Best Things To Do In Tenerife

May 20, 2025

Tenerife isn’t just about sun and sea, it is a diverse hub of activity, full of adventure and activities just waiting to be explored. From lush green valleys to otherworldly volcanic landscapes, every corner of Tenerife offers a new experience. One moment you’re wandering through cobbled towns, the next you’re riding a cable car up a volcano or diving into turquoise waters. It’s this mix of natural beauty, adventure, and culture that makes this island in Spain so special. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a while, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. In this blog, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Tenerife.

Explore Mount Teide

First on our list of best things to do in Tenerife is a visit to Mount Teide. Mount Teide, or simply Teide, is the iconic volcano located on Tenerife, and it stands as the highest summit in Spain. It is the symbol of the island, visible from nearly every corner of the island, unless it’s hiding behind the clouds. In fact, it’s even visible from some neighbouring islands! A visit to Teide is a must when on the island, and there are several ways to explore it.

The easiest and most popular way to explore the mountain, while also providing a truly memorable experience, is by cable car. The cable cars operate from the base station to the upper station and take about 8 minutes to reach the top. Although the cable car doesn’t take you all the way to the summit, it brings you close enough to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the island, and sometimes, on clear days, you can even see the neighbouring islands! Alternatively, for those looking for a more adventurous experience, visitors can choose to hike the mountain, with several trails available. This is a challenging hike, taking around 7 hours for a round trip, but it is incredibly rewarding. Keep in mind that to hike the final 200 meters to the summit, you need a special permit, which requires booking in advance!

Experience Teide National Park

For a chance to further experience the volcanic landscape of Tenerife, there are many ways to explore the island’s surroundings. A visit to Teide National Park is an excellent way to take in the otherworldly feel of the area. Surrounding Mount Teide, the park features a bizarre landscape of ancient lava flows, craters, and unusual rock formations. The area around Los Roques de Garcia is especially striking, with a unique appearance that feels like a cross between Mars and Middle-Earth. Visitors can explore this magical landscape on foot, by car, or by joining guided tours. Additionally, a visit to Chinyero Volcano is another great adventure to add to your list of things to do in Tenerife. Hiking trails take you through rugged lava fields and pine forests, allowing you to explore the site of the most recent eruption, which took place in 1909. Located in the Special Natural Reserve of Chinyero, this is another unmissable experience for nature lovers.

Soak Up the Sun on Tenerife’s Beaches

In line with exploring the natural beauty of the island, visitors must also take time to discover the stunning beaches Tenerife has to offer. There are many beautiful beaches across the island (check out our Best Beaches in Tenerife blog for more!), but Playa de las Teresitas is perhaps one of the most popular, particularly among tourists. This artificial beach, covered in golden sand and surrounded by calm waters, is found in San Andres and is incredibly family-friendly. The sand, brought in from the Sahara Desert, is protected by a breakwater, making the waters safe for paddling and swimming. Playa de las Teresitas offers plenty of amenities for guests, including toilets, sun loungers, and nearby cafes. The beach is accessible by foot, car, or boat, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone looking to relax by the sea. It’s a must-visit and one of the best things to do in Tenerife, especially for family groups.

Playa de las Teresitas

Discover Tenerife’s Towns and Culture

For those eager to explore the towns and cultural attractions of Tenerife, there are several fantastic destinations scattered across the island. If you’re looking for a coastal or resort town, a trip to Costa Adeje is highly recommended. Known for its upscale resorts, golden beaches, and lively nightlife, Costa Adeje is a vibrant area with plenty of things to do. Notable attractions include Siam Park, which is voted the world’s best water park, as well as several beautiful beaches.

For a more historical outing, La Laguna is the best town to visit in Tenerife. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. The town is full of historical buildings, cobbled streets, and a young vibe thanks to the nearby university. It’s a great place to wander around and experience the island’s rich cultural heritage.

If you prefer a quieter, more nature-focused destination, Vilaflor is one of the best towns to visit. As the highest town on the island, Vilaflor enjoys cooler temperatures compared to other areas of Tenerife. Its proximity to Teide National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring the mountain, while the town itself offers stunning views and beautiful hikes. It’s perfect for nature-loving explorers looking for a peaceful day trip.

Costa Adeje

Eat Like a Local

Finally, alongside the stunning natural landscapes and picturesque beaches, Tenerife also boasts a diverse and impressive culinary scene. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a satisfying meal, Tenerife’s gastronomic offerings are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. The island’s food scene reflects its rich history and diverse influences, blending traditional Canarian dishes with modern twists. When visiting, we highly recommend trying some of the traditional fare, including Papas Arrugadas (salty wrinkled potatoes served with red or green mojo sauce), Ropa Vieja (a slow-cooked stew often found in local eateries and perfect for family meals), or Bienmesabe (a traditional Canarian dessert made with almonds, sugar, egg yolks, and lemon zest, resulting in a sweet and rich cream). Be sure to explore the food markets, visit local restaurants and cafes, and revel in the unique and delicious options that Tenerife has to offer. Discover more in our Best Restaurants in Tenerife blog!

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Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with any of these businesses. This information is gathered from client and staff experiences and feedback and we are happy to share as a helpful guide. We do not vouch for or recommend any service or establishment.