Tenerife North is a destination full of surprises, ideal for those who want to explore both the main urban centers and the more untouched side of the island. Here you will discover ever-changing landscapes, traditional architecture, delicious cuisine, and countless fascinating spots.
If you ask me whether the north or the south is better, I personally consider that the attractions of the north are much more evocative. It’s not that Tenerife South lacks charm; it is an area where beaches, a festive atmosphere, and shopping opportunities prevail, while in the north, hiking trails, natural landscapes, history, and culture stand out. On our first visit, we dedicated most of our trip to exploring this part of the island.
In any case, whether you stay in the north or the south, Tenerife is compact enough to explore in a week. I invite you to check out our guide on things to do in Tenerife for more ideas. 
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, an essential city in the north
Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been the island’s capital since 1833 and is among the places with the most attractions to see in northern Tenerife. To get acquainted with the city, you can take this free tour that will allow you to see monuments and points of interest such as the Insular Palace, the remains of the San Cristóbal castle, the Conception Church, and the Our Lady of Africa Market, among others. The guide will share fascinating details about the local history and culture.
In addition, the city hosts some of the most important museums in Tenerife, such as the Museum of Nature and Archaeology, the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife, and the Municipal Fine Arts Museum. Do not miss the Palmetum, a botanical garden that houses up to 500 species of palm trees, the largest collection in Europe. We booked our ticket here in advance and were able to enjoy it without waiting.
I advise you to spend at least one night in one of the best hotels in Tenerife to explore the city at a leisurely pace. Likewise, from here, some of the best tours in Tenerife depart, which eliminates the need to rent a car.
Anaga Rural Park, a natural gem you cannot miss
The Anaga Rural Park is one of the places that must be on your itinerary, even if you only have three days on the island. Declared a Biosphere Reserve in 2015 for its great diversity of endemic species, this area quickly became one of our favorites.
Here you will find trails that wind through laurel forests, hidden beaches, and cliffs with dreamlike views. The Senses Trail is the most popular route and one of the best hiking trails in Tenerife. We did a circular route that took us to Afur and Tamadiste beach, starting and ending in Taganana. This hike will allow you to enjoy the unique landscapes of the park.
During our visit to the Anaga Rural Park, we stayed at the Montes de Anaga Hostel to make the most of the day by starting the hike early, when the surroundings are quieter. You can also opt to book a guided tour, which will offer you detailed information about this wonderful place.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, heritage and charm in the north
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, San Cristóbal de La Laguna stands out for its colonial architecture and its original 15th-century layout. It is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic destinations in the north of Tenerife.
To discover its most outstanding corners of La Laguna, we recommend taking this free tour that will take you through the Plaza del Adelantado, the Nava Palace, the Casa de la Alhóndiga, and the Casa del Corregidor, among others. You will also be able to admire the cathedral, the Leal Theatre, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, and the Salazar Palace. Moreover, if you want to enjoy the nightlife, the city offers a lively atmosphere ideal for shopping and sampling local cuisine.
Milenary Dragon in Icod de los Vinos, an emblem of the north
Icod de los Vinos is known for hosting the Milenary Dragon, declared a National Monument in 1917. Although there are other dragons on the island, this one is the most emblematic for being the oldest in the Canary Islands.
With a height of 18 meters and a base diameter of 20 meters, this majestic tree can be seen from the Plaza de San Marcos, although we recommend entering the park to see it up close by booking this ticket in advance. After admiring the dragon, take the opportunity to visit other points of interest in Icod de los Vinos, such as the Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, the Plaza de Pila, the Guanche Museum, and the Cueva del Viento. To get to know this town in depth, we suggest taking this free tour.
Puerto de la Cruz, tradition and maritime charm
Puerto de la Cruz is another one of the must-see cities of the north, with an old town full of history and a strong maritime tradition. Taking this free tour is an excellent way to learn about the key points of the city.
Among its attractions are the Martiánez Lake, the San Felipe Castle, the Botanical Garden, the Charco Square, the Paz viewpoint, and the Jardín Beach. If you are passionate about water sports, Martiánez Beach is ideal for surfing, with optimal conditions and specialized schools. We also recommend staying in one of the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz so you can explore the city thoroughly and easily access other points of interest in the north.
Teno Rural Park, nature in its purest form
The Teno Rural Park is one of the most impressive natural spaces in the north, extending over 8,000 hectares across the municipalities of Buenavista del Norte, Los Silos, El Tanque, and Santiago del Teide.
Its numerous trails will take you along cliffs, laurel forests, and valleys, with Punta del Teno being one of the best viewpoints in Tenerife. From there, you can admire the famous lighthouse with its unmistakable white and red stripes and enjoy views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.
For a different experience, you can opt for a boat tour or this kayak tour, which will allow you to appreciate the landscape from the sea, or even take a hike to Punta del Teno. This park is perfect for nature lovers, thanks to its wild and pristine environment.
Swimming at Caletón de Garachico, a refreshing plan in the north
One of the most original activities in the north is enjoying the natural pools, and Caletón de Garachico is one of the most popular. Due to its fame, it is best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
This spot was formed when the Trevejo volcano erupted in 1706 and the lava, upon hitting the ocean, solidified into unique structures that act as breakwaters, creating an ideal place for swimming in calm waters. Take the opportunity during your visit to stroll through Garachico, a picturesque town with historic streets, where you can see the old access arch to the port, the San Miguel fortress, the Simón Bolívar statue, and historic buildings from which pirates once appeared.
Check out our guide on things to do in Garachico or take this free tour to uncover all its secrets.
La Orotava, a charming town with history
La Orotava is another of the essential destinations in the north, where the colonial past is reflected in the architecture of its mansions, such as the famous Casa de los Balcones, built in the 18th century and featuring a beautiful wooden framework and traditional balconies.
Inside the Casa de los Balcones, craft workshops in embroidery, lace-making, and basketry—typical activities of Tenerife—are held. Remember to book your ticket in advance. Do not miss the Conception Church, a magnificent example of Canarian Baroque, or the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. La Orotava, nestled in a valley of the same name, is one of the most charming places in the north, and to get to know it thoroughly, we recommend taking this free tour.
Cueva del Viento, an underground mystery in Tenerife
In Icod de los Vinos you will find the Cueva del Viento, one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world, filled with surprising rock formations and fossil remains of extinct vertebrates.
During the visit, you will tour a section of the cave’s interior, which, although only a small part of its actual extension, will allow you to appreciate its unique beauty. Keep in mind that its name comes from the air currents that cause a drop in temperature, so it is advisable to wear long pants, a sweatshirt, and comfortable closed shoes. Due to its popularity, we recommend booking your ticket in advance or opting for this guided excursion, which also includes visits to Garachico and La Orotava.
Northern Beaches: Benijo and Other Coastal Gems
The Benijo Beach, located in the Anaga area near the eponymous hamlet, is considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife North. Its black volcanic sand and wild, peaceful surroundings create an almost magical atmosphere, although caution must be taken with strong currents. To reach it, head to the El Mirador restaurant, from where a trail leads you to the beach.
In addition, you cannot miss visiting El Bolullo Beach, located in La Orotava, known for its subtropical climate, banana trees, and beach bars, nor Socorro Beach, ideal for practicing water sports. Also, do not forget Las Teresitas Beach, with its golden sand and proximity to Santa Cruz, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the north.
With this guide, you can enjoy the diversity that Tenerife North offers, combining history, nature, and tradition in every corner. Get ready for your trip and let yourself be surprised by everything this wonderful destination has to offer!
Where to Stay in Tenerife North – Outstanding Hotels in Northern Tenerife
We have tried various accommodation options in northern Tenerife, and without a doubt, the H10 Tenerife Playa stands out as the best. Located in Puerto de la Cruz, this hotel is the ideal starting point for exploring the north of the island.
The rooms at H10 Tenerife Playa are characterized by their spaciousness and brightness, all of which come with a private balcony or terrace. Among its many services are a swimming pool, gym, several restaurants, and other amenities that guarantee a complete experience. It is undoubtedly a wise option if you are looking for an excellent location with outstanding value for money.
If this hotel is not available or does not meet your needs, in Tenerife there are other alternatives for accommodations that will surely suit what you are looking for.
Where to Eat in Tenerife North – Must-Try Restaurants in Northern Tenerife
Northern Tenerife offers a wide variety of places to enjoy local cuisine and try authentic Canarian dishes.
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we recommend visiting Bodeguita Canaria, a family-run restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and excellent value for money, specializing in Canarian cuisine. On the other hand, in Puerto de la Cruz, Casa Mediterránea is an option to consider, especially if you feel like tasting Argentine dishes at very reasonable prices.
If you find yourself in Garachico, you cannot miss trying El Rebojo | Bocados de Mar y Vinos. This establishment offers a selection of tapas primarily prepared with fish and seafood, but also provides meat options, as well as vegan and vegetarian alternatives. Best of all, its prices are quite affordable, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much.
To discover even more options, you can consult our guide on where to eat in Tenerife and explore other restaurants spread across the various areas of the island’s north.
Map of Tenerife, Canary Islands
To facilitate the planning of your trip through northern Tenerife, here is a map of Tenerife. This way, you can easily locate all the points of interest and organize your route without complications.
Remember that although Tenerife has an extensive public transportation network, it is mainly designed for residents, so you might experience long wait times when traveling between different points. Therefore, the most practical way to get around the island is by your own vehicle, which you can rent through DiscoverCars, the platform we always use. If you prefer not to drive, you also have the option to book one of the best tours in Tenerife available from Puerto de la Cruz or Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
That’s all for now. I hope you thoroughly enjoy every one of the places you visit in northern Tenerife. If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below. It will be a pleasure to read and learn more about your adventures in Tenerife North!
And now, happy travels!
