Tenerife Travel Guide
Tenerife or the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’ is a popular holiday destination due to its wonderful climate all year round and wide choice of sights and activities.
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. It has a population of over 949,000 people and the capital of the island is Santa Cruz. The main language is Spanish, but there is a slight deviation to the mainland of Spain and this is known as the Canarian dialect.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s rugged volcanic landscape, which is dominated by Mount Teide and other picturesque natural attractions like the cliffs of Los Gigantes. Food lovers will take delight in traditional Canarian dishes and in Santa Cruz you can shop to your heart’s content. For history buffs, you can step back in time to the colonial city of La Laguna and see its well preserved architecture.
We've outlined some general information that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to Tenerife.
Time Zone & Currency
Tenerife is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year and as it’s part of Spain, the currency used is the Euro.
Time Zone & Currency
Tenerife is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year and as it’s part of Spain, the currency used is the Euro.
Weather In Tenerife
Tenerife enjoys an ‘eternal spring’, with year round averages of 20-24°C, high sunshine levels and minimal rainfall.
Reading For Your Trip To Tenerife
Tenerife & Its Six Satellites by Olivia M Stone
Canary Island Song by Robin Jones Gunn
Destiny in Tenerife by Evelyn Hood
Best time to go to Tenerife
Any time of year is the perfect time to visit this Canary Island.
Top Tourist Attractions In Tenerife
Top 8 Things To Do In Tenerife
Did you know? Tenerife is known as the 'Island of Eternal Spring' due to its pleasant weather all year round. It's full of incredible volcanic landscapes, charming towns and has a unique culture from the mainland of Spain.
Food & Drink In Tenerife
Tenerife has its own distinct cuisine, although popular Spanish dishes and international-style food are available here too. The local cuisine reflects the island’s location as a former trading post, with Latin American and Arabic influences and featuring spices like cumin, paprika and dried chillies. Traditional Canarian dishes focus on seafood as well as local meats, such as goat, rabbit and pork. Many meals in Tenerife are served with Mojo, a spicy salsa made from garlic and red chilli peppers, and papas arrugadas ; steamed new potatoes in their skin. The most typical dessert is bienmesabe (translated as “tastes good to me”) ; a mixture of honey, almond, egg yolks and rum. Make sure you try some of the local wine too, made from grapes grown in the vineyards on the slopes of Mount Teide.
Tenerife Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Tenerife?
The earliest indigenous inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches who arrived from Africa around the first or second century BC. In 1493, during the Age of Discovery, Tenerife was discovered by Spanish conquistador Alonso Fernández de Lugo. The Guanches fiercely fought against this Spanish conquest, but ultimately Tenerife became part of Spain in 1493. During the Colonial Period, Tenerife was a vital stopover for Spanish ships transporting slaves to America and Santa Cruz became a key centre for trading. In 1797, the 'Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife' took place, a British fleet led by Admiral Horatio Nelsen tried to invade Tenerife, but the Spanish managed to successfully defend the island. Tourism began in the late 19th century with many visitors coming from Spain, the United Kingdom and Northern Europe who who were attracted by towns like Puerto de la Cruz.
I have walking difficulties, is a holiday in Tenerife suitable?
Tenerife is a destination that caters very well for those with limited mobility, with mostly wide pavements and flat walkways. However, some of the hotels can be located on uphill terrain. For all our tours we have an activity level guide to help you decide which holiday suits you best. For specific advice regarding our Tenerife holidays and to discuss any special needs, please contact us directly and we will be happy to assist.
Is Tenerife a good holiday destination?
Tenerife is a beautiful holiday destination if you are looking for warm temperatures and a chance to relax on black volcanic beaches or beside the pool. Alternatively sit at one of the seaside cafes and watch the world go by, enjoying the Spanish relaxed way of life.
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Spain please see: www.dfa.ie
- Official Spanish Tourism Board: www.spain.info
