The most beautiful cities and villages of Tenerife to discover
While Tenerife captivates travelers with its beach resorts and incredible variety of landscapes, the largest of the Canaries islands also boasts several picturesque cities and villages.
While Tenerife captivates travelers with its beach resorts and incredible variety of landscapes, the largest of the Canaries islands also boasts several picturesque cities and villages that deserve a detour. Discover our selection of the 5 most beautiful cities and villages to see during a trip to Tenerife.
1. Masca
This is undoubtedly the most picturesque location on the island. Nestled at 650 meters above sea level in the Macizo de Teno mountains, which stretch to the northwesternmost point of Tenerife, this small mountain hamlet is an absolute must-see during a trip to Tenerife.
To reach it, you'll need to drive along a spectacular road winding through the mountains. Once there, you can admire the village perched on a rocky promontory and composed of a few charming houses.
Beyond the exceptional panorama, the hamlet of Masca is renowned as the starting point for one of the most beautiful hikes on Tenerife. This trail allows you to descend into the Masca Ravine gorges to reach the sea. The walk takes approximately 3 hours to reach the beach.
For the return, you have two options: the most adventurous can simply retrace their steps, while the less daring can take a boat to Los Gigantes before catching a taxi back up to Masca.
2. San Cristóbal de la Laguna
San Cristóbal de la Laguna is often a favorite among travelers. And for good reason—this small city, located in the north of Tenerife, is full of charm. It is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Founded in 1496 by conquistador Alonso Fernández de Lugo, what is also more commonly called "La Laguna" was the first capital of Tenerife and the Canaries islands until 1823. Although Santa Cruz de Tenerife became the island's capital, La Laguna remains the cultural and religious center of Tenerife.
During your stay in La Laguna, you'll fall under the charm of its historic heart with colonial architecture. You'll discover numerous old residences, some built with volcanic stone. Certain buildings, particularly on Calle San Augustin, house sublime patios that the most curious visitors can admire…
3. La Orotava
Still in the north of Tenerife, don't miss La Orotava. Situated on a mountainside overlooking the La Orotava valley, the municipality ranks among Spain's highest villages.
With its colorful streets, beautiful period residences featuring the typical wooden balconies of traditional architecture, and plazas and gardens with views over the ocean, the old center of La Orotava is a must-visit during a trip to Tenerife.
Among the must-see sites in La Orotava are the Victoria Garden, which offers breathtaking views of the city and sea, and the Hijuela del Botánico Garden, a botanical garden showcasing botanical curiosities… Don't miss the Plaza de la Constitución either, where the baroque church of San Augustin stands, as well as a visit to the Casa de los Balcones (House of Balconies).
Good to know: La Orotava is known for Corpus Christi, a religious festival during which several streets are adorned with magnificent carpets of natural flowers. The festival takes place every year in June if you happen to be passing through at that time…
4. Icod de los Vinos
Head to the northwest of the island to continue discovering the most beautiful cities and villages of Tenerife with a visit to Icod de los Vinos. This charming small town, built on a slope with views of the sea, offers one of the island's most stunning views of the Teide volcano.
While it was long associated with its famous wines, the town is mainly recognized for being home to the oldest and largest living dragon tree in the world. Called the Drago Milenario (Dracaena draco), this local tree species is easily recognizable by its remarkable silhouette.
Located within the "Parque del Drago," the tree stands approximately 20 to 21 meters tall with a circumference of about 20 meters. It is said to be between 800 and 1,000 years old, though this age is disputed. Recent studies have shown it to actually be around 400 years old.
In any case, it was declared a national monument in 1917 and stands as one of the main symbols of Tenerife.
5. Garachico
Not far from the town of Icod de los Vinos, stop by Garachico, a peaceful small port town built by the sea.
Founded in 1496 following the conquest of Tenerife, Garachico was, for many years, the island's most important port. The town enjoyed a prosperous period until 1706, when a volcanic eruption caused its destruction. The town and port were buried by a large lava flow, forcing residents to flee or rebuild everything.
Today, the town and its relaxed atmosphere appeal to visitors seeking tranquility. People come to stroll around the Plaza de la Libertad, the heart of the old town, or to visit the palaces and religious sites such as the Convent of Santo Domingo or the Santa Ana church.
Finally, the town attracts visitors to swim at Charco El Caletón, natural pools formed in black rocks as a result of the volcanic eruption.
Frequently asked questions
Masca is accessible from the south of Tenerife via road TF-82 then TF-436. By rental car, expect about 1.5 hours from Playa de las Américas. Buses (guaguas) also connect Buenavista del Norte to Masca, but frequency is limited. Note that since 2022, access to the gorge hiking trail requires advance reservation and a paid permit.
Corpus Christi in La Orotava takes place every year in June. It's the perfect time to admire the magnificent natural flower carpets adorning the streets of the town. If you're traveling outside this period, La Orotava remains a must-see thanks to its colonial architecture and gardens offering views over the ocean.
Access to the Parque del Drago, where the famous millenary dragon tree is located, requires an entrance fee. The park also offers other botanical attractions around this remarkable tree, which was declared a national monument in 1917. It's advisable to check current opening hours and admission prices directly on the official website before your visit.
Charco El Caletón, these magnificent natural pools formed by the 1706 lava flow, is freely accessible year-round. Access may be restricted during bad weather due to rough seas. The best time for swimming is generally between April and October, when weather conditions are most favorable.
