A Six-Day Escape to Tenerife: Adventure, Relaxation & Culture

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions of Santa Cruz

Landing at Tenerife South Airport, the warm ocean breeze greeted me like an old friend. I picked up my rental car—a small yet reliable hatchback, perfect for winding mountain roads—and set off towards Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s vibrant capital. My accommodation for the first two nights was a stylish boutique hotel nestled near Plaza de España, offering comfort without breaking the bank and a touch of local flair.

After checking in, I took a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the stunning views of the harbor. The striking Auditorio de Tenerife, an architectural masterpiece that resembles a crashing wave, was a sight to behold. For dinner, I found a cozy local restaurant called El Porrón, where I savored fresh seafood and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, a Canarian specialty that danced on my taste buds. With a glass of local Malvasía wine in hand, I knew this trip was off to a fantastic start.

Day 2: Exploring Anaga Rural Park

Eager for adventure, I drove to Anaga Rural Park, a misty wonderland of laurel forests and dramatic cliffs. The drive alone was breathtaking, with winding roads revealing panoramic views at every turn—each bend opening up to yet another stunning vista that made me want to pull over and snap a photo.

I opted for the Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses) trail, an easy yet magical walk through ancient woodlands. The damp earth smelled fresh, and the chirping birds created a symphony that made it feel like I was stepping into another world. For lunch, I stopped in Taganana, a quaint village tucked in the mountains, where I enjoyed grilled fish at Casa África—a simple eatery with unbeatable ocean views that made every bite taste even better.

By late afternoon, I found myself at Playa de Benijo, a wild and unspoiled black-sand beach. Watching the waves crash against volcanic rocks as the sun dipped below the horizon was a surreal experience that etched itself into my memory.

Day 3: Teide National Park & Starry Skies

No trip to Tenerife is complete without visiting Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. The drive up to Teide National Park felt like entering another planet—lava fields, rugged craters, and jagged rock formations stretched for miles, each more impressive than the last.

I took the cable car up to 3,555 meters, where the air was crisp and thin. The panoramic views from the top were nothing short of spectacular. I spent the afternoon exploring Roques de García, a collection of towering rock formations that seemed to defy gravity and made me feel like I was on another world entirely.

Instead of heading back to Santa Cruz, I checked into a charming rural hotel near Vilaflor, nestled in the mountains. That night, I joined a stargazing tour—one of the best decisions of the trip. The lack of light pollution made Tenerife’s night sky a dazzling spectacle, with the Milky Way stretching endlessly above, a sight that left me in awe of the universe.

Day 4: Relaxing in Costa Adeje

After three days of adventure, it was time to slow down and unwind. I drove to Costa Adeje, known for its upscale resorts and beautiful beaches. My hotel had a stunning infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic, perfect for indulging in a lazy morning soaking up the sun while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.

In the afternoon, I strolled along Playa del Duque, dipping my toes in the warm water and relishing the feeling of soft sand beneath my feet. For a mid-range traveler like me, the beachside cafés were perfect for a refreshing barraquito (a layered Canarian coffee with condensed milk, cinnamon, and liquor)—the ideal pick-me-up after a relaxing morning.

For dinner, I treated myself to a seafood feast at La Caleta, a charming fishing village nearby. The grilled octopus was divine, and the sound of waves lapping against the shore made the meal even more special, a perfect end to a serene day.

Day 5: Whale Watching & Los Gigantes Cliffs

Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching, so I booked a boat tour departing from Puerto Colón. Within minutes of setting sail, we spotted a pod of pilot whales gliding gracefully through the waves—an unforgettable sight that filled my heart with joy.

The tour also took us along the dramatic Los Gigantes cliffs, rising 600 meters above the ocean. Seeing them up close from the water was humbling, a stark reminder of nature’s grandeur. After the tour, I grabbed lunch at a seaside restaurant in Los Gigantes, savoring ropa vieja stew, a hearty Canarian dish that warmed my soul.

Later, I discovered a hidden gem—Playa de Masca, a secluded beach accessible by a scenic boat ride. The crystal-clear waters were perfect for a refreshing swim before heading back, a little slice of paradise that felt like a well-kept secret.

Day 6: La Laguna & Farewell to Tenerife

For my final day, I explored San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO-listed city brimming with colonial charm. Walking through its colorful streets felt like stepping back in time, each building telling a story of the island's rich history. I visited the lively Mercado de La Laguna, picking up local cheeses and Canarian honey as souvenirs—tasty reminders of my incredible journey.

Before heading to the airport, I had one last meal at Bodegón Viana, a traditional guachinche (local eatery) known for its rustic ambiance and delicious carne fiesta (marinated pork). As I savored the flavors of this vibrant island one last time, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the unforgettable experiences and memories that Tenerife travel had gifted me.

As I boarded my flight home, I promised myself I would return to this magical island, where adventure, relaxation, and culture blend seamlessly into a tapestry of sun-soaked bliss.

Things to Know Before Visiting Tenerife

1. General Overview

• Location: Largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa.

• Time Zone: GMT (same as the UK and Portugal), one hour behind mainland Spain.

• Language: Spanish (with Canarian dialect influences), but English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Currency: Euro (€).

• Power Outlets: Standard European plug type (Type C and F, 230V).

2. Best Time to Visit

Tenerife has a mild, subtropical climate year-round, making it a great destination at any time. However, different seasons offer unique advantages:

• Spring (March–May): Fewer crowds, mild temperatures (18-25°C), perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

• Summer (June–September): Warmer (24-30°C), best for beachgoers. Southern Tenerife is sunnier and drier.

• Autumn (October–November): Pleasant weather, lower prices, great for exploring nature.

• Winter (December–February): Peak tourist season, especially for Northern Europeans escaping the cold. Teide may have snow, making for unique landscapes.

3. How to Get Around

• Renting a Car: The best way to explore the island at your own pace. Roads are well-maintained, but some rural routes are steep and winding.

• Public Buses (Guaguas): Titsa buses connect major towns and attractions. Affordable but less convenient for remote areas.

• Taxis: Available but can be expensive for long distances. Consider using a taxi app like PideTaxi.

• Biking & Walking: Great for coastal areas and cities like Santa Cruz and La Laguna, but challenging in mountainous regions.

• Ferries: Connect Tenerife with other Canary Islands (La Gomera, Gran Canaria, etc.).

4. Where to Stay

Tenerife has a variety of accommodations for all budgets and travel styles.

Best Areas to Stay

• Costa Adeje & Playa de las Américas – Best for beach lovers, nightlife, and resorts.

• Los Cristianos – A quieter alternative to Playa de las Américas, ideal for families.

• Puerto de la Cruz – A traditional Canarian town with lush scenery and cultural charm.

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Best for city life, shopping, and local experiences.

• La Laguna – A UNESCO-listed historic city, great for culture and colonial charm.

• Garachico & Icod de los Vinos – Great for a more authentic and relaxed experience.

• Teide National Park Area – Ideal for stargazing and hiking lovers.

5. Food & Drink

Tenerife’s cuisine is a mix of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences.

Must-Try Dishes

• Papas Arrugadas con Mojo – Wrinkled potatoes with spicy or garlicky sauce.

• Gofio – A toasted grain flour used in various dishes.

• Ropa Vieja – A shredded meat stew with chickpeas.

• Carne Fiesta – Marinated pork dish, often found at local festivals.

• Queso Asado – Grilled Canarian cheese with mojo sauce or honey.

• Almogrote – A cheese spread from La Gomera, often served with bread.

• Cherne – A local white fish commonly served grilled.

Best Local Drinks

• Barraquito – A layered coffee with condensed milk, cinnamon, and liquor.

• Malvasía Wine – A sweet Canarian wine with historic roots.

• Ron Miel (Honey Rum) – A smooth, sweet rum unique to the Canary Islands.

• Tenerife Craft Beers – Try brands like Dorada or Tacoa.

6. Best Things to Do

Tenerife offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Adventure & Nature

• Teide National Park – Visit Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak (3,715m). Take the cable car or hike up.

• Anaga Rural Park – Explore lush laurel forests and stunning coastal cliffs.

• Masca Village & Gorge Hike – A breathtaking hike down a canyon to a secluded beach.

• Whale & Dolphin Watching – Book a tour from Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje.

• Los Gigantes Cliffs – Marvel at 600-meter-high cliffs from the ocean.

• Cueva del Viento – Explore Europe’s longest volcanic tube.

Beaches & Swimming Spots

• Playa de Las Teresitas – Golden sand beach near Santa Cruz.

• Playa de Benijo – A wild and scenic black sand beach.

• Playa del Duque – One of the best beaches in Costa Adeje.

• Playa de Los Cristianos – Calm waters, ideal for families.

• Natural Pools of Garachico – Beautiful volcanic rock pools.

Culture & History

• San Cristóbal de La Laguna – UNESCO-listed city with colonial architecture.

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Vibrant capital with great shopping and museums.

• La Orotava – A picturesque town with traditional Canarian houses.

• Pyramids of Güímar – Mysterious terraced pyramids with a museum.

• Auditorio de Tenerife – Modern architectural gem and cultural hub.

7. Festivals & Events

• Carnival of Santa Cruz (February/March) – One of the world’s biggest and most vibrant carnivals.

• Romerías (Spring-Summer) – Traditional religious festivals with food, music, and dancing.

• Corpus Christi in La Orotava (June) – Famous for its stunning flower carpets.

• San Andrés Festival (November) – Wine tasting and traditional festivities.

8. Safety & Travel Tips

• Tap Water: Safe to drink in cities, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.

• Sun Protection: The sun is strong year-round—use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

• Road Safety: Be cautious on mountain roads, especially in Anaga and Masca.

• Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants).

• Scams: Tenerife is safe, but beware of overpriced timeshare salespeople in tourist areas.

9. Shopping & Souvenirs

• Aloe Vera Products – The Canary Islands are famous for high-quality aloe vera.

• Canarian Wine – Malvasía wine is a great gift.

• Mojo Sauce – Buy a jar of red or green mojo to bring home.

• Banana Liqueur – A sweet local specialty.

• Handmade Ceramics – Traditional pottery is a unique souvenir.

10. Budget Considerations

• Mid-Range Daily Budget: €80-€150 per day.

• Luxury Hotels: €200+ per night (e.g., Royal Hideaway Corales Beach).

• Mid-Range Hotels: €80-€150 per night (e.g., Hotel Rural XQ El Palacete).

• Budget Hostels: €20-€50 per night (e.g., La Tortuga Hostel in Costa Adeje).

• Meal Costs: €10-€25 per meal at a mid-range restaurant.

Useful information of Tenerife