What to visit in Tenerife in four days
Tenerife, located off the coast of Africa in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, is the largest and most diverse island of the Canary archipelago. With a mild climate year-round, landscapes sculpted by lava and wind, and the majestic Teide watching over from above, the island is a true paradise for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, and flavor.
Throughout this guide, you’ll discover the island’s most fascinating contrasts, alternating between the north and south so you can make the most of each day. From trails winding through volcanoes to sunsets over cliffs, panoramic viewpoints, and local hidden gems, here’s everything you need to fall in love with Tenerife.
Discover why Tenerife is not just a destination to see, but one to truly live.
Day 1 and 2: what to see in northern Tenerife
Northern Tenerife is a refuge of lush nature and soulful villages. Its wetter climate creates a unique landscape, full of ancient forests, towering cliffs, and vegetation that invites you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and delve into the island’s heart.
Teide National Park and Surroundings
El Teide
At 3,718 meters, El Teide is the highest point in Spain and one of the most stunning natural wonders on the planet. In this park, you’ll walk through a lunar landscape of rocks and lava fields, as if you were on another planet. You can reach the summit by cable car or challenge yourself with a hike on foot. If you want to get to the crater, be sure to request a special permit in advance.
La Orotava
This charming town is a gem of traditional Canarian architecture. Its cobblestone streets, wooden manor houses, and blooming gardens invite you to get lost in its history. Don’t miss the Casa de los Balcones and the Plaza de la Constitución, where you can admire spectacular views of the valley and the ocean.
Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz, the island’s first tourist hub, is where old and new blend seamlessly. Besides wandering through its historic center, you can enjoy a unique experience at Lago Martiánez, designed by César Manrique, a set of saltwater pools. If you prefer nature, Playa Jardín, with its black sand, is the perfect spot to relax.
Icod de los Vinos and its Millenary Dragon Tree
Icod de los Vinos is home to one of the island’s most iconic symbols: the Millenary Dragon Tree, a legendary tree estimated to be between 800 and 1,000 years old. You can admire it for free from Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres Square or get closer by visiting the Drago Park.
Anaga Massif and Taganana Valley
Anaga and the Laurisilva Forest
Declared a Biosphere Reserve, the Anaga Rural Park offers a completely different experience from the rest of the island: winding trails through mountains covered with laurel forest, dramatic cliffs, and hidden beaches.
It’s a paradise for hiking lovers, with routes for all skill levels:
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Path of the Senses (30–60 min): Perfect for families or anyone wanting a short but deeply immersive nature walk.
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The Enchanted Forest (3–4 h): A journey to the heart of the laurel forest, surrounded by giant ferns and ancient vegetation. A permit is required to embark on this route.
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Afur – Taganana – Tamadite Beach (4–5 h): A circular trail that combines majestic mountains with the calm of the sea in an indescribably beautiful setting.
The Visitor Center provides maps to help you choose the best route for your level, ensuring you won’t get lost in this green labyrinth. Wear suitable footwear and bring a light jacket, altitude and humidity can surprise you even in summer.
Taganana Valley and Its Beaches
Nestled between the Anaga mountains, this picturesque valley is one of Tenerife’s most charming spots. White houses seem to embrace nature, while the intense blue of the ocean breaks the landscape. From the Roque de las Ánimas viewpoint, the coastal views and unmistakable volcanic geography will leave you breathless.
On the coast, wild beaches like Roque de las Bodegas are perfect for surfers, though strong waves and limited parking mean only the brave venture in. Playa de Benijo and Playa de Almáciga, less accessible, are equally spectacular and keep the wild charm that defines Anaga’s coastline.
Punta del Hidalgo
Just 30 minutes by car from San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Punta del Hidalgo is one of northern Tenerife’s most peaceful and tranquil corners. Known for its powerful waves and natural pools, it’s an ideal refuge for those looking to escape the tourist crowds.
The area offers various free-access natural pools, with showers and basic facilities so you can enjoy your day worry-free. Stairs leading directly into the sea and designated swimming areas make it a perfect spot for water lovers.
The most well-known cities in Tenerife: Santa Cruz and La Laguna
San Cristobal de La Laguna
La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautiful towns on the island. Its historic center, with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, invites you to wander without rush. From Plaza del Adelantado to the Convent of San Agustín, every corner has its own story to tell. To discover more details and curiosities, don’t miss our guide on what to see in La Laguna.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz, the capital, is much more than a cosmopolitan city. Between the impressive Plaza de España, the colorful Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, and the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife, you’ll find perfect spots for those who enjoy culture and modern architecture. If you want to get to know this vibrant city better, take a look at our article about what to see in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Charming canary coasts and villages
Garachico
Listed among the most beautiful villages in Spain, Garachico enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a historic center seemingly frozen in time. Its natural jewel is El Caletón, a group of volcanic rock pools formed by ancient lava flows, free to access and perfect for a refreshing dip facing the Atlantic. Take your time strolling through its peaceful squares and scenic viewpoints. It’s undoubtedly one of those soulful places you can enjoy without spending a cent.
Masca
Tucked between ravines and the mountains of Teno, at 680 meters above sea level, lies Masca, a tiny hamlet that seems straight out of a storybook. The road to get there is narrow and winding, but the effort is well rewarded when you arrive at one of Tenerife’s most magical spots.
Masca is the starting point for one of the island’s most iconic hikes: the descent through the Masca Gorge, which ends at a wild beach. This route requires good physical condition and careful planning, as you’ll need to arrange a boat ride back from Los Gigantes. Keep in mind that the hike now requires an advance reservation, a paid entrance, and compliance with regulated access for safety and conservation reasons.
Los Silos
Los Silos, a charming village on Tenerife’s northern coast and close to Garachico, is perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty. With its stone-paved streets, traditional Canarian architecture, and the Teno mountains in the background, wandering through Los Silos feels like stepping into a postcard.
At its heart is the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Luz, known for its white façade and historic significance. Along the coast, Puertito de Los Silos Beach is ideal for water activities such as diving or fishing, set against the dramatic landscape of the nearby ravine.
Días 3 y 4: what to see in south Tenerife
The contrast between the north and south of Tenerife is striking. While the north is known for its lush greenery and freshness, the south boasts warm, sunny weather and a more arid, volcanic landscape. Here, the sea, golden beaches, and water activities take center stage.
Sun, sports, and beaches in southern Tenerife
Playa de La Tejita
One of the largest and most unspoiled beaches in Tenerife, La Tejita lies at the foot of the striking Montaña Roja. With its constant wind, it’s a favorite spot for surf and windsurf enthusiasts.
El Médano
Just minutes from the southern airport, El Médano is a vibrant and bohemian town, considered the kitesurfing capital of Tenerife. Its beaches are wide and breezy, ideal for water sports, and the vibe is relaxed and local. From here, a popular hiking trail leads up the 171-meter-high Montaña Roja volcano, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Playa de Las Américas
The beating heart of southern Tenerife’s tourism, Playa de Las Américas is known for its lively nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere. One of its highlights is Playa de Troya, with calm waters and golden sand, perfect for those seeking relaxation without giving up on comfort.
Playa de Las Vistas y Los Cristianos
In the municipality of Arona, Las Vistas and Los Cristianos beaches are great for families. Las Vistas stands out for its accessibility and services, providing a safe and welcoming spot to enjoy the sun. Los Cristianos blends a traditional fishing village vibe with modern amenities, offering a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
Playa de San Juan
This little gem in Guía de Isora lies between volcanic rock formations and a stretch of black sand. With a calm and well-kept atmosphere, including showers and a seaside promenade, it’s an excellent option for a laid-back day by the sea.
Los Gigantes
No trip to Tenerife is complete without exploring Los Gigantes, one of the island’s most awe-inspiring locations. This picturesque village in the southwest is famous for its colossal volcanic cliffs that rise more than 300 meters above the sea. From various viewpoints around town, such as Playa de los Guíos and the Archipenque lookout, you can marvel at these stunning rock formations. For an even more unforgettable experience, take a boat tour or a kayak trip to admire this volcanic wall from the water. Los Gigantes is also one of the best places on the island for whale and dolphin watching.
Punta Teno
The westernmost point of Tenerife offers some of the island’s most spectacular views. It’s an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The sight of Los Gigantes at sunset from this vantage point is simply unforgettable.
Access by car is restricted, so be sure to check public transport schedules before planning your visit.
Montaña Roja Nature Reserve
La Tejita is a very peaceful beach in southern Tenerife, offering privileged views of the Montaña Roja volcano. Stretching for one kilometer, it is the longest natural beach on the island. The constant wind attracts surf and windsurf enthusiasts, while the eastern end is popular with nudists. It lies very close to El Médano beach, on the other side of the Montaña Roja volcano.
This wild beach is far from the more touristy areas, making it one of the best beaches in Tenerife to connect with nature and escape the crowds. We recommend bringing a sun umbrella, as it’s an open area with little natural shade.
Arico viejo
Arico Viejo is one of the main towns in the municipality. It’s a charming village with whitewashed houses and traditional Tenerife architecture, and it’s also a favorite destination among climbers, offering routes for all levels. The coastline of Arico is dotted with almost untouched beaches like El Porís, Tajao, and Abades, the latter being home to Kora Nivaria Beach. Diving, snorkeling, and disconnection are guaranteed.
El Porís de Abona y Punta de Abona
The fishing village of El Porís de Abona is one of Tenerife’s best-kept secrets. Located in a bay that’s partially sheltered from the wind, it’s a calm and cozy spot, perfect for recharging your batteries after visiting more exposed beaches. The pier area is a favorite among locals for sunbathing, grabbing a bite to eat, and taking a refreshing swim. Just a few meters further, you’ll find a small but peaceful beach with minimal rocks and gentle waves.
Just minutes from our accommodation at Kora Nivaria Beach, El Porís de Abona is an ideal getaway, whether by bike or even on foot. From there, just five minutes further by car (or about 25 minutes walking), you can reach Punta de Abona and its iconic lighthouse, one of seven on the island. Very close by, you’ll also find Playa Grande, with its golden sand, calm waters, and very few tourists, truly one of the best beaches to visit in Tenerife.
Tenerife: one island, a thousand ways to experience it
In these four days, you’ve only scratched the surface of what Tenerife has to offer. From volcanic landscapes to historic villages, every corner of the island tells its own story. If you have more time, countless wonders still await you.
This guide has outlined an itinerary to help you discover the essentials, but if you’re staying longer, you can expand your route with these other articles:
Save this guide, share it, and get ready to fall in love with every corner. Tenerife is not just a destination, it’s an experience to be lived step by step.
