Tenerife is two islands in one. The south is dry, sunny and geared to beach holidays. The north is greener and more often cloudy, but it has the nicer old towns. In between rises Mount Teide, at 3,715 metres the highest mountain in Spain. Which side suits you better depends on what you want to do on holiday.
North and south compared
| South | North | |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | sunny and dry, around 22 °C in winter | mild summer, more clouds, 2 to 3 degrees cooler in winter |
| Landscape | barren, lava and rock, lots of sun | green, laurel forest, banana plantations |
| Beaches | sandy beaches, some of them man-made | mostly dark volcanic sand, often waves |
| Towns | resorts with hotels, restaurants and nightlife | historic towns with squares and churches |
| Suits | beach holidays, families, winter sun | walking, culture, peace and quiet |
The south: sun and beaches
Most of the island’s hotels are around Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. The sun shines almost all year here, and rain is rare. Many beaches have light sand, some of it brought in specially, and are protected by breakwaters so that even small children can play in the shallow water.
The promenades are busy in the evening, so it is far from quiet. If you prefer peace, stay a little outside, for example in smaller places further north on the west coast. Ferries run from Los Cristianos to La Gomera, a quiet neighbouring island for a day trip.
The north: green and authentic
Puerto de la Cruz is the best-known town in the north. It has an old harbour, natural seawater pools and many cafés. Close by is La Orotava with wooden balconies and steep lanes. The old university town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the northeast rise the Anaga mountains with laurel forests and small villages. You often walk through mist hanging between the trees there, which has something magical about it. If you stay in the north but still want sun and light sand, a beach day means a drive of a good hour along the motorway to the south.
Mount Teide: a trip for everyone
Wherever you stay, the national park around Mount Teide is worth it. The road leads through lava fields to over 2,000 metres. A cable car takes you to just below the summit. In clear weather the view reaches the neighbouring islands. For the last stretch to the crater you need a permit, which you apply for online in advance. It is free but often booked up weeks ahead.
Take a jacket, as it is cool up there even in summer, and in winter there is sometimes snow. If you do not cope well with altitude, stay at the lower cable car station.
A day in the west: Masca and the cliffs
The village of Masca sits in a deep gorge in the Teno mountains. The road there is narrow and winding, but the view makes up for it. If you want to hike through the gorge, you need to be fit and to register in advance. Further south, the cliffs of Los Gigantes drop more than 500 metres straight into the sea.
Our recommendation
The choice is easier than it seems. For a week of sun and beach, choose the south. If you want to walk and get to know the island, the north suits you better. With two weeks, splitting your stay is worth it: a few days in the north first, then the south to relax. With a hire car you can reach every part of the island in a day from either side.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
