Canary Islands
Tenerife is made for road trips. In a single day you can drive from the beach in Costa Adeje, up through the pine forest to the lunar landscape around Teide, and down to the green north coast. Here is what to know.
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In short: do you need a hire car on Tenerife?
For Teide and the north coast, a hire car is best. Tenerife has two airports: the south, close to Costa Adeje, and the north, close to La Laguna and Puerto de la Cruz. Collect your car at the airport you land at, and choose a small car for the narrow roads.
Car hire on Tenerife: Check car hire and prices
Picolo has driven on Tenerife many times, and the advice below draws on our own trips.
Drives worth the car
Teide National Park: from Costa Adeje it takes around an hour to reach the lava fields and the cable car.
Masca: a small mountain village at the end of one of the island's most winding roads. Go early, before the coaches.
Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava: the green north coast, with old houses and gardens.
La Laguna: the university town, whose old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Collect your car at the airport: Check car hire and prices
Costa Adeje
Costa Adeje on the south-west coast has the most sun and most of Tenerife's quality hotels.
What to know about driving on Tenerife
Mountain roads are narrow: especially towards Masca and in the Anaga mountains. Drive slowly and use your horn on blind bends.
Teide: it can be cold at the top even when it is 25°C on the beach. Bring a jacket.
Parking: blue markings mean paid parking in the towns.
Fuel: petrol is usually cheaper in the Canary Islands than on mainland Spain.
Where to stay with a car: Hotel Tigaiga
Puerto de la Cruz is a good base for both Teide and the north coast. Tigaiga sits by Taoro Park with views of the mountains, and guests rate it 9.6.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
More hotels, area by area, in our guide to Tenerife hotels.
Frequently asked questions about car hire on Tenerife
Which airport should you hire a car from on Tenerife?
Tenerife South for Costa Adeje and the south coast, Tenerife North for the north coast and Santa Cruz.
How long does it take to drive to Teide?
Around an hour from Costa Adeje, and about the same from Puerto de la Cruz.
Is it difficult to drive on Tenerife?
The motorways are good. The mountain roads towards Masca and Anaga are narrow and winding.
Can you drive on Tenerife with a UK licence?
Yes, a UK photocard licence is accepted for visitors to Spain. Check age and credit card requirements with the rental company.
Do you need a hire car on Tenerife?
For Teide and the north coast, a hire car is easiest. If you stay in Costa Adeje and only plan to use the beach, you can manage without.