What are the best things to do in Tenerife?

Tenerife is a popular island off the coast of Spain and the largest of the Canary Islands. Travelers flock to Tenerife for its stunning beaches, warm climate and natural beauty, but there’s much more to this stunning location than just sand, sea and sunshine. From thrilling hikes and cultural excursions to fantastic nightlife and local cuisine, Tenerife has something to offer everyone.

Top 5 Things to Do in Tenerife

1. Hike Mount Teide: The highest peak in Spain and one of the most active volcanoes in the world is a must-see for travelers. Take the cable car up to 3,555 metres and admire the incredible views of Tenerife and even beyond. Or hike up around the conical mountain’s impressive lava formations at sunset.

2. Get soaked at Siam Park: The largest waterpark in Europe features one of the world’s tallest free-standing raft slides, a lazy river and an artificial beach lapped by waves from three sides. Adventurous thrill seekers shouldn’t miss a chance to tackle the park’s vertical drops, loops and other high-adrenaline rides.

3. Explore La Laguna: Head to the north of Tenerife for an insighful exploration of this atmospheric old world city. Stroll around La Laguna’s cobbled streets, admire the 16th century buildings and visit its charming cafes and restaurants for delicious local fare.

4. Take a boat trip out to see dolphins and whales: Avoid overcrowded pools and get up close to these amazing creatures on a boat trip out to sea. Enthusiasts can opt for longer trips that include a visit to Las Teresitas beach and witness the acrobatic nature of bottle-nosed dolphins and lumbering sperm whales.

5. Visit Garachico: A picturesque seaside town set on a sweeping bay featuring impressive waves, black sand beaches and rugged rock formations. Stop in one of the local restaurants for traditional regional dishes like dorada (sea bream) or papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes).

Cultural Experiences

For a glimpse into the island’s culture, travelers should most definitely head to La Plaza de Espana—the heart of Santa Cruz. Here visitors can visit the Palacio Municipal building and pose for photographs in front of its beautiful baroque exterior. During the evening, locals come out to enjoy music, street theatre, singing and dancing shows.

The historic La Orotava is also worth a visit to see its traditional wooden balconies and stylish colonial architecture. Explore La Plaza de la Concepcion, the cobbled Calle Santiago Grases and taste delicious traditional dishes like fried local goat cheese or surtido de bocadillos canarios (a selection of local snacks) at Almacen de Danko restaurant.

Nightlife

Tenerife offers some great nightlife with endless live concerts, DJ’s and bars, often with nonstop hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Magma Arts & Congress Centre in Adeje is a popular spot for live music showing jazz, blues, flamenco, pop and rock acts from around the world.

La Laguna and Santa Cruz both feature night clubs with plenty of different music styles such as electro-house, jazz or R&B. The South Side district is one of the most renowned areas for going out with must-visit places being Jazz café in Puerto Colon, La Boutique in Playa de las Americas or Complejo Inco in Costa Adeje.

Beaches

Tenerife boasts some stunning beaches with clear waters, beautiful sand and plenty of facilities ranging from basic loungers to beach clubs offering umbrellas, showers, shampooed sand and even massages services on some parts of the beach like Playa Broncemar or Playa Fañabe.

Los Gigantes on the west coast also provides some incredible views as well as sunbeds and umbrellas to rent. Las Teresitas has white sand imported from the Sahara desert, palm trees, inviting eateries and bars as well as numerous activities like kite surfing or windsurfing for the more adventurous among us.

The island of Tenerife offers something completely unique for each traveler whether its culture, natural attractions or nightlife you’re looking for—you won’t disappointed with this amazing destination! With a climate providing sun 365 days a year and its mixture of cultures, there’s plenty to explore—so don’t think twice! For more information on things to do in Tenerife make sure you check out Visit Tenerife, an official website providing detailed information about all aspects of Tenerife ranging from culture & history to local attractions.

An Insider’s Guide to Tenerife: Go Beyond the Tourist Trail

If you’re a traveler who wants to get off the beaten path and see the city like a local, Tenerife is the perfect destination for you. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the island’s hidden gems that only a few know. From fascinating historical sites to delicious food and cultural experiences, we’ll show you the best things to do in Tenerife.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

Tenerife is well known for its stunning natural landscapes, including Mount Teide, National Park, and Los Gigantes cliffs. However, there are still some lesser-known treasures that make Tenerife unique. One such example is the abandoned village of Masca, nestled in the Teno mountains. The village is accessible only by a winding and narrow road that offers stunning views and breathtaking scenery. Masca boasts traditional Canarian architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque squares. Another hidden gem is the Garachico village, a former capital of Tenerife, with its stunningly beautiful architecture and picturesque, calm streets.

Dining Spots: Satisfy Your Palate with Local Flavors

Tenerife’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by the island’s history and geographical location. Being an island, seafood reigns supreme, and the locals have some delectable dishes to offer. One such dish is “Papas Arrugadas,” small salty potatoes served with “Mojo,” a garlic and parsley sauce. You can find this dish, and many more originals, at restaurants such as El Taller Seve Diaz, which boasts an innovative local cuisine menu. For a more down-to-earth experience, we recommend heading to “guachinches,” small family-run bars that serve homemade wine straight from the barrel and local Canarian food.

Cultural Experiences: Uncover the Island’s Traditions and Festivals

Tenerife has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, architecture, and festivals. Many visitors flock to the island during carnival season, but there are a plethora of other festivals to discover. For example, the “Romeria,” a local pilgrimage, takes place in many towns and villages throughout the year, and it’s a great opportunity to witness traditional dress, music, and food. Tenerife also boasts several museums, including the Museum of Nature and Mankind, where visitors can learn about the island’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Local History: Unearth Fascinating Stories from the Past

Tenerife is famous for its rich history, being the site of one of the most significant naval battles between Spain and England in 1797. However, there are other stories to uncover on this small island that are lesser known. For example, the Guanche people were the native population of Tenerife and fought against the Spanish conquest in the 15th century. Visitors can learn about the Guanche’s daily life, beliefs, and customs at the Guanche Museum in Candelaria.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Go Beyond the Ordinary

For those looking for something truly unique, we suggest visiting the Anaga Mountains. These mountains form the oldest part of Tenerife, and hiking through their lush forests and plunging valleys is an unforgettable experience. For the ultimate in relaxation, visit one of Tenerife’s natural hot springs. One of the most famous ones is located in the town of Adeje, and rumor has it that the waters have healing properties.

Conclusion

Tenerife is full of surprises, and exploring its hidden gems is sure to make your trip unforgettable. From stunning natural landscapes to Canarian cuisine and ancient traditions, this island has so much to offer. The next time you find yourself in Tenerife, make sure to seek out some of its lesser-known treasures and make the most of your stay.