Tenerife – it’s the crown jewel of the Canaries, but this island isn’t just about golden sands, fun-loving nightlife and endless sunshine. There’s a whole world of colourful Canarian towns, stunning scenery and foodie delights just waiting to be explored. Our Content Executive, (and Tenerife superfan – she goes there, on average, three to four times a year, after all!), Olivia, reveals the island’s must-sees in just 20 questions…

1. Where’s the best place to see the sunset?

“If you’re staying in the south, you won’t have to go far to find great sunsets – I'd argue some of the best are down by the front by Playa de las Americas.”

2. Where’s the best place to drink in the views?

“You won’t get better than Benijo. It’s really remote with volcanic cliffs and black sand – worlds away from some of the Saharan sand you often find in the south. And the sunsets rival those in Las Americas.”

3. Where’s the best place to take a stroll?

“I love walking along the seafront in Candalaria because you’ve got beautiful views in every direction. On one side, you've got the sea and on the other, the cathedral and Crayola-coloured houses. Down by the waterfront, you’ll find the statues of the nine Guanches kings, who were the aboriginal inhabitants of Tenerife, so there’s a little bit of history to discover here too.”

4. What’s the most Instagrammable experience?

“You won’t find a more Insta-worthy spot than the mountain village of Masca. Cobbled streets meet lush greenery, and the panoramic vistas go on for miles. This is rural Tenerife at its finest.”

5. Where’s the best place for brunch?

“Gocharepa is a one of my favourite brunch spots, with locations in Adeje, El Medano and Los Abrigos! You can ditch the pastries and English brekkies, because this place is best-known for its Venezuelan food like empenadas and arepas, and it’s really reasonably priced. You can even find vegan and veggie options here too. Trust me – those arepas will have you coming back for more!”

6. Where’s the best place for cocktails?

“If you’re after quirky cocktails, it’s got to be Buddies Bar. Papagayo Beach Club and Harry’s Bar are also firm favourites for a fruity tipple, and they’ve got great views too. If you want somewhere away from the front, try Cafe Five in Los Cristianos, they do great frozen cocktails and it’s a prime people-watching spot.”

7. Where’s the best place to go shopping?

“If you fancy picking up some bits from big-name brands – especially on a rainy or cloudy day – Siam Mall is ideal. And you can even get a free bus on certain days from resorts like Adeje, Los Cristianos and Golf del Sur. If you’re in the north, Centro Comercial Meridiano has more shops and eateries than you can shake a stick at. There's even a Primark!”

8. Where’s the coolest beach?

"For me, it’s got to be Playa de la Tejita. The views of Montaña Roja are unbeatable, and its surroundings are truly unspoilt. Not only is it away from all the main tourist crowds, but it’s also perfect if you want to try out some water sports with plenty of space. There's also Chiringuita Pirata just down the road where you can get a cracking mojito!”

9. Where’s the best place to experience local tradition?

“Canarians love a festival, so you’ll find one happening pretty much every month of the year. Santa Cruz Carnival is one of the biggest, but there are also smaller ones all over the island that celebrate everything from saints to sardines! La Romería Barquera in El Medano is a firm favourite of mine.”

10. Where’s the best place to dine in Los Cristianos?

“You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants in Los Cristianos, but Jamon y Mojo is a real standout for me. It specialises in Iberian meat products, so dishes include things like Iberian cheek, sirloin and ribs – it's just amazing.”

11. Where’s the best place for music-lovers?

“I absolutely love the Dubliner in Las Americas – it has live music on every night, with talented live bands. Plus, everyone’s always up for a singalong and a dance, meaning there’s always a great vibe whichever night you visit.”

12. Where can you find something quirky to do?

“If you’re looking for something totally different to do, you have to visit the dinky Canarian Potato Museum in the tiny town of El Roque. It's ran by a friendly local who’s really passionate about the starchy staple!”

13. Where’s the best place to grab a souvenir?

“Los Cristianos market is probably your best bet, it’s held every Sunday and Tuesday and is filled with trinkets, clothes and jewellery. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, there are plenty of souvenir shops nearby too.”

14. Where’s the best place for traditional Canarian food?

“Luckily there are plenty of places all over the island that serve up great Canarian cuisine, but if you want to taste something truly authentic, look for a guachinche. They’re no-frills eateries offering homemade dishes alongside local wine. You’ll find plenty of locals dining in them, which means you know you’re in for a treat! Plus, you can never have enough of those salty papas canarias.”

15. Where’s the best place to play golf?

“I've been going to Golf del Sur for around 15 years, and it really lives up to its name, with 27 holes that are perfectly divided into three courses. Some of my favourite restaurants and bars are located here too. Plus, it’s not far from the airport either, so if you’re looking to book a golfing holiday, it’s ideal.”

16. What are the best sights to tick off?

“There’s a reason Teide National Park is so popular – it's out of this world. Whether you’re taking the cable car up the volcano itself, hiking in the mountains or stargazing as night falls, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of this place. If you’re a fan of waterparks, it goes without saying that Siam Park should be top of your to-do list – I never get bored of this place.”

17. What are the best sports and activities to try?

“If you’re into your water sports, El Medano is the place to go. You can try everything from windsurfing to kiteboarding. If you're after a bit of a scenic stomp, make your way up nearby Montaña Roja, but make sure you bring some sturdy shoes.”

18. Where’s the best place to try the local wine?

“I love Bodegas Reverón in Vilaflor, it’s the highest village on the island, so you can expect stunning views along with spectacular vino. There are loads of varieties, so whether you’re a white, red or rosé fan, you’re bound to find one you like. The tour, tapas and tasting option means you’ll get the most out of your visit.”

19. Where’s the best place for a day trip?

“Garachico is one of the oldest towns across the whole of Tenerife and has all the ingredients for a great day out – although you’ll need a hire car to reach it! It’s probably best-known for its natural pools where you can swim and relax, but there are also peaceful squares, lovely restaurants and a cultural centre where you can learn about the town’s unlucky history.”

20. Where’s the best place to dine harbourside?

“This is a tough one because there are so many stunning spots for harbourside dining here, but I’ve got a real soft spot for Los Abrigos near Golf del Sur. It’s a dinky fishing village with plenty of restaurants, making it a mecca for fresh-fish dining. Further down the coast, La Caleta is lovely too!”