerife! Many different providers offer sail cruises and skippered charters around the island. A cruise is a great way to see this beautiful archipelago from a new angle. The sailing providers offer tours where you can watch whales, dolphins, and turtles.

Los Gigantes is one of the world’s top destinations for spotting whales in their natural habitat. Our tip: choose small sailing vessels with the blue mark “Barco Azul”. These boats ensure to approach the animals in a respectful way. Keep in mind that a boat trip or sail is a great way to enjoy the sun and have a drink; many of them also stop at beautiful beaches for snorkeling in crystal clear waters.

Some of the species you will meet during your trip:

Pilot Whales
Bottlenose Dolphin
Spotted Dolphins
Bryde’s Whales

With a little bit of luck:

Fin Whale
Striped Dolphin

Siam Water Park

Would you like to have a fun day in search of a little bit of adrenaline? Thanks to its great rides, Siam Park has been seven times the best water park in the world according to Tripadvisor.

If you choose to go, we recommend you visit the wave palace – a huge pool with a perfect wave for surfing that can reach 3 meters. The most popular ride is the Tower of Power with a 28-meter high vertical drop that will accelerate your heart rate. You can also slide through an amazing aquarium tunnel with sea animals swimming around.

The water park also holds four world records:

It has the biggest Dragon Statue
Its Mai Thai River is the fastest water lift
It has the biggest Thai building outside of Asia
It has the biggest man-made wave

Another interesting thing to remember is that Siam Park is the first Green Water Park. Seawater is pumped into the facility through its own water treatment system. From there, it’s then heated and turned into freshwater.

Land

Hiking

If you’d like to make unforgettable memories far away from crowded beaches, hiking is for you. Pine forests, lunar landscapes, volcanic formations, amazing ocean views – you can find them all in Tenerife! Here are the 12 best hikes you have to do while you are in Tenerife. So put on your hiking boots and let’s go!

Teide National Park

The hiking possibilities in Teide National Park are almost endless! As you may know, it’s one of the oldest Spanish national parks and a Unesco World Heritage. There are several ways you can get to Teide National Park. By car (road TF-21), by bus, by foot, or with one of the many tour providers. When you pass the height of the pine forest, you will be amazed by the views above the clouds.

If you’d like to see Tenerife from its highest point, you should try to reach the peak of Teide. There are several possible options to summit it.

If you would like to go for something more chill, you should try the trail starting at the “Roques de Garcia”. You can park your car there and follow route 3 around rock formations made out of lava. The hike is about 3,5 km long and passes a spectacular rock named the “Catedral”. The flora along this trail is quite diverse: you will see broom, shrub marguerite and, the star, tajinaste (if the season is right, it blooms in May and June).

Chinyero walk

The eruption of the Chinyero in 1909 created a landscape made up of volcanic rocks and badlands (malpaís). Hiking lovers should definitely do the Chinyero Circuit. It’s an easy trek and it takes you through some fascinating landscapes.

The walk will lead you through a beautiful pine forest with great viewpoints. As the short distance of 6 km is doable for all fitness levels, it’s a perfect excursion for families. The circular hike around the volcano allows you to return to the point where you started. Even though the walk is easy, you should avoid the hot summer months so as not to get burnt by the sun. After the walk, you can explore the little village Santiago del Teide and enjoy some traditional Canarian food.

From Benijo to Faro de Anaga

As you may already know, the Anaga Rural Park is the most ancient part of the island. This 6-hour circular hiking trail will amaze you with stunning views of the coast and Santa Cruz.

The trail TF 6 starts at the Chamorga village and leads you to El Draguillo, a town with twelve inhabitants. Along the way, the Atlantic ocean will appear behind the tropical forest – what an incredible view! After that, you can make your way towards the impressive Roques de Anaga. The mysterious Faro de Anaga is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the sun too. Note that this trail is rather difficult and requires good shoes and a head for heights!

Loro Parque

Another must-see place is the Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz! With more than a million visitors every year, the zoo is the top attraction of Tenerife. You will encounter parrots, orcas, dolphins, gorillas, tigers, and chimpanzees! In the Aquarium, you’ll find a wide range of beautiful fish, sharks, and corals. There are shows in the zoo that you can attend; sea lion, dolphin, orca and parrot performances are held several times per day. You can check the schedule here.

You can buy Loro Parque tickets online or at various info points on the island.

Explore Tenerife by Jeep, Horse, or Helicopter

Looking for something different? There are a lot of action activities the Island of Tenerife has to offer and you can read all about it in this post: “5 Action Activities in Tenerife.”

You can go on a Jeep Safari and explore the top attractions of Tenerife with a guide. Off-roading you will see the Teide National Park, Masca, and other little villages. Choose whether you want to take a Quad, Jeep, or Buggy to drive around the island and your guide will tell you interesting facts about the history of this area and its geography. After this unique experience, you will have incredible memories and great pictures.

For pet lovers, exploring Tenerife by horse may be another memorable way to discover the island; explore the wildlife and flora, and get amazing sights of Teide and the coastline. There are stables offering excursions on the beach, on mountain trails, or even up into the hills. They will adjust the horse riding tours to your level and experience. However, make sure you choose the right stable for your horse riding adventure; we recommend farms that care about animal welfare and give their horses enough time and space to relax.

Air

Stargazing

Did you know that Tenerife is one of the best spots for stargazing in the world? Tenerife is a “Starlight Destination” because of the absence of light pollution. Many providers offer stargazing tours in Teide National Park all year round: after watching the sunset with a glass of champagne, a guide will lead you to the perfect stargazing spot. There you will see many stars and planets, as well as the Milky Way. Look throughout the telescope and get some interesting information. For a perfect stargazing experience, we recommend you wear warm clothes as it can get very cold by night!

Paragliding

Picture it: you run faster and faster, and then you feel the paraglider slowly rising higher and higher. Suddenly, you are flying. Ever wondered how is it to see the beauty of an island from above?

Then paragliding in Tenerife is the right option for you. This is the most exciting way to explore the island while making an unforgettable experience. Start from Ifonche or Taucho, fly over Costa Adeje and land on Caleta beach. Alternatively, you can start in Teide National Park, at 2200 meters altitude, and see the Orotava Valley before landing in Puerto de la Cruz. You can find Paragliding schools everywhere. They offer advice, courses, and, of course, tandem flights. Thanks to the warm climate, you can go paragliding all year!

Parasailing

There are several activities that can be enjoyed in the air. Parasailing is one of them. It means gliding through the air and experiencing wonderful moments. A relaxing way to fly above the clouds and feel free. The parachutes offer space for up to 3 people. From a boat, a harness is placed on you in a seated position with a safety belt which connects the parachute to the boat. From there you’ll be slowly hoisted up and above the water. Enjoy breathtaking views of Tenerife at a height of about 50 meters above sea level. And if this isn’t enough action for you, take a helicopter and see Tenerife from an even higher vantage point!

Why Everyone Loves Canarian Food

Guachinche

A Guachinche is a typical place to eat and drink in Tenerife. This tradition takes its origins in the 50s when the farmers decided to sell the local wines of Tenerife in their garages or homes. The farmer’s wife would then prepare a typical dish for the guests.

Nowadays, guachinches are a bit more developed; you will rarely find an authentic one in a garage. Usually, they are located next to vineyards, on a higher altitude. Some have a varied menu, while others only have three or four main dishes. The drinks usually include water, local red and white wine and some form of soda.

You will find most of them in the wine regions of northern Tenerife – in particular in Tacoronte, La Orotava, La Victoria, Los Realejos, and El Sauzal. Note that they might not open all year round, and only until all their wine is gone/sold out. Here’s a list of some of the Guachinches in Tenerife:

Typical Food

Papas arrugadas con mojo

No matter whether you go to a restaurant or a tapas bar you will always encounter Papas con mojo in almost any menu on the island. The potatoes aren’t like the ones you find in Europe. Due to the volcanic earth, they are a lot smaller and tastier. They’re served boiled with their skin and traditional sauces called mojos. The green mojo is made of coriander and the red one is made out of pepper.

Queso de Cabra

Fresh, semi-cured, and cured. Everybody loves Canarian cheese! You can order it as you prefer: grilled, fried, or served with mojo (a canarian sauce). One of the most popular ones is the Majorero goat cheese from Fuerteventura. Due to the Majorera goat milk and particular elaboration, it has won international awards like the World Cheese Awards. Another great one is from the island of La Palma: the Queso Palmero. Its smoky taste is something that people love all around the world.

Gofio

Gofio is a cereal flower made out of toasted corn that is very traditional among Canarians. It has a long history, as it was the main food of the original inhabitants of Tenerife. In some restaurants, they still prepare the Gofio themselves, with stone mills. Today you would call Gofio a superfood, as it has a lot of health benefits! Traditionally, the Canarians add it to many things such as meat broth, yogurt, cacao, porridge or soups. You can also mash it with oil and water and combine it with other ingredients like nuts and honey. It is also often used for desserts, such as a mousse.

How to Get Around

Flights

Even if it’s a small island, it has two airports! The Tenerife North Airport works as a connection to Spain and other islands. The South Airport of Tenerife is a bit bigger and offers international flights. You have to consider that Tenerife is a subtropical destination! Fights to the warm Tenerife are rather cheap compared to more remote destinations. Thanks to its popularity, flights to Tenerife have become more frequent in the last few years; that’s why you can book direct flights from almost all the bigger cities in Europe.

Public Transportation, Rental Cars, or Taxis

Bus Service

If you’ve already been to Tenerife, you may have seen the local green TITSA buses. This is with no doubt the cheapest option to get around the island. On their website, you can check timetables and prices. In general, the buses or “Guaguas” depart on time from the main bus stations and later you need to check the TITSA app for the time for specific bus stops you may need.

The number 111 bus, for example, provides a direct connection between Santa Cruz and Las Américas. If you would like to save even more money, we recommend buying the TEN+ card. Available in many shops and bus stations, it relieves you of the struggle to search for small change. You can also buy them the moment you arrive at the airport. Another advantage: they are also valid for the tram service in Santa Cruz.

Rental Cars

The most comfortable way to explore the island is with a car. Renting a car allows you to be freer to discover whatever you want and when you want. Parking is free most of the time. The highway which connects North and South has no tolls too. There are several rental car providers like (Cicar, Autoreisen, Rentalcars) at the airport. Important! You should know that due to the strong demand, we recommend reserving a car online before you come to the island! Prices vary between 150 and 250 Euros per week, and booking with enough time in advance will make it more likely to get one.

Taxis

For people who don’t care too much about the price but more for the comfort, we recommend a taxi. In most cases, cabs are fast and reliable. Call San Telmo Taxi or go directly to the taxi station and the driver will bring you to your destination.

Van

For the more adventurous among you, renting a van could be a great option. Tenerife offers a lot of great cliffs and viewpoints to stop by. You can also look at the stars with your loved ones and enjoy the island in a different way. Check this website for a variety of options.

How to Party like a Canario - Tenerife Nightlife

Yes, Tenerife has its beaches, mountains, and delicacies. But what would a real Canario do without his or her fiestas? Throughout the year, the locals celebrate hundreds of parties and each one of them is unique. Fiesta culture is especially cherished in Los Realejos. With the most events organized per year, they are the “fiesta capital” of Tenerife. Let’s look at some of the highlights together:

Carnivals

If you ask a Canario what’s the craziest fiesta on the island, they would definitely mention the Carnival in Santa Cruz. Incredible costumes, colorful parades, and a vibrant crowd partying in the streets are some of its highlights. Note the fact that it’s the 2nd biggest Carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro. Thanks to its tropical vibes, it’s the most Brazilian-like one in Spain. Read more about Carnival in Tenerife in our post.

To experience this unique event, you should come in February. Yet, the main celebrations take place before Ash Wednesday til the weekend after.

The main highlights include the election of the Queen of Carnaval (a true majestic display of costumes), the Burial of the Sardine (an irreverent party on the streets involving people dressed up as grotesque mourners and setting up in flames a paper-made sardine), and the Murgas (collectives that write and perform fun songs with basic instruments criticizing the problems in our society). The origins of these celebrations bring us back to the 15th century. Since then, Canarios have followed the motto “No two carnivals are equal!” and stuck to developing crazy and original month-long celebrations.

Corpus Christi (The Body of Christ)

During this festivity, beautiful flower carpets are laid on the streets of La Orotava. All carpets are handmade and take weeks to make. However, it is the local tradition to tramp all over them on the Día de Alfombras (day of carpets). For culture lovers, we must also mention that the city of La Orotava is a must-see: its “Casa de Los Balcones” is one of the most visited antique sites on the island. The “Casa de Los Balcones” is an old mansion from the 17th century which displays the customs and traditions of the old Canarian culture.

Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria (Festival of the Lady of Candelaria)

The second of February is the day of the “Virgin of Candelaria”, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. According to tradition, the Virgin appeared in 1392 to two Guanche aborigines shepherding their flock. However, it is on August 15th, the “Day of the Assumption of Mary”, when thousands of people make a pilgrimage every year from different parts of the island to the city of Candelaria. You should definitely come to Tenerife to experience this unique event.

The Best Nightlife in Tenerife

Tenerife’s nightlife is very special and you should try it at least once in your lifetime. Throughout the night, locals and people from around the world dance together. Los Cristianos is known for its fun partying area: the Las Veronicas Strip. You will find endless bars with international audiences and all kinds of music there. This is a list of the best nightlife spots in Tenerife.

Achaman Discopub in Los Cristianos – The Go-To Place if you are looking for a reggaeton night with your friends. Come early as the waiting line can be very long.
Casablanca Disco Bar in San Telmo – Relaxed Disco Pub with great cocktails and a great selection of Latin music.
T-Flon Disco in Puerto De La Cruz – For years the number one destination in the city center of Puerto de la Cruz to have an amazing evening. They play all kinds of music, so there’s something for everyone!
Papagayo Beach Club in Playa de Las Américas – A trendy destination for elegant evenings and nice cocktails. The Beach Club has a huge outdoor terrace and a pool to jump in!

6 Reasons Why You Should Choose Tenerife to Study

More and more, people decide to study full-time (Bachelors and Masters degrees) or part-time (like a semester abroad or short-term weekly courses) in Spain. It can be difficult to decide which area in Spain to go to. However, there’s many reasons why Tenerife is one of the most popular destinations for students – you can find a detailed list below:

1. The People

¿Vamos a beber algo? As Spain is a popular destination for students from all over the world, you will meet lots of different people. And of course, you’ll get to interact with locals as well. Spaniards are known for their open-mindedness and love of life. This will be a great opportunity for you to widen your social network!

2. The Landscapes and Cities

There’s a reason why Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Every year, tourists from all over the world flock to Spain for its stunning natural scenery, old cities, its romantic villages and its colorful architecture. Tenerife is a beloved destination exactly for that reason too! Plus all its gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters that can only be found in Baleares and some of the mainland’s coasts.

3. The Rich Culture

Catalans, Galicians, Canarians… Spanish culture stands out for its diversity and variety. You will encounter a lot of interesting dialects and customs while traveling through the country – our favorite is the Canarian dialect and culture of course!

4. The beautiful language

Many of us would agree that Spanish is one of the most beautiful languages to study in the world. Also, it opens the door to a Spanish-speaking population of over 460 million people. FU International Academy is one of the best language schools in Spain; situated in Puerto de la Cruz, you will be able to learn Spanish while immersing yourself in the Latin culture.

5. The Delicious Food

Perhaps an authentic Spanish host family will invite you to eat a nice seafood paella with them. Or maybe your friends will invite you to a glass of Sangria. All of us agree that food is one of the most important things when it comes to having a nice stay abroad. Spanish gastronomy has its traditional dishes which are loved all over the world.

6. The Affordable Living Costs

In comparison to other countries, the living costs in Spain are relatively low. Of course, it will be more expensive if you go to bigger cities like Barcelona or Madrid. In fact, Tenerife is very affordable in general and many foreigners argue that the cost of rent, food, and leisure activities are very decent.

Are you convinced that Tenerife is the ideal holiday destination? Come and find out, whether for vacations or to learn Spanish or to take Marketing courses in FU International Academy!

TenerifeUltimate Travel Guide [2024]