Getting Around Tenerife: Transport Guide by Bus, Taxi, Car and More

If you are planning a holiday and wondering how to get around Tenerife, this guide brings together all the main options. You can move around the island by car, bus, taxi, private transfer, tram, ferry, bicycle, quad or even helicopter and boat trips. Below you will find the most important means of transport in Tenerife, with practical tips to choose what suits your travel style and budget.

Quick overview of transport in Tenerife

Tenerife has good public transport in the form of buses and a modern tram in the north, plus plenty of taxis, car hire and organised excursions. You do not always need a car, especially if you stay in main resorts or in Santa Cruz and La Laguna.

Tour Tenerife by hire car

You can rent a car when you arrive at the airport or at an office in the main tourist centres of the island. Car hire in Tenerife is ideal if you want to explore at your own pace and visit places that are less connected by public transport, such as rural villages or some viewpoints.

• Good option for visiting Teide National Park and remote beaches
• Expect traffic at certain hours on the main motorway in the south
• Parking can be difficult near popular beaches and in city centres
• Mountain and narrow roads require calm and careful driving

Private transfer service

Private transfers are a comfortable way to travel between the airport and your accommodation. You can book a car, minivan or bus with driver for a fixed price in advance.

• Useful for families, groups and travellers with a lot of luggage
• Fixed price agreed before travel, no taximeter
• Often quicker and more direct than shared buses

Taxi lines

Among the different means of transport in Tenerife, taxis are an easy and flexible option. They are usually white and show a green light when available. You can find them at taxi ranks, ask your hotel to call one, or book by phone.

• All official taxis use a taximeter and have visible licence numbers
• Supplements may apply for airport trips, luggage or night hours
• For longer excursions some drivers offer pre agreed prices

Tour Tenerife by bus

The buses in Tenerife are run by the company TITSA and are commonly called guaguas. They are green and connect almost all towns, cities and main tourist areas, including both airports.

• One of the cheapest ways of getting around Tenerife
• Tickets can be paid on board or with transport cards that offer discounts
• Useful for travellers who do not want to drive
• In high season some routes can be crowded and slower

Guided tours of Tenerife

If you prefer not to plan routes or use public transport, guided excursions can be the easiest way to discover the island. These tours usually include transport, a professional guide and sometimes entrance fees to attractions.

• Ideal for visiting Teide, Masca, La Laguna, La Gomera and key viewpoints
• You do not need to worry about parking or reading maps
• Shared or private tours are available depending on your budget

Transferring by urban tram

The only tram in Tenerife is run by the company Metropolitano de Tenerife and serves the metropolitan area in the north. It offers two lines that connect Santa Cruz de Tenerife with San Cristóbal de La Laguna and several residential districts.

• Modern, accessible and frequent
• Tickets are bought and validated at the stations
• Easy connection with bus stops along the route

Helicopter flights over the island

For a special experience, helicopter flights offer aerial views of Tenerife and its coastline. You can choose different routes that usually fly over resorts, cliffs, volcanic landscapes and other landmarks.

• Short scenic flights with commentary from the pilot
• Ideal for photography and celebrations

Transfers by ferry to and from Tenerife

Ferries connect Tenerife with the Spanish mainland and with other Canary Islands. They are a good choice if you want to travel with your own car, take more luggage or enjoy a slower journey by sea.

• Regular routes to Gran Canaria, La Gomera, La Palma and other islands
• Options for foot passengers and vehicles
• Onboard services usually include seats, food and outdoor decks

Boat trips on the sea in Tenerife

In addition to ferries, many companies offer boat trips along the coast of Tenerife. These range from shared catamaran cruises to smaller boats and sailing yachts.

• Popular for whale and dolphin watching in the southwest
• Often include time for swimming and snorkelling
• Depart mainly from ports such as Puerto Colón, Los Gigantes and Los Cristianos

Move around Tenerife on a bicycle

If you enjoy exercise and short distance travel, bicycles are a pleasant way to move around certain areas. Many resorts offer flat seafront promenades that are suitable for cycling.

• Good option for exploring the surroundings of your accommodation
• There are rental shops with city bikes, mountain bikes and electric bikes
• Inland routes can be steep and challenging, better for experienced cyclists

Quad tours through forests and volcanic landscapes

Quad tours are aimed at visitors who want a bit of adventure while exploring Tenerife. These guided outings use all terrain vehicles along forest tracks and volcanic landscapes.

• Always follow the guide’s instructions and stay on marked routes
• Wear closed shoes and suitable clothing

Getting around Tenerife without a car

You can get around Tenerife without renting a car if you combine buses, trams, taxis and organised excursions. This is often the easiest choice for visitors who stay in main resort areas or in Santa Cruz and La Laguna.

• Use buses for transfers between towns and from the airport
• Use the tram in the metropolitan area in the north
• Choose taxis or private transfers for late night arrivals and heavy luggage
• Book guided tours for day trips to Teide or other distant sights

Frequently asked questions about transport in Tenerife

What is the best way to get around Tenerife?

For resort based holidays, buses and taxis are usually enough. If you want total freedom, a hire car is the most flexible option. For a relaxed experience with no driving, guided excursions are very practical.

Is there good public transport in Tenerife?

Yes. The island has an extensive bus network and a modern tram between Santa Cruz and La Laguna. It is possible to move around many areas using only public transport.

Can I get around Tenerife without a car?

Yes. You can combine buses, tram, taxis and guided tours. This works especially well if you stay in popular areas such as Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz or La Laguna.

Are taxis in Tenerife expensive?

Taxis are more expensive than buses but offer door to door service and are very convenient for short distances and airport transfers. All official taxis use a taximeter and show licence details.

Is the tram included in public transport in Tenerife?

The tram is part of the public transport system in the metropolitan area and connects with bus lines. It is clean, fast and accessible, and is mainly used between Santa Cruz and La Laguna.

What is the cheapest way to travel in Tenerife?

The cheapest way to move around is usually by bus, especially if you use transport cards or passes that give discounts on each journey.

Conclusion

There are many ways to get around Tenerife, from buses and trams to taxis, hire cars, ferries, bicycles and guided trips. By choosing the combination that fits your plans, you can explore beaches, villages and natural areas in a safe and comfortable way.