If you’re looking for a place full of charm in the north of Tenerife, Icod de los Vinos is an excellent choice. Known for being home to the famous Millenary Drago, a true symbol of the island, this Canarian town has much more to offer. Its historic center, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, is full of cobblestone streets, stately homes featuring traditional architecture, and wineries where you can learn about Canarian wine culture. Also, if the day is clear, from many of its corners you can enjoy a beautiful view of Mount Teide. Get ready to discover it!
How long do I need to visit Icod de los Vinos? Ideally, you should dedicate a full day to explore its main landmarks and visit the Millenary Drago Park. Still, if you have less time, you can see the most representative parts in a morning or afternoon.
Below, we present the must-see places in Icod de los Vinos, along with some tips to make the most of your visit. Let’s go!
1. Millenary Drago Park, a must-see in Icod de los Vinos
The main attraction of Icod de los Vinos is, without a doubt, the Millenary Drago, an imposing specimen about 18 meters high, with a crown exceeding 20 meters and a trunk base of similar diameter. It is estimated to be between 700 and 1,000 years old, making it one of the great botanical treasures of Tenerife and a true symbol for locals. In fact, it was declared a National Monument in 1917.
You can admire the Drago from the Plaza Andrés Lorenzo Cáceres, but we recommend entering the Millenary Drago Park to see it up close. The entrance fee is affordable and, besides seeing the Drago from the front row, you can walk through a garden with other endemic plants and a “nursery” of young Drago trees. From here, you’ll also get magnificent views of both Icod and, on clear days, the silhouette of Teide.
Opening hours:
April to September: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
October to March: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Admission price: €5 (adults), €3 (students and pensioners), and €2.50 (children under 8).
You can buy your ticket from this link.
2. Cueva del Viento
Another very interesting stop in Icod de los Vinos is the Cueva del Viento, the fifth largest volcanic tube in the world thanks to its 18 kilometers of surveyed passages (only surpassed by four tubes in Hawaii). It was formed about 27,000 years ago after the eruptions of Pico Viejo.
The visit, always guided, lasts about two hours in small groups and is perfect for understanding the volcanic origin of the Canary Islands. The walk is easy and takes place underground, with a helmet and headlamp, since there is no artificial lighting inside. Warm clothing and hiking shoes are recommended.
Keep in mind that you must book in advance on their official website.
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (choose the time when booking).
Admission price: €20 (adults), €10 (Canarian residents), €8.50 (children aged 5 to 12), and €5 (children who are Canarian residents). Children under 5 are not permitted.
3. Take a free walking tour in Icod de los Vinos
Although the Millenary Drago is its most famous attraction, Icod de los Vinos is a municipality with a rich history. It’s said that some of the first Guanches settled here, and during the conquest, its climate and abundant water attracted new settlers.
To better understand its heritage, it’s ideal to join this free tour, which in about 90 minutes will take you to emblematic spots such as the Parroquia de San Marcos, the former San Francisco Convent, or the Plaza de la Pila. You’ll learn curious facts and anecdotes from an expert guide.
4. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres
This is the most representative square of Icod and dates back to the 16th century, although it has been renovated over the centuries. The newest element is its beautiful neoclassical balustrade.
Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres is a gathering spot for locals, with shady trees (palm trees, Indian laurels, and jacarandas), a kiosk where you can grab something to drink, and unbeatable views of the Millenary Drago from above. You’ll also find the Iglesia de San Marcos Evangelista here, which we’ll discuss next.
5. Parroquia de San Marcos
San Marcos Church (Parroquia Matriz de San Marcos Evangelista) is the most important temple in Icod de los Vinos. It was built over a 16th-century hermitage, constructed after the miraculous appearance of Saint Mark the Evangelist on the beach that bears his name.
Its exterior features white walls and a bell tower topped with a pyramidal shape, making it very photogenic. The main southern doorway is a magnificent example of Mannerism in the Canaries.
Inside, you’ll find Mudéjar-style coffered ceilings in the aisles and chapels, as well as a very beautiful main altarpiece. You can also see the Gothic image of Saint Mark and one of the so-called “Cristos de Maíz” (the Señor Difunto de Icod de los Vinos), brought from Michoacán (Mexico) before 1578.
The church also houses a Sacred Museum displaying liturgical vestments embroidered in gold and silver, as well as the famous Cruz de Filigrana (Filigree Cross), which stands nearly 2 meters tall and weighs 45 kilos, crafted in Havana in 1165 and donated to the town.
6. Plaza de la Pila or Plaza de la Constitución
This is one of the most charming squares in Icod de los Vinos. Built in 1631, Plaza de la Pila gets its name from an 18th-century fountain that served as a water supply for locals.
Beyond the fountain and the surrounding greenery, it’s worth noting the traditional architecture of the nearby houses. Casa Lorenzo-Cáceres stands out, a 19th-century neoclassical building with a yellow façade and large wooden windows. It’s usually open to the public for free, as it now houses a music school and exhibition rooms.
7. Bodega Museo de Malvasía
Another place you shouldn’t miss at Plaza de la Pila is the Bodega Museo de Malvasía. It’s a family-run winery where you can delve into the world of wine cultivation and, of course, taste or purchase them in the shop.
The family running it is lovely and will be happy to answer all your questions and share interesting facts about the local wines. If you’d like, they offer 3- and 5-wine tastings accompanied by Canarian mojos and sometimes other liqueurs. You can book these through their website or directly upon arrival.
They also have a pleasant back patio where you can sit and enjoy the tastings.
8. Casa del Plátano, a curious visit in Icod de los Vinos
As you know, Canarian bananas are among the tastiest in the world, and this area of Tenerife is full of plantations that make the landscape even more beautiful. That’s why one of the best things to do in Icod de los Vinos is visit the Casa del Plátano, a house-museum with an exhibition on the origin of banana cultivation in the islands and how it’s done today.
During the visit, you can see several banana plants and the tools used on the farms. They usually give out some bananas to taste, and if you’re interested, you can also try the traditional banana liqueur.
If you want to delve further into this vital part of the Canarian economy, you can also visit a banana plantation in La Orotava or join the free tour of a farm in Buenavista del Norte, both of which are close to Icod and accessible by car. For more information, you can read this list of places to see in La Orotava.
- Admission price: €5 for adults, €3 for Canarian residents, €3 for children under 15, €2 for children under 15 who are Canarian residents, and free for children under 5.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
9. ARTlandya – la Finca, the Doll World
Surprisingly, one of the most popular museums in Icod de los Vinos is dedicated to dolls and teddy bears: ARTlandya. Located on an estate with lush vegetation and excellent views of Teide, the owner will guide you through an extensive collection of more than 400 pieces from different parts of the world. It’s an ideal activity if you’re traveling with children.
Admission price: €10 (adults), €4.50 (children 6 to 14), and free for children under 6. You can buy tickets here.
Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
10. Casa del Drago
Very close to the entrance of the Millenary Drago Park is Casa del Drago, an old Canarian house transformed into a restaurant and gourmet shop, boasting privileged views of the Millenary Drago.
It’s true that prices can be a bit high, but the setting is unbeatable, with a patio directly overlooking this symbol of Tenerife. They offer Canarian cuisine with fusion touches, and their brunches are quite famous. If you don’t want a full meal, you can stop by to check out their store, where they sell wines and other local products.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 am to 8:00 pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
11. Former San Francisco Convent – Municipal Library
Founded in 1641, the Former San Francisco Convent, now converted into the Municipal Library, is another must-see in Icod de los Vinos. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest, it is organized around a beautiful Renaissance-style cloister, in the center of which stands a fountain featuring Neptune, donated by Italian sailors who survived a shipwreck off these coasts.
Next to the convent is the Church of San Francisco, which is still in use. Inside, the Chapel of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, from the 18th century, stands out for its Portuguese-influenced coffered ceiling.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm; Saturdays, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Free entry.
12. Icod de los Vinos Town Hall
Located on Plaza de León Huertas, the Town Hall occupies a 17th-century palatial-style building with two floors and wooden balconies. Its main entrance is framed by a distinctive split staircase.
It’s open in the mornings, so if you pass by during that time, feel free to pop in to see the interior.
13. Iglesia de San Agustín (San Agustín Church)
Right next to the Town Hall, you’ll find San Agustín Church, a 16th-century building with a single nave and two side chapels. If you find it open, it’s worth stopping by to appreciate its Baroque and Rococo altarpieces, as well as the 17th-century Sevillian sculptures and a painting by the Gran Canarian artist Juan de Miranda.
14. Playa de San Marcos, a different kind of place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
As you can see, there is no shortage of cultural things to do in Icod de los Vinos. However, if it’s hot and you feel like a swim, you can choose one of the nearby natural pools or rock pools (like La Consolación or La Laja) or head to the convenient Playa de San Marcos, with restaurants, easy parking, and often considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife for relaxing.
The beach has a shell-like shape and consists of black sand and rocks, so it’s advisable to wear water shoes and be cautious if there are waves. Note that it’s located about 3 kilometers from the historic center of Icod de los Vinos, so you’ll need a car to get there.
By the way, next to the beach is the Iglesia de San Marcos, a small seafaring chapel recently restored and featuring a spectacular altarpiece.
Excursions to do from Icod de los Vinos
There are several excursions to do from Icod de los Vinos due to its central location in the north of the island. If you have a rental car, we recommend you visit Garachico, Puerto de la Cruz, the Punta de Teno area, and the Rambla de Castro.
If you prefer going with an expert guide and not worry about driving, we recommend booking some of the following excursions from Icod de los Vinos:
- Excursion to Teide + Cable Car Ticket from the north: you can’t leave the island without visiting Teide National Park, and it’s even better if you can enjoy the landscape from where the cable car drops you off, more than 3,500 meters above sea level. This 5-hour tour will take you through the essential spots. For more info, you can check this post on how to go up Teide.
- Tour of Isla Baja: Icod is in what’s known as Isla Baja, the northwest part of Tenerife. If you want to explore its majestic landscapes, this excursion includes a visit to Icod de los Vinos, Garachico, Buenavista del Norte, and Sibora Beach, among other spots.
- Private tour of Tenerife: if you plan to stay in Icod de los Vinos, you can book a tour for your group that will show you whichever part of the island you prefer.
- Tour of Masca and the northern viewpoints of Tenerife: accompanied by a guide, you’ll see the hamlet of Masca, the Charco de La Laja (one of the prettiest natural pools on the island), and the views from spectacular lookouts such as Humboldt, La Garañona, and Rambla de Castro.
These are just a few of the most recommended tours. To make the most of your visit, we suggest reading our post on the best excursions in Tenerife.
Where to stay in Icod de los Vinos
More and more travelers are choosing to stay overnight in Icod de los Vinos to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and views of Teide at dusk. Here are some suggestions:
- Hotel Emblemático San Marcos: Just 150 meters from the Millenary Drago, it occupies an 18th-century manor house with only 6 rooms, so the service is very personalized.
- Hotel Emblemático San Agustín: Located in another 18th-century stately home, it has 8 rooms surrounding a lovely Canarian patio.
If these options are fully booked or you’re looking for something different, you can check Booking for more alternatives.
For more detailed information, take a look at this article on where to stay in Tenerife.
How to get to Icod de los Vinos
If we’ve convinced you to visit Icod de los Vinos, the first thing you need to do is look for a flight to Tenerife. The most convenient airport is Tenerife North, which also has the most frequent flights from mainland Spain, even with low-cost airlines like Vueling or Ryanair. Booking in advance ensures better prices, especially during high season.
Once you arrive on the island, we recommend you rent a car right away, as it’s the most convenient way to explore Tenerife. Distances are significant, and relying on public transport would mean losing a lot of time. However, you can also book a convenient transfer to your hotel and then move around using excursions or the guaguas (buses) operated by Titsa.
For reference, it takes about 45 minutes to reach Icod de los Vinos from the airport by car, or around 75 minutes if you use the bus.
Finally, if you plan to stay in other parts of the island and don’t want to miss out on visiting the town, you can also book this excursion, which includes many of the top places to see in Icod de los Vinos, a tour of Teide National Park, and breathtaking spots like Masca and Garachico.
For more information, you can check out this list of travel tips for Tenerife.
Map of Places to Visit in Icod de los Vinos
Plan your route efficiently with this map of the must-see places in Icod de los Vinos that we have created.
We hope we have helped you plan your trip to Icod de los Vinos. If you still have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments.
