Tenerife City Guide

Tenerife is a land of dramatic contrasts, where the volcanic majesty of Mount Teide dominates the skyline. As Spain’s highest peak, Teide National Park offers otherworldly landscapes and astronomical views that are truly unparalleled. Beyond the crater, the lush Anaga Rural Park provides ancient laurel forests for hikers, while the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes offer a breathtaking spectacle from the sea.

For those seeking sun and culture, the island delivers in equal measure. The golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas provide a perfect escape near the capital, while the historic streets of San Cristobal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invite exploration of colonial-era architecture and hidden courtyards. Families and thrill-seekers shouldn't miss Siam Park, a world-class water park set amidst lush tropical gardens.

Beyond the bustling resorts of the south, Tenerife reveals its soul through simple, authentic traditions. Locals spend their weekends in the northern hills at Guachinches—unpretentious, seasonal eateries often found in converted garages or rustic farmhouses. Here, the focus is on house-produced wine and hearty plates like garbanzas or carne fiesta.

For a coastal escape, head to the rugged northern shore near La Guancha. While tourists flock to man-made beaches, residents prefer the refreshing clarity of Charco del Viento. These natural volcanic pools offer a dramatic setting for a swim, shielded from the Atlantic’s power by ancient lava flows.

On the heights of the island, the Pista de las Raíces provides a lush, pine-scented retreat. This trail in the Esperanza forest is a favorite for families and trail runners seeking the cool, misty air of the monteverde. It offers a tranquil contrast to the arid volcanic landscapes found elsewhere, showcasing the island's surprising ecological diversity.

Tenerife is widely considered a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. While violent crime is exceptionally rare, petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in high-traffic tourist areas and on public transport. Maintaining a basic level of vigilance—such as keeping bags zipped and avoiding leaving valuables unattended on the beach or inside rental cars—is usually enough to ensure a trouble-free visit. Emergency services are reliable and can be reached by dialing 112.

Nature presents its own set of considerations on this diverse island. When hiking in the rugged Anaga Mountains or visiting Teide National Park, always monitor local weather alerts, as conditions can shift rapidly at higher elevations. Additionally, respect the sea by observing beach flag warnings; the Atlantic’s powerful currents and seasonal swells require caution, even for experienced swimmers. Staying on marked trails and sticking to supervised swimming areas ensures the island’s natural beauty remains the highlight of the trip.

Tenerife’s public transportation revolves around the efficient TITSA bus network, known locally as "guaguas." These bright green buses connect virtually every corner of the island, from the bustling resorts in the south to the historic streets of the north. For those staying in the metropolitan area, the Metrotenerife tram offers a smooth connection between Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Travelers are encouraged to purchase a "Ten+" card, which can be topped up and used for discounted fares across both systems.

White taxis are ubiquitous and operate on regulated meters, providing a reliable way to navigate locally or reach specific trailheads. While ridesharing apps like Uber and Cabify operate on the island, availability can be limited outside the major tourist hubs. For visitors wanting the freedom to explore the Teide National Park or remote villages like Masca, renting a car is often the most practical choice, as roads are generally well-maintained and offer breathtaking coastal and mountain views.

Getting from Tenerife South Airport (TFS) to popular destinations is straightforward. A bus ride to Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje via the 40 or 111 line costs approximately €3.20 to €3.70, while a taxi for the same route typically ranges between €25 and €35. From Tenerife North Airport (TFN) to Santa Cruz, the bus fare is around €2.65, with a taxi costing roughly €15 to €20. Within Santa Cruz, a single tram journey is priced at €1.35, making it an affordable way to see the capital.

Tenerife is a premier shopping destination, largely due to its status as a low-tax zone which offers significantly lower prices on perfumes, electronics, and luxury goods compared to mainland Europe. For high-end fashion, the Golden Mile in Playa de las Américas is the place to be; specifically, the Safari Shopping Centre provides a sophisticated atmosphere filled with designer boutiques and upscale brands. In the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Calle Castillo serves as the main artery for a mix of international retail giants and local Spanish labels, catering to all budget levels.

For a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is an essential stop. This vibrant market features local produce and artisanal crafts in a stunning neo-colonial setting. Shoppers should look out for Tenerife’s signature exports: volcanic jewelry made from green olivine stone, high-quality aloe vera products grown in the island's mineral-rich soil, and local Malvasía wines. These items offer a tangible piece of the island's unique volcanic heritage to take home.

Whether browsing the modern malls of the south or the traditional streets of Puerto de la Cruz, visitors benefit from the Canary Islands' specific indirect tax (IGIC). This makes Tenerife an ideal spot for scoring deals on brand-name cosmetics and jewelry. Always remember to check customs allowances when returning home, but enjoy the blend of high-street convenience and traditional Canarian craftsmanship that makes shopping here a diverse delight.

In Tenerife, tipping is a gesture of appreciation rather than a strict obligation. The local currency is the Euro (€), which currently trades at approximately 1.10 US Dollars per Euro. In casual settings such as cafes and tapas bars, rounding up to the nearest Euro or leaving small change is common practice. For a sit-down meal at a restaurant where the service has been attentive, a tip of 5% to 10% of the total bill is considered generous and is always well-received.

When navigating the island by taxi, it is customary to round up the fare to the nearest Euro as a small gratuity. In hotels, providing one or two Euros to porters for carrying luggage or leaving a similar amount daily for housekeeping is a kind way to acknowledge their hard work. While service charges are sometimes included in the bill, these additional small tokens of gratitude are a warm way to connect with the local hospitality culture.

Tenerife is famously known as the "Island of Eternal Spring," making it a premier year-round destination. For those prioritizing sun-drenched beaches and calm waters, the summer months from June to September are ideal. However, the island sees its highest influx of visitors during the winter, specifically December through February, as travelers seek an escape from northern chills. While the weather remains mild, this peak period brings higher prices and denser crowds at major attractions like Teide National Park.

For the best balance of value and comfort, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. During April, May, October, and November, the weather is perfect for hiking, and accommodation rates are significantly more accessible. If cultural immersion is the priority, February hosts the spectacular Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, though early booking is mandatory as the island reaches peak capacity during this vibrant celebration.