Tenerife – which hotel to choose

Planning a trip to Tenerife and thinking about choosing a hotel? It’s worth looking at the two main areas of the island – the north and the south – because although the island is not huge, the differences are significant. In this article we suggest:

• What characterizes accommodation in the northern part of Tenerife,
• What the southern part offers,
• What are the distances from the most important tourist sites (it is worth keeping in mind),
• What problems there may be with getting around (communication, roads, car rental).

At the end, you’ll find tips on which option might be best for you – depending on your travel style.

Tenerife north – what does the northern part of Tenerife look like?

Characters and climate

The northern part of the island, areas such as Puerto de la Cruz, La Laguna , Santa Cruz, La Orotava and Garachico, are places with a slightly quieter character, often more authentic and with less concentration of large tourist resorts. The north offers a more peaceful and authentic vacation, but the climate and weather are sometimes different. There is more humidity, clouds in the upper areas and fewer completely dry days than in the south.

If you decide to take a vacation in the northern part of Tenerife, we recommend choosing Puerto de la Cruz. Of all the cities mentioned, it is the best organized in terms of tourism – you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of dining options and attractions around the island 👉 check out Puerto de la Cruz tours here.

Advantages of accommodation in the north

• Fewer large resorts – you can find more intimate facilities, cottages, apartments in quieter areas.
• Richer nature and greenery – the north is greener, with forests, lush vegetation.
• Proximity to some typically “local” places – towns where the atmosphere is less “resort”.

Disadvantages and limitations

• Beaches – there are often beaches with dark volcanic sand or rocks, and not always the typical “touristy” golden sand, which can be important if a typical beach vacation is a priority. In addition, the ocean on this side of the island is more aggressive, and the waves and currents are dangerous.
• Sunny conditions – due to the climate, there will not always be full sun during the day, especially in mountainous areas.
• Commuting to major attractions and the airport can be longer or more challenging. About this especially in the section on distances and getting around.
• There are no organized tours or attractions offering transfers from any city in the north of Tenerife other than Puerto de la Cruz. Therefore, taking advantage of the tour offerings will incur the additional cost of renting a car and driving to the collection point.
• Northern major cities such as Puerto de La Cruz, Santa Cruz and La Laguna are jammed, and parking is difficult.

Sample distances from Puerto de la Cruz

• From the southern airport is 90 km, you will get by car in about an hour, by bus with a transfer about 1h 50 min.
• From Puerto de la Cruz to Siam Park is about 104 km (for this attraction from Puerto de la Cruz you can book a transfer with us 👉 check here).

Tenerife hotels in the north

You’ll find a wide range of hotels in Puerto de la Cruz, both large chains and private accommodations on AirBnb. It’s worth checking whether parking is included in the price, which will make getting around the island much easier. You can often find attractive hotel deals online in other parts of northern Tenerife: in Santa Cruz, Garachico, Santa Ursula. However, always check the exact location and ability to move around the island.

Summary

If you choose the north of Tenerife as your base, expect a quieter vacation, more nature and fewer typical tourist spots. However, there are some pros and cons to be reckoned with – if you’re after beach and sun all day, you may need to move to other parts of the island, and commuting and parking can be a challenge.

Tenerife south hotels

Characteristics

The south of the island – areas such as Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje is the main tourist area: numerous hotels, resorts, restaurants, beaches and vacation-oriented infrastructure. It’s a sure choice if you’re looking for lots of sun, beach and active recreation.

Advantages of accommodation in the south

• Beaches and sunshine – the south enjoys better weather conditions, more days of sunshine and access to beaches with yellow sand and gentle descent to the ocean, water sports and infrastructure.
• Large selection of hotels from budget to luxury, including large resort hotels, all-inclusive, etc.
• Perfect location for a typical “vacation” style – if you just want to relax, enjoy the beach, pools, restaurants and nightlife.
• Better communication for tourists – many tours, transports, easier access to the southern airport.

Disadvantages and limitations

• Crowded – since many people choose the south, places can be more crowded, hotels larger and less “intimate.”
• Costs – it can be more expensive in hotels and travel services, especially in top destinations.
• Less “authentic” atmosphere – for some travelers, the south may be too mass-tourism oriented, less “real” Canarian atmosphere.

Sample distances from Los Cristianos

• From the southern airport to Los Cristianos – 16 km
• To Siam Park – 4.5 km

Tenerife hotels in the south

The south of Tenerife has the most extensive hotel and dining options. You can find both all-inclusive hotels and private apartments here. Often hotels in the south of Tenerife are more expensive than those in the north, but it is worth recalculating additional costs, such as transportation or travel time.

Summary

If your goal is relaxation on the beach, a comfortable hotel, good weather and everything at hand – the south of Tenerife seems a good choice. However, if you want more tranquility, nature and towns with atmosphere, consider choosing the northern part.