Compare Tenerife holidays

The best things to do in Tenerife

Beyond the sun lounger, Tenerife offers adventures galore. You can climb volcanic peaks for otherworldly views, explore historic towns or squeal as you whizz down water slides. Pure relaxation or adventure? You decide.

Mount Teide National Park: Visit Spain's highest peak (which is 3,715m; 12,188ft) and ride the cable car above the lunar-like landscape of craters and lava fields. The island-wide views from near the top are spectacular.

Whale watching: Set sail from the south-west coast to explore the waters that are a year-round home to pilot whales and dolphins. Seeing these marine mammals in their natural habitat is a truly humbling experience.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna: Step back in time in this UNESCO-listed city in the north of the island. It was one of the first cities in the Canary Islands and during a visit you can peek into historic churches, admire pastel-coloured mansions and watch the world go by over coffee in a traditional pavement café.

Masca Valley: Discover rural Tenerife away from the crowds in the tiny village of Masca that clings to a dramatic ravine. The winding drive here isn’t for the faint hearted – but you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views.

Best activities for families

Tenerife is a fantastic choice for a family holiday, offering adventures beyond the beach (but plenty of beach fun, too!). From world-class water parks to treetop activities, you'll find exciting, educational experiences to keep children of all ages entertained year-round.

Siam Park is a world-class water park where kids big and small will love its wave pools and beach, and The Lost City kids' zone with a playground and slides. It's an incredible day out set within a stunning, jungle-like Thai landscape.

Forestal Park Tenerife is a treetop adventure in a pine forest near San Cristóbal de La Laguna in the northeast of the island. With circuits graded by difficulty, the whole family can tackle zip-lines and rope bridges for an active day away from the coast.

Cueva del Viento is Europe's largest volcanic tube and the kids will love exploring it on a guided tour. You’ll earn brownie points for taking your family into this cool, subterranean world – but book well in advance to ensure you get a slot.

What to eat and drink

Tenerife's food scene combines Spanish tradition with fresh island produce, just-off-the-boat seafood and even some Michelin stars. From rustic family-run guachinches serving hearty stews to seafront spots grilling the day's catch, there's a place to eat for every palate. Complement your meals with a glass of the unique volcanic wines grown on the island's fertile slopes.

Must-try dishes

Papas arrugadas: The Canary Islands’ famous wrinkled potatoes are made by boiling new potatoes in heavily salted water and letting it evaporate. They are served with spicy mojo sauce.

Ropa Vieja Canaria: Translated as “Canarian old clothes”, this stew was traditionally made out of leftovers. It’s typically a mixture of meat (chicken, beef or pork), chickpeas, potatoes, tomatoes, onion, garlic and other vegetables.

Wreckfish: This fish (often called cherne on menus) is caught off Tenerife and is usually grilled or barbecued. Parrotfish is another local fish to try.

Where to shop in Tenerife

From bustling markets to stylish boutiques, there are plenty of shopping opportunities on Tenerife. Local artisans make unique Canarian crafts you can take home, from handmade pottery to delicious local honey.

Siam Mall: This large, open-air shopping centre in Costa Adeje has more than 80 shops, with independent boutiques and big brands plus plenty of cafés for a mid-shop break.

Calle del Castillo: The main pedestrianised shopping street in Santa Cruz has a more local feel. It's lined with international chains and Spanish department stores, with places to eat perfect for people-watching.

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África: Dating back to 1944, this Santa Cruz market is a feast for the senses. Browse stalls selling fresh produce and artisan cheese, or pick up authentic souvenirs like mojo sauce.

Centro Comercial Safari: On the 'Golden Mile' in Playa de las Américas, this upmarket complex is ideal for evening browsing. Peruse designer stores before enjoying its evening fountain show.

Casa de Los Balcones: For authentic crafts, visit this 17th-century mansion in La Orotava. You’ll be able to buy traditional Canarian embroidery and pottery, and learn about the island’s history while shopping.