If you have just two days to explore Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, be prepared for a packed schedule. Here, every moment counts: volcanoes, beaches, charming villages and local cuisine come together to create an experience rich in nature, culture, and delightful weather all year round.
Day 1 in Tenerife: from Teide to the Lush North
Sunrise in Teide National Park. Begin your day early and head to your vehicle: your first destination is Teide, the tallest mountain in Spain (3,718 m). You can take a cable car (booking in advance is advisable) to relish the views over the sea of clouds, and if you’re feeling adventurous, request permission to hike to the crater. The volcanic scenery resembles another world: black rocks, craters, lava formations, and unique plant life.
Journey to La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz. Descend the northern road and stop at La Orotava, one of the island’s most picturesque villages. Here, you’ll find cobbled streets, traditional Canarian wooden balconies, the renowned Victoria, and elegant homes awaiting your visit. A mere 15-minute drive will bring you to Puerto de la Cruz, which boasts a vibrant historic centre and the impressive Martiánez Lake seawater pool complex crafted by César Manrique.
Sunset in Punta Brava and Garden Beach. Conclude your day with a stroll along Garden Beach, another gem designed by Manrique, featuring its striking black sand and exotic gardens. For an authentic experience, seek out the bars in Punta Brava to savour fresh fish tapas while gazing out at the sea.
Day 2: from Anaga to the Southern Beaches
Sunrise in Taganana and Benijo. Head to the Anaga mountain range, designated a Biosphere Reserve in the northeast of the island. Here, it feels as if time stands still: laurisilva forests, winding mountain roads, rustic homes, and breathtaking viewpoints such as EL BAILADERO. Stop in Taganana and enjoy fresh fish in its beachfront restaurants, famed for the enormous volcanic rocks that rise from the Atlantic.
Stroll through La Laguna. Before continuing southward, pause in San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its straight, vibrant streets, charming cafes, bookstores, and lively student atmosphere (being a university town) will captivate you. It is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch and gentle wandering.
Sunshine in the south: El Médano or Costa Adeje. Your final stop hinges on your preferences. If you seek a surfing vibe, El Médano is your ideal beach: wind, kites, boards, and bohemian bars await you. Alternatively, if you prefer a more upscale experience, head to Costa Adeje, where golden sandy beaches, chic hotels, and cocktails by the shore are ready to welcome you.
In just 48 hours, Tenerife will reveal why it stands as one of Europe’s most diverse destinations. Prepare to be eager to return…
