7 free things to do in Tenerife
Spending an amazing vacation without spending a lot is possible! If you want to save money or simply enjoy free things to do in Tenerife, this article we have prepared will surely interest you. There are many attractions on our island that are completely free. So… Take pen, paper, and take notes.
Index
Hiking
To take a deep breath, to feel nature, to surround yourself with tranquility and peace… Hiking is, without a doubt, one of the star activities that cannot be missing in our top 7 free things to do in Tenerife. Nothing is more recommended than getting to know the heart of the island through its extensive network of trails.
And the best thing is that there are options for all visitors. From simple trails that are ideal to walk with children, to long walks perfect for the most sporty and adventurous. Some of the best areas in Tenerife for hiking are:
The Teno Rural Park, with its ravines and steep valleys, especially Masca.
Anaga, with its impressive millenary laurel forest.
The Teide National Park, with a multitude of trails that are perfect for entering beautiful volcanic landscapes.
Do you like hiking? Then don’t miss our article “Hiking in the Masca Ravine”. We also leave you this link to the Turismo de Tenerife website, where you will find detailed information on all the trails. And let’s walk!
Local tip: before hiking, check the state of the hike and make sure that the weather conditions are ideal. Tenerife stands out for its microclimates, so there can be large variations in temperature from one area to another.
Things to do for free in Tenerife: Enjoy the carnival!
Free and a lot of fun! Experience Tenerife as if you were a local enjoying its most emblematic festivals. Among them, the most important and international: the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The election of the queen, the comparsas, the murgas and other musical groups make it one of the best carnivals in the world. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is lived in the street, so just put on your best costume and go out and have a good time.
Go on a pilgrimage
Another of the celebrations that you have to experience if you want to know the culture and tradition of the islands are their pilgrimages. In this case, decorated floats, costumes and typical food (wrinkled potatoes, gofio, wine…) and traditional Canarian music flood the streets of the municipalities. Local people give themselves in this celebration! Check the most popular pilgrimages on the Turismo de Tenerife website.
Stroll through its towns and cities
Getting to know the towns and cities of the island is also in our top 7 free things to do in Tenerife. You can marvel at the architecture of the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The reason: it was the first colonial city without walls that preserves its original layout.
In the municipality of San Cristóbal de La Laguna you will find the Museum of Science and the Cosmos. All visitors have free admission on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to the permanent exhibition.
Another of the towns you can enjoy is La Orotava. Strolling through its cobbled streets surrounded by stately homes is quite an experience. You should not miss the architectural heritage of Garachico either. In short, places so beautiful and with so much history that they serve as open-air museums.
The thousand-year-old dragon tree
Next to the Parish Church of San Marcos emerges a large dragon tree more than 16 meters high and with a base of 20 meters in circumference. It’s considered to be the oldest on the island, surprising, isn’t it? It is the most popular point of interest in Icod de Los Vinos and is one of the symbols of the island of Tenerife.
You can contemplate the thousand-year-old dragon tree for free from the same church square. However, if you want to access the Parque del Drago, the entrance fee to be paid is 5 euros.
Beaches and water sports
Obviously, spending the day on one of the island’s many beaches is another free thing to do in Tenerife. And one of the most recommended plans! In addition, you can dare to practice a sport such as surfing on beaches such as El Médano or snorkeling in Punta de Teno.
Among the most outstanding beaches are Playa Jardín, Las Vistas, Las Teresitas, El Bollullo, Playa de Benijo, El Médano, Playa La Arena, La Jaquita, among others.
If you are looking to practice water sports, check out our article “5 water sports in Tenerife that will surprise you”
Stargazing
Teide National Park is Starlight certified, which means that it has ideal conditions for astronomical observation. Stars, planets, satellites… What better experience than marveling at the beauty of the night sky? And for free!
The best areas for observation are Montaña de Guajara, the surroundings of the Parador de Turismo and the viewpoints of the Teide National Park. And if the dates coincide, we recommend going up during a meteor shower.
Local tip: remember to bring warm clothes, as at night the temperature drops significantly in the Teide National Park. A good plan is to bring a mat and towel where you can stretch out outdoors, especially in summer, when the temperature is warmer.
What do you think of our compilation of free things to do in Tenerife? On our island you have endless possibilities for all types of travelers. But be careful, because Tenerife is addictive… As soon as you leave, you will surely want to return!