7 day plan to get the best of Tenerife
Tenerife7 days in Tenerife
This one-week plan is built for first-time visitors who want a broad feel for the island rather than a beach-only stay. It mixes cities, mountain landscapes, north-coast towns and south-coast downtime.
Day 1: Santa Cruz and Playa de las Teresitas
Start with the capital, then ease into the trip with a beach break at Teresitas. This gives you an urban introduction without trying to do too much on arrival.
Day 2: La Laguna and Anaga
Spend the morning in La Laguna, then head into Anaga for viewpoints, Taganana and a dramatic coast stop such as Benijo. This is one of the island’s strongest contrast days.
Day 3: Teide via Vilaflor
Use a full day for Teide National Park, ideally approaching through Vilaflor if you are staying in the south. Focus on viewpoints, short walks and the wider volcanic landscape unless you have specifically planned summit access.
Day 4: Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava and the north coast
Base the day around Puerto de la Cruz and nearby La Orotava, then add a beach, garden or viewpoint stop depending on your pace. This is a good day for slower urban and scenic travel.
Day 5: Garachico, Icod and the northwest
Explore the older northwestern towns, then continue towards Buenavista or Punta de Teno if conditions and access allow. This day shows a less resort-shaped Tenerife.
Day 6: West coast or south coast choose-your-style day
Pick your version of Tenerife here. For scenery, go towards Los Gigantes, Santiago del Teide or Masca. For easy holiday energy, stay around Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje or El Medano.
Day 7: Flexible finish
Use the final day for what you liked most: a La Gomera day trip from Los Cristianos, a family attraction such as Siam Park or Loro Parque, or a slower food-and-wine day around Tacoronte and El Sauzal.