Tenerife isn’t just about beaches and volcanoes—its cities are full of character, history, and local color. What makes Tenerife particularly appealing for city tours is the chance to experience its vibrant urban life, eclectic architecture, and local traditions, all within a manageable size that makes exploring both easy and rewarding. We especially like the Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour for its lively walking route through the island’s capital, and the Electric City Bike Rental for a fun, eco-friendly way to see the southern coast. Both offer different ways to soak up Tenerife’s unique urban spirit, whether on foot or pedal power.
If you want a taste of the north, the Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers is a great way to explore at your own pace while enjoying convenient transportation, and the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Undefeated City tour gets into the deeper stories behind the city’s streets. Each offers a distinctive experience, depending on your interests and how much time you want to spend.
1. Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour
This walking tour is a fantastic way to get to know Santa Cruz de Tenerife with a knowledgeable guide. It lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes and hits many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including churches, markets, and architectural highlights. The tour is designed for those who enjoy a lively stroll and appreciate storytelling that brings the city’s past and present to life.
What sets this tour apart is its mix of cultural sites and vibrant local life, like bustling markets and lively squares. Past visitors praise guide Irma’s passion and clarity—she’s known for making the city’s stories accessible and interesting. The tour covers iconic spots like the Carnival museum and historic churches, with plenty of time to browse and shop. Ideal for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone who wants an engaging introduction to Santa Cruz’s personality.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, personal exploration of Santa Cruz with a friendly guide, this tour offers excellent value for its price of around $34.57. It’s suitable for all ages and walking abilities, including families with strollers.
2. Electric City Bike Rental with Hotel Delivery
This innovative option offers electric bike rentals delivered straight to your hotel in Tenerife South. It’s perfect if you prefer exploring the coast and countryside at your own pace. No need to worry about public transport or navigating unfamiliar roads—simply hop on your e-bike and enjoy the ride.
During your day with the Bosch-powered bikes, you can marvel at Teide volcano and take in panoramic views of the coastline. The service includes assistance within the delivery area, making it accessible even if you’re not experienced with bikes. Reviews highlight the quality of the bikes and the seamless delivery process, making it a low-stress way to see the island’s southern attractions.
This option is best suited for active travelers comfortable with cycling, or those looking for a flexible, self-guided adventure. Note that it’s only available to hotel guests in Costa Adeje, Las Americas, and Los Crisianos, so plan your accommodation accordingly.
Bottom Line: For around $63, you get a full day of freedom on the road with quality e-bikes and scenic views, perfect for independent explorers who want to blend exercise with sightseeing.
3. Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers
For those wanting to explore the northern city of Puerto de la Cruz, this full-day tour combines convenience with free time to explore. It’s ideal if you’re staying in a southern resort and want to see a different side of Tenerife without the hassle of public transport.
The tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach, with hotel pickups and drop-offs. Once in Puerto de la Cruz, you’re free to wander sites like Plaza del Charco, the Botanical Gardens, or relax at Playa Jardin. The itinerary offers a good mix of sightseeing and leisure, with suggestions for local restaurants if you want to try regional cuisine.
Past travelers appreciate the ease of the transfer and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The highlight is visiting one of Tenerife’s most charming towns, with its blend of colonial architecture and seaside charm. The only downside is some disorganization on the return, but overall, it’s a reliable way to see the north without overcommitting.
Bottom Line: If you want a hassle-free day trip to Puerto de la Cruz with flexible sightseeing, this tour offers great value at about $27.75, especially for travelers wanting a taste of northern Tenerife.
$27.75 per person
4. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Undefeated City
For those interested in a deeper look into Santa Cruz’s story, this walking tour offers a more thorough exploration of the city’s heritage, taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It explores iconic landmarks like the Black Castle, the Fishermen’s Quarter, and the striking auditorium.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the influences from Romans, Phoenicians, and European settlers, seen throughout the architecture and city layout. It’s perfect for history buffs or those curious about the city’s layers of culture. The guide shares insightful backstories and points out hidden treasures, with a short break for coffee and photos.
While reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s informativeness, some note that it’s a more basic experience compared to more comprehensive options. Still, it’s an affordable way to gain a solid understanding of Santa Cruz’s roots for only about $15.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in learning the behind-the-scenes stories of Santa Cruz and don’t mind a brief, walking-paced tour, this offers great value and a chance to connect more deeply with the city’s history.
$15.06 per person
How to Choose the Best City Tour in Tenerife
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, pace, and budget. For a lively, engaging walk through Santa Cruz’s main sights, the Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour is a top pick. If you prefer exploring independently and want the flexibility to ride an electric bike, the Electric City Bike Rental is perfect. For a relaxing day in the north, the Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers offers convenience and free time, while the Santa Cruz Undefeated City provides a quick, informative dive into local history.
Think about your fitness level—if you enjoy walking, the first or fourth options suit well. If you’d rather pedal around scenic coastal areas, the bike rental makes more sense. Budget-wise, the Undefeated City tour is budget-friendly, while the bike rental offers a full day of activity for a reasonable price given the convenience. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours, and always check availability for your travel dates.
Tenerife’s city tours provide a wonderful way to see the island’s diverse urban landscapes, from historic squares to modern architecture. Whether you want a guided walk, a self-paced bike adventure, or a scenic day trip to Puerto de la Cruz, there’s an option that fits your style. For a balanced mix of culture, history, and fun, we recommend booking early, so you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.