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The must-do itinerary to visit Tenerife by a local
Hey fellow adventurers! 🌴
This is an itinerary for a typical 7-day trip for either families or solo travelers. Also, I will add a few extra things that adjust to your budget and the type of traveler you are.
Teide
Your Tenerife adventure remains incomplete without visiting the Teide volcano. It’s not your typical tourist spot; for me, it’s an immersive journey into the island’s essence. Teide isn’t just any volcano, but Tenerife’s towering symbol, visible from all angles yet best experienced by driving all the way almost to the top.
I have been going every year but for me it’s still a breathtaking experience – where you can see surreal lava landscapes to enigmatic volcanic cones. The highlight? Witnessing lava flows craft intricate shapes and hues from past eruptions, offering a glimpse into the passage of time. Moreover, this volcano stands as Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 meters, designated a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anaga
Anaga is the greenest part of the island and has one of the oldest laurel forests in the world. It’s even a special place recognized by UNESCO. I’ve been going there since I was young, and it still looks like a forest from a fairy tale. This forest has been here since a long time ago, and when you visit, you can feel the history of the island.
There are lots of paths and places to see in Anaga. No matter if you like short walks or longer hikes, there’s something for everyone. Some of the best hikes are:
- Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo (a bit tough)
- Taganana to Playa de Tamadite (kinda easy)
- Taborno to Roque de Taborno (not too hard)
- Sendero de los Sentidos (more like a leisurely walk).
The cliffs of Los gigantes (the Giants)
Los Gigantes truly match their name, as they are the giants of Tenerife’s western coast. These cliffs stand tall like colossal walls, soaring an incredible 600 meters above the sea.
This striking natural phenomenon offers a panoramic view that’ll leave you in awe. But here’s an extra treat: because of how the land is shaped, Los Gigantes hosts an enormous community of sea creatures, especially dolphins and whales. That’s why I suggest making the most of your visit by hopping on a boat to see these incredible marine animals. You’ve got several options:
Santa Cruz and las Teresitas
Santa Cruz is the capital, and let me tell you, it’s a nice spot for a stroll while soaking in some key attractions. First up, we’ve got the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, a bustling market where the vibrant local flavors and colors converge. Then, make your way along the shop-filled streets of Calle Castillo. Then head to Plaza España, a charming square that buzzes with life and history. Don’t miss the Iglesia de la Concepción, a graceful church that whispers stories from the past.
Now, here’s a gem you wouldn’t want to skip: Parque García Sanabria. It’s no ordinary park; it’s a botanical haven adorned with a lush collection of tropical and subtropical trees. Best part? It’s absolutely free to enter, letting you dive into nature’s beauty without spending a dime.
After immersing yourself in the capital’s spirit, shift your focus to Las Teresitas beach. A day here is like a day in paradise – trust me, I’ve been coming here since I was a kid, and the amazement never goes away. Further, here is a great spot to practice Paddle Surf. And here’s something you shouldn’t skip: there’s a fantastic fish restaurant right near the beach, called Restaurante Bar el Peton.
So, there you have it – Santa Cruz and Las Teresitas, a duo that’ll paint your Tenerife visit with captivating hues of culture and calmness.
Garachico
Located at the North of the island, you can visit Garachico. One of the most charming and oldest villages in the Canary Islands with a tragic past, as it was buried under the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706. This village dates back from the 15th century, and it was a key trading port between Europe and the Spanish Colonies.
The most important things to see in Garachico are:
- Plaza de la libertad: the center of the village and where you will be able to find the most emblematic buildings of the village.
- Church of Santa Ana: this church was built back in the 16th century and it had to be rebuilt after the eruption.
- Castle of San Miguel: in the promenade you will find this 16th century castle to defend the town from pirate attacks.
- The natural swimming pools: these are natural volcanic pools that were form by the eruption of the Trevejo volcano.
Icod de los Vinos
Vino means wine in Spanish. And as its name suggests, this is a famous town for its excellent wines. In my opinion, you must come to Icod to see the Drago Milenario (thousand-year-old Dragon Tree. This tree is a unique plant species present in the Canary Islands and other Macaronesian Islands. Fun fact: although it’s known as the thousand-year-old tree, it’s estimated to be 800 years old.
Puerto de la Cruz and Loro Parque
This is perhaps the most touristic town in the North, but don’t let this stop you from visiting this famous town. This town is well equipped to welcome tourist as it has been doing so since the 19th century.
What to see in Puerto de la Cruz?
- Lake Martianez: this is an open air swimming-pool complex designed by the Canarian Artist, Cesar Manrique. I highly recommend visiting and refreshing yourself here, not only for the original design of the complex but also for the beautiful views of the sea and Teide. Also, don’t worry about crows as there are 4 pools for adults and 3 kinds. Lake Martianez feels like an Oasis by the Atlantic Ocean.
- Botanical Garden: for nature lovers this is a must stop, as here you can take an exotic plant tour and travel to even more exotic lands with its 2,500 specimens from Asia, the Americas, Africa and Europe.
- Plaza del charco: this is one of the top sites in Puerto de la Cruz, where you can blend with locals. In this square you will also find amazing vegetation such as Indian Laurel brought from Cuba and ñamera, an exotic yam plant with huge leaves.
Barrio de la Ranilla:this neighborhood runs from Plaza del charco to the Peñón del Fraile This town has gone from a fisherman´s neighborhood to a vibrant and colorful part of the town, as here you will enjoy artwork and murals made from top artists.
La Orotava
In the North of Tenerife, you can also find this village that was founded in the early 16th century after the Spanish conquest. Recommendations to see:
- Casa de los balcones (the house of the balconies): these houses were built in 1632, and here you will see its wooden balconies and patios).
- La Concepción church
- Gardens of Marquesado de la Quinta Roja: Beautufil gardens
- Club Social Liceo Taoro: perfect for picturesque pictures
Restaurant: CASA EGON
- This restaurant and bakery was founded back in 1916 and it’s still until today a family business. You can enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the Gardens of Marquesado de la Quinta Roja.
La laguna
This was the first city in the Canary Islands and to date the only one to be declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further, this city served as an inspiration to American colonies such as La Habana or Cartagena de Indias.
What to see in La Laguna?
- Plaza del adelantado
- Convent of Santa Catalina de Sienas
- Palacio de Nava
- La Laguna’s Cathedral
- Nuestra Señora de la Concepción church
- The Old convent of San Agustin
- Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe
Masca
On the South West of the Island, this small town will give you brutal views of the Atlantic Ocean. Here you have the chance to take part in a group hike down to a paradisiacal beach which is said to have been a refuge for pirates. It’s important to mention that the road to get to Masca is quite challenging, so if you don’t feel well acquainted with your rental car, I highly recommend you organize excursions. To complete the excursion it is necessary to meet some requirements.
Las Americas
This is the most famous resort in the Island, famous for visitors that are not coming to lay at the beach but also to party. That being said, if you are looking for a chilled holiday, I recommend you not to stay here. I personally recommend here Papagayo Beach Club, an open air club by the beach
What to do in Las Americas?
- Veronicas Strip: this is the place for party animals.
- Piramide de Arona
- Enjoy the beaches of Las Americas: Playa Troya and Playa de las Americas
- Join a water activity such as Surf, Paddle surf and more!
Los Cristianos
You might choose to stay here, and I don’t blame you! As in Los Cristianos you can find beautiful beaches, a long promenade to have walks by the sea and nice hotels.
What do and see in Los Cristianos?
- Beach Playa las Vistas: this man-made beach is ideal for people looking for a chill day at the beach, as it’s protected by breakwaters and offers a wide range of facilities. On top of that, this beach is disabled accessible
- Playa de Los Cristianos: great for water sports and just right next to the ferry terminal so you can see the ships departing and arriving from other islands.
Siam Park: the best waterpark in the world according to TripAdvisor. (find tickets here)
Other things to do in Tenerife:
- Banana plantation experience: learn about bananas and how they are cultivated
- Paragliding with beautiful views.
- Learn how to make mojo with this workshop (here)
- Whale Watching
Juan from Canarian Calling
Passionate about the Canary Islands, my blog offers insightful recommendations to enhance your travel experience, ensuring unforgettable adventures and cherished memories.
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