Getting Around Tenerife: Easiest 6 Options 2025

Searching for the easiest options for getting around Tenerife?

As professional travelers who spent a month exploring the Canary Islands, we’ve gathered firsthand experience to help you navigate this beautiful island with ease.

Whether you’re visiting for the stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, or vibrant culture, knowing the best ways to get around is key to making the most of your trip.

In this article, we’ll cover the easiest six options for getting around Tenerife in 2025: renting a car, bus, tram, tour services, Uber, and taxi.

Each mode of transport offers unique advantages, and we’ll share practical travel tips to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, our insights will help you choose the best option for your Tenerife adventure. So buckle up and get ready to explore this incredible island like a pro, guided by our expert tips and experiences!

Getting Around Tenerife: The Landscape

Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, covering about 785 square miles. This is very close in size to the island of Maui in Hawaii, which covers about 727 square miles.

This means you can drive across the island in roughly 1 hour. It’s important to note that the terrain is diverse, and travel time may increase in mountainous areas.

Let’s dive into the details of each! You can also jump to the option you’re most interested in by clicking the corresponding link above.

Getting Around Tenerife by Car

In general, we think renting a car is the best option for getting around Tenerife.

Why? Flexibility to explore and go at your own pace!

That being said, we think it is the right option if you are looking to do a lot of hiking and exploring in different areas like Anaga, Masca, Tiede, and Teno.

If you plan to mainly spend time at your hotel or resort and take a few day trips to spots in Tenerife, we suggest tours as the best option for getting around the island (click here to skip to tours).

Renting a Car in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Renting a car in Tenerife is very easy! In addition to being able to rent cars directly at both airports, you can rent cars all over the island as well.

We recommend renting your car through DiscoverCars. You can easily filter by the location, by automatic or manual car, and by what size vehicle you’re searching for.

We’ve had good experiences with Cicar and Avis personally, but there are many options. You can get a car rental for as little as $15 a day.

💡 TIP # 1: It is cheaper to get a car at the airport. We rented our car right when we got to Tenerife and then kept it during our month of island hopping (you can take your car on the ferries between islands).

💡 TIP # 2: Visiting from outside the European Union? You will need an International Drivers License to drive in Spain! We’re from the USA and were able to get one from our local AAA before our trip (a quick and easy process).

Driving in Tenerife Tips

We found driving in Tenerife to be relatively easy.

Compared to La Palma and La Gomera where the mountain roads seem to be constant, Tenerife has a large network of highways around the circumference of the island making driving easy.

That being said, there are some roads like the infamous Masca Road and the roads in Anaga Forest that were definitely trickier.

Here are some tips for having an easy time driving in Tenerife:

1. Speed Limits: Pay attention to speed limits. They are usually 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on highways unless otherwise marked. On the highways, there are radars that give out tickets to anyone going over the speed limit (something you’ll get via email a few weeks later).
2. Navigation: Use a GPS or a reliable map app on your smartphone. While the island is not very large, its winding roads and mountainous terrain can be tricky to navigate.
3. Parking: In tourist areas and larger towns, parking spaces can be scarce and often require payment. Look for blue lines that indicate paid parking spots, and use the ticket machines to pay.
4. Fuel Stations: Keep an eye on your fuel level; stations are plentiful in urban areas but can be sparse in more remote locations.
5. Mountain Driving: Be cautious when driving in the mountains. Roads can be narrow and curvy. Always keep your headlights on in tunnels and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

Getting Around Tenerife by Public Transport

Getting around Tenerife by public transport can be useful if you are primarily looking to travel short distances and have some time.

There are 2 public transport options: bus and tram.

Getting Around Tenerife by Bus

The bus system on Tenerife is honestly pretty good. The bus routes cover the majority of the main Tenerife attractions and go all over the island.

It is a great and cheap way to get around if you are not in a hurry!

The main drawback of using the bus system for getting around Tenerife is that it can be a bit unreliable – the buses are not always on time. This can make it difficult if you need to be somewhere at a specific time.

The bus system on Tenerife is operated by TITSA (Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife) though the buses are referred to as “Guaguas” (pronounced “wawas”).

TITSA provides information centers at strategic locations across Tenerife to assist tourists and residents alike with bus schedules, routes, and ticket information.

These centers are equipped to help with everything from route planning to paying for cards.

Here are some of the most common bus lines for tourists:

1. Line 343: This line connects the two main airports (North and South) with major tourist areas like Puerto de la Cruz and Costa Adeje, making it very handy for airport transfers.
2. Line 111: Running from Santa Cruz (the capital) to Costa Adeje through the southern airport (Reina Sofia Airport), this route is popular as it covers several key tourist destinations along the south coast.
3. Line 102: This bus runs from Santa Cruz to Puerto de la Cruz, offering a direct route between the north and the capital and passing through San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Line 103: Faster than line 102, this route also connects Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz but uses the highway for a quicker journey.
5. Line 473 and 477: These lines are particularly useful if you’re exploring the southern part of the island. Line 477 is an express service and one of the fastest ways to move along the south coast, linking Los Cristianos and Los Gigantes with fewer stops.

You can plan your route and check bus times on their website – TITSA website.

Tenerife Bus Tickets Cost

TITSA has round-trip, pay-as-you-go, or unlimited travel options for buying tickets. With the round-trip tickets, you’ll pre-pay for your route and receive a 10% discount.

The pay-as-you-go option charges you based on how far you travel on the bus each ride. Typically, this will cost 1 to 3 euros per ride.

If you plan to travel by bus a lot, the best option is the unlimited ride passes. You’ll purchase the “TEN+ Card” which allows for unlimited rides for 1 day (10€) or 7 days (50€).

All of these options can be purchased on TITSA’s app, ten+ Móvil.

Getting Around Tenerife by Tram

In addition to the buses, 2 tram lines run in Northern Tenerife connecting Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna. The trams are referred to as Metrotenerife.

The tram runs from Monday to Friday between 6 AM and midnight. However, on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, it operates 24 hours a day.

Tram service frequency changes with the season, but trams generally come often. From Monday to Friday, trams arrive every 5 to 15 minutes. On weekends, the interval ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased with TITSA’s app, ten+ Móvil, and cost €1.35 per trip.

Tenerife Public Transport App

TITSA’s app, ten+ Móvil, is the best way to purchase tickets, look up schedules, and plan routes.

The app is available for both Apple and Android devices in their respective app stores. The app itself is free – the only cost is for the rides themselves.

Getting Around Tenerife by Tour

One of the best parts of vacationing in Tenerife is that there are a ton of tours! This can make getting around Tenerife very easy since the tours will pick you up right at your hotel.

We trust Viator and GetYourGuide to have the safest and best tours.

A few of the top tours we would check out during your visit to Tenerife are:

• Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Food – you can’t leave the Canary Islands without seeing dolphins and whales! 🐬

• Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing with Dinner – Mount Teide is even cooler at night with the sunset and stars!

• ATV through Teide National Park – go on a quad adventure through Teide National Park

• Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Bus Tour – view two of the best natural wonders on the island

• Loro Parque & Siam Park Entry Ticket with Transfer – the best two theme parks in Tenerife with hotel pickup.

• La Gomera Island Day Trip with Lunch – La Gomera is one of our favorite islands and can be visited in a day

Is there Uber in Tenerife?

Yes, starting in 2023, Uber officially launched in Tenerife’s southern municipalities: Arona, Adeje, Granadilla de Abona, and Guía de Isora.

This area covers the Tenerife South Airport, Reina Sofía. However, Uber currently only allows rides to begin in these areas, though passengers can travel to other parts of the island​.

While Uber is available in Southern Tenerife, it is not a very reliable option for getting around Tenerife. We would recommend thinking of Uber as a backup option or at least having a plan B if there are no Ubers available when you need one.

Getting Around Tenerife by Taxi

Getting around Tenerife by taxi is a convenient way to explore the island, especially if you prefer a more personalized and flexible mode of transport.

Taxis are readily available across the island, with stands located at major tourist spots, airports, and town centers. You can also hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance through various taxi companies.

Tenerife’s taxis are easily recognizable by their white color and a green light on the roof, indicating availability.

If you’re traveling from the airport, taxi services are available 24/7.

For a smooth experience, it’s helpful to have your destination’s address written down and a basic understanding of Spanish phrases, though many drivers speak some English.

How to Get a Taxi in Tenerife

We recommend getting a Taxi at a stand. This will help ensure you are getting the best assistance.

If there is no Taxi stand, you can pop into a hotel and ask for help getting a Taxi. We find that hotels are generally happy to help!

Tenerife Taxi Cost

Taxis are metered, ensuring transparent pricing, with rates regulated by the local government. The initial fare starts at around €3, with additional costs based on distance and time.

For longer journeys or trips during nighttime and holidays, slightly higher rates apply.

It is ALWAYS a good idea to agree to a rate prior to beginning the ride.

Tenerife, Canary Islands Travel Tips

Easiest Way to Get to Tenerife

The easiest way to get to Tenerife from outside of the Canary Islands is by flying. Direct flights are available from many major cities in Europe, including Madrid, Barcelona, London, and Berlin.

Tenerife has two main airports: Tenerife South Airport (TFS), which handles most international flights, and Tenerife North Airport (TFN), which mainly serves flights from mainland Spain and other Canary Islands.

From within the Canary Islands, ferries can be a great option for getting to Tenerife. We recommend Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas.

Best Time to Visit Tenerife

The best time to visit Tenerife is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and September to November.

During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

These shoulder seasons also provide more affordable accommodation and flight options compared to the peak summer months.

However, Tenerife’s mild climate makes it great year-round. If you prefer hotter weather and lively festivals, summer (June to August) is also a great choice.

Winter (December to February) has mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

Top Attractions in Tenerife

There are a TON of great things to do in Tenerife – this is one of the reasons why we love visiting the island so much.

Our top attractions are:

• Siam Park – Have fun in one of the world’s best water parks and theme parks in Tenerife. Siam Park features a Thai theme with various water slides, a lazy river, and the world’s largest man-made wave.

• Visit Teide National Park – Explore Spain’s highest peak and the world’s third-largest volcano. Enjoy stunning views, hiking trails, and a cable car ride up Mount Teide.

• Whale and Dolphin Watching – Take a boat tour from Costa Adeje to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat in the waters around Tenerife.

• Loro Parque – Enjoy this world-renowned animal park, home to parrots, orcas, dolphins, and many other animals. The park emphasizes conservation and animal welfare.

• Los Gigantes Cliffs – Visit these impressive cliffs that rise up to 800 meters above the sea, offering spectacular sea views and opportunities for water sports.

• Masca Valley – Hike or drive through this breathtaking valley, known for its dramatic landscape and traditional Canarian village nestled among the mountains.

• Anaga Rural Park – Discover the ancient laurel forests and rugged landscapes of Anaga, perfect for hiking and experiencing Tenerife’s biodiversity.

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town – Wander the historic streets of Santa Cruz’s Old Town to see the architectural gems, bustling markets, and the iconic Church of the Immaculate Conception.

• Garachico – Visit this quaint town that offers a glimpse into Tenerife’s past with its natural rock pools, historical sites, and traditional Canarian architecture.

• Barranco del Infierno – Hike through this “Hell’s Ravine,” a scenic and protected gorge known for its rich vegetation and beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.

• Puerto de la Cruz – Explore this charming coastal town known for its beautiful botanical gardens, picturesque old harbor, and the Lago Martiánez complex.

• Cueva del Viento – Take a guided tour of one of the longest lava tubes in the world, offering a unique underground adventure through volcanic formations and tunnels.

Where to Stay in Tenerife

In general, we recommend staying on the southern coast of Tenerife.

In this area, you’ll have excellent access to the majority of the top Tenerife attractions as well as the southern port and airport.

Here are our favorite places to stay in this area:

• All-Inclusive – Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria
• $$$$$ – Hotel Sir Anthony
• $$$$ – GF Victoria
• $$$ – Parque Santiago III Official
• $$ – Klayman Olivina Aparthotel
• $ – Los Amigos Hostel Tenerife

There are a lot of great places to stay all around the island. Use the following map to find the best place in the area you’d like to be for the best price:

What to Eat in Tenerife

Tenerife’s culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Canarian flavors and fresh local ingredients.

We suggest looking for the following dishes to try while you visit Tenerife:

1. Papas Arrugadas – These “wrinkled potatoes” are a Canary Islands specialty. Small potatoes are boiled in saltwater until their skins wrinkle, then served with a tangy and spicy mojo sauce, either red (mojo rojo) or green (mojo verde).
2. Gofio – A traditional Canarian staple made from roasted grain flour, typically wheat or maize. Gofio is versatile and can be eaten as a porridge for breakfast, added to stews, or mixed with honey and almonds as a sweet treat.
3. Ropa Vieja – This hearty dish, meaning “old clothes,” is a flavorful stew made with shredded beef or chicken, chickpeas, tomatoes, and a mix of spices. It’s a great way to taste the island’s rich culinary heritage.
4. Grilled Fish – Fresh fish is abundant in Tenerife. Try local varieties like vieja (parrotfish) or sardines, typically grilled and served with a side of papas arrugadas and mojo sauce.
5. Bienmesabe – This sweet dessert, which means “it tastes good to me,” is made from ground almonds, sugar, lemon zest, and eggs, often served with ice cream or as a filling for pastries. It’s a delicious way to end any meal in Tenerife.

FAQs for Getting Around Tenerife

In Conclusion: Getting Around Tenerife

Exploring Tenerife is a breeze with these six convenient transportation options.

While buses, trams, tours, Ubers, and taxis are great for getting around, renting a car offers unmatched freedom and flexibility.

We found that having a car allowed us to uncover hidden gems and explore the island at our own pace, from the stunning beaches to the scenic mountain roads.

Whichever option you choose, our tips will help you navigate Tenerife smoothly and make the most of your adventure. Happy travels!

We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!” 

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