Tenerife is an incredible destination with swaying palm trees, pristine beaches and glistening turquoise waters. Add in tasty food, excellent hiking and epic nightlife and you’ve got everything you could ask for – and more – from a holiday hotspot.
But it’s a large island and figuring out the best neighbourhood to stay in Tenerife can take a lot of time and effort. That’s why we put together this insider’s guide for where to stay in Tenerife.
This article breaks down Tenerife’s best neighbourhoods into easy to digest categories so you can quickly find the best neighbourhood based on what you want to do.
So whether you want to party from dusk until dawn, hike high up in the hills, or lounge on the beach, this guide will give you everything you need to book with confidence and ease.
Here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Tenerife, Spain.
- Where to Stay in Tenerife
- Tenerife Neighborhood Guide
- Tenerife’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- #1 Costa Adeje – Where to Stay in Tenerife for Your First Time
- #2 El Medano – Where to Stay in Tenerife on a Budget
- #3 Playa de las Americas – Where to Stay in Tenerife for Nightlife
- #4 San Cristobal de La Laguna – Coolest Place to Stay in Tenerife
- #5 Los Gigantes – Where to Stay in Tenerife for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tenerife
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Tenerife.
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Best Airbnb in Tenerife: Cute central apartment
Staying anywhere for the first time can be hard. That’s why you want to be as close to the centre as possible. This Airbnb fulfils all your wishes. A couple of minutes to the beach, clean, bright, close to restaurants, cafes and nightlife – what else could you want? According to previous guests, this place is a great choice for anyone that wants to be near the buzz and attractions.
Best Hostel in Tenerife: Patio Hostel
San Cristobal de La Laguna’s Patio Hostel is our favourite hostel in Tenerife. Built in a colonial house, this hostel is bursting with charm. It has comfortable and spacious rooms, modern facilities, and offers a whole host of excellent amenities. Breakfast is also included with each booking.
Sometimes the best way to experience a destination is from a good dorm room with good people. Book one of these sweet hostels in Tenerife and get ready for the time of your life!
Best Hotel in Tenerife: H10 Gran Tinerfe
The H10 Gran Tinerfe is our favourite hotel in Tenerife because of its stunning sea views and incredible amenities. This hotel also has an unbeatable location within walking distance of bars, clubs and restaurants. It has tennis courts, a terrace and an on-site restaurant and bar lounge.
Costa Adeje
The charming and lively town of Costa Adeje is our number one pick for where to stay in Tenerife if you’re visiting for the first time. Set on the island’s southwest coast, Costa Adeje is a vibrant city with dozens of beach bars and clubs, as well as restaurants, cafes and shops.
El Medano
El Medano is a charming village located on Tenerife’s southern coast. It is an old fishing village that maintains its traditional and timeless feel, while also offering visitors a great selection of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Playa de las Americas
Playa de las Americas is a lively and vibrant town located south of Costa Adeje. It is the party capital of the island thanks to the many bars, pubs and clubs that line its pedestrian promenade that runs the length of the town.
San Cristobal de La Laguna
San Cristobal de La Laguna is a charming town located in northern Tenerife. It is the island’s former capital city and boasts a great selection of historical landmarks, as well as colourful houses dating back to the 16th century.
Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes is an exciting city on Tenerife’s southern coast. It is a former fisherman’s village that is now a tourist hotspot thanks to its many live music bars, holiday resorts, shops, and activities.
Tenerife is a tropical island set off the west coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest and most populated of the seven Canary Islands, an autonomous community of Spain.
Famous for its incredible beaches and sunny weather year-round, Tenerife is the perfect holiday destination for travellers looking for excellent hiking, lively nightlife and relaxing way of life. There are places to visit in Tenerife for everyone.
The island spans more than 2,000 square kilometres and is divided into 31 diverse municipalities, only three of which are landlocked. In this Tenerife neighbourhood guide, we’ll explore the five best places to stay organized by interest, budget and style.
Los Gigantes is a small community on the southwest coast of Tenerife. This former fishing village is now a holiday hotspot with world-class resorts, vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches and plenty of activities, which is why it’s our top pick for where to stay in Tenerife with kids.
Travel south along the coast to Costa Adeje, the best area in Tenerife to stay in for first-time visitors. This town is one of the most popular spots on the islands and has everything you could possibly want from blue flag beaches and nightlife to restaurants, services and activities.
Just south of Costa Adeje is Playa de las Americas, our top recommendation for where to stay in Tenerife for nightlife. The party capital of the island, Playa de la Americas is a buzzing and bustling town with nightclubs, bars and plenty of after dark fun and excitement.
Continue along the southern coast and you’ll pass through El Medano. The best neighbourhood in Tenerife to stay in if you’re on a budget, this town is has a high concentration of good value accommodation as well as cheap eats and affordable activities.
And finally, San Cristobal de La Laguna is set in northern Tenerife. It’s one of the coolest places to stay in Tenerife because of its historic centre, colourful homes and close proximity to nature and hiking.
Tenerife’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at the best places to stay in Tenerife. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the town that’s right for you!
The charming and lively town of Costa Adeje is our number one pick for where to stay in Tenerife if you’re visiting for the first time.
Set on the island’s southwest coast, Costa Adeje is a vibrant city with dozens of beach bars and clubs, as well as restaurants, cafes and shops. It boasts unforgettable views of the island, Mount Teide and the sea, and is where you can enjoy a quintessential tropical holiday.
Want to lounge on the beach? Well, look no further! Costa Adeje is home to a great selection of blue flag beaches with pristine sands and glistening turquoise waters.
Things to See and Do in Costa Adeje
– Excite your sense with Spanish and Mediterranean food at El Taller.
– Explore the lush ravine Barranco del Infierno (aka Hell’s Gorge).
– Go for a stroll along Playa del Duque, a black sand beach.
– Indulge in flavourful Indian dishes from Torviscas Spice Village.
– Lounge in the sun at Playa Fanabe.
– Shop until you drop at Siam Mall.
– Sip excellent cocktails at La CocKteleria.
– Slip and slide at Siam Park, the best water park on the island.
– Try local favourites like patatas bravas and paella at Café Bar Lormar.
Best Airbnb in Costa Adeje: Cute central apartment
Staying anywhere for the first time can be hard. That’s why you want to be as close to the centre as possible. This Airbnb fulfils all your wishes. A couple of minutes to the beach, clean, bright, close to restaurants, cafes and nightlife – what else could you want? According to previous guests, this place is a great choice for anyone that wants to be near the buzz and attractions.
Best Hotel in Costa Adeje: Adrian Hoteles Colon Guanahani Adultos Only
Catering to mature travellers, this four-star resort is the ideal Tenerife accommodation if you’re looking to rest, relax and enjoy the sunshine. It has spacious and air-conditioned rooms and boasts a variety of facilities, including a sauna and outdoor swimming pool.
Best Hotel in Costa Adeje: Hotel Jardin Tropical
Thanks to its excellent location and comfortable rooms, this is one of the best places in Tenerife to stay. This four-star hotel has fantastic wellness facilities, like a Turkish steam bath, a saltwater swimming pool and a modern fitness centre. Its trendy rooms are also well equipped with amenities.
Best Hostel in Costa Adeje: Hostel 33
This charming hostel is conveniently located in Costa Adeje. It’s one of the best places in Tenerife to stay if you’re on a budget because it’s close to beaches, bars, shops and more. This little hostel has three comfortable bedrooms with bathrooms, showers and a TV lounge.
Hostel 33 is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Learn More Now!El Medano is a charming village located on Tenerife’s southern coast. It is an old fishing village that maintains its traditional and timeless feel, while also offering visitors a great selection of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
It’s also our top pick for where to stay in Tenerife for one night or if you’re on a budget because it has a great selection of affordable hotels and backpacker hostels. From cute and cosy to modern and trendy, El Medano has a Tenerife accommodation option to meet any style and budget.
Things to See and Do in El Medano
– Chill out and enjoy a quick bite at seaside Flashpoint.
– Dine on great snacks, drinks and coffee at Calima Café.
– Eat fresh and tasty food at Barrio Cabezo.
– Enjoy a sweet and refreshing treat from Ice Dreams Factory.
– Satisfy your sweet tooth at Gelateria Demaestri.
– Take a walk along Playa de la Tejita, the longest beach in Tenerife.
– Trek to the top of Monumento Natural Montana Pelada for incredible views.
– Try the paella and other local favourites at Chiringuito Pirata.
Best Hostel in El Medano: Casa Grande Surf Hostel
Casa Grande Surf Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Tenerife if you’re on a budget. This El Medano hotel is just steps from the beach. It has comfortable rooms with modern amenities and has bikes and sports equipment for guests to borrow.
Best Hotel in El Medano: Hotel Playa Sur Tenerife
This charming hotel is ideally located in El Medano, the best neighbourhood to stay in Tenerife if you’re on a budget. It offers a cosy setting near the town’s top attractions and activities. Rooms come complete with a private bathroom and a selection of excellent amenities.
Best Airbnb in El Medano: Shared room in B&B
This hostel is one of the cutest you can find in the area. Perfect for travellers on a budget, you’ll get a bed in a spacious shared room for only a little money. The Airbnb has great reviews and is known for its comfortable beds, great breakfast and clean amenities. Only moments from the beach, restaurants and cafes, the location really couldn’t be any better.
Shared room in B&B is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in El Medano: Hotel Carel
This modern hostel is set at the heart of El Medano. It provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, as well as the beach, restaurants and nightlife. Rooms are equipped with a private shower. A daily breakfast is also available.
Hotel Carel is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Playa de las Americas is a lively and vibrant town located south of Costa Adeje. It is the party capital of the island thanks to the many bars, pubs and clubs that line its pedestrian promenade that runs the length of the town. Whether you want to dance the night away, enjoy a few pints, or sip seaside cocktails, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Playa de las Americas!
Aside from its nightlife scene, Playa de las Americas is also known for its stunning beaches, excellent sailing conditions, lush golf course and entertaining dinner theatre.
Things to See and Do in Playa de las Americas
– Dance the night away at Crystals Palace.
– Enjoy fresh and delicious dishes at Suka Fruit Cocktail.
– Go for a stroll at The Patch.
– Grab drinks at Princess Di’s.
– Hear international DJs spin the hottest tracks at TIBU Tenerife.
– Listen to great live bands at Sax Rock Bar.
– Party all night long at Trams The King of Clubs.
– Sip cocktails at The Anchor Bar.
– Soak up some rays at Troya Beach.
– Sunbathe at Playa del Camison.
– Try innovative and modern fare at Cocina Creativa I+D.
Best Hotel in Playa de las Americas: Vanilla Garden Hotel Adults Only
The Vanilla Garden Hotel is situated in Tenerife’s best neighbourhood for party animals with many nightclubs, bars and bistros nearby. This modern four-star has an outdoor terrace, a swimming pool and massage services. There’s also a stylish bar, perfect for enjoying a drink before a night on the town.
Hotel in Playa de las Americas: H10 Gran Tinerfe
The H10 Gran Tinerfe is our favourite hotel in Tenerife because of its stunning sea views and incredible amenities. This hotel also has an unbeatable location within walking distance of a vast array of bars, clubs and restaurants. Guests can enjoy the tennis courts, a terrace and an on-site restaurant and bar lounge.
Best Airbnb in Playa de las Americas: Stylish apartment close to beach
Location, location, location! Las America’s is the place for for Tenerife Airbnb’s. If you’re looking forward to experiencing the crazy nightlife of Tenerife, this Airbnb is perfect for you. You’ll have no trouble sleeping at night since the street is a bit further than the main bars with all the buzz. No loud tourists outside, that’s for sure. Leaving your stylish apartment, you’re close to the beach, nightlife and places with great local food.
Stylish apartment close to beach is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Playa de las Americas: Dive Resort Ocean Dreams
This excellent hostel is ideally located in Playa de las Americas, the best neighbourhood in Tenerife to stay in for nightlife. It is set just 50 meters from the beach and is within walking distance of clubs, bars and restaurants. This hostel has individually decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace and a relaxing atmosphere.
Dive Resort Ocean Dreams is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Buy an eSIM!San Cristobal de La Laguna is a charming town located in northern Tenerife. It is the island’s former capital city and boasts a great selection of historical landmarks, as well as colourful houses dating back to the 16th century.
Today, San Cristobal de La Laguna is one of the coolest places to stay in Tenerife. Here you can soak up the islands traditional vibes while also enjoy modern shops, restaurants and attractions.
San Cristobal de La Laguna is also an excellent home base for visitors who want to explore the natural side of the island. There is an excellent network of hiking and trekking trails nearby that will take you deep into Tenerife’s Parque Rural de Anaga.
Things to See and Do in San Cristobal de La Laguna
– Be amazed at the Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos.
– Climb to the top of Iglesia de la Concepcion and enjoy the views.
– Delve deep into history at the Museo de Historia y Anthropologia de Tenerife.
– Excite your sense at Restaurante El Concepto de Ruben Santos.
– Explore the historic centre of San Cristobal de La Laguna.
– Indulge in delicious Spanish dishes at La Comarca.
– Marvel at the Santa Iglesia Cathedral.
– Sample the local cuisine at La Tasca Faracho.
– Take in panoramic views from the Mirador Cruz del Carmen.
– Wander through the magical and mysterious Bosque de Esperanza.
Best Hostel in San Cristobal de La Laguna: Patio Hostel
Patio Hostel is our favourite hostel in Tenerife. Built in a colonial house, this hostel is bursting with charm. It has comfortable rooms, modern facilities and excellent amenities, like reading lights and plugs. Breakfast is also included with each booking.
Best Hotel in San Cristobal de La Laguna: MC San Agustin
This five-star hotel is ideally located in San Cristobal de La Laguna, one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife. It has modern rooms with free wifi and comfortable amenities. Guests of this hotel can also enjoy bike rentals, babysitting services, a beauty centre and massage services.
Best Hotel in San Cristobal de La Laguna: Hotel Laguna Nivaria
Hotel Laguna Nivaria is bursting with charm. It is set at the heart of the city and offers easy access to landmarks and attractions. Rooms are peaceful and recently refurbished and each is outfitted with a refrigerator, flat-screen TV and cable channels. There’s also a restaurant on-site.
Best Airbnb in San Cristobal de La Laguna: Great guesthouse room
If you want to be looked after but still have privacy, then check out this place. No matter what you want to know, your host is ready to give you great advice and help you with anything. According to previous guests, that’s what made this place special. You’ll have your own room and even a private bathroom. Everything is exceptionally clean. It might be small, but it’s super comfortable.
Great guesthouse room is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Los Gigantes is an exciting city on Tenerife’s southern coast. It is a former fisherman’s village that is now a tourist hotspot thanks to its many live music bars, holiday resorts, shops, and activities. Bursting with things to see and do, Los Gigantes is our number one choice for where to stay in Tenerife for families.
This coastal city makes for an excellent jumping off point for exploring beyond the shores of Tenerife. Here you can rent jet skis and embark on a safari or board a boat and enjoy a fun day of whale watching or dolphin spotting.
Things to See and Do in Los Gigantes
– Dine on affordable local fare at Bodega Chinyero.
– Eat tasty dishes at CK’s Bistro.
– Explore the Puerto Deportivo Los Gigantes.
– Go for a swim in the Charco de Isla Cangrejo saltwater bathing pool.
– Head to the nearby Masca Valley for a day of trekking, exploring, and experiencing Tenerife history and culture.
– Relax and built sandcastles at Los Guíos beach.
– Take a day trip to nearby Costa Adeje for a day of fun at Aqualand and Siam Park.
– Visit the delightful Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit.
Best Airbnb in Los Gigantes: Comfortable family apartment
You’re worried about finding a holiday place for you and your family? Don’t be – we got your back! There are quite a few Airbnbs in Tenerife but this one is our pick. This Airbnb comfortably fits up to 6 people so you could even travel with all your relatives. The area around has lots of attractions and activities, making sure that your stay is everything but boring. Enjoy the evening on your balcony with your family while watching the beautiful sunset.
Best Hotel in Los Gigantes: Royal Sun Resort
The Royal Sun is a five-star resort in Los Gigantes. It is just minutes from the town’s top attractions and there are beaches, restaurants and shops nearby. It offers stylish and well-equipped apartments, and guests can enjoy a swimming pool and fitness centre. There’s also a kids club and pool.
Best Hotel in Los Gigantes: Globales Tamaimo Tropical
Globales Tamaimo Tropical is conveniently located near Los Gigantes, the best area in Tenerife to stay in with kids. It provides modern three-star accommodation with an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and tennis courts. This hotel is ideal for families because it has a kids pool and club, as well as miniature golf on-site.
Best Hostel in Los Gigantes: Apartamentos Poblado Marinero
This fantastic property is in Los Gigantes, one of the best areas to stay in Tenerife. It has spacious rooms, perfect for families, with kitchens, seating areas and private bathrooms. On-site there is a saltwater swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a restaurant.
Apartamentos Poblado Marinero is one of our favourites in Tenerife but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tenerife
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Tenerife and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tenerife
For a holiday in paradise, there’s no better place than Tenerife. It has blue flag beaches, swaying palm trees, excellent nightlife and dining, and boasts perfect temperatures all year round. No matter your age, style, interests or budget, Tenerife is a fantastic vacation destination for you!
Still not sure where to stay in Tenerife? Don’t worry, here is a quick recap of our favourite places.
Patio Hostel in San Cristobal de La Laguna is our favourite hotel because it has a charming setting, modern facilities and offers a delicious and filling daily breakfast.
Another good option is the H10 Gran Tinerfe in Playa de Las Americas. This hotel has stunning sea views, contemporary amenities, and is within a stone’s throw of the island’s hottest nightclubs, restaurants and bars.
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