In this post, I will help you to decide Where to stay in Tenerife (for first-time visitors, without a car, for couples, families). I will help you find the best areas to stay in Tenerife (along with a video and map), the best hotels in Tenerife for all budgets.
In some ways, Tenerife has two distinct parts, Tenerife North, and Tenerife South. The south is hotter and drier as a rule, but the differences are not enormous.
- South Tenerife is the best overall area to stay in Tenerife if you are first-time travelers, you want an amazing beach vacation, lively nightlife, and close to the main international airport, and tourist-style resorts.
- North Tenerife is a better choice if you are a hiker, you want greener landscapes, less touristy, and more local Spanish feel.
Where to stay in Tenerife for the first time?
The best areas to stay in Tenerife for tourists and first-timers are Costa de Adeje, Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, El Medano, Puerto de Santiago, and Los Gigantes in South Tenerife, as well as Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, La Laguna in North Tenerife.
These areas offer a diverse range of experiences, from pristine beaches and water sports to cultural attractions and historical charm, ensuring that first-time visitors to Tenerife have a memorable and well-rounded vacation.
Costa de Adeje, Los Cristiano, Puerto de la Cruz, and Playa de las Americas are the best places to stay in Tenerife without a car. There is a tourist train between Costa Adeje to Los Cristianos with stops in Playa de las Americas. You can easily find buses and taxis in major towns and resorts.
| đź’– Best Area for first-timers: | Costa de Adeje |
| đź’Ž Best luxury hotel: | Iberostar Selection Sábila – Adults Only |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Hotel Jardin Tropical |
| đź’° Best budget hotel: | Sunset Harbour Club By Diamond Resorts |
Overviews of best places to stay in Tenerife
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Tenerife for first-time visitors:
| Best areas in Tenerife for first-time tourists | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Costa de Adeje | Located in the southwestern part of Tenerife, Costa de Adeje offers beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular choice for tourists. |
| Playa de las Americas | Situated adjacent to Costa de Adeje, Playa de las Americas is known for its lively atmosphere, stunning beaches, bustling promenade, and a wide range of entertainment options. |
| Los Cristianos | Found on the southern coast, it offers a more relaxed vibe with a picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and a range of dining options, making it suitable for families and couples. |
| El Medano | Located on the southeastern coast, El Medano is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with its famous windsurfing and kiteboarding spots, along with a relaxed and laid-back vibe. |
| Puerto de Santiago | Nestled in the western part of the island, Puerto de Santiago offers stunning cliffs, tranquil beaches, and a quieter atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and nature lovers. |
| Los Gigantes | Situated close to Puerto de Santiago, it offers dramatic cliffs, breathtaking views, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. |
| Santa Cruz de Tenerife | As the capital city of Tenerife, Santa Cruz showcases a mix of historical and modern attractions, including impressive architecture, cultural events, shopping districts, and a vibrant carnival. |
| Puerto de la Cruz | Located on the northern coast, Puerto de la Cruz is a charming town known for its traditional architecture, beautiful botanical gardens, black sand beaches, and the iconic Lago Martianez pool complex. |
| La Orotava | a picturesque town renowned for its colonial architecture, charming old town, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. |
| La Laguna | Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Laguna is a historic city known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and its status as a university town. |
Map of areas and towns in Tenerife:
🎬 check out this video about Tenerife’s neighborhoods, the full video is at the end of this post:
The Best areas to stay in Tenerife for tourists are:
1. Costa de Adeje, best overall area to stay in Tenerife for first-timers
Costa de Adeje is the best place to stay in Tenerife for first-time travelers because it is one of the most popular tourist resorts in Tenerife South that offers beautiful sandy beaches, world-class entertainment, luxurious hotels, and vibrant nightlife.
Costa de Adeje is an up-market resort and is conveniently located only 20 minutes drive by car from South Tenerife airport, as well as close to the party capital Playa de las Américas and Teide nature park with the volcano.
The beaches in Costa de Adeje are among the best beaches on the Canary Islands. The beaches are well-serviced with calm waves. There are:
- Playa del Duque,the blue flag beach with a golden sand beach and turquoise water.
- Playa Paraiso, a tranquil cove.
- Playa Fanabe, an extensive black sand beach
- Playa Blanca, a popular diving beach.
- Playa del Bobo, a man-made cove with black volcanic sand.
Playa del Duque is surrounded by shopping centers and five-star hotels. Much of the daytime activity in the town takes place along its pleasant seafront promenade. It is packed with fashion boutiques, good-quality cafes, and restaurants that serve both Canarian and international cuisine.
The beaches offer plenty of water activities. You can take boat tours to see dolphins and whales and enjoy watersports such as windsurfing, sailing, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, banana boats, parascending, and fly fish .
You can take boat trips from Puerto Colon marina. There are dolphin and whale watching cruise which around 3 to 5 hours.
The Coast of Adeje is an ideal resort for families because it is home to Tenerife’s two best water parks, including:
- Siam Park, one of the most reputable Thailand-themed water parks in Europe with over 10 rides and lots of attractions.
- Aqualand, smaller but it has incredible dolphin shows, themed pools, and 500-metre-long lazy river.
Costa de Adeje is also located next to the town the Barranco del Infierno (Hell’s Gorge), which is one of the island’s most-visited natural sites (after Mount Teide), and is must-see for nature and adventure lovers. You can enjoy hiking, spot birds, visit caves and the island’s highest waterfall.
Golf enthusiastic will love to visit the Golf Costa Adeje, 18 hole championship golf course. It was designed by famous golf architect Jose Gancedo.
Costa Adeje has a lively nightlife. There are many English, Scottish and Irish bars around the San Eugenio area, while exclusive restaurants and top-quality bars can be found around Playa del Duque area. Live music, pubs, terraces, nightclubs are everything you need to make an amazing night out.
There are plenty of shops around town, as well as martkets, and shopping malls near by such as the Fañabe Street Market, the Centro Comercial Plaza del Duque, the Gran Sur Shopping Centre, and Siam Mall.
Costa de Adeje has a wide range of accommodation options, and it also has Tenerife’s most 5-star hotels and resorts. The town is ideal for families, couples, luxury travelers, beach lovers, and party-goers.
Stay in Costa de Adeje if you are a first-time tourist; you want family-friendly tourist resort town; you want a great nightlife;
Best places to stay in Tenerife in Costa de Adeje for first-timers:
- luxury ($$$): Iberostar Selection Sábila – Adults Only
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Jardin Tropical
- budget ($): Sunset Harbour Club By Diamond Resorts
2. Playa del Duque, lots of 5-star hotels and exclusive resorts
Playa del Duque is a luxury beach located in Costa Adeje area, only 20 minutes by car from South Airport. The beach is surrounded by the luxurious Bahia del Duque hotel and Mirador shopping center.
Located between La Caleta and Playa de Fañabé, el Duque beach has artificial golden sands, crystal-clear, calm, shallow waters, making it a safe beach for families with small kids. The beach is awarded the Blue Flag for its clean, safe and well-maintained.
There are plenty of water sport activities such as banana boat, cliff-jumping, jet ski, wakeboard, and parasailing. Or if you dont feel a water sport, you can just relax and sunbathing on the beach.
You can rent umbrellas, sunbeds, and parasols along the beach. Other facilites include toilets, changing rooms, showers. There are vendors selling fruits around.
There many stylish restaurants and cafés on its beach promenade. You can grab a meal, a drink, traditional tapas and Canarian specialties at one of its beach front restaurants, while enjoy the spectacular ocean and sunset views.
The beach promenade is a great place to take a stroll along. It connects el Duque beach with Fañabé Beach to the south, as well as El Beril and Enramada beaches to the north.
In addition to the beach, there are plenty of shopping opportunities at the Plaza del Duque Commercial Center for famous branches; the The Corner Mall Adeje near the Duque Castle; and along the El Mirador Commercial Center which is a replica of a typical Canarian village.
Best places to stay in Tenerife in Playa del Duque:
- luxury ($$$): Vincci SelecciĂłn La PlantaciĂłn del Sur
- luxury ($$$): Hotel Riu Palace Tenerife
- luxury ($$$): Iberostar Grand El Mirador – Adults Only
3. Playa de las Americas, where to stay in Tenerife for nightlife
Playa de las Americas is a popular tourist destination, located in the south of Tenerife, between Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos. It is the party capital of Tenerife where you find the most active nightlife and clubbing scene in Tenerife. Playa de las Americas attracts lots of young and young at heart who come to enjoy the sun and nightlife.
This resort town was developed in the 1960s and has established itself as the largest in Tenerife. It is very much a package holiday resort offering plenty of places to eat, drink and enjoy yourself.
Most of the nightlife is centred along Las Verónicas Strip. The strip is filled with 18 – 30 bars and clubs, cabaret bars, live music venues, shops, and restaurants that stay open until morning hours.
Playa de las Americas is home to six beaches including both natural and man-made with dark volcanic sandy beaches. The beautiful man-made beaches have golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert in Africa.
Playa Troya, Playa Honda, and Playa del Camisón, are some of the beaches in the areas that are well equipped with beach facilities like showers, sunbeds, and umbrellas, as well as bars, cafés, and restaurants.
The beach is a popular place for swimming and sunbathing. There are water sports like paragliding, water rafting, jet-skiing, scuba diving, windsurfing, and boat excursions.
Puerto Colon offers a variety of boat excursions for those looking to keep the party going, whether it be whale watching or daytime partying. The Puerto Colon Marina is a fantastic place to watch the sunsets.
There is a lovely park at the center of Playa de las Americas, Central Park of Arona. It is a public park that covers an area of 4.2 hectares. You can find attractive gardens and avenues flanked by macadamia, palm trees, tamarind, and famous dragon trees of the Canaries.
Families with kids will have a fun day out at Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park, only about 10 drive minutes from Playa Las Americas by rental cars or taxis. The Aquapark, Siam Water Park, and Jungle Park are also easily accessible from Playa de las Americas.
If you love shopping, head to Oasis Shopping Center on the famous Golden Mile. There is a wide range of cosmetics, jewellery, electronics and fashion shops, along with restaurants, cocktail bars, and live shows.
For golf enthusiastic, you have Vivo Mini Golf Treasure Island, Golf las AmĂ©ricas, an 18-hole course, and Golf del Sur for more skilled golfers. There’s one of the most important Electronic events in Spain, the Arona Summer Festival, in August each year in the Olympic Stadium.
As a popular beach resort on the island, Playa de las Americas has a wide selection of accommodation options for all budget. There are hotels, apartments, beach houses, villas, resorts, and B&B.
Stay in Playa de las Americas if you are looking for vibrant nightlife after a day in the sun; you don’t mind crowded; you’re a young traveler looking for fun night out with affordable hotels.
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife in Playa de las Americas for first-timers:
- luxury ($$$): Mediterranean Palace
- mid-range ($$): Regency Country Club, Apartments Suites
- budget ($): Parque Santiago III
See Also:
- Where to Stay in Tenerife for Couples
- Where to Stay in Tenerife for Families
- Where To Stay In Lanzarote
4. Los Cristianos, where to stay in Tenerife for families
Los Cristianos is a very popular area with families with young children, older couples and singles who want laid-back area. This resort is also conveniently located next to Playa Las America, just 15 km from the Reina Sofia airport and easily accessible from its ferry port.
Los Cristianos was once a quiet fishing village but has developed into a thriving International tourist resort. Los Cristianos Harbour still has fishing boats, as well as ferries to the Castillo San Miguel (Garajonay National Park) in La Gomera island, and many whale and dolphin watching excursions.
Los Cristianos has many golden sand beaches, plenty of restaurants, and cafes that cater to all nationalities. The Playa de los Cristianos, El CamisĂłn, and Playa de las Vistas are popular spots with lots of watersports and children’s playground.
If you head to the north-east from Los Cristianos, you can find Mount Guaza, a former volcano. The mountain of Guaza is rising over 400 meters above the sea level. Montaña de Guaza is a great place to hike, and from its summit, you can enjoy amazing views over the town.
Familie and kis can spend a fun day out at the zoological and botanical park, Jungle Park, with its sea lions and animal shows. Monkey Park Tenerife, Siam Park are also easily reachable by car.
With plenty of places to eat and drink, this resort caters to travelers who prefer somewhere a little quieter than Playa de las Americas. There are many duty free goods and gifts, around the old town, the port, and along the sea front.
You can find many bars, cafes and restaurants in the pedestrianised streets of the town centre and along its long promenade, Paseo de las Vistas and Avenida La Habana, which connect the town with Las Americas.
The Sunday street market is a major attraction. Likewise, the ferry connecting Los Cristianos with Santa Cruz and the other Canary Islands is another good reason to pick Los Cristianos as a base.
Los Cristianos has a wide range of accommodation options where you can find beach houses, apartments, brand hotels, villas, guest houses, and bed and breakfast.
Stay in Los Cristianos if you trave as families, couples, and solo travelers; you want a good tourist infrastructure but not a huge crowd, you may decide to visit other islands in the Archipelago;
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife Los Cristianos for first-timers:
- mid-range ($$): Hollywood Mirage – Excel Hotels & Resorts
- mid-range ($$): Boutique Hotel H10 Big Sur – Adults Only
- budget ($): Beverly Hills Heights – Excel Hotels & Resorts
5. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, capital city, North Tenerife
Santa Cruz in the northeast of Tenerife is the Island’s capital and by definition, effectively the capital of the Canary Islands, the major city on the entire Tenerife. It has been the capital of the Island since 1833.
Santa Cruz has historic districts, extensive shopping facilities, and cultural entertainment. There are numerous museums and art galleries, and exhibitions that feature works by Henry Moore, MartĂn Chirino, Joan MirĂł, and Ă“scar DomĂnguez.
In the town center, you can find Plaza de España (Plaza of Spain), the biggest public square of the Canary Islands, which was built in 1929 on the historic San CristĂłbal castle. The square has Monumento a los CaĂdos and the large attractive artificial lake.
The square is surrounded by important buildings such as Palacio del Cabildo de Tenerife, Tenerife Island Council, Palacio de la Carta, Plaza de la Candelaria, and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción.
The Cathedral of Santa Cruz was built in the 17th and 18th centuries; and Iglesia de San Fransisco, which is a lovely Catholic church built in the 19th century.
You can find the most iconic building of Tenerife, Auditorio de Tenerife Adán MartĂn, near the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava, connects the city to the ocean.
There is also a water park near the port called Parque Maritimo Cesar Manrique. The Parque MarĂtimo was designed by CĂ©sar Manrique, include three seawater pools, restaurants, and sunbathing areas.
Santa Cruz is also home to a magnificent botanical garden, Palmetum of Tenerife, containing one of the biggest collections of palm trees in the world. The Parque Garcia Sanabria with gardens and fountains is another pleasant place to relax nearby.
Santa Cruz has numerous museums for history buffs to explore. The 18th-century Museum of Nature and Archaeology is well-known for its Guanche mummies, while Tenerife Art Museum is contemporary art museum.
You can find the trendiest bars and restaurants in the Noria district. The lively bazaar and food market of Market of Our Lady of Africa on the Avenida de San Sebastián is a famous shopping area with market stalls, shops and eating places.
Santa Cruz hosts the annual Carnival of Santa Cruz in February, the second largest after Brazil’s Rio Carniva. For fifteen days, the streets of the city come alive with joie de vivre, the scenes, music and amazing rhythm.
The main beach of Santa Cruz is Las Teresitas. Playa de Las Teresitas is an unspoiled beach surrounded by palm trees. Its natural harbor remains busy and helped create wealth for the City.
As the captial city of the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has plenty choices in accommodations in a form of hotels, hostels, guest houses, villas, apartments, and B&B.
Stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife if you want some historical and cultural context to your holiday; you want a wide choice of accommodation.
Best Places to Stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
- luxury ($$$): Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey
- mid-range ($$): Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz
- budget ($): Occidental Santa Cruz Contemporáneo
6. Costa Del Silencio, small resort on the tip of south Tenerife
If you are looking for a resort a little away from the crowds, the answer may be Costa Del Silencio at the southern tip of Tenerife. The silent coast has a few beaches such as Playa Amarilla and Playa La Ballena, popular with Belgian, French, and Dutch tourists.
It is only 10 miles distant by road from Playa de las Americas but with an altogether different feel. Reina Sofia International Airport is just 2 miles away and as it is on the flight path, there is some noise, but flights are largely concentrated into Tuesdays and Fridays.
Within a short walking distance from the silient coast, you can find, Las Galletas, a small fishing village. Its seafront pedestrian promenade has some excellent restaurants, bars and cafes, while Playa Las Galletas is a black volcanic shingle beach.
You will also find the best golf courses in Tenerife, 18 hole championship courses nearby are the Golf del Sur and Amarilla Golf. There are good bus services to go to centres of the popular Las Américas and Los Cristianos, as well as golf courses nearby.
Costa Del Silencio is a residential area with plenty of holiday apartments, guest houses, B&B, and a few hotels. Make sure to read the guest reviews before booking a stay.
Stay in Costa Del Silencio if you want to avoid the crowds; you want local vibe; you want a relaxing holiday; you want stay close to the airport;
Best places to stay in Tenerife Costa Del Silencio:
- mid-range ($$): Los Moxaicos Tenerife
- budget ($): Westhaven Bay
- budget ($): Tagoro Park
7. El Medano, popular surfing town in South Tenerife
Located a 10 minutes drive from Tenerife South Airport, the bohemian surfing village of El Medano built up a reputation as a great place for windsurfers because of its winds. In recent years, high-rise developments seem to have reduced the effect of those winds.
El MĂ©dano home to some of the natural sand beaches, such as:
- Playa El MĂ©dano, a beautiful golden, sandy beach made, shallow water, making it safe for families.
- Playa de La Tejita, strong winds and nudism is allowed on the beach.
- Playa del Cabezo, best for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It is the venue for the World Professional Windsurfing Championships.
The beaches are family-friendly with sunbeds, parasols, and the beach promenade is lined with restaurants that serve fresh fish, seafood, tapas, and Spanish food.
Playa del MĂ©dano and Playa de la Tejita are separated by a volcanic cone called La Montana Roja (Red Mountain). You can hike to the top of the mountain and at its viewpoint Red Mountain lookout, you can enjoy stunning views over the sea.
There are also many cafes, shops, and restaurants around the area’s central square called Plaza de El MĂ©dano and cobblestoned back streets. The square is also home to a playground for kids to enjoy.
There are numerous markets in the town, include the Wednesday Farmer’s Market (Mercado del Agricultor), the Saturday El Medano market, and the nearby Granadilla de Abona‘s Mercado del Agricultor.
El Medano offers a relaxing holiday without the crowds of modern resorts. Plenty of restaurants and bars are still available with tapas and fresh seafood particularly favorites. The nightlife here is relaxed and casual.
There is a significant permanent ex-pat population enjoying Tenerife’s lovely climate. There are plenty of choices of budget accommodation options from apartment rentals to great value villas, but there are no luxury 5-star hotels in El Médano.
Stay in El Medano if you love surfing; you are looking for more than just a beach holiday, you enjoy a local feel; you want stay close to the airport;
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife El Medano for first-timers:
- mid-range ($$): APARTAMENTOS LOS LAURELES
- budget ($): Campobase.box
- budget ($): Edificio Teresa II
8. Callao Salvaje, quiet beach holiday in Tenerife South
Callao Salvaje is a small, quiet, hilly resort, in the south of Tenerife, directly beside Playa ParaĂso, not too distant from Playa de las Americas but far enough away to provide time to simply relax. It is an ideal place for those who want a quiet and relaxing holiday but still very close to the big resorts like the lively Costa Adeje.
There is still plenty of choice of restaurants and bars with supermarkets for that self-catering. Villas, guest houses, B&B, and apartment accommodation are plentiful in Callao Salvaje.
Small beaches and coves offer alternatives to the crowded beaches of Playa de las Americas. Playa de Ajabo is a good local beach with black sand and pebbles with sun loungers, parasols, toilets lifeguards, and restaurants for refreshments.
You can easily hop on the beach and make a trip to the surrounding areas of Playa San Juan, Playa Paraiso, and Costa Adeje. if you have a car, you can make a day trip to El Puertito, an oasis between tourist-heavy resorts.
Callao Salvaje’s small square offers stunning views at sunset. You can relax and enjoy its magical ocean views from here in the afternoon.
Stay in Callao Salvaje if you prefer a relaxing, laid-back resort; you want stay close to busier resorts of the island but not inside it; you prefer local nightlife;
Best places to Stay in Tenerife Callao Salvaje:
- luxury ($$$): H10 Atlantic Sunset
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Tropical Park
- budget ($): Atlantic Holiday Hotel
9. Puerto de Santiago, hilly, quiet town in South Tenerife
Puerto de Santiago is a small quiet and relaxed beach resort on the west coast of the island, in between Los Gigantes and Playa de la Arena. It is a small resort that will suit couples and families who want to avoid tourist crowds.
If you follow the coast road to the north, you will see Los Gigantes and its cliffs within 20 minutes. If you head to the south, you will find the Alcala town with a busy Monday market.
The very small beach, Playa de Santiago, has black sand and some basic facilities. The larger Blue Flag beach, Playa la Arena nearby is also black sand and is widely recognized for its water quality and the cleanliness of the beach.
There is a beautiful natural swimming pool nearby c alled Piscina Natural Acantilado De Los Gigantes, perfect for swimming, but keep your children safe during your visit because there could be strong waves crushing against the rock.
This charming town started life as a fishing village and has developed into an up-and-coming tourist town. You can visit Museo del Pescador, Museum of Fishermen, to learn more about its history,
Puerto de Santiago is perfect for families and couples looking for a tranquil holiday. The resort is quite relaxing and relatively peaceful. There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants, and small supermarkets and shops selling souvenirs.
Accommodation in Puerto de Santiago are mostly in the form of apartments, guest houses, villas, B&B, and small hotels.
Stay in Puerto de Santiago if you’re looking for the best place to stay in Tenerife for walking, you are happier away from crowds, you are a couple, or traveling as a family.
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife in Puerto de Santiago:
- mid-range ($$): Landmar Costa los Gigantes
- budget ($): Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur
- budget ($): El Marques Palace by Intercorp Group
10. Los Gigantes, most beautiful cliffs in South Tenerife
Los Gigantes is a charming seaside town on the southwest coast of Tenerife, located right next to Puerto de Santiago. Los Gigantes is famous for its stunning Acantilados de Los Gigantes cliffs. It is a former fishermen’s village, providing a more authentic Spanish feel than many other holiday destinations in Tenerife.
Los Gigantes’s main beach, Los GuĂos Beach, is small, natural volcanic black sand beach that offers the views of Los Gigantes cliffs. Water sports are popular with local establishments at the harbor offering scuba diving and boating in addition to standard water sports.
Los Gigantes gets its name from the large cliffs, over 2,500 feet high, north of the resort. Los Gigantes cliffs are the foot of the Teno Massive Mountains and look down on Los Guios Beach.
To have the best views of cliffs, you can also check the view point of Mirador Archipenque on the main road to Tamaimo, as well as Punta de Teno in the heart of the Teno Rural Park.
You can hike to Masca, through a ravine with lush green vegetation, all the way to the coast, and take a boat to head back to Los Gigantes. Masca was the picturesque mountain hamlet only accessible on foot or by donkey until 1960s.
Los Gigantes has a nice harbor area with many nice local cafes and restaurants. It is very popular with the British with bars and restaurants catering for their needs around the Marina, the Avenida Maritima, and the Plaza. The nightlife in the resort is otherwise limited.
Los Gigantes has plenty of holiday apartments, B&B, villas, as well as hotels. Some lodgings will offer outdoor swimming pools, a spa with a sauna, Turkish bath, as well as buffet meals and tapas.
Stay in Los Gigantes if you want to relax and quiet holiday; you’re traveling with friends, family, couples; you want to stay in the upmarket resort;
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife Los Gigantes for first-timers:
- mid-range ($$): BarcelĂł Santiago
- mid-range ($$): Ona el Marqués
- budget ($): 7Lizards – Ocean View Apartments
11. Icod de los Vinos, historic village North Tenerife
Icod de los Vinos is located in the northwest of Tenerife within the Province of Santa Cruz, 30 miles west of the Capital. It is located on the slopes of Mount Teide in a fertile valley at almost 800 feet above sea level.
With vineyards, orchards, and banana plantations, there is more to Icod de los Vinos than tourism. Therein lies one of the major appeals of the town. Several historical landmarks, manmade and natural are found here.
The historic town has traditional architecture. The main square of the town is the 16th century, Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, a social and civic meeting place for all locals.
The most symbolic landmark in Icod de los Vinos is the El Drago Milenario which is the ancient dragon tree, is said to be over 1,000 years old and is found close to the Church of San Marcos.
Icod de Los Vinos is home to a number of interesting museum. You can learn all about the history of the Guanches at the ethnographic museum, Museo Guanche. The Guanches were the first residents of the Canary Islands, dating back to about two millennia ago.
Meanwhile, Museo de Malvasia, is the family winery that is surrouned by flower plants and trees. ARTlandya has a collections of 400 dolls private dolls from all over the world.
There are few beaches in Icod de los Vinos. Playa El Monis is a 130 m black sand beach with strong waves, while Playa de San Marcos has fine black sand, good waves, and safe for swimming and sunbathing.
Another must-see attraction is the lava tunnels of Cueva del Viento. With 17km lenth, Cueva del Viento is the largest volcanic cave in the world.
Some of the cuisine in the town is found nowhere else in Tenerife, seemingly a result of it being a trading port for many years and hence having first access to foreign spices. You can try rabbit stew with Canarian potatoes, accompanied by a glass of local red wine.
Best Places to Stay in Tenerife in Icod de los Vinos:
- mid-range ($$): Hotel El Patio
- budget ($): Hotel Emblemático San Agustin
- budget ($): Hotel Emblemático San Marcos
12. Puerto de la Cruz, where to stay in Tenerife without a car
Puerto de la Cruz along with Costa de Adeje, Los Cristiano, and Playa de las Americas is one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife without a car because it is Tenerife’s main holiday resort in the north of the island. There are bus connections with Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and La Orotava.
Located on the North of the island, in the Orotava Valley, Puerto de la Cruz developed from being merely a fishing village into a major tourist resort, the largest on the Island for a time. In the summer, many from the Spanish mainland join British and German enjoying Puerto de la Cruz.
One of its appeals is the old town, packed with narrow cobbled streets and traditional colonial-style bars and cafés. You can find Calle Lomos and the Plaza del Charco del los Camerones is the meeting place of the old town, surrouned by restaurants and ice cream stalls. There is also the 17th-century church of Nuestra Senora de la Pena de Francia on the Plaza de la Iglesia.
To the northeast of Plaza del Charco, there is the Lago Martianez with a set of swimming pools, floating islands, cascading waterfalls and beautifully gardens. This complex is created by Canary Island artist Cesar Manrique.
The amazing Botanical Gardens can be found in the La Paz district. You can find tropical plants such as drunken tree, sausage tree, and 200 year old Higuera. Other gardens are at Risco Belle Aquatic Garden and Sitio Litre Garden, home to the oldest dragon tree.
Families and kids can spend a fun day out at the animal adventure park called Parque Taoro (Taoro Park).
If you have time, take a look at the Church of Our Lady of Peña de Francia, the Hermitage of San Amaro, the hermitage of San Telmo, the Banaera El Guanche (Banana Plantation and Gardens). Hotel Taoro is a huge, abandoned hotel, located below the town.
Few steps away from Plaza del Charco lies Playa Jardin black sand beach that consists of three smaller beaches, Playa del Castillo, Playa de Punta Brava, and Playa del CarcĂłn. You can find water sports, take surfing lessons, and watch the sunset.
Puerto de la Cruz has a wide range of accommodations, including numerous hotels and several residential complexes. Tourist amenities such as shops, bars, restaurants are plenty.
Stay in Puerto de la Cruz if you want a wide choice of accommodations; you are looking for more than just a beach holiday; you want a resort that caters well to couples, you want to climb Mount Teide; you travel without a car.
Best Places to stay in Tenerife in Puerto de la Cruz:
- luxury ($$$): Hotel Botanico y Oriental Spa Garden
- mid-range ($$): Puerto Palace
- budget ($): RF San Borondon
13. La Orotava, north of Tenerife within the beautiful valley
La Orotava is one of the oldest towns in the Canary Islands, founded in the early 16th century after the Spanish conquest. Located on Tenerife North, close to Puerto de la Cruz and around 30 km from the capital city, the town has a rich history and its heart is included as one of the European Cultural Heritage Protection and Monumental sites.
La Orotava is a gateway to the Teide National Park, with its 3,718-metre volcano. The Teide volcano’s summit is the highest point in Tenerife at over 12,000 feet. This biggest park on the Canary Islands is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2007.
Known as one of the most well-preserved colonial towns on the island, La Orotava is packed with colorful buildings, historic houses, churches, and plazas, including:
- the Casa de los Balcones (House of the Balconies), the historic Canarian mansion, was built in 1632 with its beautiful balcony and patio made of carved wood.
- the Casa del Turista, traditional house
- the Casa Lercaro, which was converted into a restaurant.
- the El Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), 19th century neoclassical style building
- the Plaza San Francisco
- the Plaza de la ConstituciĂłn
- the Liceo de Taoro
- the 18th century Catedral de la Concepcion.
- the Museo de artesania iberoamericana
You can take a break from sightseeing by relax at the area’s numerous green spaces and parks such as the Garden Hijuela del Botánico and the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja (Victoria Gardens).
If you head to the Mirador de Humboldt viewpoint, you will have stunning views of La Orotava valley.
You will find plenty of accommodation in the town although it has not been designed specifically for overseas tourists. There are apartments, hotels, vacation rentals, B&B.
Stay in La Orotava if you are traveling as a couple and want to explore, you are not interested in typical beach resorts, you want to experience the daily life on the Island in a typical Spanish/Tenerife town.
Best places to stay in Tenerife in La Orotava:
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Rural Victoria
- budget ($): Pension Silene Orotava
- budget ($): Hostel Tenerife
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14. La Laguna, one of the prettiest towns in Tenerife North
San Cristobal de la Laguna (La Laguna) is an ideal place for nature lovers who like hiking and outdoor activities because it is located between the Anaga mountain range and the slopes of La Esperanza, providing easy access to Teide National Park.
The historic center of La Laguna was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1999. It was the ancient capital of the Canary Islands and those wanting to experience the history and culture of Tenerife must visit La Laguna.
The old town is packed with elegant buildings from the 15-17th centuries, churches, religious buildings, and palaces.
To explore the Old Town, start from the Conception Square, which is an important square surrounded by coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and colorful buildings.
There is the Church of Immaculate Conception (Iglesia de la Concepcion). it was built in 1502 and has a beautiful bell tower that you climb and get charming views of the town.
You can stroll around some of its cobbled streets like Obsipo Rey Redondo Street. The street is home to Leal Theatre (Teatro Leal) and House of the Marquises of Torrehermossa, Aguyere Hotel.
If you’re interested in history, head to the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife and the Cayetano Gomez Felipe House Museum which was built in 1703 by a famous Canarian collector Cayetano Gomez Felipe.
Another must-see landmark is the Cathedral of La Laguna. Built in the early 1900s, it has various architectural styles including Neoclassical, Neo-Gothic, and Baroque.
Other interesting places to visit are the Church and Former Convent of St Augustine, La Laguna Market, Adelantado Square where you can find the Town Hall, grand palaces, old churches, and convents.
It is Santa Cruz’s immediate neighbor and effectively the two have become a single urban area with trams connecting all parts.
The economy is dependent upon agriculture and industry, not tourism. However, the many historic landmarks attract significant visitors each year. As a north-facing city, it does receive more rainfall from Tenerife’s prevailing winds than many other parts of the Island.
Stay in San Cristobal de la Laguna if you are looking for history and culture rather than sandy beaches, you enjoy local cuisine that is not changed to meet tourist tastes, you are a single traveler or traveling as a couple.
Best places to stay in Tenerife la Laguna for first-timers:
- luxury ($$$): La Laguna Gran Hotel
- mid-range ($$): Laguna Nivaria Hotel & Spa
- budget ($): La Asomada del Gato
15. Candelaria, fishing village on the south coast of Tenerife
Villa Mariana de Candelaria is in the east of Tenerife within the Province of Santa Cruz. Its population is 25,000 and Santa Cruz City is little more than 10 miles away to the northeast.
Candelaria is an important pilgrim site in the Canaries. It is an important location for Catholics with its most famous landmark the Basilica of Candelaria (BasĂlica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria), which is the patron saint of all the Canary Islands.
A sculpture of the Virgin Mary and its mural paintings are outstanding features.
The Festival de la CanciĂłn de Candelaria in August is one of the top fiestas in Tenerife. It is also worth visiting Candelaria during the festivals of El Carmen and Santa Ana each July.
Adjacent to the Basilica is the square of Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, where you can find nine impressive bronze statues representing the Guanche kings of the nine kingdoms the island was divided into.
You can also find numerous bars and cafés around the square where you can grab a drink and enjoy the view of the ocean.
If you love history, hike up to the Museo Alfarero de Candelaria (Casa las Miquelas). It’s a small pottery museum that displays local paintings and ceramics.
The Cave of Achbinico and the Cave of Los Camellos are also eye-catching spots. It is a great example of the merging of Spanish and Guanche traditions.
If you want to buy some souvenirs, head to the shopping street called Calle Obispo Pérez Cáceres where you can find a variety of religious imagery and local crafts.
You will find a volcanic black sand-and-pebbled beach if you want some relaxation time and a swim in Tenerife’s warm waters. The beach has man-made coves, sunbeds, and many restaurants on its beautiful promenade.
Candelaria has every type of accommodation to ensure the comfort of families, couples, and single travelers. You will find lush hotels, serviced apartments, and holiday rentals.
Stay in Candelaria if you want a holiday with variety, you enjoy history and culture, especially that related to religion and Catholicism, you are not interested in typical tourists resorts and crowds.
Best places to stay in Tenerife in Candelaria:
- mid-range ($$): The Resthouse
- budget ($): Donde Brilla el Sol
- budget ($): Villa La Perla
See More:
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It is the largest of the Canary Islands off the North West Coast of Africa. While Spanish is the local language, the development of tourism has resulted in English and German being widely understood.
The summer season is from May to October and the winter season is from November to April. February is the coldest month. January is the driest month and October is the wettest with 8 mm of rain. August is the peak season along with Christmas and New Year Eve.
Tenerife is a year round destination, but it’s more attractive in winter with the cool weather, greener scenery, less crowded, better surfing, cheaper accommodations and food (except Christmas and New year eve).
Tu sum up, Costa de Adeje, Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, El Medano, Puerto de Santiago, Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the best places to stay in Tenerife for tourists. These are all popular resort towns on the island with plenty of activities and attractions for travelers.
Overall, I recommend Costa de Adeje as the best base for first visit. If you stay here, you will located within easy access to South Tenerife airport and the popular Playa de las Américas.