Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a paradise for travelers seeking diverse experiences. While the island itself offers a plethora of attractions, day trips from Tenerife open up a world of exploration and adventure. From volcanic landscapes to charming villages, there is no shortage of exciting destinations to discover just a short journey away. Join us as we delve into the top day trips from Tenerife, showcasing the beauty and diversity of this stunning island and its surroundings.
La Gomera
Travel tips
- Distance of La Gomera from Tenerife: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by ferry
- How to get there from Tenerife: You can take a ferry from Los Cristianos port in Tenerife to San Sebastian de La Gomera. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands. Once in La Gomera, you can explore the island by car or public transportation.
- Click for Google maps directions: La Gomera
Exploring La Gomera: Things to do
La Gomera is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s rugged terrain, lush forests, and stunning coastline offer a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the top things to do in La Gomera is to visit Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient laurel forests and diverse flora and fauna. Hiking trails crisscross the park, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty up close.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the charming town of San Sebastian de La Gomera is a must. Explore the historic streets, visit the Torre del Conde fortress, and learn about the island’s rich maritime history at the Casa de Colon museum. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes and traditional Canarian specialties.
Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in La Gomera, from kayaking and snorkeling along the coast to mountain biking and rock climbing in the interior. The island’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to relax on a secluded beach, explore ancient forests, or embark on a thrilling adventure, La Gomera has something for everyone.
Mount Teide National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Tenerife: Approximately 20 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can take the 342 bus from Tenerife to Teide National Park. The bus station in Tenerife is located at Plaza de España. If you prefer to take the train, you can catch the Tenerife Tram from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Teide National Park.
- Click for Google maps directions: Mount Teide National Park
Exploring Mount Teide National Park: Things to do
Mount Teide National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The park is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, a volcanic marvel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Teide for panoramic vistas of Tenerife and the neighboring islands.
For those looking to explore on foot, there are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that lead through the park’s diverse terrain. From lunar-like landscapes to lush pine forests, Mount Teide National Park offers a unique blend of ecosystems waiting to be discovered.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy stargazing at the Teide Observatory, one of the best places in the world for astronomical observations. The clear skies and high altitude make it an ideal spot for observing the night sky and learning about the universe.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or simply want to marvel at the natural beauty of Tenerife, Mount Teide National Park has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the wonders of the volcanic landscape.
Masca
Travel tips
- Distance of Masca from Tenerife: Approximately 37 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours
- How to get there from Tenerife: You can take a bus from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Santiago del Teide, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Masca. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi to Masca. There are no train stations in the area.
- Click for Google maps directions: Masca
Exploring Masca: Things to do
Masca is a must-see destination in Tenerife due to its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape. The village is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, making it a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. One of the top things to do in Masca is to hike the famous Masca Gorge, a challenging yet rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also explore the quaint streets of the village, visit the local church, and enjoy traditional Canarian cuisine at one of the charming restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the viewpoint near Masca. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Masca has something to offer for everyone.
La Laguna
Travel tips
- Distance of La Laguna from Tenerife: 7 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes
- How to get there from Tenerife: You can easily reach La Laguna from Tenerife by taking the TITSA bus service. The main bus station in Tenerife is Intercambiador de Transportes de Santa Cruz de Tenerife. From there, you can catch a direct bus to La Laguna. Alternatively, you can also take the tram service from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to La Laguna. The tram station in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is called Intercambiador de Transportes.
- Click for Google maps directions: La Laguna
Exploring La Laguna: Things to do
La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see destination in Tenerife for its rich history and cultural significance. One of the top things to do in La Laguna is to visit the historic city center, where you can admire the well-preserved colonial architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Cathedral of La Laguna, a stunning example of Canarian Baroque architecture.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts is highly recommended, showcasing a collection of works by renowned Spanish artists. Take a leisurely stroll through the La Laguna Botanical Garden to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Foodies will delight in the local gastronomy of La Laguna, with traditional Canarian dishes served in cozy restaurants and charming cafes. Be sure to try the famous papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, a staple of Canarian cuisine.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Anaga Rural Park, located near La Laguna, offering breathtaking hiking trails through lush forests and rugged mountains. The park is a paradise for nature lovers, with stunning viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Overall, La Laguna offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Tenerife experience.
Anaga Rural Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Tenerife: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there: Take the TF-12 road from Tenerife towards Anaga Rural Park. The nearest bus station is in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and the nearest train station is in La Laguna.
- Click for Google maps directions: Anaga Rural Park
Exploring Anaga Rural Park: Things to do
Anaga Rural Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Tenerife. The park’s rugged landscapes, lush forests, and stunning viewpoints offer a unique experience for visitors looking to explore the island’s natural beauty.
One of the top things to do in Anaga Rural Park is hiking along its network of scenic trails. The park is home to a variety of hiking routes that cater to all levels of experience, from leisurely walks through ancient laurel forests to challenging treks up steep mountain paths. Popular trails include the Sendero de los Sentidos and the PR-TF 8 trail, both offering breathtaking views of the park’s diverse terrain.
For those interested in birdwatching, Anaga Rural Park is a paradise for spotting a wide range of bird species, including the endemic laurel pigeon and Bolle’s pigeon. The park’s rich biodiversity also makes it a great spot for nature photography, with opportunities to capture unique flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Visitors can also explore the traditional villages scattered throughout the park, such as Taganana and Chamorga, where they can immerse themselves in the local culture and sample traditional Canarian cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Roque de Taborno, a striking rock formation that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Anaga Rural Park has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this hidden gem and discover the natural wonders of Tenerife’s northern coast.
Garachico
Travel tips
- Distance of Garachico from Tenerife: 30 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can take the 363 bus from Tenerife to Garachico. The bus station in Tenerife is located at Calle Méndez Núñez. Alternatively, you can take the train from Tenerife to Garachico. The train station in Tenerife is located at Plaza de España.
- Click for Google maps directions: Garachico
Exploring Garachico: Things to do
Garachico is a charming coastal town in Tenerife that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the top attractions in Garachico is the natural volcanic pools, where visitors can take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters while enjoying stunning ocean views. The town is also home to the Castillo de San Miguel, a historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Church of Santa Ana is a must. This beautiful church dates back to the 16th century and features intricate architecture and stunning artwork. Strolling through the cobbled streets of Garachico, visitors can admire the traditional Canarian architecture and charming squares lined with cafes and shops.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Garachico coastline, which is dotted with picturesque beaches and rugged cliffs. Hiking trails in the area offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Garachico, where you can savor fresh seafood and traditional Canarian dishes.
Overall, Garachico is a must-see destination in Tenerife for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore historic sites, or simply soak in the laid-back atmosphere, Garachico has something to offer every type of traveler.
Los Gigantes
Travel tips
- Distance from Tenerife: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can take the Titsa bus from Tenerife to Los Gigantes, with the main bus station in Tenerife being Intercambiador de Santa Cruz. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi for a more flexible journey.
- Click for Google maps directions: Los Gigantes
Exploring Los Gigantes: Things to do
Los Gigantes is a stunning coastal town in Tenerife known for its dramatic cliffs that rise majestically from the sea. The main attraction of Los Gigantes is, of course, the towering cliffs that reach heights of up to 800 meters. Visitors can take boat tours to get up close to these impressive natural formations and witness their sheer grandeur from the water.
Apart from the cliffs, Los Gigantes offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can explore the charming marina, relax on the black sand beaches, or indulge in water sports such as snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters. The town also has a selection of restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine, providing a delightful culinary experience.
For those seeking adventure, hiking trails around Los Gigantes offer breathtaking views of the cliffs and the surrounding landscape. The area is also popular for whale and dolphin watching excursions, allowing you to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Overall, Los Gigantes is a must-see destination in Tenerife for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Canary Islands’ coastline. Its unique landscape and range of activities make it a perfect day trip for those visiting Tenerife.
