Practical tips for visiting Tenerife
Airports
Tenerife has two airports. Tenerife South (TFS), Reina Sofía, near Los Cristianos, handles most international flights. Tenerife North (TFN), near La Laguna, serves mainly inter-island and mainland Spain flights. Titsa buses connect both airports to resorts and Santa Cruz. Taxis from the south airport to Costa Adeje cost about €30 to €40.
Getting around
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island, especially Teide, Masca and Anaga. Roads are good, but mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Titsa buses are reliable and cover most of the island; the Ten+ travel card offers discounts. The tram links Santa Cruz and La Laguna.
Best time to visit
Tenerife has been dubbed the island of eternal spring. Winter temperatures on the coast are about 20 to 23°C, summer about 26 to 30°C. The south is sunnier and drier; the north is greener with more cloud. Teide can be snowy in winter and cold at night year-round. Occasional calima (dust from the Sahara) brings haze and heat.
Budget
Tenerife offers good value compared to other European destinations. Mid-range hotels cost €90 to €180, apartments less, and luxury resorts €300 and more. Meals in local restaurants cost €12 to €25. The Canary Islands have a lower tax rate (IGIC) than mainland Spain's VAT, so some goods, including alcohol and tobacco, are cheaper.
Altitude and weather safety
Driving from sea level to 2,000 metres means temperature differences of 15°C or more. Bring warm clothing and sunscreen for Teide. Check weather forecasts and road closures, as snow or fires can close access roads. Wildfires are a risk in summer; follow official warnings.
Hiking
Use official trail information and respect permit systems. Carry water, wear proper footwear and avoid hiking alone in remote areas.
Language
Spanish is the language, with a Canarian accent. English and German are widely spoken in resorts.
Safety
Tenerife is safe. Be cautious with timeshare touts in resorts, and don't leave valuables in parked cars at trailheads.
Sea safety
The Atlantic can have strong currents and large waves, especially on the north coast. Swim at beaches with lifeguards and respect flag warnings.
Getting from Tenerife South airport
Titsa buses 111 to Santa Cruz and 343 to Puerto de la Cruz and others run from the airport. Pay with a contactless card or buy the Ten+ card. Taxis are metered, and car hire desks are in arrivals.
Eating out and meal times
Canarian meal times are later than northern Europe: lunch around 13:30 to 15:30 and dinner from 20:00. Guachinches often open only for part of the year, while new wine lasts. Many fish restaurants close one day a week; check before driving.
Sun and UV
Tenerife lies at a latitude close to the Sahara, and UV levels are high even in winter. Use high-factor sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, especially at altitude on Teide where UV is even stronger.
Mobile and money
Spain is in the EU, so EU roaming rules apply. The euro is used, and cards are widely accepted. Some guachinches only accept cash.
Shopping
Bring back mojo sauces, Canarian goat cheese (such as Queso Flor de Guía from Gran Canaria or local cheeses), almogrote (a spicy cheese paste from La Gomera), wine and honey rum (ron miel). Lace and embroidery are sold in La Orotava.
Time zone
The Canary Islands are one hour behind mainland Spain, on the same time as the UK and Portugal. Keep this in mind when booking flights and activities.
Booking popular activities
Teide summit permits, Masca Gorge descents and stargazing tours fill quickly in winter and around Easter. Book the cable car on the official Volcano Teide website for the slot before your summit permit, and keep the confirmation emails, as the cable car closes on windy days. Whale-watching trips are easier to book a day or two ahead.
Weekends and holidays
Tenerife's residents flock to the beaches, Teide and Anaga on weekends and public holidays, and car parks at popular trailheads such as Cruz del Carmen fill early. Visit the busiest places on weekdays if you can.
Driving on Teide
Several roads cross the national park: TF-21 from La Orotava and from Vilaflor, TF-24 from La Laguna and TF-38 from Chío. Fill up with fuel before climbing, as there are no petrol stations inside the park. Watch for cyclists and don't stop in non-designated places.
Where to swim
Southern beaches are generally calmer, while the north coast can have strong waves. Natural lava pools such as those in Garachico, Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo are popular but close in heavy swells. Follow the instructions of lifeguards.
Clothing
Pack layers and a jacket for the mountains and the north.
Emergencies
Dial 112. Tap water is generally safe in many areas but often tastes of minerals; many people drink bottled water.
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