How to Take a Budget-Friendly Holiday to Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a dream destination for many UK travellers. With its stunning beaches, impressive mountains, and sunny weather, Tenerife attracts visitors year-round. The good news is that you can enjoy all the island has to offer without overspending. This guide will help you plan a budget-friendly holiday, providing insights on how to save money on accommodation, food, and attractions, while still experiencing the best of what Tenerife has to offer.
How to Get to Tenerife
The island is served by two main airports: Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) and Tenerife North (Los Rodeos). Budget airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Jet2 frequently offer competitive prices. Here’s a breakdown of flight costs:
– Low season: From October to November and March to May, you can find return flights for as low as £40, especially during flash sales or with early bookings.
– Peak season: Flights between December and February, as well as July and August, can range from £100 to £200. This coincides with the island’s most popular times—Christmas, New Year, and school holidays.
Ferries connect mainland Spain with Tenerife, but the cost (around €200 per person) and travel time (around 40 hours) make it a pretty niche choice.
Typical Weather by Month
Tenerife’s subtropical climate makes it an attractive destination all year. However, conditions vary depending on the region and time of year.
– December to March: This is peak tourist season due to the warm winter weather, with temperatures ranging from 18-24°C. The island’s southern areas are usually drier and warmer than the north.
– April to June: Spring offers mild temperatures of 20-25°C and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for a budget holiday.
– July to September: Expect hot and sunny weather, with temperatures up to 30°C. This is high season, so prices for accommodation and flights tend to rise.
– October to November: Cooler than the summer but still pleasant, with temperatures around 22-26°C. These months are perfect for budget travellers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices.
Language and Currency
– Language: Spanish is the official language of Tenerife, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
– Currency: The local currency is the euro (€). As of October 2024, the exchange rate is approximately €1.16 to £1. It’s best to use local ATMs for the most favourable exchange rates. Avoid airport exchange booths, as they often charge high fees.
Eating Out on a Budget
One of the best parts of a holiday in Tenerife is sampling local food, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well. Here are some ways to eat out affordably:
– Menu del Día: This is a set lunch menu that typically includes two or three courses for €10-15. Look for it in smaller towns like La Laguna and Santa Cruz where local workers dine. Avoid touristy beachfront restaurants where prices are often inflated.
– Local dishes to try: The signature dish of Tenerife is papas arrugadas con mojo—wrinkled potatoes served with a spicy mojo sauce. You’ll find it served with many meals at local restaurants.
– Recommended budget restaurants:
– El Cine in Los Cristianos is a no-frills seafood spot where fresh fish and a portion of potatoes can cost you around €15 per person.
– In Adeje, Restaurante Otelo serves its famous garlic chicken for just €7.50 per person.
Affordable Accommodation Options
Finding a budget-friendly place to stay in Tenerife is easier than you might think. The island offers everything from cheap hostels to affordable luxury.
– Budget: For solo travellers or backpackers, Lagarto Hostel Tenerife in the north offers dorm beds starting at €19 per night. It’s basic but clean and provides good access to hiking areas like Anaga Rural Park.
– Mid-range: For a bit more comfort, consider Hotel Isabel in Costa Adeje, where rooms start at £80 per night. This family-friendly hotel has a traditional Canarian feel and offers great value for money.
– Luxury on a budget: The Barcelo Santiago in the southwest has beautiful views of Los Gigantes cliffs. Rooms start from £150 per night, offering a luxury experience at a relatively affordable price.
Must-See Attractions (and how to visit on a budget)
Tenerife offers plenty of free or low-cost attractions, from natural wonders to historical sites.
– Mount Teide National Park: Home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide (3,718m), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is free to enter. If you’re on a strict budget, hiking around the volcanic landscapes is a memorable experience without any cost. The cable car to the summit costs €38 return, but the view is worth it.
– Santa Cruz: Tenerife’s capital offers plenty of free sights, including the Parque García Sanabria, a mix of botanical gardens and open-air art. The African market, where you can pick up cheap souvenirs and local snacks, is also a must-visit.
– La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage city, San Cristóbal de La Laguna offers a charming look into Tenerife’s history. Stroll through its pedestrianised streets, visiting free landmarks like the Cathedral of La Laguna.
– Beaches: Tenerife boasts a range of beautiful beaches. For budget sunbathing, Playa de las Teresitas offers golden sands, while El Camisón near Playa de las Américas provides cheaper sun-loungers than more upscale areas like Playa del Duque.
Getting Around the Island Cheaply
Tenerife has a reliable and affordable public transport system. The bus network, TITSA, connects all the major towns and attractions. A Bono Bus Card can be purchased for around €15, offering discounted fares across the island.
If you plan on exploring more remote areas like Anaga Rural Park or the Masca Valley, renting a car may be your best bet. However, prices for car rentals vary widely:
– A basic car hire from Hertz costs around €175 per week, which is great for groups looking to split costs.
10 Essential Money-Saving Tips for Tenerife
Here are some tried-and-tested ways to cut costs on your trip to Tenerife:
1. Travel off-peak: Visit Tenerife during shoulder seasons (October-November or March-May) to get the best deals on flights and accommodation.
2. Public transport: The Bono Bus Card offers up to 50% off fares on Tenerife’s reliable bus system.
3. Self-catering accommodation: Renting an apartment or a villa with a kitchen will save you money on food, especially if you shop at local markets.
4. Avoid tourist traps: Skip expensive seafront restaurants and eat at local eateries. The Menu del Día is a great way to eat well on a budget.
5. Book attractions online: If you plan to visit paid attractions like the Loro Parque or Siam Park, book your tickets online to save a few euros.
6. Bring your own snacks: Pack snacks or a picnic when visiting beaches or parks, as food prices can be high at tourist hotspots.
7. Free attractions: Many of Tenerife’s best attractions, including Mount Teide National Park, the beaches, and historic La Laguna, are completely free.
8. Use price comparison sites: When booking accommodation or car rentals, use websites like Booking.com or Kayak to compare prices and find deals.
9. Visit free local festivals: Tenerife hosts a range of free cultural events throughout the year, like the Carnival of Santa Cruz in February. Just be sure to book accommodation far in advance during these times.
10. Buy groceries locally: Shop for snacks, water, and other essentials at local supermarkets rather than resort shops, where prices are often inflated.
