How long does it take to travel around Tenerife?

Tenerife is a very manageable island. The island is about 53 miles (85km) long, so you could easily travel around it in a day! Though I wouldn’t recommend it, as you won’t have much time to step out of the car. However, its size does mean that you could see all of the main highlights and more during a one week holiday.

If you’re wondering how to get around the island WITH and WITHOUT a car, see my recommendations on car hire and bus travel here.

What’s there to see?

I’ve pinpointed some of the main highlights of Tenerife on this interactive map. There are lots of things to see and do and because the landscape varies so drastically across a small area, I’d highly recommend travelling around as much of the island as possible. From the lush, palm-laden hills in the north-west, to the barren volcanic landscapes in the centre and the white sandy beaches along the south coast, every aspect of the island offers something unique. My personal favourite places are:

Masca.
Mount Teide & Teide National Park.
Cruz Del Carmen Viewpoint.
La Laguna.
El Bollullo beach.

On the TF-1, it only takes about 1 hour to get from the south of the island to the north. However, if you are travelling on the mountain roads, it can take a bit longer. Masca to Tegueste, for example, takes 1 hr 30. The route along the spine of the island, from Costa Adeje to the Anaga mountains, is one of the longest and windiest and takes about 3 hours.

The lunar-like landscape in Teide National Park is both extraordinary and breathtaking.

10 best views in Tenerife

If you’re wondering where the best viewpoints are, this map highlights the top 10 places on the island. Some of these points can be accessed by car, while some require you to walk to them. My personal favourite was Mirador de Chipeque. When we visited, low lying clouds had settled in the valley and we had a blazing blue sky above us. The view of the pine forest with Mount Teide in the background was simply extraordinary.

Tenerife’s secret spots

If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, then check out these seven places. Everything from secluded beaches, to a fairytale forest and a haunted house!