Tenerife, a member of the Canary Islands, is the largest and the most developed of all with over 350 kilometres of wonderful coastline, excellent beaches and great nature. The island is situated on the Atlantic Ocean, about 300 kilometres from the African coast and it is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe.
The southern part of the island is perfect for relaxing on the beach, swimming and water sports, especially windsurfing. The northern part of the island has beautiful landscapes.
Exploring the Island
Tenerife is a popular destination for its year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and diverse landscapes. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to this beautiful island.
Teide National Park
One of the most popular attractions in Tenerife is Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the highest peak in Spain, Mount Teide. Visitors can take a cable car up to the summit to enjoy breathtaking views of the island or hike the many trails in the park. The unique landscapes of Teide National Park, including volcanic craters and lava formations, make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Los Gigantes Cliffs
Located on the west coast of Tenerife, the Los Gigantes Cliffs are a stunning natural wonder that must be seen to be believed. These towering cliffs, which reach heights of up to 800 meters, offer incredible views of the ocean and the island’s rugged coastline. Visitors can take a boat tour to get a closer look at the cliffs or enjoy a leisurely hike along the coast.
Loro Parque
If you’re looking for a fun and educational day out, Loro Parque is the perfect destination. This popular animal park is home to a wide variety of animals, including parrots, penguins, tigers, and dolphins. Visitors can watch live shows, learn about animal conservation efforts, and even take a behind-the-scenes tour to get a closer look at the park’s operations.
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Anaga Rural Park
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the island’s more touristy areas, Anaga Rural Park offers a peaceful retreat in nature. This stunning natural park is home to dense forests, steep cliffs, and picturesque villages, making it a perfect destination for hiking and exploring. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine and culture in the nearby towns.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
No trip to Tenerife is complete without a visit to its vibrant capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This bustling city offers a mix of historic architecture, modern shopping centers, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore the many museums and galleries, sample local cuisine, or take in a performance at the famous Tenerife Auditorium.
Towns & Holiday Resorts
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital city and located in the north part of the island.
Playa de las Americas is one of the most popular holiday resorts on the island and it is located on the southern coast of the island. Playa de las Americas is also known as the new Las Vegas.
Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje comes next.
Puerto de la Cruz is another popular holiday town and well known especially by the British holidaymakers.
Beaches
Beaches are excellent here, crystal clear and peaceful. There are eight Blue Flag beaches in Tenerife for the beach lovers.
The best golden sandy beaches and wonderful coastlines are mostly situated on the south part of Tenerife and the popular beaches include; the beach of Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos and Las Galletas.
Food & Drink
When it comes to food and drink, Tenerife has a lot to offer. The island is known for its fresh seafood, such as octopus, squid, and various types of fish. There are also plenty of local restaurants that serve traditional Canarian cuisine, which is a mix of Spanish and African influences. Some popular dishes include papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) with mojo sauce, gofio (toasted maize flour), and grilled meats.
Shopping
For those who love shopping, Tenerife has many options to explore. There are several markets throughout the island, such as the famous Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa in Santa Cruz, which sells a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and other goods. There are also several shopping centers, including the modern Siam Mall and the traditional El Corte Inglés, which has multiple locations throughout the island.
Nightlife
As for nightlife, Tenerife is known for its lively party scene, particularly in the resort areas of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. There are many bars, clubs, and pubs that cater to all tastes and ages, from relaxed beach bars to high-energy nightclubs. There are also several casinos on the island for those who enjoy gambling.
Lodging
When it comes to lodging, Tenerife has plenty of options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Many visitors choose to stay in the southern part of the island, where most of the tourist activity is concentrated, but there are also quieter areas in the north for those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.
Getting There
There are many direct flights to Tenerife from many major cities of Europe and the world. Flying to the other islands of the Canary Islands and then getting to Tenerife by ferries is another option for getting to the island.
There are two airports on the island that include; Tenerife South Reina Sofia Airport (TFS) and Tenerife North Airport (TFN).
