Where to Stay in Tenerife
There are many interesting places to stay in Tenerife and all types of accommodation, so you’re sure to find an option that suits your needs and preferences.
However, if you’re planning your Tenerife trip and you have no idea where to stay in Tenerife, I’m here to help! In this guide, I’ll cover all the important information you need:
If you’re not sure where to stay in Tenerife, don’t worry. We’ve traveled to this island many times, so we know the best areas to stay in Tenerife for a fun and relaxing vacation.
Below, you’ll see the 10 best places to stay in Tenerife. These are the top-rated options that offer comfortable rooms and close proximity to many incredible attractions in Tenerife.
If you’re looking for something more specific, keep reading to find hotels of all types and tips on what area to stay in Tenerife.
A common question that many first-time visitors have is whether they should stay in Tenerife north or south.
Generally speaking, if you stay in the northern part of the island, you’ll be close to lots of outdoor activities and nature. Besides, some of the main urban centers are located in the north, including Puerto de la Cruz and the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. On the other hand, there are lots of beautiful places to stay in Tenerife South, and this part of the island has the benefit of lots of beaches and watersports.
Of course, the south has its own lovely towns and landscapes, and there are awesome beaches in the north too. Depending on what you’re looking for, you’ll find that one of these regions appeals more to your interests.
So, if you want your trip to focus on hiking and outdoor activities, and you’re wondering where to stay in North Tenerife, I recommend booking one of the best hotels in Tenerife north. On the other hand, if you prefer to relax on the beach, do some watersports, or spend time in the popular towns, it’s worth checking out the best hotels in Tenerife south. Also, if you are looking for a luxury vacation, I recommend looking among the top 5-star hotels in Tenerife south.
Is it better to stay in Tenerife North or South – Efrén Yanes
It’s also important to consider your budget and travel companions since something like an apartment may be more comfortable for you. This type of accommodation offers more freedom and conveniences that many hotels do not, such as your own kitchen. You’ll find excellent apartments in Tenerife South and North, and these properties can offer a cheap place to stay in Tenerife.
Alternatively, an accommodation with an all-inclusive package can be a great way to enjoy a complete vacation without worrying about the final price. You’ll find more all-inclusive hotels in southern Tenerife compared to the north.
Overall, whether you’re traveling as a family or looking for the best place to stay in Tenerife for couples, you can find it. Both the north and the south have a variety of lodging options, so my advice is to decide what you want to do on your trip to determine which part of the island is best for you.
Best areas to stay in Tenerife
In both the north and the south, there are several beautiful towns and areas where you can stay in Tenerife. Of course, given so many options, it’s hard to choose! To help you out, I’ll share the best locations to stay in Tenerife and what you can see there:
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the best area to stay in Tenerife
First, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is easily considered one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife, as it’s been the island’s capital city since 1833. Here, you can see its historic center, which is full of monuments and markets, as well as experience the nightlife and clubs. If you’re able to travel during Carnival, this is where to stay in Tenerife in the winter.
If you book a hotel here, you’ll have the added benefit of being close to some amazing beaches, such as the popular Las Teresitas Beach and Benijo Beach, which is one of my favorites.
I specifically recommend the Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz, one of the best hotels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. We stayed here during one our trips, and loved the spacious and modern rooms, convenient amenities, and gorgeous facilities. The resort even has a spa, making this one of the best places for couples to stay in Tenerife.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the best area to stay in Tenerife
If you’re interested in an apartment, check out the New VIP, which is well-suited to couples and families, thanks to its double beds and sofa beds. The property also has a terrace, a covered outdoor pool, and a garden, plus the location is perfect for getting to know the city.
Finally, the Hotel Principe Paz is a good choice if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Tenerife. It has an excellent quality-to-price ratio and doesn’t skimp on amenities.
Puerto de la Cruz, one of the best places to stay in Tenerife North
If you’re not sure where to stay in north Tenerife, I recommend Puerto de la Cruz. Here, you can find some budget-friendly accommodation options. In addition, this is a beautiful town where you can see typical Canarian architecture from the 16th century. There are also several interesting sites in Puerto de la Cruz, such as the San Felipe Castle, the Botanical Garden, and Playa Jardín.
If you decide that Puerto de la Cruz is the best area to stay in Tenerife for your trip, then I suggest booking a room at the H10 Tenerife Playa. It’s located right in front of Lake Martiánez and has great facilities like a heated pool. Plus, the rooms are bright, spacious, and well-equipped, making it one of the top hotels in Puerto de la Cruz.
We stayed here during one of our trips and had a wonderful time. The staff was super friendly and accommodating, and there is an all-inclusive plan that you can purchase if you don’t want to worry about the final bill. You’ll enjoy all your meals and drinks at a flat rate, and you can even request picnic meals if you plan on exploring the island during the day.
Puerto de la Cruz, one of the best places to stay in Tenerife North
If you prefer a quieter place to stay in Tenerife, consider booking one of the apartments in town. This way, you’ll have your own kitchen where you can prepare your meals and save money on food. For couples, I recommend the Apartamentos RF Bambi, which is adults-only. If you’re wondering where to stay in Tenerife with family, the Apartamentos Casablanca accommodate up to five people and are quite affordable.
That said, if budget is a concern, there are other cheap places to stay in Tenerife, even in Puerto de la Cruz. For example, the Hotel Puerto Palace allows you to enjoy nice rooms and facilities at a competitive rate. So, regardless of your budget and preferences, there is a hotel in Puerto de la Cruz for you.
Costa Adeje, the best place to stay in Tenerife South
Costa Adeje is another one of the best places to stay in Tenerife, especially if you plan on exploring the southern part of the island. This is a very lively area with bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as the famous Siam Park waterpark, one of Costa Adeje’s top attractions.
This is one of the best parts of Tenerife for families, so if you’re traveling with the kids, I highly recommend it. That said, you can also find more laid-back areas in Costa Adeje, such as the Puertito de Adeje, a natural reserve where you can go diving and snorkeling, and occasionally spot wild sea turtles.
One of the most-recommended hotels in Costa Adeje is the Iberostar Selection Sábila, which has spacious and well-lit rooms, hospitable staff, and excellent facilities. It’s also one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Costa Adeje, so it’s an ideal place to disconnect and relax.
Costa Adeje, the best place to stay in Tenerife South
If you’re still unsure about where to stay in Tenerife, keep in mind that there are lovely apartments in Costa Adeje where you can enjoy more freedom and conveniences. Moreover, many of these apartments have similar comforts and amenities that the hotels have, such as pools and restaurants. For example, the Ramada Residences by Wyndham has all this and more, with the added benefit of well-equipped apartment units.
Not only that, but there are luxurious villas in Costa Adeje that provide the perfect place to stay in Tenerife as a couple. While more expensive than a hotel or apartment, a villa offers much more privacy and exclusivity, so if you’re traveling for a special occasion, it’s a great option. The Villa White Whale is particularly beautiful and accommodates up to 10 people, so you could stay here with friends and split the cost.
Playa de Las Américas, one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife South
Right next to Costa Adeje, Playa de Las Américas is another one of the best areas to stay in South Tenerife. It’s especially popular for surfers and divers, although there are also lots of bars, restaurants, and shops in this town. If you want to enjoy delicious food, dance at the best nightclubs in Tenerife, or practice watersports, this is the place for you.
Playa de Las Américas is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife for young travelers, and it’s also a nice spot for couples. During our stay, we booked a room at the Regency Country Club, an exceptional hotel with Bali-inspired decor. Some of the rooms even have a private jacuzzi and direct pool access, making this one of the top-rated hotels in Las Americas.
Playa de Las Américas, one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife South
For something more affordable, consider staying in one of the apartments in Playa de Las Américas, such as the Kn Aparthotel Columbus by Troya Beach. One of the great things about this apartment is that it accommodates up to four people, so it’s among the best places to stay in Tenerife for families or groups. Also, every unit has a kitchen, so you can save money on dining out.
Keep in mind that this is one of the best locations to stay in Tenerife, so it’s quite popular. If you want to stay here, be sure to book in advance!
Los Cristianos, a good place to stay in Tenerife South
If you can’t find a place in Playa de Las Américas, consider staying in Los Cristianos, another popular and lively area. It’s also next to Costa Adeje, making it one of the coolest places to stay in Tenerife South, especially if you want to be near the beach.
For couples, I suggest booking a room at the Boutique Hotel H10 Big Sur, an adults-only resort and one of the top hotels in Los Cristianos. Some of the rooms here offer views of La Gomera, and the on-site restaurant has show cooking. As for the facilities, the Despacio Beauty Centre stands out. You can treat yourself to a wide array of wellness treatments, making this one of the best places to stay in Tenerife for couples.
Los Cristianos, a good place to stay in Tenerife South
Los Cristianos is also home to some beautiful apartments, so if you’re taking a holiday with friends, you can enjoy a fully-equipped and modern accommodation. For example, the Paloma Beach Apartments have capacity for seven guests, so I recommend it if you’re not sure where to stay in Tenerife with family. Another option is the HG Tenerife Sur; these apartments accommodate up to three people, making them a good choice for an intimate couples vacation.
Los Gigantes & Puerto de Santiago, the best areas to stay in Tenerife for apartment rentals
Two other spots where you can find a nice place to stay in Tenerife are Puerto de Santiago and Los Gigantes. This is a very popular area, not only because of the famous Los Gigantes Cliffs, but also because it’s one of the best places to go dolphin and whale-watching in Tenerife.
Nearby, there are amazing beaches, such as Los Guíos Beach, as well as one of Tenerife’s most popular hiking trails, the Masca ravine. So, as you can imagine, this is among the best locations to stay in Tenerife if you’re up for an adventure!
In this area, I highly recommend the Barceló Santiago, which is where we stayed during one of our trips. It’s just a short distance from the beach, where you can get incredible views of the Los Gigantes Cliffs, the sea, and La Gomera. Back at the hotel, our room had a hot tub, which was perfect for relaxing our muscles after a full day of exploring. On top of that, the facilities are great and include several pools and restaurants, as well as a spa. All these factors make it one of the top-rated hotels in Los Gigantes.
Los Gigantes & Puerto de Santiago, the best areas to stay in Tenerife for apartment rentals
On a different trip, we decided to stay at the Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur, which gave us the comforts of an apartment and the facilities of a hotel at a good price. These apartments include a kitchen, although there is also an on-site restaurant, so you have the option to cook your own meals or dine out, all without leaving the complex.
In addition, we had access to the pool, the chill-out terrace, and the gym, so it was one of the best places to stay in Tenerife for complete relaxation. If you want to stay in one of the best apartments in Los Gigantes, I definitely recommend it!
El Médano, the best place to stay in Tenerife for surfing
El Médano is another good option if you’re thinking about where to stay in Tenerife South. This town is known for its excellent surfing beach, and you’ll often see professional surfers out catching some waves. Of course, there are also lots of travelers who come here to take surfing lessons since this is one of the best places to do so.
Besides that, El Médano is one of the best places to stay in southern Tenerife if you want to explore some of the most incredible natural landscapes on the island, such as the Red Mountain Reserve.
Keep in mind that there aren’t as many lodging options here as in other parts of the island, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. Our favorite hotel in El Médano is the Santa Barbara Golf and Ocean Club by Diamond Resorts. It’s specifically in San Miguel de Abona and offers good value for money. Moreover, it’s considered one of the top hotels in El Médano because it appeals to all types of travelers, whether you’re vacationing as a family (there’s a children’s club) or you’re looking for the best place to stay in Tenerife for partying (it has a nightclub).
El Médano, the best place to stay in Tenerife for surfing
On the other hand, there are a few apartments in this area, including the Apartamento El Médano Marineda Loft, which is in the town center, just a short walk from Cabezo Beach. These apartments feature two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a communal pool, making it a solid choice for those seeking a quiet place to stay in Tenerife with family.
Other areas to stay in Tenerife
In addition to all the areas I mentioned, there are a few other places where you can find nice accommodation options in Tenerife.
One of these places is Arona, which is the municipality where Playa de Las Américas and Los Cristianos are located. That said, there are interesting things to do in Arona, so it’s worth coming here. For example, the Malpaís de la Rasca is a beautiful nature reserve with breathtaking volcanic landscapes and secluded coves, so it’s quite an incredible place to explore. If you want to stay here, I recommend the Regency Country Club, one of the top-rated hotels in Arona and our favorite in the area.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in North Tenerife, consider the charming town of Garachico. It’s home to the famous El Caleton, one of the most popular natural pools in Tenerife, where you can take a refreshing swim. Moreover, there are some unique hotels in Garachico, including Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja, which is inside a restored 16th-century mansion.
Other areas to stay in Tenerife
I also can’t leave out La Orotava, a historic town that was declared a National Historic-Artistic Site in 1976. The hotels here are small and cozy, offering an intimate experience and personalized treatment. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay in Tenerife, this is a good choice. Hotel Alhambra stands out for its elegant decor, convenient amenities, and relaxing sauna.
There are other quiet areas on the island where you can enjoy your holiday without battling the tourist crowds. Consider staying in a more rural environment, such as in the town of Candelaria, a traditional fishing village. There are only a few hotels here, but they offer all the conveniences and comforts you need, especially the Catalonia Punta del Rey, which has an all-inclusive package.
Vilaflor and Santiago del Teide also have rural accommodations, and these small towns offer their own unique charm and beautiful landscapes. In Vilaflor, I recommend the Hotel Spa Villalba, and in Santiago del Teide, the intimate rural hotel, La Casona del Patio, is sure to please.
Finally, if you plan on climbing Mount Teide during your trip, I highly recommend the Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide. It’s one of the best places to stay in Tenerife, offering relaxation and some of the most gorgeous views of the island.
Types of accommodation in Tenerife
There are different types of accommodations on the island, so no matter where you want to stay in Tenerife, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re staying in the north or south, there are hotels, all-inclusive resorts, apartments, and villas available. You can even go camping, and I’ll touch on this a bit later.
I will say that if you’re looking for something very specific or you have your heart set on a certain hotel, you should book in advance. This is even more important during peak travel season, when the best places to stay in Tenerife fill up fast.
All-inclusive hotels in Tenerife, a popular place to stay in Tenerife
An all-inclusive hotel is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife, especially if your plan is to enjoy a carefree holiday. With an all-inclusive package, you can take advantage of unlimited food and drinks throughout your stay. Some of these hotels offer other benefits, such as access to exclusive areas or discounts on special tours and activities.
Without a doubt, this type of hotel is a great option if you’re wondering where to stay in Tenerife as a couple or family for a special occasion. There are many all-inclusive hotels in Tenerife where you can disconnect, with most of them located in the southern part of the island.
All-inclusive hotels in Tenerife, a popular place to stay in Tenerife
For example, the Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa is one of the best examples, offering unlimited food and drinks as well as access to the gym, the wellness center, the kids’ club, and the saltwater pool, which is carved into the cliff. It’s one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Costa Adeje and one of our all-time favorites.
If you’re wondering where to stay in northern Tenerife, the H10 Tenerife Playa in Puerto de la Cruz has an all-inclusive option, along with an excellent quality-to-price ratio. It’s right in front of Lake Martiánez and just a short distance from the beach, making it one of the top-rated accommodations in Puerto de la Cruz.
Apartments, the best option for a cheap place to stay in Tenerife
For a cheap place to stay in Tenerife, consider renting an apartment on the island. This is a great budget-friendly option, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Some apartments have several bedrooms, and many of them tend to be more affordable than the typical hotels. Plus, you’ll have a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals and save money on dining out.
There are many great apartments in Tenerife, so you can find one in practically any town on the island. Whether you’re looking for the best places to stay in Tenerife south or north, you’ll find a beautiful apartment that suits your needs.
Best of all, these apartments offer many of the same comforts and amenities as hotels, such as swimming pools, bars, and restaurants. If you want to stay in the north, I recommend the Chafoya Suites in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This property is a quiet place to stay in Tenerife, making it ideal for couples. That said, there is enough room for three guests, so you could also stay here with family. In addition to its beautiful accommodations, it boasts a great location and competitive prices.
Apartments, the best option for a cheap place to stay in Tenerife
Over in Puerto de la Cruz, check out the Apartamentos Los Dragos del Norte. We stayed here once and found the rental to be very comfortable. In addition to the bright and spacious rooms, the apartment had all the amenities we needed, as well as friendly customer service and beautiful guest facilities.
In the south, you’ll find lots of apartments in Los Gigantes, such as the Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur. This is a wonderful place to stay if you’re looking for a modern yet cozy accommodation near the impressive Los Gigantes Cliffs.
I must also recommend the apartments in Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Playa de Las Américas, which offer nice rentals for the price. These are three of the best locations to stay in Tenerife, so the apartments tend to fill up quickly. If you’re interested in staying in one of these lively towns, be sure to book in advance. In Los Cristianos, check out the HG Tenerife Sur, which accommodates up to three people. Or, stay at the Kn Aparthotel Columbus in Playa de Las Américas, which is located right in front of Troya Beach.
Of course, if you’re seeking a more tranquil place to spend the night, I recommend staying in El Médano. You’ll be close to some of the island’s best surfing beaches while also having the benefit of a calm atmosphere. One of the best options in this area is the Apartamento El Medano Marineda Loft, which has a great location and offers fully-equipped studios at an excellent price.
Villas, where to stay in Tenerife for luxury
To add a bit of luxury to your stay, consider booking one of the best villas in Tenerife. This is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife for couples seeking an intimate escape away from the busy city. Along with more tranquility and privacy, you’ll enjoy luxurious facilities and personalized services. Many villas even have private pools, gardens, spas, and other exclusive areas.
The Luxury Villa Lázaro is a quiet place to stay in Tenerife, specifically in Santa Úrsula. It’s just a short distance from Lake Martiánez, and you can admire the ocean views from the property’s terrace. There is also a swimming pool, and the villas have three rooms, so up to six people can stay here.
Villas, where to stay in Tenerife for luxury
If you prefer to stay in the south, the Royal River Luxury Hotel is one of the best options. This adults-only complex is one of the top-rated villas in Tenerife South and has a total of 50 villas. Choose from a 1-4 bedroom villa and enjoy your private pool and terrace in peace.
Another strong contender is the Royal Garden Villas in Costa Adeje, which has 28 luxurious villas with 1-3 bedrooms, a private heated pool, and a beautiful terrace. Just keep in mind that guests must be 16 or older, so if you’re looking for a place to stay in Tenerife with family, check out some other great villas in Costa Adeje.
Campsites, the best place to stay in Tenerife for nature lovers
Another type of accommodation we really like is a good old fashioned campsite, which allows us to disconnect and immerse ourselves in nature.
There are several designated campsites on the island, as well as areas where you can park your campervan in Tenerife. All of these sites have restrooms, barbecue areas, water fountains and other facilities. You can access these areas until 7:00 p.m. winter and 9:00 p.m. in summer, unless you request an overnight permit through this link in advance.
Campsites, the best place to stay in Tenerife for nature lovers
Without a doubt, a campsite is a cheap place to stay in Tenerife, but if you’re looking for something less rustic, you can stay in one of the campsites in Tenerife with bungalows. These sites offer amenities and facilities that most campgrounds don’t, and while they aren’t free, they’re cheaper than staying in an apartment or hotel.
If you want to go free camping, be very careful since this type of camping is prohibited in most parts of the island.
Cheap places to stay in Tenerife
Even if you have a tight budget, you can still find beautiful cheap places to stay in Tenerife. Throughout the island, you’ll find nice hotels and other accommodation options that offer quality at a great price. I definitely recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel season, since the more affordable options tend to fill up first.
One of our favorite budget-friendly hotels in Tenerife is the Catalonia Oro Negro. While it’s in Playa de Las Américas, it’s in the quietest part of town, so it’s the perfect option if you want to enjoy rest and relaxation while also being close to some tourist attractions. Plus, even though it’s cheap, it has very nice facilities, such as a heated pool, making it one of the best places for families to stay in Tenerife.
Cheap places to stay in Tenerife
Up in the north, I recommend the Puerto Palace hotel, which boasts an excellent location and quality-to-price ratio. On top of that, it has plenty of facilities for you to enjoy, including a heated pool, a gym, and an on-site restaurant.
For those who aren’t sure where to stay in Tenerife, I recommend the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Here, you can check out the Hotel Principe Paz, which has a restaurant and is surrounded by other great dining options. There are a variety of rooms here, but if you book the cheapest option, you’ll stay within your budget and enjoy a well-equipped accommodation.
As you can see, this island has accommodation options for every type of traveler and budget, so I’m sure you won’t have any trouble deciding where to stay in Tenerife. Once you find your perfect place, all that’s left to do is enjoy Tenerife and all its wonderful attractions!
