Driving in Tenerife: Complete Guide to Driving on the Island

As a local sharing my insights, I can assure you that there’s no better way to discover the hidden gems of our island than by hitting the open road.

Driving in Tenerife offers the freedom to uncover breathtaking views, charming villages, and iconic landmarks at your own pace.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll address all your questions regarding driving in Tenerife and provide valuable tips to ensure your driving experience is optimal.

Is Driving in Tenerife Difficult? Are the Roads Safe?

Driving Tenerife’s roads is a breeze for most travelers.

The island boasts well-maintained roads with clear signage and excellent visibility, ensuring a smooth driving experience.

Renting a Car in Tenerife

For those keen on renting a car, I recommend utilizing reliable platforms like discovercar.com.

This user-friendly website compares rental prices across Tenerife rental companies, ensuring you snag the best deals tailored to your preferences.

With a wide selection of vehicles at your disposal, you’re poised for an unforgettable road trip across the island.

Driving Essentials: Rules and Regulations

Before embarking on your Tenerife escapade, familiarize yourself with essential driving regulations:

Ensure you possess a valid ID and driving license.
Non-EU nationals should acquire an international driving permit.
UK nationals can utilize their UK licenses.
Mandatory documentation in rental vehicles includes insurance, driving license, passport/ID, green card (ficha técnica), log-book (for UK nationals), triangle, and reflective jackets.

Driving Side

In Tenerife, as in the rest of Spain, we drive on the right-hand side of the road. This is essential to remember, especially when you’re accustomed to driving on the left.

Speed Limits

It’s crucial to adhere to speed limits to ensure safety on the roads. The speed limits in Tenerife are as follows:

– Motorways: 120 km/h

– Dual Highways: 100 km/h

– Country Roads: 90 km/h

– Urban Areas: 50 km/h

– Residential Areas: 20 km/h

General Driving Rules

Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers in the vehicle.
It’s illegal to wear headphones while driving, as it can distract from the road.
Children under 12 years old must sit in the rear seats and use appropriate child seats or restraints.
The legal alcohol limit for driving is 0.05%. It’s essential to refrain from drinking and driving to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
All rental vehicles come with mandatory third-party insurance to provide coverage in case of accidents.

In Case of an Accident

In the unfortunate event of an accident, here’s what you should do:

Immediately dial the emergency number 112 to report the accident and seek assistance (if necessary).
Exchange details with other involved parties, including license plate numbers, insurance information, and names. It’s also advisable to ask for identification to verify the information provided.
Document the damage by taking photographs from multiple angles, capturing the extent of the damage to all vehicles involved.
Before admitting any liability, contact your rental provider for guidance and assistance.

Parking in Tenerife

Parking can be a challenge in certain areas of Tenerife, particularly in tourist hotspots and beach areas. Here are some tips to help you navigate parking:

Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Avoid parking on yellow or white lines, as it is prohibited and may result in fines or towing.
Look out for blue zone parking areas, where payment is often required. These areas are typically designated for short-term parking.
Disabled parking spaces are available and clearly marked throughout the island.
Many larger attractions have their own parking lots, providing convenient parking options for visitors.
Consider staying overnight in resort towns where accommodations often include parking facilities for guests.

Petrol Stations

Fueling up your vehicle is essential for any road trip adventure. Here’s what you need to know about petrol stations in Tenerife:

Fuel prices in Tenerife are generally lower compared to other parts of Europe, making it more affordable to fill up your tank.
Main road petrol stations are typically open 24/7, offering convenient access to fuel at any time of day or night.
Off-the-beaten-path petrol stations may have limited operating hours, particularly in the evenings and on Sundays.
Some petrol stations require prepayment for fuel during night hours, so be prepared to pay in advance if necessary.
Electric car drivers can find charging stations available across the island to recharge their vehicles (click here).
The green pump dispenses petrol (“gasolina”) and unleaded petrol (“gasolina sin plomo”), while the black pump offers diesel (“gasoil”).
You can check online resources for maps indicating petrol stations and current fuel prices, with GMOIL often offering competitive rates (check map with current prices here).

With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable journey through Tenerife’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether you’re cruising along coastal roads or winding through mountainous terrain, driving in Tenerife offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s hidden treasures at your own pace. So buckle up, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in beautiful Tenerife

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.