Tenerife holidays

The cheapest month to travel to Tenerife can vary depending on the season, demand and availability.

Generally, winter is the most affordable time of year, so you’re looking at November, December, January and February. It’s sunny holiday weather at this time of year, so don’t forget the sun cream. Just be aware Christmas and New Year can be pricier!

May and June are also great value for money if you’d rather go when things are hotting up for summer.

During these months you can find good deals on flights and accommodation – and enjoy fewer crowds. As an added bonus, Tenerife is warm and sunny no matter when you travel!

You can’t go wrong wherever you pick! It’s a beautiful island with many amazing places to visit, and the island’s small enough that you can easily go anywhere on a day trip. But if you’re after recommendations, these are some of our favourite places to visit:

- Masca: Hidden away in the Teno Mountains, Masca village will charm your socks off with its stunning scenery, narrow streets and traditional architecture.
- Anaga Rural Park: Lush forests, stunning cliffs, and secluded beaches in the northeastern part of the island. Limber up – it's a great place for hiking and exploring.
- La Laguna: Known for its beautiful winding cobbles and cultural heritage, this historic town in the north of Tenerife is a must-visit straight out of the Middle Ages.
- Los Cristianos: Your go-to holiday spot if you’re looking to be in the heart of the action. You can expect toe-sinking sands, delicious menus, and plenty of shops, as well as tons of entertainment options.

There are lots of black sand beaches in Tenerife but there are plenty of golden and white sand beaches too! You’ll find most of them in Tenerife South, but if you’re in the mood for a tropical-looking idyll head to the north and Las Teresitas. Think palm trees and sugar-white grains, transported from the Sahara Desert.

As for those black beaches? That’s the natural style of this volcanic island. And they’re absolutely stunning! You might want to pay a visit to Playa Jardin in Puerto de la Cruz – it’s a strong contender for the nicest beach in Tenerife.

Now you’re asking! With so much to do in Tenerife, it can be hard to narrow down the must-visit spots. These three have to be our top 3 though: 

- Teide National Park: So extraordinary that it’s been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. It's a great place to make like an intrepid explorer, with hiking trails and stunning views. Don’t miss the cable car ride!
- Siam Park: This action-packed waterpark is top dog, one of the finest in the world, with a Thai-themed atmosphere and plenty of water rides and other features for all ages. We reckon it’s the best thing to do with kids in Tenerife.
- Veronica’s Strip: If you’re looking for the liveliest nightlife hub on the island, this is the place to be! Pull up a bar stool or take your feet to the dance floor – Veronica’s Strip is the life and soul of the party in Playa de las Americas.

Don’t stick with the beige Brit plate of chicken and chips! A Spanish island located off the coast of Africa, with links to the Caribbean, Tenerife’s cuisine is a tantalising blend of local delicacies, African flavours, and Latin American influences. Here are a few examples to get your taste buds going… 

- Papas arrugadas: A must-try Canarian dish made from small, salted potatoes that are boiled in their skins until they go wrinkly. They’re often served with a spicy mojo sauce.
- Conejo en salmorejo: Rabbit marinated in a sauce made from garlic, paprika, vinegar and olive oil before being sauteed or roasted.
- Ropa Vieja: A hearty stew made from shredded beef and chicken, chickpeas, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s a staple in the Canary Islands.
- Bienmesabe: Moreish creamy dessert made from ground almonds, honey, egg yolks, and lemon zest. It’s usually served with ice cream for a double win!
- Churros: Spanish doughnuts! They’re usually dipped in melted chocolate, do we need to say more?

Stay in the south of Tenerife for the main holiday action – that’s where you’ll find Tenerife’s most popular resorts: Playa de Las Américas, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje. Not to mention, some of its biggest family attractions, like Siam Park.

Prefer a gentler pace? Stay in Tenerife’s north to soak up Canarian heritage, from the cobbled streets of La Orotava to the colonial architecture of Puerto de la Cruz.

For the easiest transfer, you’ll want to fly to the closest of the two international airports to your hotel.

Tenerife South Airport (aka Tenerife South-Reina Sofia Airport):
• Most people go to Tenerife South Airport (TFS).
• Super close to the most popular resorts, including Playa de las Americas (18 km), Los Cristianos (16 km) and Costa Adeje (16.5 km), and pretty west coast spots like Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago.
• Just a quick trip from the quieter southern coast, including the area around San Miguel de Abona (12.5 km), where you’ll find San Blas and Golf del Sur.

Tenerife North Airport (or Los Rodeos Airport):
• The island’s original airport, Tenerife North (TFN) is smaller and less busy than Tenerife South.
• Handy for Santa Cruz de Tenerife (14 km) and Puerto de la Cruz (27 km).
• The best option for holidays spent exploring the quaint former capital, La Laguna (6 km), and traditional little villages.