Tenerife is a treasure trove of unique experiences. From its stunning volcanic landscapes to its vibrant cultural offerings, this largest Canary Island offers countless adventures.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for relaxation, Tenerife promises a fulfilling journey. Get ready to uncover the top 15 things that will make your trip unforgettable!
Tenerife Espacio de las Artes: A Modern Marvel
Experience the innovative design at Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, nestled in Santa Cruz’s historic heart. This gallery, a creation by Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron with Canarian Virgilio Gutiérrez, stands out with its bold concrete exterior, influenced by volcanic landscapes.
Guided tours reveal its glass-walled library and spotlight emerging Spanish artists. Nearby, admire Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, one of Tenerife’s oldest churches. Just a short walk away is the wave-shaped Auditorio de Tenerife, a Santiago Calatrava masterpiece.
Santa Cruz isn’t just about galleries. It buzzes with lively street art, especially in the old town. Don’t miss Puerto de la Cruz’s Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a treat in a 17th-century customs house.
Explore the Majesty of Parque Nacional del Teide
Standing as Spain’s most-visited national park, Parque Nacional del Teide is anchored by the imposing El Teide, the country’s highest peak. Arriving early or staying late can help you avoid the crowds, and hiking here offers breathtaking views of a unique lunar landscape.
For those eager to reach El Teide’s summit, permits and advance bookings for cable car rides are essential. The challenging Sendero Telesforo Bravo path leads from the upper station to the peak in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, enjoy other trails, like those around Roques de García.
Beyond the park’s borders, Vilaflor, Tenerife’s highest village, offers charming spots for dining or an overnight stay.
Savor Authentic Flavors at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
Dive into the bustling atmosphere at Santa Cruz’s Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África. Aromas of spices fill the air; discover a mix of subtropical fruits, Canarian cheeses, and fresh seafood.
The market, housed in a 1940s Islamic-style building, offers local delicacies like Canarian olive oils, palm honey, and almogrote cheese paste. Explore farmers markets like Mercadillo del Agricultor de Tacoronte for even more local produce.
Journey Through the Anaga Mountains’ Ancient Forests
The Anaga mountains, enveloped in mist and rich laurisilva forests, offer an idyllic escape on Tenerife’s northeastern edge. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this area is a hiker’s paradise with a vast network of trails.
Exciting paths include PRTF3 through dense forests and PRTF8 linking Afur, Taganana, and Tamadite beach. On the southern side, unwind at Playa de las Teresitas, a serene beach.
Recently, visitor numbers have increased, so consider exploring on foot or via public transport to avoid parking headaches.
Refresh in Tenerife’s Atlantic Sea Pools
Tenerife’s natural sea pools are a paradise for swimmers. Bajamar offers spacious saltwater pools ideal for families, while Garachico’s El Caletón is a product of ancient volcanic eruptions.
For stunning views, try Charco de la Jaquita and Charco de Isla Cangrejo. If you’re on the eastern coast, Radazul’s pools offer a peaceful retreat.
Check swimming conditions before diving in, as rough seas can make it risky.
Celebrate Carnaval in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz’s Carnaval is a burst of colors and energy, rivaling Cádiz in its excitement. February brings weeks of parades and galas.
Despite a ban during Franco’s regime, the festival thrives, recast as a ‘winter festival.’ Catch the parades to experience its vibrant spirit.
Visit Casa del Carnaval for a glimpse into this festive world outside the event season.
Ride the Atlantic Waves in El Médano
El Médano is a hotspot for kitesurfing, especially during November to March and June to September. The Playa El Médano beach is a hub for kitesurfing, with active waves and skilled instructors.
Dedicated centers like 30 Nudos Kite Center offer courses for all levels. Besides, enjoy El Médano’s beach beauty—golden sands and volcanic backdrops.
Detour to Playa de las Américas for classic surfing action.
Indulge in Tenerife’s Volcanic Wines
Tenerife’s unique geography and volcanic soil make its wines special. Vines, grown since the 15th century, produce rare grapes like malvasía and listán negro. Most vineyards harvest by hand.
Explore wineries like Bodegas Tajinaste or visit Casa del Vino for tasting tours. Discover winemaking techniques adapted to the terrain, like cordón trenzado.
Advance booking is advised for winery tours, as many are small family-run operations.
Spot Dolphins and Whales in Their Natural Habitat
The ocean around Tenerife offers a prime location for spotting dolphins and whales. Recognized as Europe’s first Whale Heritage Area, these waters host diverse cetacean species.
Book with ethical operators to ensure a low-impact experience. Most tours offer high chances of sightings, given the resident dolphin and whale populations all year round.
Savor Local Cuisine at a Guachinche
Guachinches are local gems offering delicious home-cooked meals. Serving traditional dishes like garbanzas, ropa vieja, and Canarian cheeses, these venues are famed for homemade wine. They are often set in unique spots like garages or garden sheds.
Seek local recommendations to find the best guachinches, mainly around La Orotava. They offer a taste of authentic Tenerife culture.
Experience the Breathtaking Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes, with its towering basalt cliffs, provides a stunning view into the Atlantic. Kayaking and paddleboarding are top activities here, especially during sunsets.
The area is a favorite spot for diving and snorkeling. Encounter marine life like stingrays, turtles, and more among the cliffs.
Los Gigantes is a must-visit for water enthusiasts and offers remarkable landscapes.
Explore Canarian Architecture
Tenerife’s architecture is a vibrant mix of styles. In La Laguna, uncover 16th to 18th-century mansions, marked by bright facades and wooden balconies.
The town of La Orotava also showcases historical designs, with charming volcanic stonework and plant-filled patios.
To learn more, visit Museo de Historia de Tenerife for an insight into its rich architectural past.
Escape to Parque Rural de Teno
The remote Parque Rural de Teno in northwestern Tenerife is an explorer’s dream. Its rugged cliffs and lush valleys offer scenic hiking opportunities.
A visit to Punta de Teno promises a serene black-pebble beach experience. The area limits car access to preserve its natural beauty.
Permits are now required for hiking popular trails like Barranco de Masca, ensuring the area remains protected.
Wander Through Canarian Gardens
Tenerife’s gardens boast incredible biodiversity. The Palmetum in Santa Cruz, once a landfill, now stands as a sprawling botanical garden dedicated to palms.
Puerto de la Cruz’s Jardín Botánico shelters some 4000 species, a testament to the island’s diverse flora.
Plan a visit to witness the superb variety of plants thriving in this unique environment.
Gaze at Tenerife’s Starry Skies
Tenerife is becoming a top stargazing destination with clear skies and minimal light pollution. The renowned Teide National Park is perfect for viewing the night sky.
Tours offer guided sessions with professional telescopes and occasionally visit the high-altitude Observatorio del Teide.
This starlit wonderland offers an unforgettable experience for astronomy enthusiasts.
Tenerife offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences, from cultural treasures to natural wonders. Uncover the island’s magic and make memories that last a lifetime.
