Icod de los Vinos is well known for its Drago Milenario, a huge tree and tourist attraction. The tree is over 800 years old, and the subject of legends that will fascinate you. However, it’s just one of many interesting things to do in this town, which is one of the most important places to see in northern Tenerife.
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Teide, Icod de los Vinos is a historic village and land of the Guanches where you can walk through a pretty town square and along cobblestone streets. Here, you can try delicious Canarian cuisine, learn about the island’s banana-growing tradition, and visit one of the longest volcanic tubes in the world.
Without a doubt, this is a must-see for any Tenerife vacation, so keep reading to see what I recommend you do in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife!
1. Parque del Drago, the most popular thing to do in Icod de los Vinos
Legend has it that the dragon tree is related to an ancient, 100-headed dragon, and in Parque del Drago, you can see the oldest living dragon tree in the world. The ‘Drago Milenario’ in Icod de los Vinos is a national monument and one of the greatest symbols of the Canary Islands.
1. Parque del Drago, the most popular thing to do in Icod de los Vinos
At over 800 years old, Icod de los Vinos’ dragon tree is a legendary attraction. It’s also well-cared-for, towering 60 feet high and measuring 66 feet around the crown. The beautiful 7.5-acre botanical garden where the tree is located is also worth checking out.
The myths and stories surrounding the tree have been passed down by word of mouth over the centuries, but if you want to learn more, I recommend booking this ticket to the park. Thousands of tourists come here every year to visit the Drago Milenario, so it’s a good idea to get your ticket in advance.
2. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, a beautiful place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
Another place in Icod de los Vinos that you must see is the Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres. It’s in the main square of the historic town center and serves as a social and civic meeting place for all icodenses (locals of Icod de los Vinos).
2. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, a beautiful place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
The plaza, which dates back to the 16th century, has been expanded into what you’ll see if you visit now, including a neoclassical balustrade and flowers from all over the world, such as beautiful Indian laurels. What stands out the most about this attraction are the fountains and the Church of San Marcos, the patron saint of the town.
Also, from the plaza’s gardens, you can see Icod de los Vinos’ dragon tree, so if you don’t want to pay the park’s entrance fee, this is a free alternative.
3. Plaza de la Pila, one of the best places in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
Plaza de la Pila is another reason to visit Icod de los Vinos, and it’s close to Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres. This square has gone by other names including Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza Mayor, Plaza Real, and Plaza de Calvo Sotelo during the Franco dictatorship.
3. Plaza de la Pila, one of the best places in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
The name Plaza de la Pila comes from the fountain in the center of the square. It was placed there at the beginning of the 18th century, although the plaza itself is even older, being built in 1631 by some town locals.
What’s so special about Plaza de la Pila is that it was the starting point (along with the Church of San Marcos) for the town of Icod de los Vinos in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. So, this is where it all started!
4. Casa del Drago, an amazing restaurant in Icod de los Vinos
While you’re in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife, you must visit the Casa del Drago, a fairytale-like setting where you can enjoy delicious wines and cheeses.
4. Casa del Drago, an amazing restaurant in Icod de los Vinos
This restaurant in Icod de los Vinos serves the best brunch in town, although it’s also an awesome place to have drinks while listening to live music. Not only that, but it’s in an old Canarian house, so it has a charming ambiance.
It’s impossible to talk about Icod de los Vinos without mentioning wine, and at Casa del Drago, you can take your pick of the best local wines.
5. Casa del Plátano, a traditional place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
Another essential stop during your visit to Icod de los Vinos is the Casa del Plátano. At this old hacienda, you’ll learn first-hand how to grow bananas, one of the most important products to the Canary Islands’ economy.
5. Casa del Plátano, a traditional place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
It’s worth touring this authentic banana plantation to discover the characteristics and history of Canarian bananas. The first part of the plantation is a museum with old photos and machinery, while the other part is the farm itself, where you’ll see the production process. Check out the banana trees up close and discover how to distinguish Canarian bananas from other types of bananas.
The plantation is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and the entrance fee is USD $5.30 for non-residents. That said, this is one of the top things to do in Icod de los Vinos, so it’s worth the small price.
6. Museo Guanche, the best museum to visit in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
The Museo Guanche in Icod de los Vinos is an ethnographic museum where you can learn all about the history of the Guanches. The Guanches were the first inhabitants of the Canary Islands, dating back to about two millennia ago.
6. Museo Guanche, the best museum to visit in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
The Museo Guanche has several rooms with life-size representations of the Guanches, based on studies of human remains and anthropological research. There are also exhibits describing the Guanches’ lifestyle, religion, customs, and funeral rites, which were quite peculiar.
You’ll also see artistic displays of each island in the Canaries, so this is a cool place to visit during your time in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife.
7. Visit the Cueva del Viento, one of the best things to do in Icod de los Vinos
Another iconic site in Icod de los Vinos is the Cueva del Viento. This volcanic tube was formed 27,000 years ago in basaltic lava and resulted from the first eruption of the Pico Viejo, a volcano next to Mount Teide.
This is the fifth-longest volcanic tube in the world, with the first four being in Hawaii. What makes the Cueva del Viento stand out is its unique geomorphological characteristics, such as its three overlapping layers. It’s an otherworldly sight that’s hard to find anywhere else.
7. Visit the Cueva del Viento, one of the best things to do in Icod de los Vinos
The tube also has lava vents, lakes, and waterfalls, making it a must-see for visitors to Icod de los Vinos, Canarias, Spain. While you can only see a small section of the tube, it’s one of the best places to visit in Tenerife, so it’s worth it.
To make sure you get a ticket, I recommend booking in advance since they’re limited to a few dozen per day. Also, remember to bring a jacket and long pants because the temperatures inside can drop quite a bit. If you don’t have a car but still want to visit, check out this excursion from Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
8. Museum Malvasia, another interesting attraction in Icod de los Vinos
The last place that I recommend in Icod de los Vinos is the Museum Malvasia. This family winery is known for its long-standing tradition and commitment to crafting incredible wines.
8. Museum Malvasia, another interesting attraction in Icod de los Vinos
Every visitor who comes here recognizes the dedication and effort put into these delicious wines, rums, and liquors. Also, if you want to pair your drink with a snack, you can try amazing Canarian mojos (sauces) and cheeses here. Without a doubt, it’s the best thing to do in Icod de los Vinos as a couple or with friends.
Best hotels in Icod de los Vinos
There are a few hotels in Icod de los Vinos that I recommend, the first one being Hotel Emblemático San Agustín, a renovated 18th-century Canarian-style house in the heart of the historic center and one of the best hotels in North Tenerife. There is also Platanera Suites, another colonial-style accommodation with comfortable amenities. It’s in an old banana plantation, so it’s a unique lodging option with wooden floors and beautiful views.
For those who prefer a more rustic place to stay in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife, I recommend Casa Montiel. Here, you’ll have views of the mountains and the sea, as well as a sun terrace and garden. There is even a seating area with a fireplace, the perfect spot to cozy up on cooler nights.
Best restaurants in Icod de los Vinos
If you want to try authentic Canarian cuisine, eat at one of the best restaurants in Icod de los Vinos. I recommend the Casa de Comidas – La Parada, where you can try tetillas canarias (cheese croquets) and polvorón uruguayo (a type of shortbread). For me, it’s one of the best restaurants in Tenerife.
Another great option is El Mortero, which serves generous portions; and Restaurante Agustín y Rosa, a popular restaurant serving traditional food and international dishes.
How to get to Icod de los Vinos
The best way to visit Icod de los Vinos is by renting a car in Tenerife. You can read my guide on how to find cheap rental cars, although I’ll tell you now that we always rely on DiscoverCars.
If you don’t want to drive, you can take one of the tours to Icod de los Vinos that leaves from Puerto de la Cruz.
Tours to Icod de los Vinos from Puerto de la Cruz
Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife is worth a visit, but if you don’t drive, it can be more complicated to get there. Fortunately, if you’re in Puerto de la Cruz, you’re in luck since some of the best excursions in Tenerife depart from here, and many include Icod de los Vinos in the itinerary.
Tours to Icod de los Vinos from Puerto de la Cruz
One of them is this excursion that includes Mount Teide, Icod de los Vinos, and Garachico from Puerto de La Cruz. You’ll also get to know the town of Masca and see the Cañadas del Teide.
Another great option is this day trip to see the towns and landscapes of northern Tenerife. In addition to visiting Icod de los Vinos, Masca, and Garachico, you’ll cross Los Realejos to the La Corona viewpoint, where you’ll have fantastic views of the La Orotava valley.
Map of Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
Once you decide that you want to visit this charming town (which I know you will!), this map will help you locate all the things to do in Icod de los Vinos that I recommended.
We also have this map of Tenerife, which can help you throughout your trip around this beautiful island.
All that’s left to do is book your trip! Of course, if you have any questions or you’d like to share your experience in Icod de los Vinos, leave me a comment below. Until then, have a wonderful trip!
Nice guide and great suggestions but I think you forgot to include Mariposario del Drago.
Hi Magnus,
Yes, that botanical garden area is a popular place to visit in Icod de los Vinos, especially if you’re already going to the Drago Milenario.