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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Tenerife
Eternal springtime
The Atlantic Ocean bathes Tenerife, and hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the world bathe on Tenerife's beaches, attracted by the lovely weather and natural surroundings. There's a reason for the moniker "island of eternal spring," much of it having to do with the trade winds that blow through here. It's the largest of the Canary islands and a land of contrasts. The green north is a counterpoint to the volcanic landscape; the beaches mingle with dramatic ravines and sea cliffs; its colonial quarters have been joined by a growing wave of modern architecture such as Santiago Calatrava's Santa Cruz Auditorium. There is so much to do on this island, but you should place at the top of your list an exploration of the historic quarter of San Cristóbal de la Laguna and a visit to the extraordinary Teide National Park, Spain's most visited and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Archeological Museum
visit to this museum will show you the history of the island through its archaeological finds.
The archaeological remains of the island.
This is the ideal place to start a foray into Guanche history. You will find it in the surroundings of the Plaza de España, presiding over the South Pier of the city. There, you will recognize the imposing neoclassical building that houses one of the cornerstones of culture on the island. If it's Sunday, you can access without paying admission. Once inside, an attractive visit awaits you whether you feel mere curiosity or are passionate about archaeology. And it is that this museum has been in charge of compiling, since the fifties, the countless prehistoric and geological findings scattered throughout the islands. Today, it is a fundamental study and information center with numerous exhibitions on volcanic nature or the mummies of Guanche aborigines. To end the visit, it is worth taking the opportunity to eat at the museum restaurant. Its cuisine, of which it is especially recommended to try its tapas, has been awarded.
Museum of Natural Sciences
A tour of the marine habitat not only on the island, to discover what is hidden in the sea.
The marine world within everyone's reach.
Anyone interested in the marine world has a must with this museum. Forming part of the Museum of Nature and Man, it occupies the same building as the Archaeological Museum, in front of the South Pier in the west of the city. But it is here where you can find hours of entertainment and study of marine life, especially in the Canary Islands, but also in other regions. Throughout its rooms you will find several sections dedicated to the geological evolution that the area has undergone, the botanical wealth it contains and also animal life. The latter is made up of a wide collection of organisms, from marine invertebrates to mammals or reptiles. The museum can reveal all the secrets hidden in the Atlantic waters.
Dreamy beaches
At the end of the day, most of Tenerife's allure has rested on its beaches - and for very good reason indeed.
Beaches for all tastes
From hidden coves to long, wide strands, lovers of sand and surf will be deliriously happy on Tenerife - and in fact, your greatest problem will be choosing between them. The most popular is Las Teresitas in Santa Cruz, which is a particularly good option for families, with its fine golden sand and calm waters sheltered from rough surf. In this same area you'll also find black-sand Las Gaviotas, especially impressive because of its surroundings. But it's in the south of the island where you'll find the most attractive beaches of all. Los Cristianos in Arona is one of the most famous, and if you head toward the Golf del Sur golf course you'll come across little coves that can be a bit tricky to get to but are hard not to fall in love with. From here, heading up toward Santa Cruz you'll encounter El Roque and El Puertito, surfer magnets with spectacular views of the Atlantic.
García Rocks
The geology in the area surrounding Spain's highest peak gives rise to some truly spectacular shapes and colours. It's a sight you shouldn't miss when visiting Tenerife.
Spectacular geology at the foot of El Teide volcano.
Here in Teide National Park you'll find yourself facing the roof of Spain, a volcano nearly four kilometres (2½ miles) high that's a must when visiting Tenerife. And it's from here, the Roques de García, that you get some remarkable views indeed. The combination of material covering the area and millennia of erosion have created an ochre-stained landscape that is uniquely striking. From the nearby parador (inn) you'll get a perfect view of the area and the legendary Ucanca Plains. But if you can take the time to tour the area more in depth, it's well worth it. The shapes and colours of formations like Cinchado Rock and "The Cathedral" are like something out of a wild, wild west movie. This is a visit that will, er, "rock" your world.
Taoro Park
Waterfalls, lush flora, great views, all within minutes of downtown Puerto de la Cruz.
A park above Puerto de la Cruz that's worth a bit of a climb.
This lush green corner of the island offers a great way to get a taste of the countryside without getting too far out of town; this is a park you can stroll to from Puerto de la Cruz, though it does involve a slight bit of a climb, including a stairway of 250 steps (don't worry, though, there are rest areas along the way). What you'll find at the top is well worth it - not just the views but the lovely vegetation and especially the waterfalls. We'd recommend coming in the late afternoon if possible, in order to catch the sunset, then you can head back down as the park starts lighting up for the night and round off your excursion with a visit to the old town harbour.
Garachico
One of Tenerife's most singular towns, on the northern coast, is peaceful, pretty, and unique in several key ways.
A tranquil coastal town known for its natural pools.
If you're really looking to 'get away from it all,' this quiet coastal town up north may be just the ticket. A good deal of its charm lies in its small size, limited by the steep slope on its south side. It was here that in the 18th century an eruption by the nearby Trevejo volcano buried the original town, giving the area its current appearance (you can climb uphill for a good look at the landscape). Back in town, strolling the streets and exploring the main square, Plaza del Ayutamiento, is a charming experience, and you should also take a look at the local fort, the Castillo de San Miguel, and its surroundings. When you spot some small sea inlets, check them out; Garachico's 'natural swimming pools' are one of its main attractions, with seawater constantly refreshed.
Anaga Rural Park
Mountains, river, forests, wildlife, small villages, hiking - another side of Tenerife that will thrill nature lovers and especially birders.
Spectacular forests that are a must for nature lovers.
Tenerife has been blessed by nature with an unusual variety of ecosystems, including the deserts surrounding the Teide volcano; the lovely beaches of Puerto de La Cruz; and this, the near-jungle landscape of the Anaga Rural Park, located between La Laguna, Santa Cruz and Tegueste. Within its more than 14,000 hectares (54 square miles), a river connects a mountain range at one end with the Atlantic coast, and its forests are home to an enormous number of nature trails and even small villages. If you're a nature lover (and especially a birder), make a point of making time for Anaga on your visit to Tenerife.
Bajamar tidal pools
A wonderful swimming spot, especially for families.
Natural ocean-fed pools in the island's northeast.
The peculiar patterns of erosion in this part of the island's northeast has given rise to a trio of natural pools, refreshed by the Atlantic and protected by the mountains of the Anaga range, that are fabulous for swimming. On one side, the Bajamar Lighthouse; the small beach with the dike beyond, and at the other end, the open sea. Depending on ocean conditions, the pools may not always be open, but they usually are, and are a marvelous place to spend a chunk of the day, or all of it (it's an especially great option for families). Another part of its charm lies in its surroundings, including the lovely promenade which connects this park with Punta del Hidalgo.
Cliffs of the Giants
One of Tenerife's most impressive beauty spots, on the west coast a few miles from the airport, was revered by the ancient Guanche.
Spectacular soaring cliffs you can view from boat excursions.
Tenerife's volcanic nature has given rise to some impressive geography and topography - of which the Acantilados de los Gigantes on the island's west coast offer one of the most dramatic examples, their massive stone walls soaring in some spots to 600 metres (1,970 feet) above the crashing surf. The Guanche considered these cliffs sacred, and protectors against the end of the world. To best appreciate their majesty, we'd recommend taking one of the nearby boat excursions to view them from out at sea, which will provide the additional dividend of spotting some of the dolphins and whales that frequent these waters.
Martiánez Lake
Designed by world-famous Lanzarote architect César Manrique, this spot in Puerto de la Cruz is well worth a visit.
A marvelous complex of lakes and cutting-edge architecture on the beach.
Famed Lanzarote architect César Manrique is the designer of this entertainment complex built out of volcanic rock and incorporating other elements of the local environment such as cactus as unusual and striking works of art. The result is a complex of pools and lakes mixing local ecosystem with impressive architectural innovation, a spot of which locals are quite proud. You'll find it on the beaches of Puerto de la Cruz, north of town, surrounded by a good number of restaurants and cafés, making it a great spot to linger for a meal or drink after visiting the port.
Cañadas del Teide National Park
In the centre of Tenerife, this volcanic peak is not just a natural phenomenon but also a cultural one.
Spain's highest peak is an absolute must-visit.
Right in the middle of the island is the El Teide volcano, Spain's highest peak, a strikingly snow-capped sight contrasting with the cactus-populated desert landscapes below. But it's notable also as a centre of ancient aboriginal Guanche civilisation and culture; of all Tenerife's hinterland, here the ecosystem allowed the ancient peoples to plant and raise livestock year round rather than emigrating with the seasons. That's why it's one of the island's oldest inhabited zones, with archaeological sites among its most interesting points.
Costa Adeje nightlife
The area of Tenerife with the most happening beaches has also sprouted its most happening nightlife, with something for everyone.
Tenerife party central
To the south of the island, the Costa Adeje area is distinguished by a series of spectacular beaches, foremost among them the very popular Playa de las Américas. In a related development, this area has also become Tenerife's nightlife central, with a huge number of cafés, restaurants, and pubs that especially after dark come into full swing, with hundreds of people thronging its streets until after midnight - at which point they move onto the discos and dance clubs. There's a lot of variety here, and visitors can find pretty much any kind of vibe to suit them, from electronica to low-key pubs to live music.
Feast of St. John
In La Laguna, Puerto de la Cruz, and elsewhere on the island, locals celebrate "San Juanito" with music, processions, food/drink, and bonfires.
A beloved annual festival celebrated with processions and bonfires on the beach.
Dubbed "San Juanito," the shortest night of the year goes on much longer on the island of Tenerife. In Punta del Hidalgo, in the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, just before before sundown each June 23, the young men of the neighborhood take the image of the saint on their shoulders and parade it to a part of the beach called the Güigo, accompanied by locals, their peñas and rondallas (music and dance groups), with plenty of food and drink along the way. Once everyone's there, the bonfires are lit and burn far into the night, as the beach remains crowded to honour the saint. Similar scenes are played out in Puerto de la Cruz and other beaches across the island, with celebrations continuing throughout the following days.
Snorkeling and diving in the Atlantic
There are diving and snorkeling spots all along the coast, as well as excursions out to sea for getting up close and personal with dolphins and whales.
Tenerife offers as much underwater as on land.
Tenerife's coastline offers scores of spots off which to explore a rich variety of submarine flora and fauna - including dolphins and whales - via snorkeling and diving. Two particularly good spots to remember are Puerto de los Cristianos and Puerto de los Gigantes, both in the south of the island, where you can find excursions that will take you to spots along the coast as well as out to sea for dolphin and whale encounters, including the chance to dive and snorkel among them.
Carnaval time in Tenerife
This is the annual party the island waits for all year long, in which Santa Cruz gives itself over to nonstop partying for a chunk of February and March.
Like Rio, Venice, and New Orleans, Tenerife throws one of the world's top Carnaval celebrations.
Tenerife is proud as the possessor of one of world's most important and spectacular Carnaval celebrations in the world (in fact, that's why it's twinned with Rio de Janeiro). Its origins are lost in time, but masqued celebrations have been traced back to at least 1605. Be that as it may, for a handful of days each February and March, the Plaza de España in Santa Cruz gets decked out and ready to choose the Carnaval Queen, then gives itself over to an orgy of murgas, comparsas and rondallas (as the various musicians, groups, and processions are called), along with many thousands of locals and visitors who cram every square metre of the plaza.
San Andrés
One of Tenerife's nicest excursions, this coastal village will charm the daylights out of you.
A lovely little town known for its beach, old quarter, and seafood.
Visiting the little town of San Andrés is one of the most pleasant excursions you can do in Tenerife. Located in the north of the island, this charming coastal village mixes coast and mountains, and is known as one of the top spots to sample the local seafood; especially on weekends, restaurants here are packed with both locals and visitors. In addition, Las Teresitas beach is one of the island's most popular. But there's also a lovely old town with cobblestone streets and lots of colourfully painted houses. Don't miss the ruins of the Castillo de San Andrés, once a key defense installation for the island.
Barranco del Infierno Nature Reserve
A rugged nature reserve with unusual rock formations and lovely vegetation that makes it one of Tenerife's top natural draws.
"Hell's Canyon" is heaven for hikers and nature-lovers.
Barranco del Infierno is a nature reserve in the municipality of Adeje, in the island's southwest, whose more than 1,800 hectares (7 square miles) harbour one of Tenerife's most rugged natural landscapes. For just this reason, and for its quirks of topography, it has become a very popular hiking route. One of those quirks is the gorge which gives the reserve its name - a metres-deep cleft produced by millenia of water erosion. Other areas of the park worth visiting include the Rocks of Conde, of Imoque, and of Abinque. The vegetation here is another reason why this is one of the most beautiful spots on the island for nature-lovers.
the mask
Venture to know this area and discover the beautiful views it offers you.
Complicated roads and amazing views.
If you get this far, you'll want to repeat. You will know it as soon as you enter this impressive area in the northwest of the island. The experience begins on the road, as the road that takes you here is a truly narrow and winding adventure. Better to do it by bus or taxi, although it will take a few hours. Once there, there are several things to see and no wrong choice, since the secret of the place is the spectacular landscape that surrounds it at all points. One way to start is in the Teno Rural Park, where you can stop by the Ethnographic Museum if you are interested in the history and tradition of the area. From here you can go to the hermitage or the Mirador de Cherfe. At both points it is worth the view. Following a difficult descent of five kilometres, you will reach a small volcanic sand beach, ideal if you are looking for privacy. However, when the day begins to fall it is worth it to catch you at the highest point you can. His view from the height at that time of day is something hard to forget.
Puerto de la Cruz
Visitors flock from all over the world to a north Tenerife port town that punches way above its weight in terms of attractions and appeal.
A charming village that helped start the Tenerife tourism boom.
This small town in the north of the island is one of the key spots where tourism in Tenerife first really took off. It can actually be traced to a onetime sanatorium dedicated to treating foreign patients, especially from elsewhere in Europe. Today it's a mecca for the healthy from all over the continent and beyond, drawn to its lovely port and a collection of historic sites and architecture truly astonishing for such a relatively small place. Two in particular not to miss are the Casa Amarilla (Yellow House) and the Casa de la Aduana (Customs House), which has stood since 1610. The San Telmo promenade is another wonderful spot, as is, of course, Playa Jardín, one of Tenerife's most popular black-sand beaches.
La Orotava
Lovely beaches on Tenerife's north side, but also fascinating nature and history.
A Guanche stronghold at the foot of Teide peak.
The La Orotava region is home, first and foremost, to the highest mountain in Spain, El Teide. Located on Tenerife's north side, it's the island's largest municipality, where most of the villages and towns are on the coast and nearly all of life has revolved around the sea. The environment of this area made it one of the island's earliest centres of civilisation, as well as its greatest bastion of resistence to Spanish invasion of the Canary Islands in the 15th century - this was the last bit of territory to fall. Nowadays Teide peak itself is a symbol of the Guanche aboriginal culture and its last stand against the invaders.
San Cristóbal de la Laguna
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the island's most distinguished destinations.
A look at Tenerife's second-largest city.
Usually called simply La Laguna, and these days increasingly blending with next-door Santa Cruz, Tenerife's second largest island is one of its most beautiful spots, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 thanks to being a unique example of an unwalled colonial city. At its centre, the Plaza de la Junta Suprema commemorates an important historical event: the transfer of the capital of Spain during the invasion of the peninsula by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1810. This entire process took place in these streets, and for this they will always be remembered. La Laguna is full of historic and grand buildings, monuments, and sites, perhaps the grandest among them being the Cathedral of Our Lady of Remedios.
Plaza del Duque shopping centre
A taste of the more glamorous, luxury side of shopping and dining in Tenerife.
Chic and trendy in Adeje
Tenerife is known for its crafts, wines, and other traditional products, but as an international destination, it's also seen a rise in fashion and other trendy shopping. So in the southern part of Adeje you'll find a modern shopping centre called Plaza del Duque, with upmarket clothing and other brands as well as restaurants, cafés, and hip lounge spaces. Definitely a spot to indulge in the smart and chic side of today's Tenerife.
Souvenir shopping
In Santa Cruz, La Laguna and La Orotava, small shops that showcase the best crafts and products the island has to offer.
Exploring the small family shops in several key areas of Tenerife.
Herewith, a few suggestions for shopping: In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, check out the shops along streets like Villalba Hervás and El Castillo; they're scattered throughout the area but show the charm of the island's small family businesses. Around Plaza de España and La Candelaria you'll also find a large number of typical shops. The old town of La Laguna is also another key destination, with clothing shops mixed with crafts emporia. Finally, the country town of La Orotava is an especially charming destination to browse for crafts and local products.
Costa Adeje famers market
A market where farmers and ranchers sell directly to the public, and you can buy some tasty treats, as well as give your camera a workout.
Everything the rich earth of Tenerife has to offer, right from the source.
Located in the south, Costa Adeje is one of the areas with Tenerife's greatest tourist and commercial activity, with a lot going on day and night. Especially in recent years, lots of stores have opened here. But the Agromercado is a different beast from most of them, established by the local municipality as a place for farmers and ranchers to sell directly to the public. You can find all the edible delicacies the island has to offer - wines, cheeses, honey, and a variety of meat and fish, all accompanied by a guarantee of absolute quality. Great for camera and taste buds alike.
Playa Sur Surf Centre
An El Médano surf shop that's a one-stop shop for all your water sports equipment needs.
A top aquatic outfitter on a top water sports beach.
Surfing and other water sports are naturally one of Tenerife's top draws, from catching waves (or learning how to) to snorkeling and diving amongst whales and dolphins. The area of El Médano is ground zero for watery fun; thanks to the setup of the coast and the winds in this area, the waves that crash on the beaches around here have a worldwide reputation as a surfing paradise. And a good place to get you set up to take advantage of it all is the Surf Centre Playa Sur, a small family business that has become something of a world surfing icon. It'll rent or sell you everything you need for the sport, along with a range of other equipment and accessories for all sorts of other water sports.
Artenerife craft shops
Traditional pottery, embroidery, and other remarkable crafts sold in shops across the island, as well as online.
A brand established to promote and protect traditional crafts as well as guarantee quality and authenticity
You'll soon figure out that the Canary Islands' crafts tradition is one of their most magnificent assets, an excellent example being pottery, whose roots reach back to the Guanche civilisation even before the arrival of the Spanish and which today is one of the main ways Guanche culture is kept alive in the modern world. The Artenerife brand was created by local authorities to promote and protect that tradition as well as guarantee the authenticity of products sold in various shops across the island. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife you'll find the main outlet in the Casa Real de la Aduana. In addition to traditional Guanche and other Tenerife pottery you'll also want to look for another very well-known island craft, its embroidery. There's also an online shop at www.artenerife.com.
La Baranda wine shop
If you're a wine lover, come here for one of the best selections, plus expert advice and background. Oh, and honey!
A top showcase for the island's top wines.
Tenerife has a great wine and spirits tradition, and this little shop is a fine example. Located in the heart of the island, it showcases the island's various vintages, and includes a ground-floor tasting area. Here not only can you sample the best of the local vineyards but get expert advice from sales staff, who will also explain something of the history and background of wines whose pedigree stretches back centuries. These folks are also experts in other local delicacies such as honey, sold here from various traditional producers depending on seasonal availability.
La Masca porcelain
One of the Canary Islands' oldest crafts traditions and its practitioners are based in this town.
Unique pieces with a pedigree that goes back centuries
The craft of northwest Tenerife's potters - one of the island's oldest crafts traditions - dates back to time immemorial, a blend of aboriginal Guanche tradition and that of Spain and other influences. A world of legends, rituals and myths revolve around these ceramics, and their capital is the town of La Masca, tucked away in the mountains of Teno, where artisans continue to craft these works of art by hand day after day - and they'll be happy to share with you the lore behind each piece and design.
El Limonero Crafts Centre
Accented with lemon trees and ancient aboriginal designs, a centre for fine quality traditional products made by hand.
A great place for island crafts in Garachico.
In Tenerife's northwest in an area known as Garachico, El Limonero Crafts Centre (Calle Tome Cano No. 9), named for the lemon trees in the interior patio, is a wonderful place to find handcrafted items. Across from the Castillo de San Miguel, and adorned with designs of the aboriginal Guanche people in yellow, it's partnered with the Casa de los Balcones located in La Orotava.
Santa Cruz flea market
Typical local products are among the treasures you'll uncover in this weekly street market.
Rummaging on Sunday morning.
Every Sunday morning along the broad Avenida José Manuel Guimerá Market, a traditional market takes place next to the market of Our Lady of África, running up to Calle Bravo Murillo, through the center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It's Tenerife's oldest rastro (held on Avenida de Anaga before 1991), where you can find stands selling second-hand clothes, antiques, vinyl records, and old stuff of all kinds where, as usual in these cases, you might uncover the occasional genuine treasure. It's also a good place to find typical local food products, from honey to wine.
Pérez Galdós Avenue, Santa Cruz
In downtown Santa Cruz, the city's main shopping thoroughfare mixes international brands and local independents.
A spot of Canarian shopping
One of Santa Cruz's main shopping thoroughfares, Avenida Pérez Galdós runs between the square and Alféreces Provisionales Plaza and Calle Vieira y Clavijo. It's a pleasant pedestrian street with palm trees running down its median and the city's main shops lining either side, a mix of big international brands and small independent shops selling a variety of merchandise from fashion to antiques. Crafts and souvenirs, too, which makes this a good street to hunt for mementos of your visit to Tenerife. At the end of the avenue you'll find a ton of cafés at which to have a rest and a refuel.
Canarian fish
Tenerife's cuisine, like much of the rest of its culture, revolves around the sea. So eat up!
Tenerife is a fish-lovers paradise, too.
As an island, the life of Tenerife naturally has always revolved around the sea, with many of its cities and towns starting out as small fishing villages. The local cuisine revolves just as much around the sea's bounty, so an integral part of experiencing the Canary Islands to the fullest should involve sampling their maritime legacy on the plate as much as possible. That includes local specialities such as grouper, sea bass and porgy, whether grilled, marinated, salt-baked, whatever, often accompanied by the distinctive local "wrinkled" and other potatoes for which the Canaries are known. Enjoy!
Canarian potatoes.
There's nothing in the world like Canarian potatoes - "pretty potatoes," "black potatoes," and especially "wrinkled potatoes." You've got to try them to believe them.
Potatoes are the most famous local dish - especially the wrinkly ones!
Potatoes are of course originally from the Americas, but a particular type has become the Canary Islands' most famous and typical dish. The unique local ecosystem produces a large variety of potatoes, and the variants and dishes that are made from them are endless, but at the top of the list are papas arrugadas or papas arrugás, or "wrinkled potatoes". They're boiled in salt water along with local meat and fish, but each village and town has its own variant; you'll find them as tapas all over the island. Other local potato dishes you'll find only on the islands are papas negras, papas bonitas, and papas andinas. Any eating place will do a good job with them, but one place we'd point you to in particular is any waterfront café in Puerto de la Cruz. This is the epitome of island living.
Honey
Due to its characteristics and properties, honey from Tenerife is one of the best. Try it!
unique honey in the world.
They say that it is the climate of the island, they also say that it is the prevailing vegetation in the region, others say that it is a matter of luck and others a matter of magic. In any case, no one doubts that the honey grown in Tenerife is unique in the world and one of the great treasures that the people of Tenerife keep. With a tradition that has centuries and centuries of history, the diversity of honey is practically endless. The different flora and fauna make Tenerife honey different from that of the rest of the world. One of the most popular is Retama del Teide honey, which is credited with a good handful of healthy properties. This type of honey can only be grown in the Cañada area and they say that the fact that it is the black Canary bee that grows it makes it unique and special.
Gofio
A mix of ground corn and wheat used in various aspects of local cooking and ground in stone mills which you can visit throughout the island.
A traditional flour that's a huge part of local cuisine.
Also known as harina tostada (toasted flour) and names such as ñaco, máchika, and kamoka, gofio is one of the mainstays of Canarian cuisine, which is in some ways closer to that of South American countries such as Argentina and Uruguay, where this sweet also exists under other names (its origin goes back even before the Spanish arrival on the island). It's prepared from corn and wheat, mainly ground in a traditional manner in stone mills. Each area has its own version; for example, one of the most popular is the three-cereal gofio from around Adeje. Throughout the island you can visit the mills that produce it, such as the historic La Orotava mill; many have their own brand and are sold in local villages and towns.
The Meats of Tenerife
A Tenerife classic from the interior you should put at the top of your must-try culinary list.
A superb local stew to try
Although fish is most popular protein throughout Canary Islands, they, and Tenerife in particular, also have a long and rich tradition in meats. Due to its topography, the island's interior, particularly the canefield areas around El Teide, has contributed some dishes to local gastronomy you should look for on menus. At the top of the list is puchero canario, a kind of stew made from from beef or chicken together with "piñas de migo" (similar to cobs of corn), traditional Canarian potatoes, and a variety of vegetables. To sample it, you'll want to make your way to rural towns in the interior such as La Hoya, Chirche, and La Borgata de Masca.
La Candelaria farmers market
Great for watching farmers sell and locals buy - as well as sampling local products.
One of the island's best farmers markets.
As you'll see when you're on island, farming and ranching are among Tenerife's key economic drivers, and their age-old tradition have changed little over the centuries. In keeping this tradition, almost every town has a market for local ranchers and farmers to sell their products directly to their neighbours. One we particularly recommend is that of La Candelaria, across from the town hall, where farmers from the Güímar valley come every week to sell their crops. It's great for the ambiance and photo ops, but also to come learn about and even sample local products.
Cumbre de Abona Winery
A timeless winery in the hills whose volcanic soil yields a unique vintage.
A unique place and a unique wine.
Stretching back centuries, the islands' winemaking tradition has an international reputation, and you'll find various wines with some unique characteristics in practically any coastal or inland village. But one is particularly recommendable. Nestled in the highlands alongside a road near the town of Arico, you'll find this timeless old winery, one of Tenerife's few denominations of origin. It opens its doors to visits, offering guided tours which include a fascinating look at how the volcanic soil yields a uniquely special, delicious, and prestigious wine indeed - tasting included, of course!
El Médano Promenade
Tenerife's largest beach, one of its loveliest ports, and some of its tastiest seafood await.
Beach, shopping, and seafood in the island's south.
An old fishing port in the Abona region in the island's south, now sporting a plethora of trendy shops as well as seafood and other restaurants, El Médano also has a number of impressive beaches, foremost of which is the island's largest, Playa de la Tejita. The restored promenade maintains its charming maritime air, and offers a great place to stroll in search of fresh-off-the-boat fish and seafood.
Arico Cheese Dairy
A tasty, typical Canarian treat in the town of Arico.
A classic Canarian product from a top Canarian cheesemaker.
Blessed are the cheesemakers! Amongst the Canary Islands' most important traditional products (and exports) are its cheeses, derived over the course of centuries mostly from goats and sheep. A large variety can be found originating from many dairies, but one of the most important is this prestigious, awardwinning one in the town of Arico, particularly famous for its cheese made from red pepper and gofio (cornmeal). You can take a guided tour and of course buy as many different kinds of local cheese as you can cart off — a tasty takeaway from your Tenerife visit, no?
La Casa de Óscar Tavern
In downtown La Laguna, a historic home houses a restaurant with tasty local fare not to miss.
Tasty tapas and other dishes in a typical Canarian house.
This tavern on Calle Herradores in the middle of the town of La Laguna is one of the key spots to have a go at authentic Canarian cuisine. Once home to Tenerife artist Oscar Dominguez, one of the surrealist painters belonging to Spain's iconic "Generation of '27," the three-storey house it occupies is easily recognisable by its typical Canarian enclosed balcony, with wood finishes adorned with iconic motifs from Canarian culture. The inside is divided into different spaces, including a bar area with typical tapas. Don't leave Tenerife without savouring the unique meat and fish dishes that come out of the kitchen here.
Emeterio Gutiérrez Albelo Home-Museum
If you're in Icod de los Vinos, have a look inside this traditional Canarian house, especially if you're a literature buff.
The house of a famous 20th-century poet.
If you're a literature buff you won't want to miss this one: the birthplace of a key figure of Spanish literature of the last century. Located on Calle San Francisco in the old quarter of the town of Icod de los Vinos, you'll find the birthplace of avant-garde poet Emeterio Gutiérrez Albelo (1905-69), one of the leading figures of Spain's "Generation of '27" which included the likes of Federico García Lorca. The façade alone is worth a look as a good example of the typical local architecture. The interior displays books and letters of the poet, as well as photos, drawings and everyday objects.
Pinolere Museum of Ethnography and Basketry
In a delightfully traditional-feeling northern town, this museum is a wonderful way to learn about local culture.
Rural traditions on display in La Orotava.
In La Orotava in the north, within the vast Pinolere nature park, this museum managed by the town's cultural association occupies a pair of houses and offers a graphic overview and recreation of the area's rural traditions, particularly of agriculture and ranching. Another section devoted to basketmaking is housed in three barns; here you'll learn about the production, processing, and commercialisation of plant fibres, which has been the traditional mainstay of the area's economy. There's also an exhibition of tools and materials. Afterward take some time to explore the town, which breathes tradition in every lane.
Masca Ethnographic Museum
Head up to the area of La Masca to experience some impressive nature and get a feel for traditional culture.
In the northwest, a museum, village and area reflecting rural tradition.
Here in the island's northwest you'll see tradition framed by an impressive landscape. You can get there by bus and take the opportunity to spend a very worthwhile day roaming the area. In this house-museum in Buenavista del Norte you can get a firsthand sense of traditional rural life hereabouts. It starts with the house itself and its traditional architecture, of course, and continues with photos, everyday objects, and reproductions of objects reflecting the culture and history of the area before the 20th century. Once you've taken all that in, spend some time exploring the environment of La Masca, with its impressive cliffs and traditional houses.
Casa Lercaro
A trove of Canarian history and cuisine.
A home-museum that's a key part of the Tenerife History Museum.
At this house museum, a key piece of the Tenerife Museum of History and Anthropology located in downtown La Laguna, not only is history front and centre, but so is cuisine - and even a ghost. The house has been a part of island history since its construction in the 16th century, and in the course of that history it has undergone changes and served a variety of uses, including a university department of philosophy and humanities. Its paintings, maps, and other items help visitors get a picture of the islands' social, economic, and political development. On top of that, they say the place is haunted by the the heartbroken ghost of Catalina Lercaro. When visiting, try to bring your appetite, because the museum's restaurant is a wonderful place to try local delicacies amidst traditional Canarian surroundings.
Carta House
A restored 18th-century manse shows through its décor and artifacts a bit of what daily life was like back then.
A window into traditional island live of centuries ago.
A museum set in a rural 18th-century manse in San Cristóbal de la Laguna packed with history-soaked details, it along with the Casa Lercaro is one of the sites of the Tenerife Anthropological Museum. Each area of the dwelling is carefully preserved and restored to best display the artifacts of daily life in those times, including items of clothing, porcelain, farm implements, and more. The garden outside is also part of the exhibition, and is a delightful oasis that will make you want to linger.
San Cristóbal Castle
History buffs will want to stop at the remains of the city's onetime main defensive fort, with a fascinating museum attached.
Remains of a major defensive bastion.
Here below the Plaza de España you'll find the ruins of the city's onetime main defence bastion, which today should be part of any history buff's local itinerary, breathing history as they do. From the period of its construction around the middle of the 16th century, this fortification has been an iconic spot, and today the interpretive centre within its remaining walls goes into interesting detail about the defensive systems of the time, not just of this fort but also others of the Canary Islands. Among its wide collection of artifacts and relics, pride of place is given to its central attraction, a legendary 18th-century cannon dubbed "El Tigre" ("The Tiger"), which also has a bit of local lore attached to it. It's said that it was the weapon that claimed the arm of British admiral Horatio Nelson when his forces were besieging the city .
Cave of the Wind
This large group of lava tubes will leave you with some unforgettable memories.
An extraordinary underground experience near Icod de los Vinos.
Get ready for one of Tenerife's more dramatic attractions, located up in its northwest near the town of Icod de los Vinos. Here's where you'll find Europe's largest complex of underground lava tubes, some 20 kilometres' (12 miles') worth. Just a portion is open to the public, via guided tour, but it's still an unforgettable experience, thanks to its spectacular sights and geological/archaeological richness. Major finds of aboriginal remains have been made here and these caverns have also been a key centre for volcanic studies.
Museum of Science and the Cosmos
The planetarium and exhibitions here are very hands-on, fun, and educational for both young and not-so-young.
An internactive favourite that's especially apt for families.
It's well worth the trip to San Cristobal de La Laguna, west of the city, because this singular structure offers one of the most interesting cultural visits on the island. Here it's all about "interactive'', because the idea of the museum is to teach through experiments and activities - brilliant not just for the youngsters (who can be kept entertained for hours) but for anyone interested in science. One of its central attractions is the planetarium, which takes you across the universe via cool holograms. Other areas not to miss include the labyrinth of mirrors and a whole section devoted to the human body. If you're planning a visit, keep in mind that, as in the island's other museums, the entrance is waived on Friday and Saturday afternoons.
La Laguna Cathedral
One of the Canary Islands' two cathedrals is another window into the history of Tenerife and the archipelago as a whole.
A grandiose landmark from when La Laguna was Tenerife's capital.
The Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a gigantic church consecrated when La Laguna was the capital of Tenerife. The walls that support it recount different episodes in the island's history; in fact, through it you can trace a chronological map of the city's architecture, leading up to the present century. Its history began in the 16th century and continues through neo-Gothic and neoclassical renovations. One of its unique features is that it is the only cathedral with concrete walls. The latest renovation was completed in 2013, using cutting-edge construction materials and techniques. It's one of just two cathedrals in the Canary Islands (the other being Gran Canaria's Cathedral of Santa Ana).
Teno Point Lighthouse
One of the island's most important lighthouses.
Historic lighthouse, epic views.
One of the most important of Tenerife's seven historic coastal lighthouses was inaugurated in 1897 on the cliffs of Teno, in one of the most rugged parts of the island. Architect José Soler Sanz insisted it be built with stone from La Gomera despite its greater cost. In 1978 an even taller tower, 20 metres (66 feet) high, was built alongside it, and the older, still-standing structure can be visited today. It's a little tricky to get out here due to the terrain, but you'll be rewarded with some truly spectacular views.
San Felipe Castle
A 16th-century fort in Puerto de la Cruz, impressive for its history and its views.
An old bastion against pirates.
Located in the northern town of Puerto de la Cruz, San Felipe was one of four castles located in different parts of the island for its defense. Built in the 16th century, it played an important role in repelling attacks from pirates which were common in the Atlantic in the 16th and 17th centuries (and where there were pirates, there are legends of buried treasure, and Tenerife is no exception); the cannons that played a role in that defense are still on display here. In the 19th century the fort was used as a sanatorium and nursing facility. Its location in the upper district of Puerto de la Cruz, over the famous Playa Jardín (Garden Beach) assures impressive views indeed.
Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France
Classical Roman meets Moorish in a unique Canarian synthesis.
Testament to a blending of cultures.
This Catholic church is an example of the many Tenerife landmarks and sites that are testimony to the cultural blending that has occurred here over the centuries. As of its renovation in the 17th century, the church reflects various architectural styles. The three central naves display the Roman architectural influence found throughout much of Europe. Mixed with that, though, are Mudejar (Moorish-derived) elements and Arabic roof tiles, reflecting the centuries of Moorish influence in Iberia. The high altar depicts the figure for whom the church is named, Our Lady of the Rock of France, one of the island's most revered madonnas. There are also several key artworks not to miss, such as the five canvasses attributed to San Manuel de la Cruz.
House of the Balconies
Between its balconies you can breathe tradition, crafts and culture. Good place to meet.
Immerse yourself in the culture of the island.
The Casa de los Balcones is located in the town of La Orotava, one of the almost lost paradises of the island. This little town has hardly changed since the 17th century. Many of its houses maintain their original architecture, which makes it one of the best historical testimonies on the island. Here you can learn more about the culture of Tenerife. One of these houses is the House of the Balconies. Behind its spectacular balcony and its interior patio hides one of the greatest handicraft heritage on the island. This museum has become one of the key points for selling and learning about the customs and traditions of the place, as far as crafts are concerned. Here are kept the secrets of an aboriginal culture that mixed with Spanish and European civilization, giving rise to what it is today.
Plaza de Europa
Because of its location and the important buildings around it, a good place to start your explorations of Santa Cruz.
A key urban plaza
In the middle of the city of Santa Cruz is one of its most important squares: Plaza Europa, a modern affair built in 1992 which in its short existence has become a symbol of the city and a busy centre of activity. Surrounding it you'll find the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Museum of Nature and Man, and there's also a lovely outlet to the sea via a walled promenade lined with 18th and 19th-century cannons that together with other surrounding stone walls give the space an antique fortresslike feel.
El Teide Park
Spectacular volcanic beauty, and you can climb it by vehicle or on foot.
Spain's highest peak is an absolute must-visit.
Spain's loftiest peak and Tenerife's most distinctive landmark is also the most unforgettable experience you're likely to have on the island. The surrounding national park of arid/volcanic landscape sets it apart from the rest of the island, but of course the centrepiece is El Teide volcano, 3,718 metres (12,198 feet) high. You can drive up here on your own or with a wide choice of organised tours, or you can choose to climb on foot all the way up to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.
Our Lady of Candelaria Basilica
Dating back centuries, this beloved church's latest incarnation is neoclassical and distinctly Canarian.
A basilica which honours Tenerife's patron saint.
A mix of grandiose and simple, this neoclassical basilica named for the patron saint of Tenerife, the Virgin of Candelaria, stands on the spot where according to legend the image of the virgin was found by the aboriginal Guanches in 1390. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, it's managed to survive wars, conquests, fires, and sacking. The most recent reconstruction took place in 1948, giving it a distinctly Canarian look. Today it is widely beloved among island residents. Each February 2 and August 15 the faithful show up in force to honour the Virgin.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Auditorium
By renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, the Canary Islands' most famous building also boasts a wonderful programme of performances.
An architectural and cultural landmark
Officially named after then Canarian president Adán Martín, this 2003 concert hall designed by renowned Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava is the home of the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra. And true to form, Calatrava's dramatic futuristic design took the Canaries by storm, with its interplay of enormous swooping white geometric forms 50 metres (164 feet) high. The intention was to create a building with a unique sense of dynamism, and its suggestion of a wave crashing on a shore certainly does that in spades - also giving it a highly distinctive silhouette that can be seen from the entire area. The performance schedule isn't limited to symphonic music, but as one of the island's premier performance venues hosts a wide variety of shows.
The Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree
An impressive and ancient botanical specimen in Icod de los Vinos.
An island icon
In the town of Icod de los Vinos on the north side of the island, this impressive specimen of Dracaena draco, the Canary Island Dragon Tree, is called the 'Drago Milenario' because it was thought to be more than a thousand years old (now it's been estimated at less than 1,000 — regardless, it's the oldest of its kind). What's unmistakable is its majesty; 18 metres (59 feet) tall, it spreads its branches as if they were countless arms. Legend has it that a merchant pursuing an indigenous Guanche maiden in this forest, ran into this tree instead. It's also said that the blood that scared the visitor and made him flee the island flows inside its trunk. In any event, this dramatic ancient tree is a must see on the island.
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