How Many Days in Tenerife: 3 to 10 Day GREAT Tenerife Itineraries

Planning a trip to the Canary Islands and wondering how many days to visit Tenerife?

We know it’s tough to find concise information on how many days to spend in Tenerife, especially when many itineraries suggest spending half your trip at the beach or pool.

After spending a month in the Canary Islands, exploring Tenerife, and chatting with locals, we’ve crafted the perfect itineraries for 3 to 10 days.

Our guide covers the best things to do, ensuring you make the most of your time, whether you’re here for a quick visit or a longer stay.

Let us help you plan an unforgettable Tenerife adventure!

A beautiful view of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, showcasing its stunning architecture and vibrant cityscape. This image highlights the variety of attractions you can explore when deciding how many days in Tenerife to spend.

How Many Days in Tenerife?

Deciding how many days to spend in Tenerife depends on what you want to experience.

With just 3 days, you’ll get a quick glimpse of the island’s highlights.

If you only have 3 days, we recommend visiting Mount Teide, exploring the stunning Masca Valley, enjoying stargazing, and going whale and dolphin watching.

If you have a week in Tenerife, you can dive deeper into the island’s charm.

You’ll have time to explore Anaga’s stunning landscapes, take a day trip to nearby islands like La Gomera or La Palma, enjoy more water activities, or visit a theme park like Siam Park or Loro Parque.

We believe 7 days is the sweet spot. It allows you to balance relaxation and adventure, fully enjoying what Tenerife has to offer without feeling rushed.

If you can extend your trip to 10 days, the possibilities expand even more. You can visit other Canary Islands and join additional tours like canyoning or a winery visit.

More days mean more chances to experience the island’s diverse activities and stunning scenery.

Tenerife Itinerary Overview

Before we dive into the details of each day in our 3, 7, and 10 day Tenerife Itinerary, here is a brief overview of each day’s main activity.

DayMain Activity
Day 1🌋 Mount Teide
Day 2🐬 Whale and Dolphin Watching
Day 3🌌Masca Valley and Stargazing
Day 4🦍 Loro Parque
Day 5💃 Anaga Rural Park and Flamenco Show
Day 6🤿 Water Sports
Day 7La Gomera
Day 8🌊 Siam Park
Day 9🔭 La Palma
Day 10🍷 Canyoning in Los Arcos and Winery Visit

Now, let’s go into the details of each day!

3 Day Tenerife Itinerary

3 days in Tenerife can be quick, but you’d still see some of the best highlights of this amazing island.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 1 – Exploring Mount Teide

Start your adventure in Tenerife with a visit to Mount Teide, the island and Spain’s highest peak.

You can get there with a rental car or join a tour. Either way, you’ll have stunning views on the way.

Once you arrive, the cable car will take you close to the summit. The ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Mount Teide cable car offers stunning views of the island and is a highlight in many Tenerife itineraries. A ride on this cable car is a must-do, whether you're spending 3 days or 10 days exploring Tenerife.

At the top, enjoy some hiking around the peak. There are several trails to choose from, suitable for different fitness levels.

Don’t miss the Roques de García, famous rock formations that provide a fantastic backdrop for photos and a nice hike that is not at the summit. It was our favorite in the park!

Sendero Roques de García showcases Tenerife's unique volcanic landscape, making it a perfect stop for your Tenerife Itinerary 7 days. This trail offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

If you need more information about Mount Teide, including details on the cable car, hiking trails, and tips for your visit, check out our comprehensive Mount Teide guide. We’ve got all the details to help you plan your day.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 2 – Whale and Dolphin Watching

Day 2 of your Tenerife itinerary is all about adventure and relaxation.

Start with an unforgettable dolphin and whale watching tour. The Canary Islands are home to many dolphins and pilot whales, and you might even spot sperm whales and orcas!

We did this multiple times while we were in the Canary Islands and every time was AMAZING!

Whale and dolphin watching is a popular activity included in many Tenerife itineraries. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a memorable experience, no matter how many days to visit in Tenerife you have planned.

There are many tour options, from luxury yachts and spacious catamarans to unique Viking boats.

👉 We’ve broken down the best ones to help you choose.

After your tour, spend the rest of the day relaxing. Enjoy the beautiful beaches or lounge by your resort pool.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 3 – Masca Valley and Stargazing

On the last day of the Tenerife Itinerary 3 days, explore the stunning Masca Valley. This picturesque valley is known for its dramatic landscapes and charming village.

The sunlit Masca Village is nestled in the mountains and is a must-see in your Tenerife itinerary. Its picturesque setting and charming atmosphere make it a great addition to your plans, especially if you're wondering how many days to spend in Tenerife.

Just like Mount Teide, you can visit Masca on your own with a rental car or join a guided tour.

👉 We have all the best hikes, viewpoints, and dining spots detailed in our Masca Valley article.

After a day of hiking and exploring, enjoy a stargazing tour in the evening. Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to its clear skies and low light pollution. You’ll be able to see countless stars, planets, and even the Milky Way.

This tour provides telescopes and expert guides to help you spot the constellations. It’s an incredible experience! We really loved it.

Tenerife's clear skies make it one of the best places for stargazing. This activity is highly recommended, whether you're spending a few days or a week on the island. Don't miss it in your Tenerife itinerary 3 days.

One Week in Tenerife – Tenerife Itinerary 7 Days

We highly recommend spending 7 days in Tenerife to catch all the major highlights.

Continuing from where we left off on Day 3, let’s dive into our itinerary for Day 4 through Day 7 in Tenerife.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 4 – Loro Parque

Spend your fourth day in Tenerife exploring Loro Parque, one of Tenerife’s top theme parks.

This park is perfect for a full-day visit with plenty to see and do. You’ll find a variety of animals, including parrots, dolphins, orcas, gorillas, and tigers.

Loro Parque is home to a delightful colony of penguins and is a fun stop on your Tenerife itinerary. It's an excellent place to visit, especially if you're figuring out how many days to spend in Tenerife with family.

The park also has fantastic shows featuring sea lions and birds. We really enjoyed the sea lion show! Be sure to visit the impressive aquarium and the adorable penguin enclosure.

To make the most of your visit, we strongly recommend you buy tickets in advance to skip the line.

If you’re staying in South Tenerife and don’t have a rental car, don’t worry! There are convenient transfer options available.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 5 – Anaga Rural Park

On Day 5, head to Anaga Rural Park, a stunning area with jaw-dropping landscapes and unique laurel forests.

The magical Túnel de las hadas in Anaga is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and is ideal for a Tenerife Itinerary 7 days. The lush, green tunnel offers a unique hiking experience on the island.

Anaga is perfect for hiking, with popular trails like the Path of the Senses and the PR-TF 6.3 Benijo to Cruz del Draguillo route, which had us snapping photos left and right for its beauty.

💡 If hiking alone isn’t your thing, don’t worry! There are guided tours with knowledgeable guides who will show you the best spots.

Anaga also has beautiful beaches like Playa de Benijo, known for its dramatic rock formations and black sand. It’s a great place to relax after your hike.

Finish your day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Enjoy a vibrant flamenco show, immersing yourself in Spanish culture with passionate music and dance. It’s a perfect way to end your day of adventure in Anaga Rural Park.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 6 – Water Adventures in Tenerife

On Day 6, it’s time to dive into the fun water activities Tenerife offers.

With its great climate, why wouldn’t you spend a day enjoying the water? You have many options to choose from.

Try scuba diving or snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater world.

If you’re into surfing, Tenerife has some fantastic waves and surfing schools for beginners.

For a more relaxed experience, go kayaking or jet skiing along the beautiful coastlines.

There’s even a submarine ride for a unique view of marine life without getting wet.

Prefer to chill? Relax by the pool or soak up the sun at one of Tenerife’s stunning beaches.

Whatever you choose, Day 6 in Tenerife is all about enjoying the island’s fantastic water activities.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 7 – La Gomera

On the last day of your week in Tenerife, take an exciting trip to La Gomera, another Canary Island.

You can get there by ferry or join a guided tour for convenience. La Gomera is perfect for a day of exploration.

A hiker trekking the shadowy paths of Parque Nacional de Garajonay, La Gomera.

Start by visiting Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with lovely forests and scenic trails.

Next, explore the charming capital, San Sebastián, where you can see historic sites like the Torre del Conde and Casa de Colón.

Don’t miss the Mirador de Abrante, our favorite viewpoint on the island, for stunning vistas.

Whether you choose a tour or venture on your own, La Gomera is a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a great addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

Tenerife Itinerary 10 Days

If you have the chance to spend more than one week in Tenerife, you will have even more chances to explore this island and other Canary Islands.

We are going to build off of our 7 day Tenerife Itinerary and continue on Day 8.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 8 – Siam Park

On Day 8 of your Tenerife adventure, head to Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world. Get ready for a day full of thrilling rides, relaxing beaches, and fun for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Tower of Power, ride the lazy river, or just chill on the sandy shores of Siam Beach.

The thrilling Tower of Power slide at Siam Park is a highlight for anyone wondering how many days to visit Tenerife. This water park offers endless fun and excitement, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.

We recommend the Siam Park All-Inclusive Package.

This package offers fast-track access to attractions, so you can skip the long lines. It also includes a delicious lunch with drinks like soft drinks, beer, wine, and water. Plus, you’ll get towels, floats, and lockers for a hassle-free day.

Enjoy a fantastic day at Siam Park!

Tenerife Itinerary Day 9 – La Palma

On your 9th day in Tenerife, a trip to La Palma is a fantastic day trip.

La Palma, known for its stunning natural beauty, offers a range of activities to fill your day.

Start by exploring Santa Cruz de La Palma, the charming capital, where you can stroll through its historic streets and visit local shops.

The Gran Telescopio Canarias is a fascinating site to include when planning how many days to spend in Tenerife on a day trip to La Palma. This impressive observatory offers insight into the wonders of the universe and is a unique addition to your itinerary.

Next, head to Caldera de Taburiente National Park for a hike amidst breathtaking landscapes. Don’t miss the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory for some incredible views by the telescopes.

You can also relax on the black sand beaches like Puerto Naos or enjoy local cuisine at seaside restaurants.

To get to La Palma, book ferry tickets with Naviera Armas or Fred Olsen. These ferries allow you to take your rental car along for convenience.

Alternatively, consider booking a VIP tour that handles transportation and offers guided experiences around the island. Either way, La Palma is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Tenerife Itinerary Day 10 – Exploring Tenerife Through Unique Tours

On your last day in Tenerife, make it memorable with an exciting tour in Tenerife.

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, try canyoning in Los Arcos. You’ll rappel down waterfalls and navigate through rocky landscapes.

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For a more relaxed experience, consider the Bodegas Monje Winery Tour. You’ll learn about wine production, taste local wines, and enjoy a fun Mojo sauce workshop.

Rows of grapevines and wine bottles, representing the rich wine culture experienced on Tenerife.

If these don’t pique your interest, there are many other options:

Pick something that suits your interests for an unforgettable day!

Visiting Tenerife Tips

How to Get to Tenerife

Wondering how many days in Tenerife you need? Let’s start with getting there.

The easiest way to reach Tenerife from outside the Canary Islands is by flying. Direct flights are available from many major European cities like Madrid, Barcelona, London, and Berlin.

Aerial view of Tenerife's coastline and Mount Teide from an airplane window, highlighting the scenic route of how to get to Tenerife.

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

If you’re traveling from within the Canary Islands, ferries are a great option. We recommend Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas for a smooth journey.

How to Get Around Tenerife

The easiest way to get around Tenerife is by car, but their bus system, TITSA, is also a great option.

TITSA offers good coverage across the island with frequent routes connecting major towns and tourist spots. You can buy tickets on the bus or via their app, which also has the schedule.

However, if you can, we recommend grabbing a rental car! We had a great time exploring Tenerife with the flexibility our rental provided. No matter how many days in Tenerife you have, a car can make your trip even better.

When 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. When planning how many days in Tenerife to spend, keep in mind that 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) offers mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Personally, this is our favorite time to visit to escape the colder climates.

Food in Tenerife

Tenerife offers a delightful variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-try foods when you visit:

Fried pork and potatoes (carne fiesta), a popular dish in Tenerife
  • Papas arrugadas: These “wrinkly potatoes” are a Canary Islands staple. Boiled in salt water and served with mojo sauces (red and green), they’re a flavorful treat.
  • Conejo en salmorejo: Rabbit marinated in a typical Canarian sauce made with garlic, peppers, vinegar, and herbs, then fried to showcase local flavors.
  • Gofio: An ancient Canarian flour made from toasted grains, used in cereals, desserts, soups, and stews to add thickness and flavor.
  • Queso asado: Grilled cheese served with mojo sauce or honey, perfect for cheese lovers.
  • Ropa vieja: A hearty stew made with chicken, beef, chickpeas, and potatoes, offering a comforting meal.
  • Bienmesabe: A sweet dessert made from almonds, egg yolk, and sugar, often served with ice cream.
  • Fresh Seafood: Enjoy grilled fish, calamares (squid rings), and pulpo (octopus), prepared with local herbs and spices.

Sampling these dishes will give you a genuine taste of Tenerife’s culinary landscape. No matter how many days you spend in Tenerife, we hope you enjoy the great food!

Internet in Tenerife

Internet connectivity in Tenerife varies. Main towns and tourist areas usually have decent Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. However, remote areas you might visit on Tenerife day trips, like Teide National Park, may have poor signal.

We always use an eSim from Airalo for super affordable data packages. We’ve had great connectivity with them and no issues during our Canary adventures!

Setting up an eSim is easy and ensures reliable data for navigation, reservations, and exploring. This is especially helpful if you’re renting a car and relying on GPS for your Tenerife itineraries.

Where to Stay Tenerife

For your Tenerife itinerary, we suggest staying in South Tenerife, especially Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos.

These spots have great beaches, lively nightlife, and plenty of dining options. Plus, you’ll be close to many top attractions and starting points for Tenerife day trips.

We love staying at Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria for its luxurious amenities and ocean views. If you’re planning how many days in Tenerife to spend, these areas provide a perfect base.

The bright and airy lobby of Landmar Playa la Arena, emphasizing its status as one of the best hotels in North Tenerife for comfort and modern amenities.

Northern Tenerife is also worth considering. Places like Landmar Playa La Arena offer beautiful landscapes and a quieter vibe, making it another great option for your stay.

FAQs for How Many Days in Tenerife

How long does it take to travel the whole of Tenerife?

To see the major highlights of Tenerife, it typically takes around 5 to 7 days. This allows you to explore Mount Teide, Masca Valley, Anaga, beaches, and enjoy activities like stargazing and whale watching.

Is it easy to travel around Tenerife without a car?

Yes, it’s possible to travel around Tenerife without a car using buses, taxis, and tours. However, we recommend renting a car for more flexibility and convenience in exploring the island.

What is the best time to visit Tenerife?

The best time to visit Tenerife is springtime. The weather is perfect, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty and enjoying outdoor activities.

Where to go in Spain for 4 days?

For 4 days in Spain, consider spending 4 days in Tenerife. You can explore Mount Teide, enjoy the beaches, visit Masca Valley, and go whale and dolphin watching. We loved the island as a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation!

In Conclusion: How Many Days in Tenerife

No matter how many days in Tenerife you choose to spend on your vacation, you’re in for an amazing adventure.

Whether it’s a quick 3-day getaway hitting the highlights, a week-long exploration of hidden gems, or a full 10-day immersion in all the island has to offer, Tenerife has something for everyone.

From stunning landscapes to exciting activities, your trip will be unforgettable. We hope you have a great time and make wonderful memories on this beautiful island!

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

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Read More About the Canary Islands

Tenerife

La Palma

La Gomera

Canary Islands Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in the Canary Islands?

Yes! Renting a car is a necessity in the Canary Islands if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in the Canary Islands.

📲 Will my phone work in the Canary Islands?

Maybe, but it will be expensive! Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in the Canary Islands and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in the Canary Islands, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in the Canary Islands?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩 What’s the best way to book my the Canary Islands?

Our go-to for Canary Islands hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to the Canary Islands?

For finding cheap flights to the Canary Islands, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling and Iberia are usually our airlines of choice to get to the Canary Islands. Air Europa and Binter Canarias are the main inter-island airlines.

🚐 Should I book tours in the Canary Islands? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in the Canary Islands. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.

🚑 Should I buy Canary Islands travel insurance?

100% YES! Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents in the Canary Islands! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!

💧Can you drink the water in the Canary Islands?

The water in the Canary Islands is safe to drink. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫 Do I need a visa for the Canary Islands?

Likely Not! US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months. If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa.