Should You Visit Tenerife?

Is Tenerife worth visiting?

This island is a good place to visit for three to seven days. Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. It's just off the coast of West Africa, and it has many beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and the famous Mt. Teide, which is the highest peak in Spain. The island is a popular winter destination for Brits, who come for the many resorts.

Tenerife Coastline, Spain

Reasons to Visit Tenerife

Nightlife
The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

Hiking
The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Resorts
You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Beaches
The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Shopping
The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Food
Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Tenerife might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Tenerife here or see if Tenerife is expensive here.

Is Tenerife worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Tenerife is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This is an extremely popular destination, and in the high season it's busier than usual as this is when most people are able to travel. Expect large crowds of tourists, longer lines, and higher prices for hotels. On the other hand, you'll find that everything is open and you'll have a wide array of activities, things to do, and places to eat.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).

With the warmer weather, the beach is very popular this time of year. Spend time enjoying the waves and sand during your visit. The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. During this season it's fun to experience the beaches, the hiking, and the resorts. Also, you can check out the nightlife.

Is Tenerife worth visiting in the Autumn?

The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 22°C (72°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (81°F).

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Tenerife, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

This is a great time of year to take in the beautiful scenery and get out into nature.

Is Tenerife worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Tenerife. This is an extremely touristy destination, so in the low season you'll still see plenty of other travelers when you visit, but less than other times of the year. Good deals are to be found on hotels and tours because it's not the best time of year to visit.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during winter with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F).

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to enjoy a meal at a restaurant and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Is Tenerife worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Tenerife. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).

A visit this time of year should definitely be on your list, as the natural scenery is just breathtaking. Explore the island scenery to take in the views, admire nature up close, and enjoy the fresh air. During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops, the gorgeous scenery, and the nightlife scene.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Tenerife

Museums
Tenerife isn't a place that's filled with a huge number of sights and attractions. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

Lots of Tourists
Tenerife sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

Related

What is Tenerife most famous for?

Tenerife is most famous for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. People visit this impressive island for its great nightlife and hiking. It is also known for its great resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. And many visitors also come to this island for its food. It is often described as beautiful, volcanic, scenic, vibrant, and adventure-filled.

What is the most famous sight in Tenerife?

The most popular sight in Tenerife is Mount Teide. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Tenerife on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Mount Teide and other attractions here.

How touristy is Tenerife? Is it a popular island to visit?

Tenerife is a very touristy island that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Tenerife Basic Paragliding Flight Experience with Pickup: $113
• Small-Group Half-Day Tour of Teide National Park with Pickup: $59
• Get to know the Teide National Park and the south of Tenerife on a private tour: $164
• Tenerife Animal Farm Private Car Tour. Canarian Cheese and Wine: $164
• Diving Adventures - Boat and Shore Diving: $60
• Forest & Off Road National Park Quad Biking Tour: $164
• Surf Class Experience in Playa de la Américas: $44
• Garachico & Masca Quad Tour in Tenerife for 4 Hours: $191

How long should I spend in Tenerife?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Tenerife is at least three or as many as seven days. Since Tenerife has a variety of activities such as nightlife and hiking, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Tenerife?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Tenerife?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Tenerife?.