Tenerife itinerary: what to see in 7 days

Plus tips on how to get there by ferry!
Tue, 4 November 2025 The Ferryhopper Team

Planning a trip to Tenerife? Great choice! The largest of the Canary Islands is a place of striking contrasts, from lunar-like volcanic peaks and lush forests to lively beach towns and charming coastal villages.

Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, local culture, or just a few days by the sea, this 1-week Tenerife itinerary will help you get to know the island’s different sides at an easy pace. Find out how to explore Tenerife in 7 days and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper with ease!

Aerial view of the green mountain ranges and valleys of Anaga Rural Park in northern Tenerife, Spain

The lush, green landscapes of Anaga Rural Park, one of Tenerife’s most scenic areas

Why visit Tenerife

Tenerife is one of those destinations where every part of the island feels a little different. In the center, you’ll find Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest mountain and a landscape shaped by ancient volcanoes. The south is sunnier and known for its beaches and resorts, while the north offers green valleys, traditional towns, and cooler air.

A walk through La Laguna or La Orotava reveals colorful old houses and quiet courtyards, while a drive along the coast takes you past cliffs, banana plantations, and fishing villages.

The island’s food scene is another highlight. Fresh fish, local wines, and Canarian favorites like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce are easy to find almost anywhere.

With pleasant weather year-round, a mix of scenery, and a relaxed rhythm, Tenerife is a place where you can slow down, explore, and enjoy nature without going far from the sea.

How to get to Tenerife by ferry

If you like the idea of traveling by sea, taking the ferry to Tenerife can be a comfortable and scenic option. Tickets can be booked online, and e-tickets make boarding simple.

There are ferry connections from mainland Spain as well as from nearby Canary Islands. Tenerife has 2 main ports: Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the north and Los Cristianos in the south.

Here are some of the most popular routes:

Tip: Tenerife is a great starting point for visiting other Canary Islands. Regular ferries connect it with La Gomera, La Palma, and Gran Canaria. For more inspiration, check out our dedicated guide on island-hopping in the Canaries!

Aerial view of La Orotava town with terracotta rooftops and surrounding green hills in Tenerife

The charming town of La Orotava, known for its traditional Canarian houses

1 week itinerary Tenerife

In 1 week, you can see a wide range of what Tenerife has to offer. Follow this route to discover the island’s main attractions, local culture, and natural beauty while leaving some time to relax by the sea.

Day 1: Explore Santa Cruz & Playa de Las Teresitas

Welcome to Tenerife! Start your adventure in the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a vibrant port city full of energy, culture, and seaside charm.
Visit the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, admire the striking Auditorio de Tenerife, and relax at Plaza de España.

For a beach escape, head to Playa de Las Teresitas, a golden-sand paradise just 15 minutes from the city center.

Tip: stay overnight in Santa Cruz or nearby La Laguna to explore the north more easily the next day.

Day 2: Anaga Rural Park & La Laguna

Begin your day in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO-listed historical city full of colorful architecture, charming streets and laid-back cafés.

Then venture into Anaga Rural Park, a lush UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with misty forests, hiking trails, and spectacular ocean views. Hike one of the scenic trails, like Sendero de los Sentidos, and enjoy breathtaking views over the Atlantic.

End your day with dinner in Taganana, where you can try local specialties like papas arrugadas and fresh fish.

Aerial view of the mountain range and green valleys of Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Lush mountains and valleys of Anaga Rural Park

Day 3: Mount Teide National Park

Time to explore Tenerife’s crown jewel, Teide National Park. The landscape here feels like another planet, with black lava fields, rugged rock formations, and the towering Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.

Drive up through Vilaflor, take the cable car to the summit, or enjoy one of the park’s many hiking routes, such as Roques de García. Don’t forget your camera! This is one of the best stargazing spots in the world!

Stay overnight in a nearby mountain lodge or return to La Orotava.

Day 4: La Orotava & Puerto de la Cruz

Spend the morning wandering the cobbled streets of La Orotava, famous for its traditional Canarian architecture and wooden balconies. Visit Casa de los Balcones and stroll through the old quarter.

In the afternoon, head down to Puerto de la Cruz, a charming coastal town home to Lago Martiánez, a unique complex of seawater pools designed by the Spanish artist César Manrique.

Relax by the pools, enjoy the sea breeze, and treat yourself to an ice cream at sunset.

View of La Orotava, showing traditional Canarian architecture, Spain

The picturesque town of La Orotava

Day 5: Icod de Los Vinos, Garachico & La Orotava

Drive west to Icod de los Vinos to see the legendary Drago Milenario, a thousand-year-old dragon tree. The town is also known for its volcanic caves and local wine, so stop for a tasting if you can!

Continue to the picturesque town of Garachico. Once destroyed by lava, it now charms visitors with its cobbled streets and natural rock pools (El Caletón), perfect for a refreshing dip.

Day 6: Masca Valley & Los Gigantes

This is one of the most scenic days of your trip! Drive through winding roads to the Masca Valley, a hidden mountain village surrounded by dramatic ravines. You can hike the famous Masca Trail (check conditions beforehand) or simply enjoy the views from the road.

Then head to Los Gigantes to admire its towering cliffs or take a whale- and dolphin-watching cruise.

Day 7: Relax in Costa Adeje

Wrap up your Tenerife adventure with a relaxing day in Costa Adeje, one of the island’s best beach resorts. Enjoy the calm waters at Playa del Duque or Playa Fañabé, treat yourself to a spa session, and savor a final sunset cocktail overlooking the Atlantic.

If you’re catching a ferry later, Los Cristianos Port is just a short drive away.

Aerial view of Costa Adeje coastline in southern Tenerife, Spain

The sunny coastline of Costa Adeje, one of Tenerife’s most popular areas for beaches and relaxation

Useful tips for your trip to Tenerife

Here are some useful travel tips to help you plan a smooth and hassle-free trip to Tenerife:

  • Best time to visit: Tenerife enjoys mild weather all year, but spring and autumn offer perfect temperatures and fewer crowds. Find out more about the climate of the Canary Islands on Ferryhopper.
  • Getting around: the best way to explore is by renting a car, especially if you plan to visit mountain villages or rural areas.
  • What to pack: bring sunscreen, a light jacket for Teide’s cooler temperatures, and comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
  • Local food to try: don’t miss mojo picón sauces, papas arrugadas, gofio-based dishes, and local wines from volcanic vineyards.
  • Respect nature: many of Tenerife’s landscapes are protected. Stay on marked trails and support eco-friendly activities.
  • Plan ahead: some hikes in Teide National Park require a permit, so book early if you want to reach the summit.

Traditional Canary Islands dish papas arrugadas served with red mojo picón sauce at an outdoor restaurant, Spain

Papas arrugadas with mojo picón, a simple and classic Canarian dish enjoyed across the islands

Book ferry tickets to Tenerife on Ferryhopper

So what are you waiting for?  Start planning your 1-week Tenerife itinerary and get ready for volcanic landscapes, coastal charm, and endless sunshine.

On Ferryhopper, you can compare routes, check real-time schedules, and book your ferry tickets in just a few clicks. Don’t forget to explore our Map of Ferries to find all ferry connections in the Canary Islands and beyond!