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Tenerife Bucket List: 25 Top Things to Do

GVI

Posted: April 8, 2023

Tenerife is a beautiful island in the Canary Islands with so much to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone. Here are 25 incredible things to do in Tenerife for an unforgettable vacation:

Explore Teide National Park

Teide National Park is located in the centre of Tenerife and is home to the third-largest volcano in the world. The park has unique landscapes and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a cable car up to the summit of Mount Teide or go on a guided hike. The views from the top are spectacular and it is a great way to see the island from a different perspective.

Relax on Black Sand Beaches

Playa Jardin is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife and is known for its black sand and beautiful gardens that surround it. There are sun loungers and parasols available to hire, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby. It is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

Discover the Underwater World

Tenerife has some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling spots in Europe. You can see a wide variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even rays. Many dive centres on the island offer courses for beginners or guided diving trips for experienced divers.

Take a Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour

Tenerife is known for its diverse marine life, and there are many opportunities to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. There are many boat tours available that take you out to sea and give you the chance to see these beautiful creatures up close.

Visit the Historic Town of La Laguna

La Laguna is a historic town in Tenerife that is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. There are many museums and galleries to explore, as well as beautiful churches and plazas.

Enjoy the Thrills of Siam Water Park

Siam Park is one of the largest and most popular water parks in Europe. It has a wide variety of attractions, including water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are plenty of places to eat and relax, and it is a great place to spend a day with family or friends.

Go Hiking in Anaga Rural Park

Anaga Rural Park is located in the northeast of Tenerife and is home to some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes. Many hiking trails wind through the park, taking you past waterfalls, cliffs, and stunning views of the ocean. It is the perfect place to escape the crowds and connect with nature.

Taste Local Cuisine at Food Markets

Tenerife is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many food markets where you can sample the best local products. Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa is one of the largest and most popular markets on the island and sells everything from fresh seafood to local cheeses and wines.

Get Lost in Loro Parque’s Tropical Gardens

Loro Parque is a popular attraction in Tenerife and is home to a wide variety of tropical plants, birds and animals. The gardens are beautiful and it is a great place to spend the day with family or friends.

Learn About Tenerife’s History

Casa de los Balcones Museum is a beautiful historic building in the town of La Orotava. It is home to many exhibitions that showcase Tenerife’s rich history and culture. The building is beautiful and the gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

Marvel at Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital city of Tenerife and is home to many beautiful buildings and architectural wonders. You can see the Auditorio de Tenerife, which is a beautiful modern building, or visit the Iglesia de la Concepción, a beautiful historic church.

Experience Traditional Canarian Festivals

Canarians love to celebrate, and many festivals take place throughout the year. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the largest and most famous festivals in Spain and is known for its colourful costumes and parades. Many smaller festivals take place throughout the year that are worth checking out.

Take a Road Trip Along the Coast

Tenerife has some of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, and taking a road trip is a great way to see the island at your own pace. You can stop at beautiful beaches and coves along the way, take in the stunning views, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Enjoy Live Music and Nightlife

Playa de las Americas is one of the liveliest towns on the island and is known for its nightlife and entertainment. There are many bars and clubs that offer live music and entertainment, and it is a great place to let loose and have fun.

Go Shopping for Souvenirs

Tenerife is known for its handicrafts, and there are many markets and boutiques where you can buy souvenirs and local products. The Tenerife Craft Market is one of the largest and most popular and sells everything from pottery to jewellery and handmade products.

Experience a Spiritual Retreat

Tenerife has a long history of spirituality, and many sacred sites are worth visiting. Mount Teide is considered a sacred site by the Guanches, the island’s original inhabitants, and there are many places where you can connect with nature and spirituality.

Take a Day Trip to La Gomera Island

La Gomera is a beautiful island that is located just a short ferry ride from Tenerife. It is known for its beautiful forests and beaches, and it is a great place to escape crowds and explore nature.

Learn How to Surf

Tenerife is a great place to learn how to surf or improve your skills. Many surf schools on the island offer courses for beginners or private lessons for more experienced surfers. The waves are perfect for surfing all year round, and it is a great way to stay active and have fun.

Kayaking to Hidden Caves and Beaches

Kayaking is a great way to explore Tenerife’s hidden coves and beaches that are inaccessible by foot. There are many kayaking tours available that take you to some of the most beautiful spots on the island. It is a great way to see wildlife and connect with the ocean.

Relax in Thermal Waters

Tenerife is known for its therapeutic waters, and Aqua Club Termal Spa is one of the best places to relax and unwind. It has thermal waters that are rich in minerals and are known for their healing properties. The spa also offers massages and other treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Discover the Art Scene

The Canary Islands’ Museum of Contemporary Art is located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and is home to many exhibitions that showcase modern art from the islands and around the world. The building itself is modern and beautiful, and it is a great way to spend a rainy or lazy day.

Indulge in Luxury Spa Treatments

Tenerife has many five-star resorts that offer luxurious spa treatments and services. The treatments range from massages and facials to body wraps and other beauty treatments. It is a great way to pamper yourself and indulge in a little bit of luxury.

Try Adventure Sports

Tenerife is a great place to try adventure sports like paragliding, bungee jumping, and rock climbing. Many companies offer these activities, and they are a great way to get your adrenaline pumping and push your limits.

Attend Spanish Lessons

Learning Spanish is a great way to immerse yourself in Tenerife’s culture and connect with locals. There are many language schools and workshops that offer courses for all levels, and it is a fun and rewarding way to spend your vacation.

Overall, Tenerife is a beautiful and diverse island with so much to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, there is something for everyone. We hope that these 25 fun things to do in Tenerife will inspire you to book your trip and start exploring!

Contribute to Marine Conservation

Join GVI’s adventurous volunteer and intern programs in Tenerife to help protect marine mammals and create awareness around sustainable eco-tourism on the island. Get the opportunity to support locally-led marine conservation programs and get up close and personal with incredible ocean animals.

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