What to See in Tenerife in 7 Days: Complete Guide to Exploring the Island in One Week

One week is the perfect amount of time to discover Tenerife at a relaxed pace. Unlike shorter itineraries, seven days allow you to see the island’s must-visit highlights while also exploring less touristy corners that reveal a much more authentic side of the destination.

Throughout this route, we will combine volcanic landscapes, historic towns, beaches, laurel forests, scenic roads and some of the best viewpoints in the Canary Islands. We will also set aside time to enjoy the south of the island at a leisurely pace and take part in activities at sea, creating a much more balanced trip.

If this is your first time in Tenerife, this guide will help you plan a logical and comfortable route. And if you have visited the island before, you will find different suggestions that can help you discover lesser-known places.

If you want to discover more places to visit in Tenerife, take a look at our complete guide to what to see and do in Tenerife, where you will find the best activities, towns, beaches and natural areas on the island.

This itinerary is ideal if...

• ✅ This is your first trip to Tenerife.
• ✅ You have a full week available.
• ✅ You are going to rent a car.
• ✅ You want to see both the must-visit highlights and less touristy places.
• ✅ You want to combine nature, heritage, beaches and experiences.

🚗 Approximate distance: between 650 and 700 km over the entire route.

Quick answer: What to see in Tenerife in 7 days?

If you have a week, this is the itinerary we recommend for exploring Tenerife at a balanced pace:

Day 1 · Teide National Park and the south coast

• Teide National Park
• Roques de García
• Vilaflor
• Costa Adeje

Day 2 · Historic cities and nature

• San Cristóbal de La Laguna
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Las Teresitas Beach
• Anaga Rural Park

Day 3 · The more traditional north

• Puerto de la Cruz
• La Orotava
• Icod de los Vinos
• Garachico

Day 4 · Cliffs and ravines

• Los Gigantes
• Cherfe Viewpoint
• Masca
• Punta de Teno
• Buenavista del Norte

Day 5 · Exploring Anaga at a relaxed pace

• Cruz del Carmen
• El Bailadero Viewpoint
• Taganana
• Almáciga
• Benijo Beach

Day 6 · Relaxation and experiences in the south

• Costa Adeje
• Playa del Duque
• La Caleta
• Whale and dolphin watching
• Sunset by the sea

Day 7 · Lesser-known Tenerife

• Candelaria
• Güímar
• Malpaís de Güímar
• Chivisaya Viewpoint

With this itinerary, you can explore practically the entire island without making the trip excessively intense, alternating days on the road with much more relaxed ones.

Contents

• Is one week enough to explore Tenerife?
• Day 1 · Teide National Park and the south coast
• Day 2 · La Laguna, Santa Cruz and Anaga
• Day 3 · The most beautiful towns in the north
• Day 4 · The cliffs of the west
• Day 5 · A full day in Anaga
• Day 6 · Beaches and experiences in the south
• Day 7 · Discovering the most authentic side of Tenerife
• Tips for planning your trip
• Where to stay
• Itinerary map
• Expert recommendation
• Frequently asked questions

Is it worth spending a week in Tenerife?

Yes, and it is probably the ideal length for a first trip. While three or four days require you to prioritise the must-see places, having a full week lets you discover Tenerife at a much more relaxed pace and spend time in places that are often left out of shorter itineraries.

Our itinerary divides the trip into geographical areas to avoid unnecessary driving. This way, each day focuses on a specific part of the island, allowing you to enjoy the visits without feeling as though you are spending the whole day in the car.

In addition, this itinerary combines very active days with more relaxed ones. After exploring historic towns, natural parks or mountain roads, you will also have time to unwind on the beaches in the south, watch some of Tenerife’s best sunsets and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Whatever time of year you travel, our recommendation is still to rent a car. It is the most convenient way to explore the island, reach less crowded viewpoints and adapt the route to the weather or your own interests.

Day 1 · Teide National Park and the south coast

The best way to begin a week in Tenerife is by discovering the landscape that has made the island one of Spain’s most spectacular natural destinations. During this first day, you will explore Teide National Park, drive along volcanic roads with breathtaking views and finish the day by the sea in the south of the island.

Although this stage covers quite a few kilometres, the roads are in good condition and the drive is very enjoyable, as much of the route passes through some of Tenerife’s most spectacular landscapes.

Teide National Park

Spend the morning exploring the national park at a relaxed pace. Unlike on shorter itineraries, there is no need to rush here, so you can stop at several viewpoints and walk one of the easy trails through the area.

The Roques de García are an essential stop, although it is also worth stopping at viewpoints such as La Ruleta, Minas de San José or Llano de Ucanca, which offer some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the volcano.

If the weather conditions are favourable, the landscape changes completely as you climb, moving from pine forests into a volcanic environment that is virtually unique in Europe.

💡 Recommended time: between 4 and 5 hours.

📸 One of the best places to photograph Mount Teide is around the Roques de García in the early morning, when the light falls directly on the volcanic formations.

Vilaflor

After leaving the national park, head down to Vilaflor, the municipality located at the highest altitude in the Canary Islands.

Its streets have a very peaceful atmosphere and are ideal for taking a short break before continuing towards the coast. As you stroll through the centre, you will discover traditional houses, small squares and magnificent views over southern Tenerife.

It is not a long visit, but it is a very pleasant stop to break up the journey.

💡 Recommended time: between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

Costa Adeje

The afternoon is set aside for enjoying a completely different atmosphere.

After a morning among volcanoes and pine forests, you will arrive in Costa Adeje, where you can walk along its extensive seafront promenade, relax by the sea or watch the sun set over the Atlantic.

If you still have energy, you can extend the walk to Playa Fañabé, Puerto Colón or La Caleta, all connected by a pleasant route along the coast.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

🌅 Tip of the day: if the sky is clear, stay until sunset. The light over the ocean makes this one of the best places in Tenerife to end the day.

Day summary

📍 Teide National Park
📍 Roques de García
📍 Vilaflor
📍 Costa Adeje
📍 Seafront promenade to La Caleta (optional)
🚗 Approximate distance: 160 km.
⏱ Visiting time: full day.
⭐ Must-do: explore Teide National Park without rushing.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 2 · Heritage, beaches and laurel forests

The second day brings together four of Tenerife’s most representative places. We will start the day in a UNESCO World Heritage city, continue by discovering the island’s capital, stop by the sea and finish by exploring one of the best-preserved laurel forests in Europe.

It is a very varied day with relatively little driving compared with the previous one.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Start the morning by exploring La Laguna’s historic centre.

Unlike in other cities, it is worth walking here without following an overly rigid itinerary. Its pedestrian streets hide traditional courtyards, historic buildings, old manor houses and countless charming corners.

Make sure you visit the Cathedral, Plaza del Adelantado, Iglesia de la Concepción and some of the shopping streets surrounding the historic centre.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

In just a few minutes, you will reach the island’s capital.

We recommend focusing your visit on its main landmarks: Plaza de España, the Auditorio de Tenerife, García Sanabria Park and Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África.

If you enjoy contemporary architecture, it is worth spending a few extra minutes around the Auditorio and the Palmetum.

💡 Recommended time: between 3 and 4 hours.

Las Teresitas Beach

Before heading into Anaga, stop at Las Teresitas.

Its golden sand is protected by a large breakwater, which usually keeps the sea calm, making it an excellent option for taking a break or even going for a swim if the weather is good.

Access by car is very easy, and there is a large car park right next to the beach.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Anaga Rural Park

The afternoon ends with a drive through Anaga Rural Park.

Although we will return to this area later in the trip, this first introduction allows you to discover some of its best-known places.

We recommend driving along the TF-12 and stopping at Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint and Pico del Inglés Viewpoint, two natural balconies offering magnificent views of the forests and mountains of the massif.

Both have nearby areas where you can park the car, making them very easy to visit.

🌿 Tip of the day: do not worry if you encounter fog. It is a normal part of Anaga’s landscape, and it is precisely this humidity that helps preserve its spectacular laurel forest.

Day summary

📍 San Cristóbal de La Laguna
📍 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
📍 Las Teresitas Beach
📍 Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint
📍 Pico del Inglés Viewpoint
🚗 Approximate distance: 100 km.
⏱ Visiting time: full day.
⭐ Must-do: enjoy the contrast between La Laguna’s historic heritage and Anaga’s natural scenery.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 3 · The most charming towns in northern Tenerife

The third day is dedicated to discovering Tenerife’s more traditional side. The north of the island is home to some of the best-preserved historic centres in the archipelago, towns shaped by Canarian architecture and a much greener landscape that contrasts with the south.

Unlike the previous days, today you will barely need to cover any long distances, so you can enjoy each stop more calmly and spend time wandering without following an overly rigid itinerary.

Puerto de la Cruz

Start the morning in Puerto de la Cruz, one of the Canary Islands’ most historic tourist municipalities.

We recommend exploring the old town on foot, starting at Plaza del Charco and continuing to Paseo de San Telmo. Along the way, you will find small squares, traditional buildings and countless corners with views of the ocean.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

📸 Photography tip: from Paseo de San Telmo, you will get a magnificent panoramic view of the northern coastline, especially in the early morning.

La Orotava

Less than ten minutes away by car is one of Tenerife’s most elegant towns.

La Orotava stands out for its cobbled streets, wooden balconies and old manor houses, making a stroll through its historic centre one of the most enjoyable visits on the entire island.

Make sure you visit the Casa de los Balcones, Victoria Gardens, Plaza del Ayuntamiento and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción.

Although the centre has a few hills, walking through its streets is absolutely worthwhile.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

🌄 Tip of the day: look for one of the viewpoints in the historic centre. On clear days, you will enjoy magnificent views over the La Orotava Valley and Mount Teide.

Icod de los Vinos

The next stop is home to one of the great natural symbols of the Canary Islands: the Drago Milenario, the ancient dragon tree.

As well as visiting its surroundings, spend a few minutes walking through the historic centre, where you will discover quiet squares, traditional buildings and an atmosphere very different from the island’s more touristy areas.

If you are travelling at a relaxed pace, this is a good place to take a break before continuing the route.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Garachico

The end of the day takes us to Garachico, one of those places that invites you to wander without looking at the clock.

After the volcanic eruption of 1706, the municipality reinvented itself and today preserves one of Tenerife’s most beautiful historic centres.

Walk along its cobbled streets, visit the area around Castillo de San Miguel and head to the natural pools of El Caletón. If the tide allows, this is one of the most photographed places in the north of the island.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

🌅 Tip of the day: if you can, stay until sunset. The light over the natural pools and historic centre creates a spectacular atmosphere.

Day summary

📍 Puerto de la Cruz
📍 La Orotava
📍 Icod de los Vinos
📍 Garachico
🚗 Approximate distance: 95 km.
⏱ Visiting time: full day.
⭐ Must-do: stroll through La Orotava and end the day in Garachico.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 4 · Tenerife’s most spectacular cliffs

The fourth day is reserved for discovering some of the island’s most impressive landscapes. Western Tenerife amazes with its enormous cliffs, mountain roads and small villages that seem to hang above the ravines.

This is a route where the journey itself is part of the experience, so it is worth driving at a relaxed pace and making the most of the many viewpoints you will find along the way.

Los Gigantes

Start the day by heading to the harbour in Los Gigantes or the nearby Archipenque Viewpoint.

From both places, you can admire the enormous walls of volcanic rock that drop almost vertically into the Atlantic, one of Tenerife’s most iconic sights.

Access is easy, and there are nearby areas where you can park the car.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Cherfe Viewpoint

Continue along the TF-436 road until you reach Cherfe Viewpoint, an essential stop before arriving in Masca.

From here, you get magnificent panoramic views of the Teno massif and the deep ravines that characterise this part of the island.

The viewpoint has a small pull-off area for parking, although it tends to fill up quickly during high season.

💡 Recommended time: 15-20 minutes.

Masca

The road leading to Masca is considered one of the most spectacular in the Canary Islands.

Although it has numerous bends, the road surface is in good condition and there are several pull-off areas where you can stop to admire the scenery.

Once you reach the hamlet, take your time walking through its narrow streets and enjoying the views over the ravine. You do not need to do the hiking trail to appreciate the beauty of this place.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

📸 Photography tip: one of the best views of the village can be captured from the access road, just a few metres before reaching the built-up area.

Punta de Teno

The final major stop of the day is Punta de Teno, located at the westernmost end of Tenerife.

Here you will find a completely different landscape, with a lighthouse, cliffs and privileged views towards Los Gigantes.

Before setting off, check whether there are access restrictions for private vehicles, as access may be regulated at certain times of year.

When the road is open, the drive is straightforward and there is a parking area very close to the lighthouse.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Buenavista del Norte

Before returning to your accommodation, you can make one final stop in Buenavista del Norte.

Its main square, quiet streets and local atmosphere provide the perfect contrast after a day of mountain scenery.

It is a good place to end the day with a leisurely walk before returning to the hotel.

Day summary

📍 Los Gigantes
📍 Archipenque Viewpoint
📍 Cherfe Viewpoint
📍 Masca
📍 Punta de Teno
📍 Buenavista del Norte
🚗 Approximate distance: 130 km.
⏱ Visiting time: full day.
⭐ Must-do: drive the Masca road, stopping several times at the viewpoints.
💡 Tip for this day: try to leave early. As well as avoiding some of the traffic, you will enjoy much better light for seeing the cliffs and landscapes of the Teno massif.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 5 · Anaga in depth: Tenerife at its wildest and most authentic

If there is one area that deserves a full day, it is Anaga Rural Park. On the second day of this itinerary, we will already have had a first introduction to the area, but today we will head deeper inside to discover some of Tenerife’s most spectacular landscapes.

Laurel forests, mountain roads, small hamlets and wild beaches make this one of the most special days of the trip.

Our advice is to leave early. Anaga constantly invites you to stop and admire the scenery or take photographs, so time passes much faster than you might expect.

Cruz del Carmen Visitor Centre

The best way to begin the route is by heading to the area around Cruz del Carmen.

As well as enjoying one of the park’s best-known viewpoints, you will find several short, well-signposted trails here that allow you to experience the laurel forest without having to tackle demanding hikes.

If you are only going to do a little walking during the whole trip, this is probably the best place to do it.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

🌿 Traveller tip: there are usually fewer visitors first thing in the morning, and the forest has a much more peaceful atmosphere.

El Bailadero Viewpoint

Continue along the TF-12 road until you reach El Bailadero Viewpoint.

From this point, you will enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the Anaga massif and the deep ravines that descend towards the Atlantic.

There is a small area where you can stop the car for a few minutes to admire the scenery.

💡 Recommended time: 15-20 minutes.

Taganana

The road begins to descend between the mountains until it reaches Taganana, one of Tenerife’s most picturesque villages.

Its white houses, built on the hillsides, preserve the traditional appearance of old Canarian hamlets and offer an atmosphere completely different from the tourist areas.

We recommend exploring its streets on foot and enjoying the surroundings without following a fixed itinerary.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Almáciga

A few kilometres further on is Almáciga, a small village surrounded by mountains where time seems to have stood still.

Although many travellers pass straight through on their way to Benijo, it is worth stopping for a few minutes to admire the landscape and discover one of the least altered corners of northeastern Tenerife.

Benijo Beach

The day ends at one of the most photogenic places on the entire island.

Benijo Beach stands out for its dark volcanic sand, enormous rock formations just off the coast and completely natural landscape.

Access requires walking down a set of steps from the road, so comfortable footwear is advisable. Parking is limited and tends to fill up in high season, so it is best to arrive a little early.

If sea conditions allow, you can go down to the shoreline, although this beach is generally not the best option for swimming because of the strong waves.

🌅 Photography tip: Benijo is one of the best places in Tenerife to watch the sunset. If the weather is good, it is worth waiting until the sun goes down.

Day summary

📍 Cruz del Carmen
📍 El Bailadero Viewpoint
📍 Taganana
📍 Almáciga
📍 Benijo Beach
🚗 Approximate distance: 85 km.
⏱ Visiting time: full day.
⭐ Must-do: explore Anaga without rushing and stop at as many viewpoints as you can.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 6 · Beaches, sea and relaxation in southern Tenerife

After several days on the road and visiting cultural attractions, it is time to enjoy Tenerife’s more relaxed side.

Today’s plan is very simple: drive little, walk a lot and enjoy the ocean.

Walk along Costa Adeje

Start the day by walking along the seafront promenade connecting several of the best-known beaches in the south.

It is a completely flat route, perfect for a leisurely walk by the sea while enjoying the atmosphere of the area.

If you feel like extending the walk, you can continue to Puerto Colón or walk all the way to La Caleta, enjoying magnificent coastal views throughout the route.

💡 Recommended time: between 1 and 2 hours.

Playa del Duque

Spend the rest of the morning relaxing at Playa del Duque.

Its light-coloured sand, easy access and generally calm waters make it one of the most comfortable beaches for relaxing during the trip.

If you prefer a slightly livelier atmosphere, you can also head to Playa Fañabé or Playa de Torviscas, both just a few minutes away on foot.

Whale and dolphin watching

One of the great attractions of southern Tenerife is the chance to see cetaceans in the wild.

Most excursions depart from Puerto Colón or Los Cristianos and sail through the channel separating Tenerife from La Gomera.

These waters are home year-round to stable populations of short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, so the chances of sightings are usually very high.

The duration of these excursions varies depending on the option you choose, so it is a good idea to set aside a large part of the morning or afternoon to enjoy the experience.

Snorkelling or paddleboarding

If you prefer a more relaxed activity, the Costa Adeje coastline also offers very good conditions for snorkelling or paddleboarding.

The most popular areas are:

• Playa del Duque.
• Playa Fañabé.
• Playa de Torviscas.
• La Caleta.

Around these beaches, you will find specialist companies offering equipment hire and guided outings for all levels.

Sunset in La Caleta

To end the day, walk over to La Caleta.

Its seafront promenade and rocky surroundings offer one of the best places to watch the sunset in southern Tenerife.

After a week exploring the island, it is the perfect time to slow down and simply enjoy the scenery.

Day summary

📍 Costa Adeje
📍 Playa del Duque
📍 Puerto Colón
📍 La Caleta
🚗 Approximate distance: 25 km.
⏱ Visiting time: relaxed day.
⭐ Ideal for: resting, enjoying the sea and doing water activities before the final day of the trip.

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Day 7 · Personalise your final day in Tenerife

After six days exploring practically the entire island, the final day can be adapted to your interests and your flight time. Rather than adding a demanding route, we recommend enjoying a much more relaxed day, discovering a few lesser-known corners or simply taking your time to savour the final moments of the trip.

Below, we suggest several options so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Option 1 · Discover Candelaria

If you have not yet visited Candelaria, it is worth spending a few hours in this municipality on Tenerife’s east coast.

Its main attraction is the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Canary Islands. Next to it, you will find Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, the statues of the ancient Guanche menceyes and a pleasant seafront promenade where you can say goodbye to the trip at a relaxed pace.

The centre is compact and very easy to explore on foot.

💡 Recommended time: between 2 and 3 hours.

Option 2 · Landscapes and wine in Tacoronte and El Sauzal

If you prefer to get away from the more touristy areas, you can explore the municipalities of Tacoronte and El Sauzal, known for their vineyards, viewpoints and excellent cuisine.

In this area, you will find quiet roads, small wineries and several viewpoints overlooking the ocean and Mount Teide.

It is an ideal option for anyone who enjoys driving at a relaxed pace and wants to discover a different side of Tenerife.

🍷 Traveller tip: if you are interested in wine tourism, book a winery visit in advance, especially at weekends.

Option 3 · Your final hours at the beach

If your flight leaves in the afternoon or you simply want to say goodbye to Tenerife by relaxing beside the sea, spend your final hours enjoying one of the beaches in the south.

Playa del Duque, Playa Fañabé or La Caleta are excellent options for one last walk, a swim or a meal overlooking the ocean before heading back.

It is a much more relaxed way to end the trip than adding another driving route.

One last sunset

If you still have time, try to say goodbye to Tenerife by watching one final sunset.

Whether from the Costa Adeje coastline, a viewpoint in the north or Candelaria’s seafront promenade, the end of the day often brings some of the most beautiful scenery of the trip.

Very often, those unhurried moments end up becoming the best memories of the island.

Day summary

Option A
📍 Candelaria
📍 Seafront promenade
📍 Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Option B
📍 Tacoronte
📍 El Sauzal
📍 Viewpoints and wineries

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

Option C
📍 Costa Adeje
📍 Playa del Duque
📍 La Caleta

Route: View the interactive route on Google Maps

🚗 Driving: Very little.
⏱ Visiting time: half day or full day, depending on your flight.
⭐ Our advice: do not try to add too many visits on the final day. Enjoying Tenerife without rushing is the best way to say goodbye to the island.

Tips for planning a 7-day Tenerife itinerary

One week gives you plenty of time to explore Tenerife at a relaxed pace, but good planning will help you make much better use of your time and avoid unnecessary driving.

Rent a car from day one

Although there is a good public transport network, having a car is the best way to explore the island freely.

You will be able to stop at viewpoints, adapt the itinerary to the weather and easily reach places such as Masca, Anaga or Punta de Teno.

Group visits by area

This itinerary is organised to minimise driving as much as possible.

Avoid crossing the island several times on the same day and dedicate each day to a specific area. You will save time and enjoy the trip much more.

Bring clothes for different temperatures

In the same week, you will go from beaches with temperatures above 25 °C to high-mountain areas where temperatures can drop considerably.

A light jacket and comfortable footwear will be enough to adapt to all the different settings along the route.

Book the most popular activities in advance

If you want to take the cable car up Mount Teide, go on a whale and dolphin watching excursion or do a water activity, it is a good idea to book several days in advance, especially during the summer, Easter or Christmas.

Do not rush to see everything

Tenerife offers far more than can be discovered in a single week.

Our advice is to enjoy each place without constantly watching the clock. There will always be reasons to come back and continue exploring the island.

Where to stay when exploring Tenerife in 7 days

If you are going to spend a week in Tenerife, a good option is to split your stay between the south and north of the island. Although it is perfectly possible to complete the entire itinerary from a single accommodation, changing hotels halfway through the trip reduces driving and lets you discover two completely different atmospheres.

Our suggestion would be to spend the first four nights in the south, where you will enjoy warmer temperatures practically all year round, and reserve the final three nights for the north, from where the historic towns, Anaga and many of Tenerife’s greenest landscapes will be much closer.

First part of the trip · Staying in southern Tenerife

The south is the best base for routes to Mount Teide, Los Gigantes, Masca and for enjoying the beaches of Costa Adeje.

Here you can choose between three Bahia Principe hotels, depending on the type of trip:

Bahia Principe Escape Tenerife

If you are travelling as a couple or simply looking for a peaceful holiday, Bahia Principe Escape Tenerife is one of the best options. It is an Adults Only hotel (+16), designed for guests who want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere after each day of exploring.

Its location provides easy access to Teide National Park, the west of the island and the main roads connecting with the north, making it an excellent base for exploring Tenerife without giving up comfort and tranquillity.

Bahia Principe Explore Fantasia

Bahia Principe Explore Fantasia is the perfect choice for families with children. Its main attraction is the spectacular themed castle, which has become one of the hotel’s icons and creates a distinctive experience for both children and adults.

As well as its pools, activities and shows, it is a very convenient place to stay when combining excursions around the island with days of rest, especially if you are travelling with children.

Bahia Principe Explore Costa Adeje

Bahia Principe Explore Costa Adeje, part of the Explore Costa Adeje experience, is ideal for anyone who wants to combine routes around the island with the coastal atmosphere of the south.

From here, you can easily reach Costa Adeje, La Caleta, Puerto Colón and some of Tenerife’s best beaches, as well as enjoy activities such as whale and dolphin watching, snorkelling or paddleboarding. It is a highly recommended option for anyone looking to alternate between nature and relaxation during a one-week stay.

Second part of the trip · Discovering northern Tenerife

After exploring the south and west of the island, moving to the north considerably reduces driving times when visiting La Laguna, Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz, Garachico or Anaga Rural Park.

The north also offers a completely different landscape, with more vegetation, traditional towns and a quieter atmosphere.

Bahia Principe Explore San Felipe

Located in Puerto de la Cruz, it is an excellent option for exploring the entire north coast without having to make long journeys. From here, you can easily reach La Orotava, Icod de los Vinos, Garachico or even return to Anaga if you want to continue exploring the area.

Our recommendation: if you do not mind changing accommodation once during the trip, combining a few days in the south with a few days in the north is probably the most comfortable way to explore Tenerife in a week. You will reduce your daily driving and experience two parts of the island with completely different characters.

Other Tenerife itineraries

If you have not yet decided how many days to spend on the island or want to adapt your itinerary to a shorter stay, we have also prepared specific guides based on the length of your trip. Discover our routes featuring the best places to visit and the essential activities for making the most of your stay:

• What to see in Tenerife in 3 days
• What to see in Tenerife in 4 days
• What to see in Tenerife in 5 days

Expert recommendation

If I had to recommend a single length of stay for a first trip to Tenerife, I would choose seven days.

A week allows you to discover the island’s major highlights without having to rush through the trip. You will have time to explore Teide National Park, wander through the streets of La Laguna and Garachico, enjoy the cliffs of Los Gigantes, explore Anaga at a relaxed pace and set aside several moments to unwind by the sea.

My advice is to use this itinerary as a flexible guide. If you fall in love with a place, spend more time enjoying it and leave another visit for a future trip. Tenerife always has new corners to discover, and that is one of the reasons so many travellers return again and again.

Frequently asked questions about Tenerife in 7 days

Is one week enough to explore Tenerife?

Yes. Seven days allow you to visit the island’s main attractions at a much more relaxed pace than on three-, four- or five-day itineraries. As well as visiting the must-see places, you will also have time to discover lesser-known areas.

Is it better to stay in a single hotel?

Yes. For a one-week stay, it is usually more convenient to have a single base and take daily trips by car. This way, you avoid losing time changing accommodation.

Approximately how many kilometres will you drive?

Following this route, you will cover between 650 and 700 kilometres, a perfectly manageable distance when spread over seven days.

What is the best time of year to follow this itinerary?

Tenerife can be visited all year round thanks to its mild climate. However, spring and autumn usually offer very pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors than the summer months.

Do activities need to be booked in advance?

Yes, especially if you want to take the cable car up Mount Teide, go on a whale and dolphin watching excursion or take part in water activities. Booking in advance will allow you to choose your preferred times and avoid missing out during high season.

Can this route be done without a car?

It is possible to visit some of the included places using public transport, but it is not the most recommended option. A car will give you much more freedom to reach viewpoints, beaches and small towns, as well as helping you make the most of the time available during the week.