Tenerife Travel Guide
Known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’, Tenerife is a popular holiday destination thanks to its pleasant climate all year round and its wide range of sights and activities. Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. The island has a population of over 949,000 people, and its capital is Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The main language is Spanish, though the local accent and vocabulary differ slightly from mainland Spain, forming what is known as the Canarian dialect.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be captivated by the island’s rugged volcanic landscape, dominated by Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. Other stunning natural attractions include the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes. Food lovers can savour traditional Canarian cuisine, while shoppers will find plenty of retail therapy in Santa Cruz. History buffs can step back in time in the colonial city of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture.
We've outlined some general information below to help you plan your next holiday to Tenerife.
Time Zone & Currency
Time Zone & Currency
Tenerife is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year and as it’s part of Spain, the currency used is the Euro.
Weather In Tenerife
Tenerife enjoys an ‘eternal spring’, with year round averages of 20-24°C, high sunshine levels and minimal rainfall.
Reading For Your Trip To Tenerife
Tenerife & Its Six Satellites by Olivia M Stone
Canary Island Song by Robin Jones Gunn
Destiny in Tenerife by Evelyn Hood
Best time to go to Tenerife
With year-round sunshine, Tenerife is a great destination in any season. Spring and autumn offer warm weather with fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for beachgoers. In winter, it provides a sunny escape from colder climates, with temperatures rarely dropping below 18°C.
Tenerife Hotels
See where you'll be staying on our tours of Tenerife
Top Tourist Attractions In Tenerife
Top 10 Things To Do In Tenerife
Did you know? Tenerife is known as the 'Island of Eternal Spring' due to its pleasant weather all year round. It's full of incredible volcanic landscapes, charming towns and has a unique culture from the mainland of Spain.
Food & Drink In Tenerife
Tenerife offers a rich and diverse cuisine, influenced by its history as a former trading post. While Spanish and international dishes are widely available, the island’s traditional food features Latin American and Arabic influences, with spices like cumin, paprika, and dried chillies adding bold flavours.
Some must-try dishes include:
- Papas Arrugadas con Mojo – A classic Canarian dish of wrinkled potatoes, boiled in salted water and served with Mojo, a spicy salsa made from garlic and red chilli peppers.
- Gofio – A traditional Canarian flour, made from toasted grains like corn or wheat, often used in stews, breads, and even desserts.
- Ropa Vieja – A hearty dish of shredded beef and chickpeas, slow-cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, creating a rich and comforting meal.
- Grilled Cherne – One of Tenerife’s favourite local fish dishes, cherne (wreckfish) is simply grilled and served with Canarian potatoes and vegetables.
- Bienmesabe – A sweet and indulgent dessert made with honey, almonds, egg yolks, and rum, its name translates to “tastes good to me”—and it certainly does!
Tenerife is also known for its local wines, produced from grapes grown in the volcanic soils of Mount Teide’s slopes. Be sure to sample some during your visit!
Tenerife Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Tenerife?
The earliest indigenous inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches who arrived from Africa around the first or second century BC. In 1493, during the Age of Discovery, Tenerife was discovered by Spanish conquistador Alonso Fernández de Lugo. The Guanches fiercely fought against this Spanish conquest, but ultimately Tenerife became part of Spain in 1493. During the Colonial Period, Tenerife was a vital stopover for Spanish ships transporting slaves to America and Santa Cruz became a key centre for trading. In 1797, the 'Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife' took place, a British fleet led by Admiral Horatio Nelsen tried to invade Tenerife, but the Spanish managed to successfully defend the island. Tourism began in the late 19th century with many visitors coming from Spain, the United Kingdom and Northern Europe who who were attracted by towns like Puerto de la Cruz.
I have walking difficulties, is a holiday in Tenerife suitable?
Tenerife is a destination that caters very well for those with limited mobility, with mostly wide pavements and flat walkways. However, some of the hotels can be located on uphill terrain. For all our tours we have an activity level guide to help you decide which holiday suits you best. For specific advice regarding our Tenerife holidays and to discuss any special needs, please contact us directly and we will be happy to assist.
Is Tenerife a good holiday destination?
Tenerife is a beautiful holiday destination if you are looking for warm temperatures and a chance to relax on black volcanic beaches or beside the pool. Alternatively sit at one of the seaside cafes and watch the world go by, enjoying the Spanish relaxed way of life.
Tenerife Travel Advice
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Spain please see: www.gov.uk
- Official Tenerife Tourism Board: www.webtenerife.com
