Things to Do in Tenerife: Your Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Things to Do in Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a paradise full of adventure, culture, and beauty. When planning your trip, you’ll quickly discover that there is no shortage of things to do in Tenerife. From breathtaking volcanoes and lush forests to lively towns and golden beaches, Tenerife offers something for every traveler. Whether you love hiking, relaxing by the sea, or exploring history, Tenerife will amaze you with its rich and diverse experiences.
Discover the Beauty of Teide National Park
A visit to Teide National Park is one of the most famous things to do in Tenerife. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 meters. You can hike up the trails or take a cable car almost to the summit. The park’s volcanic landscapes look like scenes from another planet. The views from Mount Teide are truly unforgettable, especially at sunrise or sunset. Stargazing here is a dream, thanks to the park’s clear skies and high altitude.
Explore the Stunning Beaches
Things to Do in Tenerife is famous for its beautiful beaches, and you can find both golden and black volcanic sands. Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje are perfect spots for sunbathing, watersports, and swimming.
Playa de las Teresitas, near Santa Cruz, is a man-made beach with golden sand from the Sahara Desert. It’s ideal for families with its calm waters and nearby cafes. For a more natural beach experience, visit Playa Benijo. Its rugged beauty, black sand, and dramatic waves create a magical atmosphere.
Dive Into Tenerife’s Rich Culture
When looking for things to do in Tenerife, exploring its culture is a must. Visit San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. This historic town feels like stepping back in time. You can stroll through its charming streets, visit ancient churches, and explore small museums. The city is also famous for its lively markets and delicious Canarian food.
Garachico is another must-see. Once destroyed by a volcanic eruption, this small town was rebuilt beautifully. Its natural lava pools are perfect for a swim, and its quaint squares are perfect for relaxing.
Experience Adventure and Wildlife
If you’re seeking thrilling activities, Things to Things to Do in Tenerife: Your Complete 2025 Travel Guide Tenerife in has you covered. Siam Park, one of Europe’s best waterparks, offers adrenaline-pumping slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Another family favorite is Loro Parque, a zoo and aquarium known for its conservation work and amazing animal shows. Here, you can see dolphins, killer whales, parrots, and even penguins!
Adventure lovers can also try whale watching tours. Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
| Attraction | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Siam Park | Europe’s Top Waterpark |
| Loro Parque | World-famous Zoo and Aquarium |
| Whale Watching | Spot Pilot Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins |
Hike the Breathtaking Trails
For those who love hiking, Tenerife offers hundreds of trails. The Anaga Rural Park in the northeast is a hiker’s dream. The ancient laurel forests here are misty and magical, giving you a real fairytale experience. The Masca Valley hike is another favorite. Starting from the remote village of Masca, this trail winds down through a deep gorge to the ocean. It’s challenging but rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of achievement. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and check the weather before starting any hike.
Taste the Delicious Local Food
Tenerife’s cuisine is simple, fresh, and delicious. Don’t miss trying papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauce. Fresh seafood is a must, and you’ll find local fish like vieja (parrotfish) on many menus. Local markets like the Nuestra Señora de África Market in Santa Cruz are great places to sample cheeses, meats, and tropical fruits. A trip to Tenerife wouldn’t be complete without tasting the sweet local wines. The island’s volcanic soil gives a unique flavor to its wines.
Enjoy Tenerife’s Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun sets, Tenerife’s nightlife comes alive. Areas like Playa de las Américas are packed with lively bars, beach clubs, and nightclubs. Whether you want to dance all night or enjoy a quiet cocktail by the sea, there’s something for everyone. For a more relaxed evening, head to Costa Adeje where you’ll find classy bars with live music and stunning ocean views.
Relax in Charming Villages
Beyond the busy resorts, Tenerife hides many small villages where time seems to stand still. Vilaflor is the highest village in Spain and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by pine forests and vineyards.
Taganana, tucked away in the Anaga Mountains, offers amazing seafood restaurants and breathtaking coastal views. Visiting these villages is one of the best ways to experience the real Tenerife and understand its traditions.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that Tenerife is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you love beaches, volcanoes, historic towns, or thrilling adventures, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Tenerife for every kind of traveler. From hiking ancient trails and tasting traditional dishes to exploring UNESCO cities and relaxing by crystal-clear waters, Tenerife promises a vacation filled with memories.
