7 Must-See Places in Tenerife in 2024
Welcome to the mesmerising island of Tenerife, an evergreen European paradise nestled in the Canary Islands, just off the coasts of Morocco and proudly belonging to Spain.
Best Tenerife Spot to see the Sunset, Above the clouds
In this article, I'll take you on a journey through 7 places to visit that promise to make your Tenerife experience truly memorable.
From the enchanting natural landscapes to the volcanic shores, Tenerife has something for every traveller seeking adventure or tranquillity and the following places recommendations are a key to start unlocking the best of Tenerife's charm.
1. Anaga | A Nature's Canvas in the North
Explore the northern part of the island and discover the untouched beauty of Anaga. This rural park is believed to be one of the oldest parts of Tenerife, dating back millions of years, making it a haven for nature lovers, with its diverse flora and fauna creating a symphony of colours. Hike through its rich forests, offering breathtaking views of rugged mountains and deep valleys and you'll understand why Anaga is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It's a place where time seems to stand still, inviting you to connect with nature.
Insider Tip: Discover the secret trails of Anaga that locals love, and get lost immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of Tenerife
2. El Teide | Reaching New Heights Above the Clouds
At the heart of Tenerife, El Teide volcano stands tall and proud, rising up like a lighthouse with its peak elevation reaching an impressive 3,718 m, the highest in Spain. Visiting the Teide National Park and its surrounding is an experience not to miss as it is a geological treasure featuring volcanos, lava streams, craters and chimneys. Driving around this gigantic volcano takes you through a fascinating transition of landscapes, from flourishing pine forests to desolated volcanic slopes.
The road offers panoramic view points that will leave you breathless such as “Mirador de Vilaflor” and “Mirador de los Poleos”. You can comfortably drive high enough to end up catching the sunset above the clouds, which makes it quite a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Insider Tip: Reach your viewpoint along the Teide in time to enjoy the sun setting on the horizon.
3. Masca | A Timeless Mountain Village
Nestled in the Teno mountains, at a high altitude of around 750m, Masca is a unique village frozen in time. The narrow, winding streets reveal a collection of rural houses stuck to the hills and linked by trough stone walkways. Surrounded by cliffs, Masca offers a sense of isolation and tranquillity as well as being the perfect example of Tenerife’s rural architecture. This picturesque village is often referred to as the "Lost Village." Hiking to reach this place is quite challenging as the trail is a down and back route, but it is also a journey into the heart of Tenerife's history and a testament to the resilience of its people.
Fun Fact: Legend narrates that Masca is an old pirate village used as a hideout during the 16th century.
4. Puerto de la Cruz | Coastal Gem and Black Sand Beaches
Head to Puerto de la Cruz for a taste of lively Tenerife. Set the stage for a volcanic beach day, relaxing on its unique black sand beaches such as “Playa Castillo”. Explore the vibrant streets, filled with charming cafes, seafood restaurants, and local markets as well as having a walk through the Old Town. Puerto de la Cruz effortlessly combines traditional Canarian charm with modern energy, creating a delightful atmosphere for both relaxation and exploration.
Insider Tip: Try the local seafood for an authentic taste of Tenerife's culinary delights.
5. Playa las Americas | A Vibrant Scene from Surfing to Nightlife
You can’t miss Playa las Americas, the beating heart of Tenerife's tourism and nightlife scene. This vibrant area, nestled between Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos, offers an abundance of activities. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, a beach lover or a sports enthusiast, all the facilities you need are available in this area and as night falls, make sure to explore the myriad of diverse bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Fun Fact: Playa las Americas is so vibrant that it has its own microclimate – always sunny and filled with the energy of perpetual vacation.
6. Playa Naturist Diego Hernandez | Hippie Vibes
For those seeking tranquillity away from the crowds, embark on a short hike to Playa Naturist Diego Hernandez. This hidden gem is only accessible by foot, ensuring a serene and peaceful environment. The 15-minute journey leads to a peaceful beach where you can bask in the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, and embrace a different layer of freedom.
Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and spend the day at Playa Naturist Diego Hernandez for an unforgettable and peaceful beach experience.
7. Puertito de Güimar | A Unique Fishin Village
Last but not least, include a pit stop to the small fishing village of Puertito de Güimar in your Tenerife adventure. It’s a charming place perfect to get away from the hustle and bustle. Stop by “Playa del Cabezo”, a black sand beach that provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing experience. This hidden gem offers plenty of bars and restaurants serving local cuisine that are worth a try.
Insider Tip: Make sure to catch the sunset from this village’s black sand beach, leaving behind a palette of colours that will stay in your memory.
Add this places to your map, pack your curiosity and get ready for the journey.
Tenerife, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, has something for every type of traveller.
Whether you're drawn to the beauty of Anaga, the panoramic views from El Teide, or the vibrant energy of Puerto de la Cruz and Playa las Americas, each destination on this list promises a unique experience.
Buon viaggio!
We’re curated a list of more than 70 must-see places for your next adventure to the Canary island, available to access for free on Google Maps
“Cumbre clara y mar oscura, agua segura -
Clear peak and dark sea, sure rain”