More about: Tenerife in 7 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit
There are thousands of tourist and family-friendly entertainment options in the Canary Islands, and a good portion of these activities take place in Tenerife, the largest and most populous island in the archipelago. The best things to see and do in Tenerife are spread out between the north and the south, so planning an itinerary is more of a necessity than a suggestion. This 7-day itinerary will allow you to efficiently explore all the island’s must-see spots.
Day 1: Start your trip in the north of the island
The northeast of Tenerife is home to the capital and is characterized by its green and rugged landscapes. This first day will be a perfect introduction to the island’s natural and urban contrasts.
Stroll through the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz is the capital and most populous city in the archipelago. During your visit, don’t miss its modern architecture, such as the Adán Martín Auditorium, or its historic gems, such as the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Museum of Nature and Man.
Continue the day with a visit to La Laguna
Nearby is San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic center is ideal for exploring on foot and discovering squares like the Plaza del Adelantado and museums like the Museum of History and Anthropology.
Take the old road to Pico del Inglés
From La Laguna, take the TF-12 highway to cross the Anaga Rural Park. A detour will lead you to the Pico del Inglés Viewpoint, one of Tenerife’s most photogenic spots thanks to its lush vegetation.
Drive to Las Teresitas for a beautiful sunset
End the day at Las Teresitas Beach, famous for its nearly 2 km of white sand. Enjoy a swim and dinner by the sea in the picturesque village of San Andrés before heading back via the TF-11 highway.
Day 2: Visit Puerto de la Cruz and its surroundings
The second day is dedicated to the tourist-friendly north of Tenerife, home to Puerto de la Cruz, one of Spain’s first cities geared toward tourism.
Start the day at the Cruz de la Atalaya Lookout
Located very close to Puerto de la Cruz, this viewpoint offers a spectacular panoramic view to start your day. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise before continuing your journey along the TF-21.
Explore the stately architecture of La Orotava
Known as the “City of Balconies,” La Orotava preserves stately homes with wooden structures. Don’t miss the Victoria Gardens or the famous Casa de Los Balcones, now a museum.
Spend the afternoon at Loro Parque
Loro Parque is one of the world’s most renowned zoos. With exhibits featuring penguins, gorillas, pandas, and dolphins, it combines education and family entertainment in a well-maintained setting.
Watch the sunset at Playa de Los Roques
End the day with a magical sunset at Los Roques Beach, a sandless cove sheltered by rock formations that create a unique landscape. Access it from the parking lot via a short trail.
Day 3: Explore the cliffs on the northwest coast
This day is dedicated to the spectacular scenery of cliffs and scenic roads in northwestern Tenerife.
Head to the Punta Teno Lighthouse
Start your day at Punta de Teno, the westernmost point of the island. There, you can take a swim and enjoy the views from the lighthouse or from nearby lookouts such as Punta del Frailete.
Explore the Teno Natural Park
Drive along the TF-436 and pass through towns like El Palmar, Las Lagunetas, and Masca. These towns are perfect for stopping to have breakfast and shop for local crafts while enjoying spectacular views.
Marvel at the grandeur of Los Gigantes
The cliffs of Los Gigantes are one of Tenerife’s greatest natural attractions. You can admire them from the Port of Los Gigantes or take a catamaran tour to combine the experience with whale watching.
Swim in the Natural Pool at the Los Gigantes Cliffs
End the day at the natural pool known as Charco de Isla Cangrejo, a saltwater pool formed by rocks—perfect for relaxing at sunset.
Day 4: Take a beach tour
It’s time to spend a full day enjoying the most famous beaches in southern Tenerife, combining leisure, shopping, and water activities.
Explore the Golden Mile
Start the day with some shopping on the Golden Mile, an avenue lined with hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, located in Playa de Las Américas.
Spend the morning at Los Cristianos Beach
This beach is ideal for swimming thanks to its calm waters. You can also choose to visit Las Vistas Beach or take a stroll along the boardwalk. It’s one of the best things to see or do with kids in Tenerife.
Visit Costa Adeje Beach
Costa Adeje is an area full of resorts and beaches like Fañabé and El Bobo. Whale-watching tours in Tenerife depart from here, in case you missed the opportunity in Los Gigantes.
Go jet-skiing in Puerto Colón
End the day in Puerto Colón, where you can rent jet skis for an adrenaline-packed adventure. Plus, its proximity to La Pinta Beach makes it a great spot to relax.
Day 5: Focus your day on the wonders of Mount Teide
Teide is Spain’s highest peak and one of the country’s most spectacular natural parks. This day is entirely set aside for exploring its volcanic landscape.
Discover the island’s astronomical observatory
Start your tour of Teide by visiting the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics Observatory, the world’s largest solar observatory.
Take the beautiful cable car up Teide
From the cable car base station, take the ride to the summit. Once there, you can go hiking or simply enjoy the views from the lookout point. There’s a restaurant at the base station where you can have lunch.
Try to hug the “Pino Gordo” on your way down the mountain
On your way down, stop at the Pino Gordo, a massive Canarian pine tree, and the Pino de las dos Pernadas—both natural landmarks of the area. They’re part of the typical itinerary for excursions to Mount Teide.
Enjoy a unique dinner at San Miguel Castle
End the day at San Miguel Castle with a medieval show and themed dinner. It’s a fun experience for the whole family.
Day 6: Explore Güímar and its surroundings
Explore the southeastern region of the island, where Güímar and its nearby villages offer history, nature, and culture.
Visit the Pyramids of Güímar
The Pyramids of Güímar are volcanic rock structures incorporated into an ethnographic museum. There, you’ll learn about Tenerife’s pre-Hispanic past and its biodiversity.
Go on a hiking excursion through the Malpaís de Güímar
Take a hike through the Malpaís de Güímar Special Nature Reserve, a volcanic landscape featuring endemic flora and unique scenery. You can walk all the way to the sea through ancient lava fields.
Explore La Candelaria and Punta Larga
Visit the Basilica of La Candelaria, a pilgrimage site, and the town of Punta Larga. Both offer volcanic beaches and dining options to round out the day.
Day 7: Leave the island for a short excursion
On your last day in Tenerife, consider a trip to a nearby island to wrap up your journey with a new adventure.
Travel to La Gomera from Tenerife, just as Columbus did
From Los Cristianos or Puerto de la Cruz, you can take a day trip to La Gomera, including visits to Garajonay National Park and San Sebastián. Daily excursions to La Gomera from Tenerife
Choose to visit the smallest island in the Canary Islands
Another option is to visit El Hierro, the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago. On these day trips from Tenerife, you’ll discover scenic overlooks, natural parks, and hidden gems like the Roques de Salmor.