Tenerife is full of charming old towns, mountain villages and colorful coastal spots where you can wander quiet streets, taste local food and enjoy views that change around every corner. This guide gives you an easy overview of the most beautiful towns in Tenerife, including traditional villages in the north, sunny seaside areas in the south and calm highland settlements close to Teide National Park.
Contents
- Quick Overview: Which part of Tenerife is the nicest
- Top 12 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Tenerife
- Weather Differences Between North and South
- Where to Stay: Families, Couples, Hikers and First Timers
- Extra Scenic Spots
- Suggested Day Trips and Mini Itineraries
- Practical Tips for Visiting Old Towns in Tenerife
- FAQ: Nicest Towns, Old Towns and Popular Areas
Quick Overview: Which part of Tenerife is the nicest
The answer depends on what you enjoy the most. Travellers who love historic streets, green valleys and dramatic coastlines often prefer the north. Visitors who want warm weather, beaches and an easy holiday atmosphere usually choose the south. The good news is that Tenerife is small enough to explore both sides without long drives.
North and South Tenerife at a Glance
| Region | Vibe | Best For | Representative Towns |
|---|---|---|---|
| North | Green scenery, historic streets, cooler evenings | Old towns, hiking, food lovers, scenic drives | La Orotava, Garachico, Icod de los Vinos, La Laguna, Taganana, El Sauzal |
| South | Sunny days, beaches, relaxed resort feel | Swimming, watersports, nightlife, family holidays | El Médano, Los Gigantes, Alcalá, coastal resort areas |
| Highlands | Pine forests, mountain villages, fresh air | Viewpoints, stargazing, hiking | Vilaflor, Arona town |
Top 12 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Tenerife
This list highlights Tenerife’s most picturesque old towns, peaceful mountain settlements and authentic coastal spots. Each one includes a short explanation of why it is a great place to visit and what makes it special.
1) La Orotava – Historic Architecture and Valley Views
Why go: La Orotava is considered one of the nicest towns in Tenerife thanks to its elegant mansions, carved balconies, award winning gardens and wide views across the valley.
- Highlights: Traditional Canarian balconies, green courtyards, churches and scenic viewpoints.
- Best for: Architecture fans, photographers and slow strolls.
- Time needed: Several hours is enough, but an overnight stay lets you enjoy the quiet evenings.
- Seasonal tip: Early summer brings colorful street decorations for local festivities.
2) Garachico – Coastal History and Natural Rock Pools
Why go: Garachico is one of the most atmospheric coastal towns in Tenerife. Rebuilt after an eruption centuries ago, it now offers calm plazas, stone churches and beautiful lava pools by the sea.
- Highlights: Natural pools, small fortress, lovely cafés and artisan shops.
- Best for: Coastal walks and heritage sightseeing.
- Pair with: Icod de los Vinos for wine tasting.
3) Icod de los Vinos – Dragon Tree and Wine Culture
Why go: Known for the ancient Dragon Tree and pleasant local squares, Icod is full of small details, tasting rooms and a relaxed historic center.
- Highlights: Dragon Tree park, traditional streets, wine houses and viewpoints.
- Best for: Culture, food and quiet exploration.
- Time needed: Two to four hours.
4) San Cristóbal de La Laguna – UNESCO Old Town
Why go: La Laguna has colorful facades, peaceful patios and a lively atmosphere. It is one of the best preserved old towns in the Canary Islands and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Highlights: Historic buildings, coffee shops, museums and student energy.
- Best for: Culture walks and urban explorers.
- Tip: Morning and late afternoon bring soft temperatures for ideal strolling.
5) Masca – Iconic Mountain Village
Why go: Masca is one of Tenerife’s most photographed places. Nestled among steep green ridges, it offers astonishing landscapes and a peaceful mountain atmosphere.
- Highlights: Deep ravines, stone cottages and trailheads.
- Best for: Hikers and scenic road trips.
- Pro tip: Visit early to avoid traffic during popular times.
6) Puerto de la Cruz – Seaside Town With Classic Charm
Why go: Puerto de la Cruz blends historic streets, botanical gardens and oceanfront promenades. It is a great base for exploring the north while staying close to the water.
- Highlights: Old streets, ocean pools, seaside viewpoints and small museums.
- Best for: Walkable stays and culture by the coast.
7) El Médano – Windsurfing Hub With a Relaxed Feel
Why go: El Médano has long sandy beaches, a casual surf vibe and easy coastal walks. Montaña Roja gives the area a unique backdrop.
- Highlights: Long bay, dunes, wind sports and beach cafés.
- Best for: Affordable beach stays and a youthful atmosphere.
8) Los Gigantes – Cliffs and Calm Seaside Life
Why go: The huge basalt walls of Los Gigantes create one of the most impressive coastlines in Tenerife. The town is relaxed, friendly and ideal for simple seaside days.
- Highlights: Cliff viewpoints, marina area and black sand beach.
- Best for: First timers and easygoing seaside plans.
9) El Sauzal – Sunset Balconies and Valley Views
Why go: El Sauzal sits high above the Orotava Valley and offers some of the best sunset viewpoints in the north.
- Highlights: Lookouts, trees, quiet cafés and nearby wineries.
- Best for: Scenic stops and slow afternoons.
10) Taganana – Wild North Scenery in Anaga
Why go: Deep in Anaga Rural Park, Taganana has winding roads, dramatic cliffs and tiny restaurants serving local dishes. It feels far from the busy resorts.
- Highlights: Green ravines, black sand beaches and overlooks.
- Best for: Nature lovers and off the beaten path experiences.
11) Candelaria – Tradition by the Sea
Why go: Candelaria is one of the most important spiritual towns in Tenerife and has a pleasant promenade with sculpture lines and ocean views.
- Highlights: Basilica square, coastal statues and small beaches.
- Best for: Culture, peaceful strolls and local cafés.
12) Vilaflor – Mountain Air and Pine Forest Trails
Why go: Vilaflor is one of the highest villages in Spain. Surrounded by pine forests, it is a peaceful base close to Teide National Park.
- Highlights: Fresh air, viewpoints and hiking paths.
- Best for: Stargazing and quiet rural nights.
Weather Differences Between North and South Tenerife
The north tends to be greener with more clouds and fresher evenings. The south is usually warmer, sunnier and drier, which is why many beach resorts are located there. Visitors who like cooler temperatures often prefer the north, while sun seekers usually stay in the south.
Where to Stay for Families, Couples and Hikers
- Families: Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes for calm beaches and easy services.
- Couples: Garachico, La Orotava and Alcalá for charm and peaceful evenings.
- Hikers: Vilaflor, Taganana and areas above La Orotava for trail access.
- First timers: Puerto de la Cruz or the southwest coast for balance and convenience.
Extra Scenic Spots
- Bajamar has natural pools and Atlantic waves.
- Punta del Hidalgo is ideal for coastal paths and wild landscapes.
- Buenavista is colorful and leads toward Punta de Teno.
- Alcalá offers quiet seafront walks and small beaches.
- Arona town is a nice base for south side hiking paths.
Suggested Day Trips and Mini Itineraries
1) North Old Town Chain
La Orotava → Icod de los Vinos → Garachico. A classic loop that combines architecture, wine tasting and seaside scenery.
2) Wild Anaga Circuit
La Laguna → Taganana coast → Forest viewpoints. Perfect for travelers who want contrast between heritage and green mountain landscapes.
3) West Cliffs and Coast
Los Gigantes → Buenavista or Punta de Teno. Ideal for dramatic ocean photos and calm seaside walks.
4) South Coast Breeze
El Médano → Montaña Roja. Easygoing beach time combined with a short walk up the volcanic cone.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tenerife’s Old Towns
- Rent a car if you want to reach smaller villages and viewpoints.
- Start early for easier parking in places like Masca and Garachico.
- Wear good footwear for cobblestones and slopes.
- Expect microclimates and bring a layer in the north.
- Follow safety signs at natural pools and black sand beaches.
- Eat at guachinches in the Orotava Valley for authentic food.
- Visit during golden hour for the best photos.
FAQ: Nicest Towns, Old Towns and Areas to Stay in Tenerife
What is the nicest town in Tenerife
La Orotava often takes the top spot among visitors who love architecture and viewpoints. Garachico is a close favorite for its seaside atmosphere and natural pools. Masca is the most dramatic village if you enjoy mountain scenery.
Which part of Tenerife is the most beautiful
The north is known for green valleys, old towns and rugged coasts. The south is best for warm weather and beaches. Most visitors enjoy both during the same trip.
Does Tenerife have real old towns
Yes. La Orotava, La Laguna and Garachico have very well preserved historic centers with traditional architecture and local charm.
Where should I stay on my first trip
Puerto de la Cruz is a great choice if you want heritage and beach access in one place. The southwest coast is ideal for sunny days and resort comfort. For hiking trips, look at Vilaflor or rural areas above the Orotava Valley.
What towns are best for scenic road trips
The classic loop is La Orotava → Icod de los Vinos → Garachico. For more dramatic views, continue into Anaga or west toward Punta de Teno.
Are there quiet and non touristy places in Tenerife
Yes. Taganana, Punta del Hidalgo, Bajamar and small hamlets in the Orotava Valley feel calm and authentic, especially outside weekends.
Related Searches Covered in This Guide
This article is built to answer searches like prettiest towns in Tenerife, nicest town in Tenerife, nicest part of Tenerife, best villages in Tenerife, old towns in Tenerife, north Tenerife towns, scenic Tenerife villages and Tenerife day trip ideas.
Final note: Many of Tenerife’s most beautiful towns are close to each other. With a bit of planning you can explore several in a single day and return later for the ones you want to enjoy more slowly.
