Tenerife

Introducing Tenerife

Tenerife is located in the Canary Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, close to the west coast of Africa. It has two airports: North Airport (Los Rodeos) and South Airport (Reina Sofía). Its capital is Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and it has rich and colorful tourism resources.

Climate and best time to travel

Tenerife boasts a pleasant climate year-round, with over 300 days of sunny weather, making it a great year-round destination. Peak travel season is from July to September.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended Tenerife attractions:
Teide National Park: The island's iconic attraction, home to Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide, offers hiking and stargazing opportunities.
Siam Park: A world-class water park boasting Thai-themed architecture and thrilling rides.
Loro Parque: A zoo and tropical botanical garden known for its diverse parrot and marine animal displays.
Anaga Rural Park: Offers a wealth of hiking trails through lush forests and charming villages.
Icod de los Vinos: Famous for its thousand-year-old dragon tree and charming town center.

Tickets

Reservations may be required to climb Mount Teide in Teide National Park, and it is recommended to book at least two months in advance. During peak season in July and August at Siam Park, it is recommended to purchase a Fast Pass to avoid long queues.

Attraction opening hours

Siam Park usually opens at 10:00, so you may want to arrive earlier during peak hours to avoid long lines.

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Most Popular FAQs for Tenerife

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and has a rich history as a trading post for European and African cultures. The island is known for its volcanic landscape, ancient forests, and beautiful beaches. It is also famous for being home to Mount Teide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Tenerife is located off the northwest coast of Africa, belonging to Spain. It is easily accessible by air through Tenerife North and Tenerife South airports. From the airports, taxis, buses, and rental cars are available. Public transport, including buses, can take you to most major areas of the island.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Tenerife is a year-round destination. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, especially in the south, while winter is cooler but still pleasant. Most attractions are open daily, with specific hours depending on the location.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many natural attractions in Tenerife, like beaches and hiking trails, are free. However, the Teide National Park cable car costs approximately €27 for a round trip. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for most attractions, with discounts for children and seniors available in some locations.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Teide cable car or whale-watching tours, especially during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 weeks in advance is ideal for securing your spot.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A 5-7 day trip is recommended to fully explore Tenerife. This allows time for hiking, visiting cultural sites, and relaxing on the beaches.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Teide National Park and Mount Teide
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the capital city)
• La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• The beaches of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos
• Anaga Rural Park for hiking and stunning natural scenery

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for most attractions, including Teide National Park and whale-watching excursions. Tours are typically available in English, Spanish, German, and other languages, depending on the provider.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Teide National Park: Offers panoramic views of the island and volcanic landscapes.
• Mirador de Jardina: A viewpoint in Anaga Rural Park with stunning views of the coast and mountains.
• Playa de las Américas: A great spot to photograph the sunset over the ocean.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary could start with exploring Santa Cruz and La Laguna in the morning, followed by a visit to Teide National Park for hiking or a cable car ride in the afternoon. The following day, enjoy a day at the beach in Playa de las Américas or Los Cristianos. Don't forget to dedicate a day for a hike in Anaga Rural Park.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available at the Teide National Park, where you can enjoy stargazing, as it is one of the best spots for astronomy in Europe. Some towns also host light shows or festivals throughout the year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tenerife can be crowded during summer, especially in popular areas like Playa de las Américas. To avoid crowds, visit during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn) or on weekdays rather than weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities like toilets, food outlets, rest areas, and shops are available at most major attractions and beaches, including Teide National Park and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Many cafes and restaurants line the coast, offering local and international cuisine.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most main attractions are accessible to elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors. For example, the Teide cable car is wheelchair accessible, and there are accessible paths and facilities in popular tourist spots. However, some hiking trails may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and local apps like Bizum) are widely accepted in most places, including shops, restaurants, and attractions. It is still advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in more rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Restaurants and cafes are plentiful in Santa Cruz and Playa de las Américas, offering a mix of Spanish, seafood, and international cuisines.
• Traditional Canarian restaurants serve local dishes such as "papas arrugadas" (wrinkled potatoes) and "mojo" sauce.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available in Tenerife, especially in tourist areas like Santa Cruz, Costa Adeje, and Playa de las Américas. Many restaurants cater to dietary preferences with plant-based menus or special requests.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you can find a range of hotels, from budget options to luxury resorts.
• There are also many beachfront hotels in Playa de las Américas, perfect for those looking to enjoy the coast.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Visit the nearby island of La Gomera by ferry for a day trip filled with hiking and exploring.
• Explore the volcanic landscape of La Palma or enjoy water sports at El Médano beach.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in tourist areas, selling traditional Canarian products like pottery, local wines, and aloe vera-based cosmetics. Tenerife's unique volcanic rock jewelry and handcrafted items are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Tenerife has two main airports (Tenerife North and Tenerife South), which are well connected to the rest of Spain and Europe. Renting a car is a great option to explore the island further, or you can take a bus or taxi to nearby attractions and other islands.