Top 5 Places to Visit on Tenerife
Author: Tenerifly Team
Published on August 2, 2025
5 min read
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a diverse paradise known for its volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and vibrant seaside towns. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, these top 5 must-visit places on Tenerife will make your trip unforgettable.
Top 5 Must-See Places in Tenerife: Volcanoes, Villages & Unforgettable Views
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a paradise of contrasts—from volcanic peaks and prehistoric forests to historic colonial towns and dramatic coastal cliffs. Whether you're an adventure seeker, culture lover, or nature enthusiast, this list of the top 5 places to visit in Tenerife will help you plan a dream itinerary.
1. Mount Teide & Teide National Park
Keywords: Mount Teide, Teide cable car, Teide National Park, volcano Tenerife, summit permit Teide
Towering at 3,718 meters, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest mountain and the centerpiece of the island. It’s located in Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its otherworldly volcanic terrain. With sweeping views and unforgettable stargazing experiences, this is truly one of the best places to visit in Tenerife.
Why Visit
Ride the Teide cable car to over 3,500 meters above sea level
Explore volcanic craters, lava flows, and surreal rock formations
Stargaze in one of Europe’s top astronomical observation zones
Location: Central Tenerife (approx. 1 hr 15 min drive from Costa Adeje)
Tip: Want to hike to the summit? Secure your permit online here: Teide Summit Permit
Best photo spot: Viewpoint near La Rambleta station
2. Masca Village & Gorge
Keywords: Masca Tenerife, Masca hike, Teno Mountains, hidden gems Tenerife
Hidden in the rugged Teno Mountains, Masca Village is a picture-perfect Canarian hamlet that feels frozen in time. Surrounded by jaw-dropping cliffs and deep ravines, this charming village is a haven for hikers and photographers. The Masca Gorge hike leads down to a secluded beach—an experience not to be missed.
Why Visit
Discover Tenerife’s most scenic village with spectacular views
Experience authentic Canarian architecture and rural culture
Take on the legendary Masca hike down to the ocean
Location: Northwest Tenerife (about 1 hr 10 min drive from Los Cristianos)
Tip: Arrive early to beat the narrow mountain road traffic and secure parking
Best photo spot: Masca Viewpoint at the top of the village
3. Los Gigantes Cliffs
Keywords: Los Gigantes, Tenerife cliffs, whale watching Tenerife, sea tours Tenerife
The Los Gigantes cliffs are a jaw-dropping natural wonder, with vertical rock walls rising up to 800 meters straight from the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best ways to witness their grandeur is on a whale or dolphin watching boat tour, which often includes snorkeling and swimming in turquoise coves.
Why Visit
See one of the most dramatic sea cliffs in Europe
Spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat
Enjoy fresh seafood and ocean views at the vibrant marina
Location: West Tenerife (approx. 30 min from Costa Adeje)
Tip: Sunset boat tours offer unforgettable golden-hour views of the cliffs
Best photo spot: From a boat just offshore or the clifftop viewpoint in Acantilados de Los Gigantes
4. San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Keywords: La Laguna Tenerife, UNESCO city Tenerife, Tenerife old town, cultural Tenerife
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, or simply La Laguna, is a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Tenerife. With cobblestone streets, pastel-hued colonial buildings, and buzzing local cafés, it’s a must for history buffs and urban explorers.
Why Visit
Wander through one of Spain’s most charming historic cities
Visit artisan markets, churches, and Tenerife’s best museums
Soak up the energetic vibe of this cultural and student hub
Location: Northern Tenerife (15 min from Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Tip: Join a guided walking tour to dive into its rich heritage
Best photo spot: Calle San Agustín for colonial architecture
5. Anaga Rural Park
Keywords: Anaga Tenerife, Tenerife hiking, laurel forest Tenerife, biosphere reserve Tenerife
Located in the northeast of Tenerife, Anaga Rural Park is a lush, green world of misty peaks, prehistoric laurel forests, and cliffside trails with stunning ocean views. A designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anaga is ideal for hiking, photography, and escaping the crowds.
Why Visit
Walk through ancient forests dating back millions of years
Discover secret beaches, charming hamlets, and epic viewpoints
Enjoy a huge variety of hiking trails, from easy loops to challenging ascents
Location: Northeastern Tenerife (approx. 45 min from Santa Cruz)
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and check trail conditions before you go
Best photo spot: Mirador de Jardina or Mirador Cruz del Carmen
Bonus: Quick Map Overview
Want to see how these top spots connect? View them on Google Maps (Add your own pin locations to help plan routes.)
Final Thoughts
Tenerife is an island of astonishing diversity, where you can hike through lava fields in the morning, stroll colonial streets in the afternoon, and enjoy seafood by sunset. These top 5 places to visit in Tenerife offer a complete experience of the island’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures.
Whether you’re planning a short escape or a full island tour, don’t miss out on these unforgettable highlights.
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a paradise of contrasts—from volcanic peaks and prehistoric forests to historic colonial towns and dramatic coastal cliffs. Whether you're an adventure seeker, culture lover, or nature enthusiast, this list of the top 5 places to visit in Tenerife will help you plan a dream itinerary.
1. Mount Teide & Teide National Park
Keywords: Mount Teide, Teide cable car, Teide National Park, volcano Tenerife, summit permit Teide
Towering at 3,718 meters, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest mountain and the centerpiece of the island. It’s located in Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its otherworldly volcanic terrain. With sweeping views and unforgettable stargazing experiences, this is truly one of the best places to visit in Tenerife.
Why Visit
Ride the Teide cable car to over 3,500 meters above sea level
Explore volcanic craters, lava flows, and surreal rock formations
Stargaze in one of Europe’s top astronomical observation zones
Location: Central Tenerife (approx. 1 hr 15 min drive from Costa Adeje)
Tip: Want to hike to the summit? Secure your permit online here: Teide Summit Permit
Best photo spot: Viewpoint near La Rambleta station
2. Masca Village & Gorge
Keywords: Masca Tenerife, Masca hike, Teno Mountains, hidden gems Tenerife
Hidden in the rugged Teno Mountains, Masca Village is a picture-perfect Canarian hamlet that feels frozen in time. Surrounded by jaw-dropping cliffs and deep ravines, this charming village is a haven for hikers and photographers. The Masca Gorge hike leads down to a secluded beach—an experience not to be missed.
Why Visit
Discover Tenerife’s most scenic village with spectacular views
Experience authentic Canarian architecture and rural culture
Take on the legendary Masca hike down to the ocean
Location: Northwest Tenerife (about 1 hr 10 min drive from Los Cristianos)
Tip: Arrive early to beat the narrow mountain road traffic and secure parking
Best photo spot: Masca Viewpoint at the top of the village
3. Los Gigantes Cliffs
Keywords: Los Gigantes, Tenerife cliffs, whale watching Tenerife, sea tours Tenerife
The Los Gigantes cliffs are a jaw-dropping natural wonder, with vertical rock walls rising up to 800 meters straight from the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best ways to witness their grandeur is on a whale or dolphin watching boat tour, which often includes snorkeling and swimming in turquoise coves.
Why Visit
See one of the most dramatic sea cliffs in Europe
Spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat
Enjoy fresh seafood and ocean views at the vibrant marina
Location: West Tenerife (approx. 30 min from Costa Adeje)
Tip: Sunset boat tours offer unforgettable golden-hour views of the cliffs
Best photo spot: From a boat just offshore or the clifftop viewpoint in Acantilados de Los Gigantes
4. San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Keywords: La Laguna Tenerife, UNESCO city Tenerife, Tenerife old town, cultural Tenerife
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, or simply La Laguna, is a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Tenerife. With cobblestone streets, pastel-hued colonial buildings, and buzzing local cafés, it’s a must for history buffs and urban explorers.
Why Visit
Wander through one of Spain’s most charming historic cities
Visit artisan markets, churches, and Tenerife’s best museums
Soak up the energetic vibe of this cultural and student hub
Location: Northern Tenerife (15 min from Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Tip: Join a guided walking tour to dive into its rich heritage
Best photo spot: Calle San Agustín for colonial architecture
5. Anaga Rural Park
Keywords: Anaga Tenerife, Tenerife hiking, laurel forest Tenerife, biosphere reserve Tenerife
Located in the northeast of Tenerife, Anaga Rural Park is a lush, green world of misty peaks, prehistoric laurel forests, and cliffside trails with stunning ocean views. A designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anaga is ideal for hiking, photography, and escaping the crowds.
Why Visit
Walk through ancient forests dating back millions of years
Discover secret beaches, charming hamlets, and epic viewpoints
Enjoy a huge variety of hiking trails, from easy loops to challenging ascents
Location: Northeastern Tenerife (approx. 45 min from Santa Cruz)
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and check trail conditions before you go
Best photo spot: Mirador de Jardina or Mirador Cruz del Carmen
Bonus: Quick Map Overview
Want to see how these top spots connect? View them on Google Maps (Add your own pin locations to help plan routes.)
Final Thoughts
Tenerife is an island of astonishing diversity, where you can hike through lava fields in the morning, stroll colonial streets in the afternoon, and enjoy seafood by sunset. These top 5 places to visit in Tenerife offer a complete experience of the island’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures.
Whether you’re planning a short escape or a full island tour, don’t miss out on these unforgettable highlights.