You will find plenty of things to do in North Tenerife, especially if you enjoy elegant historic towns, sun dappled serene beaches and lush forest and volcanic landscapes.
Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands enjoys a warm year-round climate due in part to its closeness to the coast of Africa. When it comes to tick-box things to do, Tenerife doesn’t disappoint.
Venture away from the custom-made beach resorts of the south, and you will discover a different side of Tenerife.
The further you travel into northern Tenerife, the more you will discover a less-known part of the island waiting to be discovered.
North Tenerife entices and lures you to wander through ancient laurel forests, walk among otherworldly volcanic landscapes and sample traditional Canarian food and culture.
We have put together this Tenerife north guide, so you can choose the best things to do in north Tenerife that match your tastes and preferences.
- 10 FASCINATING THINGS TO DO IN NORTH TENERIFE
- 1. EXPLORE MIGHTY TEIDE NATIONAL PARK
- 2. GO HIKING IN ANAGA RURAL PARK
- 3. MARVEL AT ARCHITECTURE IN LA LAGUNA
- 4. VISIT THE CAPITAL, SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
- 5. CHILL OUT ON NORTH TENERIFE BEACHES
- 6. EXPERIENCE CANARIAN LIFE IN GARACHICO
- 7. EXPLORE PUERTO DE LA CRUZ, TENERIFE'S OLDEST RESORT
- 8. ADMIRE ARCHITECTURALLY STRIKING LA OROTAVA
- 9. BE IN AWE OF AN ANCIENT DRAGON TREE
- 10. DISCOVER THE CHARMING TOWN OF CANDELARIA
- NORTH TENERIFE GUIDE ESSENTIAL TIPS
- WHY VISIT NORTH TENERIFE?
- MORE POSTS ON TENERIFE
10 FASCINATING THINGS TO DO IN NORTH TENERIFE
Here’s our pick of the most fascinating things to do in north Tenerife, for the perfect Canary Island trip.
All the places mentioned in this article can be found on the map below, so they are easy to locate. I have also indicated the location of Tenerife north airport, although a lot of flights arrive into Tenerife South Airport. Simply pick up your rental car and head up the coast on a scenic drive.
NORTH TENERIFE SPAIN MAP
1. EXPLORE MIGHTY TEIDE NATIONAL PARK
Top of most visitors list of things to do in Tenerife Spain, is to visit Mount Teide National Park. Spain’s most visited national park is staggeringly beautiful, and one of the unmissable things to see on Tenerife.
Whether you fly into Tenerife, or approach from one of the other Canary Islands, Teide can be seen protruding into the sky.
Mount Teide is the cherry on the cake, of 73 square mile UNESCO-listed Parque Nacional del Teide. The entire park, is a unique geological treasure where the volcanoes, craters, vents, and lava flows, form an impressive array of shapes and colours.
The only decision you have to make, is how you want to explore this rusty volcanic landscape.
- If fun things to do in Tenerife is high on your list, why not let the cable car zip you up 11,663ft, to the upper station. From here you can walk the final 200m to the peak, if you have a permit.
- Hike one of the extensive network of scenic trails, which vary in length and difficulty.
- If you are short on time, simply drive along TF-21, which twists its way up to an altitude of 2,650m. The views are incredible, with numerous viewpoints along the route.
- Take a tour to the Teide Observatory, which is the largest solar observatory in the world. Teide National Park has been awarded Starlight Destination Status for its clear skies.
If possible, make the drive early morning and watch this magical landscape appear in front of you as the sun rises.
Don’t forget Parque Natural de la Corona Forest, which encircles the park. Within its 180 square miles are laurel and pine forests, high gorges, sloping volcanic hillsides and more scenic trails.
Whichever way you choose to explore the park, you can expect inspiring scenery, eerie landscapes, and a deserted volcanic valley.
Check out these popular tours to Teide National Park:
2. GO HIKING IN ANAGA RURAL PARK
A truly unmissable place in Tenerife North, is the isolated and beautiful Anaga Mountains.
Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2015, the park has a rich biodiversity. This oldest part of the island, is located in the northeastern most tip of Tenerife.
Rugged mountains shrouded in mist, lush laurisilva forests, and spectacular ocean views are waiting to be discovered.
The best way to explore is on foot. Take to one of the scenic trails that lead you through ancient forest, volcanic hillsides or dramatic beaches.
Standout trails include the “Sendero de Los Sentides” and PRTF8, linking Afur, Taganana and Tamadite Beach.
A network of viewpoints enable you to stop and enjoy a panoramic view of sloping valleys, laurel forest and wild coastline. Some of the most popular viewpoints are:
- Mirador de la Cruz del Carmen
- Mirador de Jardina
- Mirador El Bailadero
- Mirador de Pico del Ingles
The mountains and forests of Anaga are one of Tenerife’s three volcanic ranges. If you enjoy gorgeous mountain landscapes, secluded beaches, picturesque cliffs and ancient forests, be sure to put Anaga on your north Tenerife itinerary.
Plan your trip to this northern Tenerife gem, with our guide to Anaga Rural Park.
3. MARVEL AT ARCHITECTURE IN LA LAGUNA
North Tenerife is home to the picturesque town of San Cristobal de La Laguna.
Once the capital of the island, its history is retained in its Canarian mansions. The UNESCO-listed old town is a delight to stroll around.
Laid out in a grid system, most of the buildings were built between the 16th and 18th centuries.
Pastel coloured mansions with wood-carved balconies and impressive shutters, line Calle San Agustin.
Don’t miss Casa de Alvarado Bracamonte, home to the tourist office, the Cathedral and Museo de Historia y Antropologia de Tenerife.
You will soon understand why La Laguna is one of the most popular places in north Tenerife to visit.
Check out our article on the best things to do in La Laguna, so you don’t miss any sights.
4. VISIT THE CAPITAL, SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
You can’t travel to the north of Tenerife, without exploring the island’s capital city. Few north Tenerife towns, combine museums, churches, plazas, parks and culture so well.
For three weeks in February each year, one of the best things to do in Tenerife north, is to join the fun of the carnival.
Colourful parades, street parties and fancy costumes, are just some of the things you can expect to enjoy.
Attending this spectacular festival has to be one of the best things to do in Tenerife.
Buy deli items at the local market to enjoy in Palmetum amongst palm trees from all over the world. Check out the elegant white-wave designed Auditorio de Tenerife Adan Martin, and peep inside one of Tenerife’s oldest churches, the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion.
You will find plenty of interesting things to do in Santa Cruz Tenerife, as you can read about in our detailed article.
The city makes a great base for your trip, and is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife.
Some of the best hotels in Tenerife North are found in town, together with plenty of buzzing north Tenerife nightlife.
5. CHILL OUT ON NORTH TENERIFE BEACHES
If you are looking for more relaxing things to do on your trip, north Tenerife has some of the island’s loveliest beaches.
Away from the south Tenerife resorts, you will find coastal wilderness and a sense of seclusion.
One of the best beaches in Tenerife north, is golden-sanded Playa Los Teresitas.
Imported from the Sahara, the powder-soft arc of sand, is a visual delight compared to other black-sanded beaches in the south.
Close to Santa Cruz, it makes for a great day trip from the city. Lined with palm trees, and the mountains of Anaga Rural Park in the background, the beach is a lovely place for relaxing.
Although very popular, you can enjoy calm waters, a great selection of restaurants and all the essential facilities needed.
Those prepared to travel on twisting mountain roads or trek on foot, will be justly rewarded for their efforts. While the spectacular views are mainly appreciated by the passenger, once you dispense with the hairpin bends, you will be wowed with the scenery before you.
Mammoth rock formations rise from the ocean amidst stunning coastal vistas.
The community of Taganana leads to these incredible beaches:
SCENIC BEACHES IN NORTH TENERIFE
- Playa de los Roques – huge waves crashing into shore against volcanic rocks, are enjoyed by surfers. At low tide, the black sand against the rock formations makes for a stunning photo.
- Playa de Almáciga – located next to Benijo Beach, it is a wild beach with dark black sand, open to the ocean with strong currents. A haven for surfers, there are no lifeguards so swimming is not recommended. The scenery and backdrop compensates for this however.
- Playa de Benijo – one of the best beaches north Tenerife has to offer. Rugged and spectacularly pretty, this black sand beach is accessed via a path of wooden stairs. Volcanic rocks soar through the ocean, and Anaga mountains provide the perfect backdrop. Enjoy seclusion, fantastic views, and a handful of local restaurants serving traditional food.
It’s true that north Tenerife beaches are some of the loveliest on Tenerife.
6. EXPERIENCE CANARIAN LIFE IN GARACHICO
Wealthy merchants once called this historic town home. However the former glory days were demolished along with the town’s buildings in early 1700, when El Volcan Negro erupted.
Today, this low-key town, with its cobbled streets and preserved 16th and 17th churches and colonial mansions, is a delight to explore.
Wander the seafront, once bustling with ships trading in wine and sugar. Explore the fortress of Castillo de San Miguel, whose museum details the town’s history.
While away a peaceful hour in Plaza de la Libertad with its many cafes. Don’t miss the view from Mirador de Garachico, Santa Ana Church, Nuestra Senora de los Angeles church and the 18th-century former San Francisco convent.
Garachico is definitely one of Tenerife north places to visit.
One of the most enjoyable Tenerife things to do, is to take a dip in an Atlantic sea pool. Head early to El Caleton, to swim in natural pools formed by a volcanic eruption.
If you are looking for unique north Tenerife hotels, Garachico has two great offerings.
Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja – in a beautiful 16th-century mansion, rooms have traditional wooden ceilings.
Hotel San Roque – Set in beautiful 18th-century villa just 5 minutes’ walk from Garachico Beach. Contemporary and strikingly designed rooms feature Charles Rennie Mackintosh furniture.
7. EXPLORE PUERTO DE LA CRUZ, TENERIFE’S OLDEST RESORT
Easygoing Puerto de la Cruz, is one of the most popular north Tenerife resorts. While Playa Martianez’s gentle waves are popular with budding surfers, Lago Martianez wins with its style.
Take a dip in a saltwater natural swimming pool, with a backdrop of palm trees and volcanic boulders.
A town delight, is the Botanic Garden (Jardín Botánico), which began life as a staging post in 1788.
Now, it’s a pleasure to stroll amongst flora of the Canary Islands, including a palm collection and a 200 year old Bay Fig. The garden paths zigzag through a full range of colours and lovely scents, under the shadows of its imposing palms and trees.
Located on Calle Retama 2, the park is open from 9am-6pm and entry is €3.00.
Get your history fix in Museo Arqueologico, then wander around the lanes of La Ranilla, a lovely renovated fisherman’s quarter.
Enjoy a drink at a cool bar, sitting out front on a pretty terrace. Gaze at paintings of the Madonna, at 16th-century Ermita de San Juan Batista and Church of San Francisco, effectively one church. Finish by enjoying a bite to eat at palm-rimmed Plaza Charco.
As you can see, several Tenerife north attractions are found in this lively town. It also makes a great place to stay, and if you prefer to self-cater, check out some of these Tenerife Villas.
8. ADMIRE ARCHITECTURALLY STRIKING LA OROTAVA
Any guide to North Tenerife will likely include a spot for attractive La Orotava. Tenerife tourist attractions don’t come much prettier, than this historic town.
Located high above sea level, in the lush green valley of the same name, the steep streets are packed with colonial buildings with beautiful architecture.
The most famous mansion is the House of Balconies, built in the 18th century, with superlative ornately carved wood balconies. Wander around the beautifully preserved patio and enjoy a drink in the delightful cafe.
Looking for fun things to do in Tenerife with kids? They will love the museum with its upstairs period rooms kitted out with dummies in costume .See if they notice the granny asleep in her bed!
There are many interesting sights in La Orotava, and the town makes an absolute delightful overnight accommodation option.
Wander the full length of Calle San Francisco to truly get your fill of the preserved mansions and balconies. Then check out nearby Casa Lercaro, with its palm-filled courtyard and Baroque styled wooden gallery.
Unusual things to do in Tenerife include eating at a local guachinche, where you can enjoy a cheap homemade traditional meal, and you will find a good selection here.
Don’t miss a look inside the stunning Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion, the town’s main church. For garden lovers, Jardin Viictoria hits the mark, while the Plaza de de la Constitución, is a great people-watching spot.
Just take your time exploring the cobbled streets and getting an insight into local life.
To make sure you cover all the main sites, check out our guide to exploring La Orotava.
9. BE IN AWE OF AN ANCIENT DRAGON TREE
One of the best things to do on Tenerife, is to view the dragon tree, which is unique to the island.
The best place to see this beauty, is the small town of Icod de los Vinos. Guanches believed in its mystical powers and used the bark on their shields and the red resin to embalm their dead.
El Drago Milenario may be up to 1,000 years old, and is the island’s oldest dragon tree, at 56ft high with a circumference of 20ft.
Highly revered, it stands in a small park, but skip the entrance fee and view the tree from a small pull in, on the main road.
The town has several unique things to see that are worth a couple of hours.
- Mariposario del Drago – a tropical garden with 800 exotic butterflies from all over the world that fly freely.
- Museo de Malvasia – family owned winery offering tastings from their garden.
Classic Express Tasting costs € 6.90 and includes tasting of 3 volcanic wines, 1 liqeur, 2 Canarian mojos and bread.
- Plaza de Constitucion is a delightful space with jacaranda, oleander and palms.
- Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres – great spot to escape the heat.
- Casa de los Cáceres – interesting and ancient house with wooden floors. Inside are two small museums of contemporary and modern art.
10. DISCOVER THE CHARMING TOWN OF CANDELARIA
Largely untouched by tourists, the east coast town of Candelaria, pays homage to the island’s patron saint Madonna.
The town is dominated by the grand and imposing Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Candelaria. Inside, is a statue of the Madonna which is still worshipped, especially on the Feast of the Assumption every August.
Pilgrims fill the square outside, when the conversion of the Guanches to Christianity is re-enacted. A look inside the basilica is one of the best free things to do in Tenerife. A delightful painting tells the story of the discovery of the Madonna, when the statue was washed ashore in 1392.
Outside you will see several statues lining the sea side of the square. These represent the seven chiefs, or Guanche menceys, who were in power at the time of Alonso Fernández de Lugo’s conquest.
The small town will not take long to explore, but has an interesting art museum, Espacio TEA Candelaria and some highly-rated restaurants. There is also a hand-made model of the village and a bustling craft market every other Friday.
NORTH TENERIFE GUIDE ESSENTIAL TIPS
We have looked at things to do in northern Tenerife, including Tenerife north places to visit. Now lets consider planning basics and essentials, including:
1. NORTH TENERIFE WEATHER
A common question about the island, is whether north Tenerife is colder than south Tenerife. The quick answer is yes.
Whilst the climate on the island is pleasant year-round, Tenerife is divided into north and south climatic zones, by the Teide Massif.
This results in more cloud cover and rainfall in the north. However, the coast enjoys a constant warm, subtropical climate.
2. IS NORTH TENERIFE BETTER THAN SOUTH TENERIFE?
If you are planning a trip and wondering what to do in Tenerife, you will have numerous options. You want to include all the best things to see in Tenerife.
Top things to do in South Tenerife include:
- Numerous top beach resorts
- Siam Park Water Park
- Active nightlife in resorts such as Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Americas and Costa Adeje.
- Water activities such as whale and dolphin watching.
- Easy access to other Canary Islands such as La Gomera and La Palma
So what is North Tenerife like?:
North Tenerife’s landscape is rich, green and luscious. The bulk of Mount Teide and Anaga Rural Park, add a truly unique aspect, compared to the south.
Northern Tenerife holidays offer the perfect place to visit unspoiled beaches, great hiking, stunning landscapes, and a great chance to learn about Canarian culture.
You can marvel at lush forest and volcanic vistas, and generally experience non-touristy things to do in Tenerife.
South Tenerife is the region for you:
If you are looking for lots of family things to do in Tenerife, want an active nightlife, beach resorts, and warmer temperatures.
Check out our article on the best things to do in south Tenerife.
North Tenerife is the region for you:
If you want to escape the crowds, have an authentic experience, explore forests, lounge on isolated beaches and hike breathtaking trails.
3. HOTELS IN NORTH TENERIFE
How do you decide where to stay in north Tenerife? Accommodation is mainly concentrated in the larger towns and resorts.
We stayed in San Cristobal La Laguna, and found it to be an ideal base for exploring all the things to do in north Tenerife.
WHY VISIT NORTH TENERIFE?
When it comes to deciding what to see in Tenerife, Spain, you have countless attractions to choose from. Some of the top things to do in Tenerife such as explore Teide National Park, are easily experienced for both north and south Tenerife.
If however, you want to break away from the visitors heading to the south of the island, you will certainly be richly rewarded. Northern Tenerife will tempt you with its stunning otherworldly landscapes, primeval forests and volcanic peaks.
So if you are looking for a wonderland of serene isolated beaches, craggy clifftops, low-key local cafes and to sample a taste of genuine island life, travel to north Tenerife. You won’t be disappointed!
MORE POSTS ON TENERIFE
There is so much to discover on Tenerife island, so don’t miss our other in-depth guides to help you plan your trip.
- Exciting Tenerife Itinerary
- Travel Guide to Tenerife
- Best Villas in Costa Adeje
- Excursions from Tenerife
- Best Tenerife Villas
- La Laguna Tenerife
- Renting a Car in Tenerife
- Things To Do in South Tenerife
- Visit Mount Teide
- Things To Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- La Orotava Tenerife
- Anaga Rural Park
- Driving in Tenerife
If you are still looking for travel inspiration, check out our Destinations page.
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