Tenerife, the largest and most diverse of the Canary Islands, is an adventurer’s dream. With its volcanic heart, lush green north, and sunny southern beaches, the island offers a stunning variety of landscapes. While it’s impossible to see everything in a short period, our Tenerife 5 days itinerary is crafted to give you a genuine and fulfilling experience. It combines the island’s most famous sights with hidden gems and local favorites, ensuring you get a true taste of what makes Tenerife so special.
This guide is designed for travelers with a rental car, as it offers the freedom to explore the island’s many unique corners at your own pace. Get ready for an action-packed but perfectly balanced Tenerife 5 days itinerary that will leave you with a profound appreciation for this incredible place.
Day 1: Arrival and Southern Bliss
Morning: Settle In and Relax
Arrive at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), pick up your rental car, and head to your accommodation in the south. The southern part of the island is known for its sunshine and resorts. Take some time to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.
Afternoon: Whale and Dolphin Watching
Start your trip with a magical experience. Head to Puerto Colón or Los Cristianos for a boat trip to see the pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins that live permanently in the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera. This is an awe-inspiring activity and a fantastic way to begin your Tenerife 5 days itinerary. The sightings are frequent, making it a very high-yield activity for a short trip.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner in La Caleta
After your boat trip, drive to the small, charming fishing village of La Caleta. This place is famous for its simple, traditional restaurants that serve incredibly fresh fish and seafood. Enjoy a beautiful sunset as you dine on the terrace, a perfect end to your first day.
Day 2: Volcanic Majesty and Astronomical Wonders
Morning: Teide National Park
Head to the heart of the island to explore Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to Spain’s highest peak. Drive through the stunning volcanic landscape, which feels like you’ve landed on Mars. The scenery is a mix of solidified lava flows, unique rock formations, and vast volcanic plains. Consider taking the cable car up for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and the surrounding archipelago.
Lunch: Cañadas del Teide
For a unique experience, have lunch at the Parador de Cañadas del Teide, located inside the national park. The restaurant offers traditional Canarian dishes with an unbeatable view of the Teide and the surrounding craters.
Afternoon: Stargazing Experience
As the sun sets, stay in the park for a truly special experience. Teide National Park is a Starlight Reserve, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. You can join a guided tour with telescopes or simply find a quiet spot and look up. The clear, dark skies reveal the Milky Way and countless constellations. This is a powerful and humbling part of any Tenerife 5 days itinerary.
Day 3: The North’s Lush Charm
Morning: Anaga Rural Park
Leave the volcanic landscapes behind and drive to the northeast to discover the Anaga Rural Park. This is a complete change of scenery. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to an ancient laurel forest. The air is cool and moist, and the paths are shrouded in mist, creating a magical atmosphere. Drive the scenic roads and take a short hike on a trail like the Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses) for an immersive experience.
Lunch: Local Flavor in Taganana
Descend from the Anaga mountains to the secluded coastal village of Taganana. This small community is famous for its simple, local restaurants serving fresh fish and papas arrugadas. The drive down is as stunning as the food itself.
Afternoon: Las Teresitas Beach
Just a short drive from Taganana is Las Teresitas beach. This is one of Tenerife’s most famous beaches, with golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert and calm, turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of hiking. The breakwater protects the bay, making it ideal for a swim.
Evening: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Head into the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, for the evening. The city has a vibrant nightlife and a fantastic culinary scene. Explore the lively plazas and find a local tapas bar or restaurant for dinner.
Day 4: History and Hidden Treasures
Morning: La Orotava and Botanical Garden
Drive to La Orotava, a stunningly beautiful town in the north known for its historic center and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Wander the cobblestone streets, admire the traditional wooden balconies, and visit the Casa de los Balcones. Afterwards, visit the Jardín Botánico (Botanical Garden) in nearby Puerto de la Cruz, a peaceful oasis showcasing a wide variety of tropical and subtropical plants.
Lunch: Puerto de la Cruz
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Puerto de la Cruz, a charming town that was once a hub for European aristocracy. The town has a different feel from the south, with black sand beaches and an authentic Canarian vibe.
Afternoon: Lago Martiánez
Spend the afternoon at Lago Martiánez, a beautiful complex of saltwater swimming pools designed by the great Canarian artist César Manrique. This is a must-see for its unique blend of art and nature, offering a relaxing and visually stunning experience.
Evening: Guachinche Dinner in La Matanza
For a truly local experience, drive to the rural area of La Matanza de Acentejo. This region is famous for its guachinches, which are simple, rustic eateries where locals serve their own wine and traditional homemade food. It’s an authentic, no-frills meal that is a highlight of any Tenerife 5 days itinerary for food lovers.
Day 5: Culture and Farewell
Morning: La Laguna, UNESCO Heritage Site
Start your final day by visiting San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the island’s former capital. This city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its beautifully preserved historic center, grid-like street plan, and colonial mansions. Wander through the streets, visit the cathedral, and enjoy a final Canarian breakfast at a local café. This town offers a perfect final dose of culture before you leave.
Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and Departure
After exploring La Laguna, you’ll be close to the Tenerife North Airport (TFN). Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the town’s charming boutiques. Grab a final meal at a restaurant and head to the airport for your departure. This final stop is a great way to reflect on your action-packed but fulfilling Tenerife 5 days itinerary.
A Tenerife 5 days itinerary is the perfect way to experience the best of this diverse island. From the dramatic volcanic landscapes to the lush, misty forests, from bustling tourist hubs to tranquil, local villages, this guide ensures you capture the true spirit of Tenerife. It proves that even a short vacation can be filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
