With a year-round balmy climate, huge sandy beaches and bustling nightlife, it’s no surprise Tenerife is a real Brit hit. Plus, it’s only a four-hour flight from the UK, so you could be holidaying in no time. Off the north-western coast of Africa, this diverse spot forms part of Spain’s cool Canary Islands.

From the jet-black sands of Puerto de la Cruz to lively Los Cristianos and everything in between, the island’s varied resorts tick all the boxes when it comes to getaways.

Ready to explore? Here are the top things to do in Tenerife:

1. Mount Teide

Sitting within UNESCO-listed Teide National Park, Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain. It soars nearly 4,000m high above sea level and the everchanging tones and textures make this a unique landscape not to be missed. Surprisingly, this vast area is full of plants and animals that thrive in the high-altitude atmosphere.

If you’re up for the challenge, there’s a varied network of winding trails to follow or check out the visitors’ centres that are jam-packed with fascinating information and history on the park. Why not ride the cable car to Teide’s top to experience the craters and lava fields from a different angle?

2. Anaga Mountains

Fancy an outdoor adventure? You’ll love the Anaga Mountains. They cover a huge stretch of Tenerife’s northern-most tip and are by far the greenest part of the island. This mountainous region is cut off from many main roads, so it’s relatively untouched by tourism. So much so that within these traditional villages, you might even come across restaurants within the Anaga caves.

Due to the high altitude, you might feel like you’re walking straight through the clouds and you’ll sometimes experience extreme weather while the rest of the island is basking in warm sunshine.

3. Siam Park

A trip to Siam Park is one of the most popular things to do in Tenerife. This Thai-inspired water park attracts thousands of thrill-seekers each year. It’s spread across a huge four acres of Costa Adeje on the island’s south coast and features more than 15 amazing water-based attractions that all the family can enjoy.

You don’t just have to take our word for it though, as it’s Tripadvisor’s number one waterpark in the world!

4. Roque Cinchado

Found within Teide National Park, this unusual rock formation is regarded as the island’s emblem. So much so that it even featured on the old green 1,000 Spanish peseta banknote!

The towering reddish stone is commonly known as the ‘Stone Tree’ and seems to defy the laws of gravity as its top is wider than its base. To really be appreciated, this unique rock needs to be viewed up close, where you can see how wind, rain and changes in temperature have moulded and shaped it.

5. Cueva del Viento

Want to explore the largest lava tube system in Europe? Head underground at Cueva del Viento and you’ll be amazed at the labyrinth of winding tunnels. It was formed 27,000 years ago after the first eruption of the Pico Viejo volcano, Mount Teide’s neighbour.

Alongside stalactites, lava flows and lakes, keep your eyes peeled for animals that have adapted to life in the dark cave as well as fossilised animals that are now extinct on the island.

6. Pico Viejo

If you’ve conquered Mount Teide but still haven’t had your fix of challenging walks and awesome views, give Pico Viejo a go. It’s home to a dramatic viewpoint where you can check out the huge crater that fired out lava during the last eruption.

Along the way, you’ll notice smoky-grey patches on the ground. These are usually accompanied by a strong sulphuric smell, quite like rotten eggs! This indicates you’re in an active volcanic zone, although there hasn’t been an eruption in this area for several centuries.

7. Teide Observatory

The Canary Islands are one of the best places in the world to investigate the night sky. What better place to enjoy a spot of stargazing than within the mesmerising mountain scenery of Teide National Park?

Expert guides can take you around this state-of-the-art facility, showing you how the huge telescopes work and key elements to look out for when viewing the sun. For an extra-special experience, book tickets for the night sky visit!

8. La Laguna

Looking for day trip options? You’ve found a great one in La Laguna. This UNESCO-listed town on the island’s north-eastern tip is famed for its brightly coloured streets and inviting pavement bars. Even if you’re staying in a resort along the southern coast, it’s only an hour’s drive away.

The grid-like town with regimented narrow streets was used as the model for many colonial towns across the Americas. Today, you can wander the enchanting centre, listen to street musicians and check out the shops filled with everything from high-fashion labels to unique vintage finds.

9. Auditorio de Tenerife

You certainly won’t miss the Auditorio de Tenerife’s striking façade in the skyline of Tenerife’s capital. This urban landmark features a unique wave design with a dramatic sweeping roof. Inside, there’s a huge auditorium and music hall where you can catch truly spectacular performances, featuring everything from opera and musical theatre to dance and live orchestral music.