Tenerife has a little something for everyone, from sun-worshipping on black sand, to shopping and golf and wonders of a more natural kind, to water parks for the whole family to enjoy.
It is an island of contrasts and it is possible to visit for a fun-filled hedonistic break, but also to escape for a quiet holiday away from it all, and even the most dedicated visitor to Tenerife will say that there is still much more to uncover.
To make the most of your holiday in Tenerife, car hire is a really good idea to transport your group from water park to beach to volcano - it could be much cheaper than taxis, plus public transport does not always reach attractions that are off the main routes.
Whether you arrive at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), previously known as Tenerife South-Reina Sofia Airport, or Tenerife North (TFN), it is wise to pre-book your car hire in Tenerife to ensure you get the best make and model of car for you at the best price.
The weather is pleasantly sunny and warm year-round in Tenerife, though it gets a tad colder and wetter in the more rugged northern part of the island in winter.
The capital of Santa Cruz is great for shopping and for experiencing the thrills of a festival, the most popular of which is Carnaval around Lent. Popular resorts include the party towns of Puerto de la Cruz, Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, quieter Costa Adeje, Playa Paraiso, the neighbouring areas of Los Gigantes, Puerto de Santiago and Playa de la Arena, and the wind surfing capital of the island, Costa del Silencio, which earns its reputation thanks to frequent wild Atlantic winds that hit the north coast.
Watersports of a more gentle temperament are available at fantastic family-friendly water parks, such as Siam Park and Aqualand, near Playa de las Americas on the west coast. The latter is also a Sea-World-style park, with friendly dolphins on show -though nearby Loro Parque is a dedicated paradise for marine and mammal lovers.
A car is really useful to reach wonders such as Mount Teide, a 3,718-metre volcano at the heart of the island, and the mysterious pyramids of Guimar, which can be found midway along the east coast.
You might also find the car useful to cram in all the treasures you'll find in the designer shops of the west coast, or to pack your golf clubs away after a hard day swinging on the course, or to reach the start of a mountain hiking trail, or to find peace in the isolation of an inland spa... oh yes, there really is something for everyone in Tenerife.
Fast facts
Tenerife boasts a great road network that makes crossing the island fast. As in the rest of Spain, driving is on the right.
Don't get caught out at the petrol station. Unleaded fuel is known as gasolina sin plomo and diesel is often labelled gas-oil or gasóleo.
Pre-booking car hire is wise. The best savings are usually to be made when pre-booking, and a wider range of vehicles is usually available when compared to organising car hire on arrival in Tenerife. The credit card used for booking will need to be shown.
Hiring a car in Tenerife is good value compared to other destinations in Europe. The TravelSupermarket price-checker tool is quick and simple to use and you can check online prices now.
Savings can also be made on car hire excess insurance by shopping around.
Related Links:
Tenerife Flights
Tenerife Hotels
Tenerife Holidays
