1 January 1970
What to See in Tenerife: 14 Must-Visit Places You Can't Miss
Tenerife is an island of contrasts where the volcanic landscape of Mount Teide coexists with ancient laurel forests, cliffs plunging into the ocean, and beautifully preserved colonial towns. Exploring it means traveling in just a few hours from an almost Martian landscape to golden sandy beaches lined with palm trees, from natural lava pools to historic centers designated as World Heritage Sites. This selection brings together the 14 essential places to discover the true essence of the island: pristine nature, cultural heritage, marine experiences, and corners that seem frozen in time. We recommend spending five to seven days to explore at a relaxed pace, combining the volcanic interior with the coastline, the lush and wild north with the more arid south. Here's everything you simply can't miss.
Teide National Park
Spain's volcanic heart and one of the world's best stargazing spots
Teide National Park is home to Spain's highest peak at 3,718 meters and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape looks like another planet: black lava flows, reddish pumice, and rock formations eroded over centuries create an almost Martian setting where films like Clash of the Titans have been shot. The Roques de García are a must-see for their spectacular rock formations, and access is free. The cable car takes you up to 3,555 meters, though reaching the crater requires a free special permit that must be requested in advance. It's also one of the best places in the world for stargazing, with Starlight certification.
Tip: Head up early to avoid crowds and explore Roques de García in soft morning light. Request your crater permit weeks ahead as spots fill up quickly.
Anaga Rural Park
Ancient forests and untouched landscapes at the island's wildest corner
Anaga is a Biosphere Reserve that protects one of the oldest laurel forests on Earth, an ecosystem that once covered the Mediterranean millions of years ago and survives here thanks to constant humidity. Hiking trails wind through this misty forest among giant ferns and moss-covered trees, with viewpoints offering glimpses of Mount Teide on clear days. The Sendero de los Sentidos (Trail of the Senses) is perfect for families and even stroller-accessible. The winding road from La Laguna to Cruz del Carmen is an experience in itself, with stops at lookouts like Jardina or Zapata.
Tip: The Trail of the Senses is ideal for a first encounter with the laurel forest. If driving, take it slow as the road is narrow with plenty of curves.
Los Gigantes Cliffs
Vertical walls of 600 meters dropping straight into the Atlantic Ocean
The ancient Guanches called these cliffs the Walls of Hell, and once you see them, you'll understand why. Vertical walls up to 600 meters high plunge directly into the ocean, creating one of the most impressive coastal landscapes in the Canary Islands. The best way to appreciate their magnitude is from the sea: boat trips, kayak excursions, and even diving tours run along their base while spotting dolphins and pilot whales. From land, the Archipenque Viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama. Guíos Beach, at the foot of the cliffs, provides another unique perspective of these volcanic formations.
Tip: Combine your visit with a kayak or boat trip to truly appreciate the scale of the cliffs. Departures from Los Gigantes port include whale and dolphin watching.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
The best-preserved colonial center in the Canary Islands
La Laguna was the first unfortified city in the Canaries, and its urban layout served as a model for many colonial cities in the Americas. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic center is best explored on foot through cobblestone pedestrian streets, stately mansions with interior courtyards, and colorful facades. The university atmosphere keeps the city lively year-round, with terraces, shops, and cafés filling its squares. During Christmas, the decorations make it especially magical. The Carnival Museum in nearby Santa Cruz displays queen costumes and murga outfits if you're interested in this tradition.
Tip: Free walking tours explain the city's history and main monuments. Set aside time to wander aimlessly through its alleyways and discover hidden Canarian courtyards.
Drago Milenario
Over 800 years of history in Tenerife's most iconic tree
The Drago Milenario is a Dracaena draco specimen over 800 years old, considered one of the oldest living things on the planet and a sacred tree to the ancient Guanches. It stands in Drago Park, surrounded by gardens featuring native Canarian flora with views of the historic center of Icod de los Vinos. The town itself deserves a stroll: steep cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, small squares with fountains, and wineries where you can sample local wine with Canarian cheese. The park is open every day of the year.
Tip: After seeing the dragon tree, wander through Icod's streets and stop at a winery to try the local wine and cheese. Free walking tours reveal the town's secrets.
Playa de Las Teresitas
Golden Saharan sand and palm trees by the sea
Las Teresitas is Tenerife's most famous beach and one of the most photographed in the Canary Islands. Its golden sand was shipped from the Sahara Desert, transforming what was once a black volcanic beach into this tropical paradise with palm trees reaching down to the shore. Located in the village of San Andrés, just minutes from the capital Santa Cruz, it makes for a perfect escape after exploring the city. The water is calm thanks to a protective breakwater, making it ideal for families. Views of the Anaga massif from the sand complete the picture.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends as it fills up fast. Combine it with a fresh seafood lunch at one of the restaurants in San Andrés.
La Orotava
Stately mansions and wooden balconies overlooking the valley
La Orotava is one of Tenerife's most beautiful towns, set in the valley of the same name with views combining the green of banana plantations, the blue of the ocean, and Mount Teide's silhouette in the background. Its historic center is dotted with stately homes featuring spectacular carved wooden balconies, plant-filled interior courtyards, and gardens like Jardín Victoria with its terraced levels. The cobblestone streets invite leisurely strolls past churches, convents, and quiet squares. It's the perfect contrast after a morning in Teide's volcanic landscape, descending via the scenic TF-21 road.
Tip: Visit La Orotava in the afternoon after Teide: the contrast between the volcanic landscape and the town's rich heritage is spectacular.
Garachico
Natural lava pools and the story of a town reborn
Garachico was Tenerife's most important port until a volcanic eruption destroyed much of the town and buried its harbor under lava. From that catastrophe emerged something unique: the natural pools of El Caletón, rock pools formed by solidified lava where you can swim while ocean waves crash around you. The town was rebuilt, and today its picturesque streets retain a special charm, with San Miguel fortress, converted convents, and peaceful squares. It's a story of resilience you can feel in every corner. Located in the island's northwest, it's perfect to combine with Icod de los Vinos.
Tip: Swim in El Caletón natural pools at sunset when the light is most beautiful and crowds thin out. Bring water shoes as volcanic rocks can be slippery.
Cueva del Viento
17 kilometers of underground galleries beneath Tenerife's surface
Cueva del Viento is Europe's longest volcanic tube and one of the largest in the world, with over 17 kilometers of underground galleries running beneath Tenerife's surface. It was formed by lava flows from Pico Viejo thousands of years ago, creating a labyrinth of tunnels with fascinating geological formations. Guided tours take you into this underground world while explaining the island's volcanic formation and unique geology. It's a different experience that perfectly complements a visit to Teide, revealing another side of Tenerife's volcanism.
Tip: Book your visit in advance as spots are limited. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring warm layers: temperatures inside the cave are cooler.
Masca
A mountain hamlet accessible only via vertiginous roads
Masca is a tiny hamlet nestled among mountains in the Teno massif, reachable only by a winding road with hairpin turns that's an adventure in itself. The village seems frozen in time, with stone houses clinging to the hillsides and vertigo-inducing views down the ravine that descends to the sea. That ravine is one of Tenerife's most spectacular hiking routes, though quite demanding. The beauty of the surroundings and its isolation make it one of the most talked-about landscapes among island visitors. Simple restaurants offer meals with incredible views.
Tip: The road requires driving experience and patience. Go early to avoid oncoming traffic and enjoy the scenery without rushing. Hiking the Masca ravine requires a prior permit.
Playa de Benijo
Black sand, volcanic sea stacks, and unforgettable sunsets
Benijo is a wild black sand beach in the heart of Anaga Rural Park, with a rugged appearance that captivates from the first moment. Volcanic sea stacks rise from the water creating a unique scene, especially at sunset when the sun dips behind them painting the sky in brilliant colors. This isn't a beach with amenities or facilities: reaching it requires descending stairs, and the waves can be powerful. That's precisely what makes it special. The village of Taganana along the way deserves a stop to see the dragon trees dotting the roadside. The curves to get there are intense.
Tip: Go at sunset to witness one of Tenerife's finest light shows. Don't swim if the red flag is up as currents can be dangerous.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Contemporary art, traditional markets, and authentic Canarian atmosphere
Santa Cruz is Tenerife's capital and offers a different side of the island: urban, cultural, and full of life. The Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is its most recognizable architectural landmark, with guided tours available. The Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local aromas and flavors, with fresh produce stalls where you can even grab a snack. Parque García Sanabria is a green oasis featuring contemporary sculptures, ideal for unwinding. The pedestrian streets downtown invite strolling among shops and terraces.
Tip: Visit the Africa Market in the morning when it's liveliest and the fish stalls are in full swing. Guided tours of the Auditorium cost between 3 and 5 euros.
Whale and dolphin watching in the south
Resident dolphins and pilot whales in Tenerife's waters
Tenerife's southwest coast is one of the few places in the world with a resident population of bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales, making sightings possible virtually year-round. Excursions depart from Los Gigantes and Los Cristianos, sailing through waters where these cetaceans live permanently, not just passing through. It's a thrilling experience to see these animals in their natural habitat, often approaching boats out of curiosity. Many trips combine whale watching with views of Los Gigantes cliffs, swimming stops, and onboard meals.
Tip: Choose tour operators that respect safe distances from animals and hold responsible tourism certifications. Early morning departures usually enjoy calmer seas.
Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo natural pools
Lava rock pools where you swim while ocean waves crash nearby
The natural pools of Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo are rock pools formed by solidified volcanic lava offering a unique bathing experience: swimming in calm waters while Atlantic waves break just meters away. They're located on Tenerife's north coast, where the sea is usually rougher than in the south, which is why these natural pools are so treasured. Bajamar has more accessible pools with facilities, while Punta del Hidalgo retains a wilder character with its lighthouse as a backdrop. The sunset from the lighthouse is spectacular.
Tip: Bring water shoes as volcanic rocks have sharp edges. Check sea conditions before going: during storms, waves can overflow the pools.
Tenerife packs experiences from seemingly different worlds into a single island: climbing Spain's highest peak, walking through ancient laurel forests, swimming in lava rock pools, or getting lost in colonial alleyways. Each spot in this selection offers something unique, from the vertigo-inducing Los Gigantes cliffs to the tranquility of Masca, from the bustling streets of Santa Cruz to the silence of Anaga Rural Park. The best approach is to take your time and enjoy each stop without rushing. Tenerife always has something new waiting to be discovered.