Visiting Tenerife and searching for the best 7-day Tenerife itinerary? This blog post is for you!
Tenerife is one of the most incredible islands in the world, with so much to offer. Whether you want stunning nature, incredible sandy beaches, or a snowy volcano, Tenerife has it all. Keep reading this blog post to find out where Tenerife is, how to reach it, and what to do for a full week on this breathtaking island.
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WHERE IS TENERIFE
Tenerife is the biggest and most popular of Spain’s Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic just off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s got everything—stunning landscapes, volcanic views, and amazing beaches. The capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, shares the title of Canary Islands’ capital with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Whether you’re up for adventure or just want to chill, Tenerife has you covered!
HOW TO REACH TENERIFE
To reach Tenerife, you have several options depending on where you’re coming from. Here’s a short overview of the best options.
By Air
The easiest way to get to Tenerife is by flying. The island has two main airports: Tenerife South Airport, which handles most international flights and is located in the sunny south, and Tenerife North Airport, which is closer to the north and mainly serves domestic flights with a few international ones. No matter where you’re coming from, flying to Tenerife is pretty easy!
You can easily book a direct flight to Tenerife from many major European cities, and if you’re coming from further away, there are plenty of connecting options. Airlines like Iberia, Air Europa, and budget-friendly carriers like Ryanair and easyJet all fly here. Since the island is pretty small, you can get anywhere from either airport, so just go with the best deal you find!
By Ferry
If you’re already in Spain or another Canary Island, you can also take a ferry to Tenerife. Regular ferry services connect the island with Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, and more. Travel times vary depending on where you’re coming from, so it’s worth checking whether a ferry or a quick flight works better for your schedule and budget.
By Cruise
Tenerife is a popular stop for Mediterranean and Atlantic cruises, so if you’re sailing from a European coastal city, you might get to visit the island by cruise ship. While that means you’ll only have a day to explore, trust us, it’s totally worth it! In fact, our first visit to Tenerife was on a cruise, and we made the most of it. If you’re coming by ship, here’s how to spend an unforgettable day on this amazing island!
HOW TO GET AROUND ON THE ISLAND
To get around Tenerife, you have a few different options, depending on your preferences and itinerary.
Car Rental
The best and easiest way to explore Tenerife is by renting a car. It gives you the freedom to go wherever you want and whenever you want, which is super important when there’s so much to see! There are plenty of rental companies at the airports and around the island. We picked up ours at Tenerife North Airport, and the process was quick and hassle-free. The roads are well-maintained, there are no tolls, and parking is usually free, which makes driving the best way to reach those hidden beaches and remote spots!
Public Buses
No car? No problem! Tenerife has a great and affordable public bus system run by TITSA. Buses connect all the main towns, cities, and popular tourist spots around the island. The main bus terminal is in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, so if you’re planning to use the buses a lot, staying there might be a good idea. Just keep in mind that buses are a bit slower than driving, so you might need to tweak your itinerary to fit everything in.
Taxis
If you don’t want to drive but have a bit more flexibility in your budget, taxis are a great option. They’re easy to find all around Tenerife, either at designated taxi ranks or by booking in advance. They can be a bit pricier, but since the island is small, you won’t usually pay huge fares to get around.
Tours and Shuttles
If you’re staying at a nice hotel, there’s a good chance they can arrange trips for you around the island. Many hotels offer organized excursions to popular spots like Mount Teide, Anaga Rural Park, and other natural wonders. Some resorts even provide shuttle services to nearby attractions or beaches, so if you’re working with a bit of a bigger budget, this could be a super convenient option!
WHERE TO STAY IN TENERIFE
Honestly, every part of Tenerife is beautiful and worth checking out. The island’s pretty small, so no matter where you stay, you’ll be able to easily explore the rest of it. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most popular areas to stay in Tenerife and why they’re great:
- Costa Adeje (South) – if you want luxury resorts, great family-friendly beaches, and attractions like Siam Park.
- Playa de las Américas (South) – if you want great beaches and resorts, lively nightlife, party atmosphere, and entertainment.
- Los Cristianos (South) – if you’re looking for a more relaxed, family-friendly holiday with good beaches.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife (North) – if you want to enjoy city life, culture, shopping, and history.
- La Laguna (North) – if you want to stay in a UNESCO-listed town with colonial charm and cultural sites.
- Puerto de la Cruz (North) – if you want great beaches, botanical gardens, and scenic views.
- El Médano (South) – if you want to experience water sports like windsurfing and kite surfing, and a laid-back beach vibe.
We stayed in Puerto de la Cruz and definitely recommend it. That said, since we visited in winter, it was a bit cooler there compared to the south of the island. So, if you’re after warm weather all the time, it’s best to stay in the south during the winter months.
IS IT WORTH VISITING TENERIFE?
Yes, Tenerife is totally worth a visit! It’s an incredible island with stunning landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and sunshine all year round. There’s so much to do, from whale watching and hiking to water sports and very fun nightlife in Playa de las Américas. Also, don’t forget to try some delicious Canarian food and wine, you won’t regret it!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TENERIFE
The best time to visit Tenerife really depends on what you’re looking for; whether it’s weather, fewer crowds, or specific activities. The island is sunny and welcoming year-round, so you can visit any time. But here’s a quick breakdown of each season and why it might be the perfect time for you
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a fantastic time to visit Tenerife. The temperatures are pretty perfect, ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). You’ll get plenty of sunshine without it being too hot, and the best part—there aren’t too many tourists around. It’s the perfect time for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is an excellent time to visit Tenerife! Temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), so it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying island festivals. Just keep in mind, this is the high tourist season, so expect bigger crowds, especially in popular spots like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn might just be the perfect time to visit Tenerife. Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), so it’s warm but not too hot. The summer crowds have thinned out, so you can enjoy the beaches without the crowds. Plus, the ocean is still great for swimming, and prices are lower than in the summer.
Winter (December to February)
If you’re looking to escape the cold, winter is a great time to visit Tenerife. Temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), making it nice and mild. It’s quieter, with lower hotel prices, though some higher-altitude areas can get a bit cooler. We visited in winter and had the best time—it wasn’t warm enough for swimming, but perfect for exploring all the island has to offer.
TENERIFE ITINERARY: THE BEST 7 DAYS IN TENERIFE
DAY ONE
Arrival
You can fly into either Tenerife North or Tenerife South Airport, and from there, it’s easy to get to your accommodation. The simplest options are renting a car, taking an Uber or taxi, or hopping on the airport bus to your hotel or apartment.
If you’re staying in the north, you can easily reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife with a quick car or bus ride. If you’re in the south, the drive will be a bit longer, but definitely worth it to explore the capital city!
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
You can easily explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife in just one day, or even just an afternoon. While it might not be the most exciting part of the island, there’s still plenty to see and do. Here’s a quick overview of the top things you shouldn’t miss in the capital, but be sure to check out the full guide for all the best spots!
- Auditorio de Tenerife
- Plaza de Espana
- Palmetum de Santa Cruz
- Las Teresitas Beach & viewpoint
- Parque Garcia Sanabria
- Calle del Castillo
DAY TWO
Masca
Use your morning to visit one of the most charming villages on the island. Masca is a small village in the Teno mountains, and due to its location, for a long time it was really hard to reach. Today, it’s a popular attraction which many tourists choose to visit. The nature surrounding Masca is absolutely breathtaking, and I cannot recommend more visiting this village.
It’s still not the easiest to reach, due to its winding roads, but you can reach it by car, bus, or a tour. If you’re driving, make sure to arrive before 10 a.m., because afterwards it’s going to be practically impossible to grab a parking spot. Make sure you read my complete guide to visiting Masca, but here’s a short overview of the best things to do there:
- Visit the viewpoints
- Explore the village
- Take photos of Roque de Catana
- Eat at Bar Fidel
Los Gigantes
Just about 40 minutes from Masca, you’ll find one of the most stunning views on the island—Los Gigantes Cliffs. These ‘Giants’ are one of Tenerife’s top attractions and definitely worth a visit. You can take in the view from the lookout point, or get up close from the beach. Check out the full guide for exploring Los Gigantes, but here’s a quick list of things you absolutely can’t miss!
- Visit Mirador Archipenque
- Explore Puerto de Santiago
- Stroll through the Los Gigantes Marina
- Go kayaking
- Enjoy a swim at Playa de los Guios
Whale Watching
After enjoying the beach vibes and exploring Los Gigantes Marina, spend your late afternoon whale watching. There are plenty of tours from the marina that guarantee you’ll see dolphins and whales. If you book a tour around sunset, it’ll definitely be one of the most magical moments of your trip. Check out the best tour options below!
DAY THREE
Day three is all about relaxing, and you’ve got two great options to choose from. You can go for a more natural vibe, exploring the island’s stunning landscapes, or head to a waterpark for some fun. Pick whichever sounds more like your thing!
OPTION 1.
El Médano
Head to El Médano in the morning. It’s a laid-back coastal town on Tenerife’s southeast coast. It’s famous for its windy beaches, water sports, and overall chill vibe. While the town itself is small, it’s got a beautiful beach, Playa del Médano. You can relax on the sand or get active with some awesome watersports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. There are plenty of schools where you can book a class and learn the ropes
Playa Tejita
After enjoying Playa del Médano, take a short drive over to Playa Tejita. It’s a calmer, more laid-back beach without the water sports. If you’re not in the mood to just chill on the sand, you can hike up Montaña Roja. It’s a 45-minute hike that’s not too challenging, and the views of the coastline from the top are absolutely amazing!
Los Cristianos
When you’ve had enough of the beaches, head over to the Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas area. It’s perfect for grabbing lunch, doing some shopping, or just strolling along the seafront promenade. You can explore the beaches, enjoy a drink at a bar, and find tons of other fun things to do in the area!
OPTION 2.
Siam Park
If you’re looking to spend the day in one place and love a bit of adrenaline, Siam Park is your perfect destination. It’s one of the best waterparks in the world and a must-visit if you’re into thrilling rides! It’s located in Costa Adeje and super easy to get to from anywhere in the south. However, if you’re coming from the north, it’ll be a bit of a drive. The park is perfect for all ages, but families with kids especially love it. Tickets are on the pricier side, but since it’s a full-day experience, it’s totally worth it!
DAY FOUR
Buenavista del Norte
On day four, it’s time to get back to exploring! Head over to Buenavista del Norte, a small and charming village that’s a hidden gem where you can really experience the authentic, natural side of Tenerife. You don’t need more than an hour here, but it’s also the perfect starting point for your next exciting adventure.
Punta de Teno
From the main bus station in Buenavista, catch a bus to Punta de Teno. This spot, located in Teno Rural Park, offers jaw-dropping views of the Los Gigantes Cliffs—seen from a completely different angle than you’d get at the marina. While you’re there, you can explore the park, enjoy the stunning cliff views, check out the beautiful lighthouse, and even swim at a unique beach. This was one of our favorite attractions, so check out our full guide to visiting Punta de Teno!
Garachico
Spend your afternoon in Garachico, often called the most beautiful town on the island. It’s located on the northern coast of Tenerife and it’s the perfect spot for a half-day trip. Garachico is famous for its natural volcanic pools, stunning coastline, and charming architecture. Check out the full guide on visiting Garachico, but here’s a quick list of the must-see things you can’t miss:
- Swim in El Caleton – natural volcanic pools
- Visit Castillo de San Miguel
- See Iglesia de Santa Ana
- See Roque de Garachico
- Go to Mirador del Emigrante
Icod de los Vinos
Icod de los Vinos is a charming town in northwestern Tenerife, just 10 minutes away from Garachico. It’s famous for its ancient dragon tree, beautiful historic streets, and delicious local wine.
A few hours is all you need to explore this lovely town. Start by visiting the Drago Milenario (Ancient Dragon Tree). This impressive tree is over 800 years old and one of Tenerife’s most iconic symbols. You’ll find it in Parque del Drago, a botanical garden with lovely views of the tree. Entrance is just 5 euros!
After checking out the park, take some time to wander through the historic town center. Explore its cobbled streets, old churches, and traditional Canarian houses. Don’t miss Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, a peaceful square filled with cafés and local life. It’s the perfect spot to relax and grab a drink or dinner!
DAY FIVE
Anaga Rural Park
Day five is all about Tenerife’s most beautiful nature. Start your day with a drive to Anaga Rural Park. It’s absolutely stunning and might just become the highlight of your trip. The park is free to visit, and you’ll be treated to amazing forests, incredible hills, and breathtaking views of the green landscapes meeting the blue ocean. I’d recommend getting there before 10 a.m. since it’s a popular spot and parking can be tricky. Later in the day, crowds and traffic can make it a bit hectic. Check out our full guide to Anaga Rural Park, but here’s a quick list of the must-see spots:
- Hike the Trail of the Senses
- Visit the viewpoints – Mirador de Jardina, Tunel de las Hadas, Mirador Pico del Ingles
Taganana (beach day!)
In the afternoon, stay within Anaga Rural Park but head toward some of the prettiest villages and beaches on the island. After taking in the viewpoints, drive to Taganana, a stunning hidden gem located in the park. This small, authentic Canarian village is surrounded by mountains, cliffs, and wild beaches—perfect for a quick stop or just a scenic drive through.
Next, drive past some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, like Playa de San Roque, Playa del Roque de las Bodegas, Playa de Almaciga, and Playa de Benijo. Be sure to check out the Benijo viewpoint. The beach is considered the most beautiful beach on the island, though it’s closed to visitors because of safety reasons. However, even this viewpoint is absolutely incredible, it was maybe my favorite view of the whole trip. After enjoying the views of Benijo Beach, head back and spend some time at one of the other beaches. I would recommend Playa de Almaciga as a great option to relax and soak up the sun!
DAY SIX
Puerto de la Cruz
Day six is all about one of the most popular towns on the island, Puerto de la Cruz. This coastal gem is full of charm, with beautiful beaches, botanical gardens, and a lively nightlife scene. There’s so much to do in Puerto de la Cruz, but the most famous attraction is Loro Parque. It’s one of the largest and best zoos in the world, home to massive aquariums and a wide variety of animals. Aside from Loro Parque, there’s plenty more to explore, and you can find all the details in my guide to the best things to do in Puerto de la Cruz. But beyond Loro Parque, here are some other must-see spots:
- Park Taoro
- The Old Town
- Lago Martianez
- Botanical Garden
After checking out all the attractions and landmarks, head over to some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto de la Cruz. Playa Maria Jimenez, Playa Chica, and Playa del Castillo are all gorgeous black-sand beaches, perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Pick the one that calls to you, take a swim, and when you get hungry, there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby to grab a bite!
DAY SEVEN
Teide National Park
Teide National Park is one of the most famous parks in the world, and for good reason, you absolutely can’t miss it! It’s home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and one of the tallest volcanoes in the world. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its otherworldly landscapes, unique rock formations, and breathtaking views. Entrance to the park is free, but if you want to take the cable car up to the top of the volcano, you’ll need to buy a ticket. Here’s everything you need to know about Teide National Park, along with a few must-see highlights while you’re there:
- Take the Cable Car to the Summit
- Hike to the Peak
- Explore Roques de García
- Go stargazing
- Drive Through the Park & Stop at Viewpoints
La Orotava
After exploring Teide National Park, drive over to La Orotava, a charming colonial town with stunning mansions, cobbled streets, lush gardens, and amazing views of the Orotava Valley and Mount Teide. It’s the perfect place for anyone who loves history, culture, and traditional Canarian architecture. Wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and wooden balconies for an authentic local experience. Be sure to check out Calle San Francisco, Calle Carrera del Escultor Estévez, and Plaza de la Constitución.
One highlight you can’t miss is the Iglesia de la Concepción. It’s one of the most beautiful Baroque-style churches on the island, known for its twin bell towers and gorgeous dome.
Finally, relax at Jardines Victoria (Victoria Gardens). This beautiful multi-level garden is filled with fountains, flowers, and sculptures, and offers one of the best panoramic views of La Orotava, the town, and the ocean.
