If you’ve got a week in Tenerife, you’re in for a treat! Between the majestic Teide volcano, impressive cliffs, historic villages and unique experiences at sea, the island offers incredible diversity.
We’ll take you to the island’s best sights and experiences with our ideal itinerary for visiting Tenerife in 7 days, with accommodation in the north or south.
We’ve also included alternatives if you don’t want to drive or if you have special interests.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Visit Tenerife in 7 days: what you need to know + map
General advice
- Tenerife is a multi-faceted island, with very different microclimates. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing, especially if you’re climbing Teide.
- The island is quite large, and journey times can be long between north and south. It’s best to plan your days by zone.
- For Teide and Masca, and many other places, we recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best conditions.
- The climate is pleasant all year round, but the north is generally cloudier than the south.
Map of our ideal itinerary
Here’s a map to help you find your way. It shows you the areas explored each day of our ideal itinerary described in this article.
Do you need a car?
With 7 days to spare, we strongly recommend renting a car. This will enable you to visit the most beautiful places before the tourists, explore the island’s spectacular roads, get easy access to Teide National Park and have more freedom to discover the picturesque villages.
Don’t worry, the driving isn’t difficult apart from a few winding mountain roads with steep gradients, such as in Masca or Icod de los Vinos. If you don’t want to drive, we suggest alternatives further down the article.
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
A week in Tenerife: where to stay
As Tenerife is a fairly large island, we advise you to divide your stay into two parts. Spend 3-4 nights in the north (Puerto de la Cruz or San Cristobal de la Laguna) then 3-4 nights in the south (Los Cristianos, Las Americas or Costa Adeje). This way, you’ll drive less, but it’s of course possible to visit everything from a single accommodation in the north or south.
This organization allows you to minimize your daily driving time, discover the different atmospheres of the island and take advantage of the best times of day for each site.
WHERE TO STAY IN Tenerife
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Tenerife
- Our favorite: Hotel Corales Beach
Select by hotel type:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families (coming soon)
Select by city:
- Best hotels in Costa Adeje
- Best hotels in Puerto de La Cruz
- Best hotels in Los Gigantes
- Best hotels in Santa Cruz
- Best hotels in Laguna
- Best hotels in Playa de las Americas
- 5-star hotel in Los Cristianos (coming soon)
7-day itinerary in Tenerife: our driving times
If you’re based in the south (Los Cristianos, for example), here’s how much driving time you should allow for each day:
- Day 1 = 2h30
- Day 2 = 3h
- Day 3 = 2h30
- Day 4 = Depending on chosen activity
- Day 5 = 3h
- Day 6 = 3 to 4 hours
- Day 7 = 2h
If you’re based in the north (Puerto de la Cruz, for example), here’s how much driving time you should allow for each day:
- Day 1 = 30 minutes
- Day 2 = 3h
- Day 3 = 3h
- Day 4 = Depending on chosen activity
- Day 5 = 2h
- Day 6 = 3 to 4 hours
- Day 7 = 1h
To suit your own tastes, take a look at our list of favorite Tenerife attractions.
Day 1 – La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz
Stop 1 – Historic center of La Orotava
Start your exploration of Tenerife with the magnificent historic town of La Orotava. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets and you’ll discover a colonial architectural gem. The Casa de los Balcones will impress you with its finely crafted wooden balconies, typical of Canarian architecture. Don’t miss the Concepción church, an example of local religious architecture. And above all, make it all Victoria Gardens. They offer a refreshing break with their manicured plantings, soothing fountains and sea views.
The morning
Stop 2 – Puerto de la Cruz Botanical Gardens
Afterwards, head to the heights of Puerto de la Cruz to visit the Botanical Garden, created in the 18th century. It’s a veritable oasis of greenery. As you stroll along its shady avenues, you’ll discover majestic century-old trees and an impressive collection of palms from all over the world. The garden is also home to rare exotic plants that you won’t see anywhere else in Europe. The giant water lily pond is a particularly enchanting sight, especially when these aquatic plants are in bloom.
1h to 1h30
Stop 3 – Puerto de la Cruz
End your day exploring Puerto de la Cruz, a seaside town with authentic charm. The waterfront invites you for a pleasant stroll, where you can observe the activity of the traditional fishing port. For a refreshing dip, head for the natural pools of Lago Martiánez, a unique complex designed by artist César Manrique. The day ends perfectly on the beach of Playa Jardín, where you can admire a magnificent sunset over the ocean.
Find out more about Puerto de la Cruz attractions.
Day 2 – Teide National Park
Your day begins early in Teide National Park. The road to Las Cañadas is an experience in itself, as you cross the sea of clouds into a breathtaking lunar landscape. The first light of day sublimates the colors of the volcanic rocks, creating an almost unreal atmosphere.
See our complete park guide to choose your stops.
But here are our 3 recommendations:
Stop 1 – Mirador Llano de Ucanca
Our favourite viewpoint Mirador Llano de Ucanca, with the vast desert plain, the Roques de Garcia in the middle ground and the volcano in the background. The ochre and reddish colors of the plain vary according to the light of day, creating different moods at every hour.
Stop 2 – Roques de García
The Roques de García are a spectacular group of rock formations. The most famous, El Roque Cinchado, stands proudly with Mount Teide in the background. This is one of the island’s most emblematic views.
You can just walk a little flat, or take a 3.5 km circular hike around these formations, and enjoy the different perspectives.
Duration: 1h-1h30 for the complete loop, but you can walk just part of the way.
Stop 3 – Minas de San José
Minas de San José is a former mining area that bears witness to the region’s intense volcanic activity. We were surprised by the lunar atmosphere of the landscapes, with smooth or stony surfaces and lots of color.
Traces of mining operations blend harmoniously with the natural landscape. It’s sure to be a favorite stop for geology enthusiasts.
Between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on how long you want to explore the area.
Day 3 – Masca and Los Gigantes
Stop 1 – Route de Masca
The route to Masca is considered one of the most spectacular in the Canary Islands. As you wind your way around the hairpin bends, you’ll discover breathtaking panoramas of mountains and valleys. Every turn offers a new perspective on this grandiose landscape, with the ocean sometimes looming on the horizon.
This road is steep, winding and sometimes narrow. We advise you to come early in the morning to avoid stress and to have room to park.
Stop 2 – Village of Masca
Masca is a tiny village perched in the Teno mountains. It’s the most picturesque in Tenerife. We were captivated by its spectacular location, nestled in a landscape of vertiginous gorges.
In addition to the spectacular scenery, the traditional stone houses, clinging to the mountainside, are charming.
Find out more about Masca.
Stop 3 – Los Gigantes
The afternoon takes you to Los Gigantes, where an impressive natural spectacle awaits you. The cliffs that give the town its name rise majestically between 500 and 800 metres above the ocean, creating a monumental natural barrier. The marina offers a breathtaking view of these stone giants, and is also the ideal starting point for a boat trip along the cliffs. The black beach of Los Guíos, nestling at the foot of the cliffs, invites you to swim in a magnificent setting. Sunset is particularly spectacular here, with the last rays illuminating the cliffs in golden hues.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Day 4 – Relaxation day
Option 1 – Sea and beach outing
Take a boat trip for a magical encounter with the cetaceans that inhabit Tenerife’s waters. Dolphins and pilot whales are present year-round in these waters, offering unforgettable moments of observation. After this marine adventure, take advantage of the secluded coves accessible only by sea for a swim away from the crowds. The day ends gently on the golden beaches of Costa Adeje, where you can relax under the Canarian sun and enjoy the many seaside amenities.
- For most tours: Departure and return at the port of Puerto Colón, on the south coast (but also in Los Gigantes and other towns).
- Allow around 3 hours for this type of outing.
- Some excursions include swimming.
- Book your sea excursion to see the island’s dolphins and whales!
Option 2 – Amusement park
You’ll find a number of parks in Tenerife.
Siam Park, recognized as Europe’s best water park, promises a day full of thrills and spills. Its spectacular slides, artificial wave beach and Thai ambience create a unique experience. Book your ticket now!
At Loro Parque, in Puerto de la Cruz, you can discover a wide range of species. View tickets
For a more adventurous atmosphere, the Jungle Park plunges you into a tropical environment with its suspension bridges and raptor shows – get your tickets now!
See our list of Tenerife’s best theme parks (coming soon).
Day 5 – Punta de Teno and Garachico
Stop 1 – Punta de Teno
At the western end of the island, Punta de Teno offers a wild, unspoilt landscape. The historic lighthouse faces the ocean, surrounded by red rocks.
In the opposite direction, views of the Los Gigantes cliffs are spectacular. Rough volcanic landscapes and wild coves bear witness to the force of the elements that have shaped the island.
But beware, the road is not always open to vehicles. Sometimes you have to take the shuttle.
Stop 2 – Garachico
Garachico is a beautiful historic town that rose from the ashes after the devastating eruption of 1706. The natural pools of El Caleton, formed by lava, offer a unique bathing experience in pools of crystal-clear water at low tide. But the view is just as nice at high tide, with the waves crashing. The historic center of Tenerife’s former main port is well preserved, with churches, charming buildings, forts and monasteries.
See our article on Gararicho.
Stop 3 – Icod de los Vinos
You can spend the rest of the day in Garachico. But if you want to see even more, continue on to Icod de los Vinos. Here you’ll find the Drago Milenario. This thousand-year-old tree, symbol of Tenerife, is a natural wonder.
You’ll also find traditional wine cellars.
Day 6 – Anaga Rural Park
Stop 1 – Enjoy the forest road
Your discovery of the Anaga massif begins at Mirador Cruz del Carmen. The information center helps you understand the unique ecological wealth of this primeval forest. From the viewpoint, you can gaze out over a sea of laurel trees stretching as far as the eye can see, a remnant of the forest that once covered much of southern Europe. Hiking trails from the mirador allow you to immerse yourself in this unique ecosystem, with its mosses and ferns creating an almost mystical atmosphere.
Stop 2 – Stopping for a walk
The coastal village of Taganana seems frozen in time, with its white houses clinging to the steep mountain slopes. The village’s traditional architecture bears witness to centuries of isolated history. The surrounding wild beaches offer a breathtaking spectacle where the mountains plunge straight into the ocean. Local restaurants are renowned for their freshly caught fish, giving you the chance to sample the island’s authentic gastronomy.
Stop 3 – Northern option: Playa de Benijo
Once at the end of the road, you can descend the cliffs to the north or south. To the north, you’ll find a wilder world of small white villages and a road to the
Benijo beach with its volcanic rocks rising out of the water.
Stop 3 – Southern option: Playa de las Teresitas
Alternatively, head south. You’ll then find the seaside resort of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. And you’ll discover the beach often listed as the most beautiful on the island: Playa de las Teresitas. This magnificent beach of golden sand imported from the Sahara stretches for almost a kilometer, with a gentle, gradual slope as you enter the water.
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Day 7 – San Cristóbal de La Laguna
On your last day, relax in the historic town of La Laguna.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an architectural gem. We were charmed by the harmony and beauty of this historic city. Strolling along its streets, we particularly enjoyed the colorful facades and religious buildings.
Not to be missed:
- La Laguna Cathedral
- La Concepción church and tower
- Nava Palace
- Casa de los Capitanes
- Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church
- …
See our article on San Cristobal attractions.
The city is full of life and charm. It’s worth a visit of at least half a day, but you can easily fill a full day.
If you want to see something else in the afternoon, you can continue on to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, to visit the Palmetum and its auditorium.
7 days in Tenerife without a car
If you prefer to explore Tenerife without a car, we recommend staying in the tourist areas to the south, such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos or Las Americas. These areas offer excellent access to public transport and organized excursions. You can alternate between days of guided discovery and moments of relaxation on the magnificent local beaches.
- Organized excursions to the main sites
- Beach and water sports days
- Easily accessible by public transport
Recommended excursions: ?partner_id=R3GYW4V&cmp=CAL
- Teide bus tour – see the options available for your dates
- Whale-watching outing – see available options for your dates
- Anaga Tour – see options available on your dates
- Visit the nearby island of La Gomera – see options available on your dates
- Towns and villages – see the tour
Alternatives for families
Tenerife is an excellent destination for families, offering a multitude of activities suitable for all ages. Here are a few examples:
- Siam Park, water park – Book your ticket now!
- Loro Parque, zoo – View tickets
- Jungle Park, zoo with birds of prey – get your tickets now
- Aqualand water park – get your tickets
- Monkey Park, zoo
- Forestal Park Tenerife, accrobranche and zip lines
Alternative activities for sporty types
Thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts will find Tenerife an exceptional playground. For the more active :
- Hiking in the Anaga in the primeval forest or in the barrancos or at Teide
- Diving at El Puertito
- Surfing at El Médano
- Paragliding from Izaña
- Mountain biking in the Teide
- Canyoning in the barrancos
- Climbing at Arico
- …
Frequently asked questions and tips
What to bring for a week in Tenerife
Essentials:
- Good walking shoes
- Warm clothing for the Teide
- Sun protection
- Swimsuit
- Lightweight windbreaker
- …
Is one week enough in Tenerife?
A week in Tenerife allows you to explore the island’s major sites and enjoy its most emblematic experiences. You’ll have time to discover the majestic Teide, lose yourself in the narrow streets of charming historic villages, relax on the most beautiful beaches and enjoy the main attractions. Although you’ll have to make your own choices, this duration offers a good balance between discovery and relaxation.
See our article: How long to stay in Tenerife
When is the best time to visit Tenerife?
Tenerife’s privileged climate makes it a pleasant destination all year round. However, the months of September-October and April-May offer particularly favorable conditions. During these periods, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures, fewer tourists and more attractive prices. The sea is still warm in September-October, ideal for water sports.
See our article: When to go to Tenerife?
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
