Cheap flights to Tenerife depart from London and Manchester. There are two main airports on Tenerife, located on the northern and southern tip of the island. UK and EU citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. Most flights to Tenerife will arrive at Reina Sofia Airport on the southern tip of the island. Taxis can be hired from the taxi rank outside the airport. The Titsa bus company operates services to some major resorts such as Playa de las Americas and Santa Cruz.
Some flights to Tenerife land at Los Rodeos Airport in the north. There is a taxi stand and bus stop outside the terminal. The bus services are also operated by Titsa, and stop at several destinations on the island, as well as at Reina Sofia Airport.
Titsa operates most of the bus services on Tenerife. Buses are affectionately known as gua-guas (‘wah-wahs’) by locals. Save some money on bus fares by buying a Bono Bus Card, a prepaid credit card-sized ticket. The cards can be purchased from bus stations and terminals, as well as some newsagents. Taxis are plentiful, and can be flagged down when needed, or hired ahead of time. Look out for the SP (Servico Publico) sign on the licence plates.
Tenerife is circled by an abundance of dramatic beaches, but there are plenty of attractions further inland too. Teide National Park is one of the island’s most popular destinations. Take a cable car ride up to the top of the dormant volcano to enjoy panoramic views of Tenerife. Discover traditional Canarian culture in Masca, a tiny village near Buenovista del Norte. See the mysterious Guimar Pyramids, a set of six stepped pyramids built without the use of mortar. Las Aguilas Jungle Park showcases a multitude of wildlife including rare white lions, monkeys and birds of prey.
Calderata de pescado is a popular fish stew served in many restaurants. Other delicacies include sancocho Canario, or Canarian stew, and bienmesabe, a sweet almond pudding. The ubiquitous mojo sauce accompanies most savoury dishes. The tiny village of Los Abrigos has more than its share of seafood restaurants. Most restaurants here have their own fishing boats, so the freshest catch of the day is guaranteed. Enjoy your fish with some garlicky mojo sauce and papas arrugadas (wrinkly baked potatoes) on the side. There is also a little night market held in front of the main church here every Tuesday, where you can pick up some interesting jewellery or souvenirs for those back home. The distinctive pink African Market in Santa Cruz has a maze of stalls selling fresh produce, flowers and herbs and spices. Las Americas has a range of activities to suit night owls. Enjoy a relaxing evening in elegant Jazzissimo Piano Bar or dance the night away in Veronica’s.