Attractions in Tenerife – the 15 best places and excursions for a first trip

Tenerife is not just sun and beaches. It’s an island of volcanoes, cliffs, exotic gardens and extraordinary adventures – perfect for families with children, couples or groups of friends alike. If you’re wondering what to do in Tenerife and what attractions are really worth seeing – you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide you’ll find 15 tried-and-true Tenerife attractions that we – the team of OleTenerife.com operating on the island every day – have been recommending to our visitors for years. Each of them is available as an organized tour or as a stand-alone trip. We also suggest what to book in advance and how not to waste a single day of your vacation.

Table of contents

1. Teide and Masca – Europe’s most important volcano
2. Los Gigantes – boat trip under the impressive cliffs by catamaran
3. Paragliding flight – Tenerife from a bird’s eye view
4. Scuba diving – an underwater world for everyone
5. Quads on Teide – an adventure at sunset
6. Loro Park – one of the world’s best zoos
7. Siam Park – No. 1 water park in Europe
8. La Gomera – Tenerife’s unique neighbor
9. Santa Cruz – a capital city with a unique character
10. Anaga – the green lungs of Tenerife
11. Beaches in Tenerife – something different for everyone
12. Watching the stars – the cosmos at your fingertips
13. Barranco del Infierno – trekking to the waterfall
14. Puerto de la Cruz – an atmospheric resort in the north
15. Western part of Tenerife
    Private tours for families and small groups
    FAQs – the most common questions about Tenerife attractions

1. Teide and Masca – the heart of Tenerife

Teide Volcano (3,718 meters above sea level) is Spain’s highest peak and one of the largest volcanoes in the world. A visit to Teide National Park is an absolute must-see – the extraordinary lunar landscape, the colors of the lava and the views of the rest of the Canary Islands are breathtaking.
On top of that, near Masca – a picturesque village hidden in the Teno mountains – you will find one of the most beautiful canyons on the island. Masca’s canyons look like the scenery from an adventure movie.

🏔️ Recommended: – Teide & Masca bus tour with guide from the north of Tenerife – full day with guide in english, transportation from hotel from nearby. During this trip you’ll see also Masca, Garachico and Icod de los Vinos – Teide + Masca tour with guide from the north of Tenerife – if you live in Puerto de la Cruz, this option is for you – Teide tour – focused exclusively on the volcano and the national park from Puerto de la Cruz – Climb to the top of the Teide Volcano – for those looking for even more adrenaline, trek to the very top of the volcano 💡 Good to know: taking the cable car to the Volcano (at 3,555 meters above sea level) requires advance reservations – places are very limited! Select the appropriate option in the order form

2. Catamaran boat trip under the cliffs of Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes are vertical volcanic cliffs reaching up to 600 meters above sea level – the view from the water is absolutely amazing. A catamaran boat trip is one of the most popular excursions in Tenerife, and no wonder – this is where you can meet wild dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. The tour includes the opportunity to jump into the water from the deck and snorkel. The cruises run daily, last 4.5h and are suitable for the whole family – kids absolutely love it!

⛵ We recommend: – Catamaran cruise under the cliffs of Los Gigantes – 4.5h expedition to look for dolphins, and whales, you will see the cliffs of Los Gigantes, and on board you will have dinner and open bar – there are many different cruises available on our website – longer, shorter; powerboats, yachts, catamarans – check our full offer 💡 We also organize private cruises from 8 even up to 100 people for groups – ask for a quote!

3. Paragliding flight – Tenerife from the perspective of the sky

Do you want to feel true freedom? A paragliding flight over Tenerife is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Taking off from the mountain slopes, the silence over the ocean, the view of the Teide volcano and the coast – and landing on the beach. It’s an experience accessible even to those who have never flown before!
The flight is tandem with a certified instructor, so you don’t need any experience. Minimum age and weight restrictions – children over 25 kg can already fly!

🪂 Recommended: – Paragliding in Tenerife – tandem flight with an instructor from the south of the island – Paragliding flight from Puerto de la Cruz – if you are staying in the north of the island 💡 We also organize flights from 2000 m above sea level from the Teide Volcano – even more adrenaline!

4. Diving for beginners – discover the underwater Tenerife

While Tenerife probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind at the thought of scuba diving, it’s a great place in Europe to dive. For both beginners and experienced divers. You don’t need a PADI license or any experience to start your adventure! Our beginner dives are conducted in by certified instructors. Equipment, insurance and full support included in the price

Recommended: – Diving for beginners – you don’t need any experience – Snorkeling – if you feel safer just under the surface of the water, and you want to see the amazing world of the Ocean, this option will be for you.

5. Quads on Teide – an adventure at sunset

If you’re looking for something exciting and a little off the charts – a quad tour through the volcanic terrain of Teide at sunset is just that. Imagine: you’re on a quad, the sun is setting over the ocean, all around you is a moonscape of lava and immense silence. Unique!
The tour is suitable for people over the age of 7. No experience is necessary – an instructor will introduce you in a few minutes.

🏍️ Recommended: – Quads at sunset from the south of Tenerife – this is a favorite tour among our clients – Quads from Puerto de La Cruz – an option for those staying overnight in the north of the Island – You can also find other quad or buggy tour options in our offer. We have 2 and 4 person options available – check out the full offer here 💡 In order to take part in these activities, you are required to have a valid cat B driver’s license in physical form (not on the app)

6. Loro Park – one of the best zoos in the world

Loro Park in Puerto de la Cruz is no ordinary zoo – it’s an award-winning park that has been ranked among the top zoos in the world for years according to TripAdvisor. Orcas, tigers, gorillas, penguins, whales, parrots and dozens of other species. And all this surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens! Loro Park is a great option for families with children, but also for adults who appreciate contact with nature and want to see something truly unique. Plan on at least 5-6 hours.

🦜 Recommended: – Ticket to Loro Park – full-day ticket with transportation option from the south of Tenerife 💡 If you’re staying overnight in Puerto de La Cruz, you can walk to Loro Park or take the free shuttle bus that runs from the city center

7. Siam Park – No. 1 water park in Europe

Siam Park is a paradise for lovers of water attractions – repeatedly voted the best water park in the world. Dozens of slides, a wave runner, a lazy river, special sections for young children and amazing Thai architecture. Siam Park is a real day of excitement for everyone.
An ideal place for families with children of all ages, as well as couples and groups of friends.

🦜 Recommended: – Siam Park Ticket – with transportation option from Puerto de la Cruz – if you want to visit both parks (Siam Park and Loro Park) choose the Twin Ticket option with discount 💡 It’s worth buying tickets in advance – lines at the ticket office can be long.

8. La Gomera – a unique neighboring island

A day trip to La Gomera is a journey to another world – the ancient laurel forest of Garajonay (UNESCO), the old village of San Sebastián and sights you won’t forget. During the tour you will have a typical Canarian lunch (included in the tour price) and experience an unusual event – a whistling language demonstration. This language is an ancient way of communication of the islanders, which is still taught in schools today. It is also listed as an Intangible Heritage Site by UNESCO.

⛴️ Recommended: – La Gomera bus tour – you can go on this tour from both the north and south of Tenerife 💡 During this tour you must have your ID card or passport with you in physical form.

9. Santa Cruz de Tenerife – the capital with character

The island’s vibrant capital with a beautiful carnival (considered one of the best in the world after Rio), great restaurants and the spectacular Garcia Sanabria Park. It’s worth getting lost among the streets here and getting a sneak peek at the lives of the locals. Santa Cruz is the capital of Tenerife, but also of the Canary Islands (a title it shares with Las Palmas on Gran Canaria, where attractions and tours are also offered). You can read more about Santa Cruz on our blog.

🚌 Recommended: – Bus Tour to the north of Tenerife – you can go on the tour if you are staying in the south of the Island. 💡 When visiting Santa Cruz, be sure to visit the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África – the Santa Cruz Market. This is one of the most beautiful markets in the Canary Islands – local vegetables, cheeses, wines, crafts and an atmosphere you won’t find in a shopping mall.

10. Anaga National Park – the green lungs of Tenerife

The Anaga Mountains feature a UNESCO-listed laurel forest, dozens of trekking trails and incredible views on both sides of the island. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts. This is one of the points often overlooked by tourists, which is a shame! The vegetation in the Anaga mountains is truly impressive. The large ferns, moss-covered trees look like a set for a movie. This is also the oldest region of Tenerife, which had a huge impact on the formation of the island’s culture and history.

🚌 Recommended: – Bus tour to the north of Tenerife – during this tour you will see not only Santa Cruz and the Anaga Mountains, but also the town of La Laguna or the famous Las Teresitas beach 💡 If you rent a car and want to explore the Anaga forests on your own, remember that for some trails you need a permit.

11. Beaches in Tenerife – something different for everyone

Tenerife has a wide variety of beaches: Playa de Las Teresitas (golden sand off Santa Cruz), Playa del Duque (elegance and tranquility in the south), Playa de Benijo (wild black rocks in the north). At least one beach of each type is worth seeing. Some beaches are adapted and safe for swimming, some are wild and the currents are strong. So always remember safety and follow the signs!

💡 Worth knowing: – see our TOP 10 beaches in Tenerife ranking – public transportation access to some beaches is very difficult – if you want to explore the coast on your own, it’s best to rent a car

12. Stargazing – space at your fingertips

Tenerife is one of the best places for stargazing in the world. Evening trips to Teide with a telescope are an absolutely unforgettable experience. What you will see through the telescopes seems downright incomprehensible. And the pictures from your smartphone will impress family and friends for a long time.

🌕 Recommended: – Star watching on Teide with dinner – in this option we provide transportation and dinner – Star watching tour with dinner and your own transportation – if you prefer to get there on your own 💡 Good to know: – dress warmly for this tour, it can get really cold on the Volcano after sunset – this tour is also great for families with children – already 7-, 8-year-olds appreciate the views and are curious about the surrounding cosmos

13. Barranco del Infierno – trekking to the waterfall

A legendary trekking route in the Adeje Valley in the south of the island leading to the largest waterfall in Tenerife. During the trek, the landscape will surprise you more than once – from the dry Martian climate to the lush greenery.

💡 Things to know: – the route is not very demanding, but for safety reasons covered footwear and a helmet (which you will be given at the entrance) are required – advance reservations required – access limited

14. Puerto de la Cruz – atmospheric resort north

One of the island’s oldest and most atmospheric resorts, with the Lago Martianez pool, botanical gardens and Loro Park right on your doorstep. Take a stroll through the entire town and discover charming townhouses, corners beloved by artists and small pubs and cafes.

💡 Things to know: – in Puerto de la Cruz the biggest challenge is parking – it’s best to park away from the center and walk – the weather in Puerto de la Cruz can be capricious, take a sweatshirt or light jacket with you.

15. Western part of Tenerife

The most forgotten area, but one that can nevertheless delight you with its views and its uniqueness. Punta de Teno, or Buenavista del Norte are places where you will discover a completely different Tenerife. Wild, local, without the influence of mass tourism. At times you will feel as if you are in a completely different part of the world. Getting to these places is not easy and often requires effort, but it is worth it for the views.

Private tours for families and small groups

Are you traveling as a family or with a group of friends? Don’t like big buses and want a flexible schedule? We have the perfect solution for you! At OleTenerife you can book private tours for small groups – roundtrips, cruises, and customized itineraries tailored to your interests. You go only you, at your own pace, with a Polish guide who knows the island inside out.

👫 Recommended: – private round trip Teide + Masca – only for your group of max 8 people – private yacht cruise – for max. 12 people, go on a 3h cruise with a captain in the south of Tenerife – motorboat rental without a patent – if you want to sit at the helm yourself, this is the option for you – private cruise for 8 people – perfect for a chillout on the Ocean

Do you have a different idea? Not sure which option to choose? Contact us and we will be happy to give you a hint!

📞 whatsapp +34 643 79 97 08 (we speak english)

📩 contact form

FAQ – the most common questions about Tenerife attractions

Summary – plan the perfect trip to Tenerife

Tenerife offers some of the most diverse tourist attractions in all of Europe – and all year round. From the volcanic landscape of Teide, to the wild cliffs of Los Gigantes and the underwater world at the reefs, to the adrenaline rush of quad biking and paragliding. Whether you’re traveling with your family, your partner or a group of friends, we’ll help you plan the perfect itinerary. As a Polish team operating in Tenerife for years, we know the island inside out and know how to make your vacation truly unforgettable.

📌 Article updated: 2026 | Author: OleTenerife.com team | Source: own experience of Tenerife tour operator