Tenerife is renowned not just for its stunning beaches and volcanic landscapes but also for its charming cities and lively streets. What makes it especially appealing is how easy it is to dive into local life, history, and culture through well-organized city tours. Whether you’re a history lover, a casual explorer, or someone who enjoys active adventures, Tenerife offers a variety of ways to experience its vibrant urban scene. We particularly like the Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour for its engaging storytelling and accessible walking route, which covers everything from historic landmarks to bustling markets. For a more energetic approach, the Electric City Bike Rental with Hotel Delivery is perfect for those who want to see the highlights while enjoying the freedom of cycling along the coast. And if you’re after a taste of the north’s charm, the Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers delivers a relaxed day exploring a picturesque seaside town without the hassle of planning logistics.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top city tours in Tenerife, each offering a distinctive way to uncover the island’s urban personality. From guided walks and bike rentals to tuk tuk rides, this guide helps you pick the experience that best matches your interests and travel style.
1. Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour
At number 1, this walking tour offers an engaging way to explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a city alive with contrasts—where modern architecture and lively markets sit side by side with historic sites. For around $34.57 per person, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes uncovering the city’s most iconic landmarks. Your guide will lead you through colorful squares, architectural marvels, and hidden corners, sharing stories about pirates, local festivals, and the city’s rich cultural fabric.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert narration and flexible pacing, allowing plenty of time for shopping or snapping photos. Past participants praise guide Irma’s passion and her ability to make history come alive—”We saw churches, Carnival museum, and a market while walking around,” one reviewer noted. The tour is ideal for anyone keen on a relaxed, informative walk that includes local markets, historic churches, and vibrant public spaces, all with easy access. Plus, its affordability and positive reviews make it a top pick for first-timers.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, friendly introduction to Santa Cruz that balances history, culture, and local life, this tour is an excellent choice.
2. Electric City Bike Rental with Hotel Delivery
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Electric City Bike Rental offers a dynamic way to see Tenerife South. Available only to hotel guests in Costa Adeje, Las Americas, and Los Crisianos, this service delivers e-bikes directly to your accommodation. With a Bosch motor, the bikes make cycling through the island’s scenic spots effortless—perfect for covering the volcano Teide, panoramic coast views, or the southern beaches.
This tour doesn’t include a traditional guide but provides assistance within the delivery area, making it suitable for independent travelers comfortable with some navigation. The one-day rental costs $63 per person, and reviews commend the quality of the bikes and the smooth delivery service. The main advantage is flexibility: you choose when and where to go, making it ideal for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise.
Bottom Line: If you have a hotel in Tenerife South and love the idea of customizing your itinerary while enjoying the fresh air, renting an electric bike is a fantastic, hassle-free option.
3. Puerto de la Cruz City Tour with Transfers
A full day in Puerto de la Cruz offers a taste of the north of Tenerife, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and seaside charm. This organized transfer tour costs around $27.75 per person and includes round-trip transportation from your hotel. Once there, you have free time to explore landmarks like Plaza del Charco, the Botanical Gardens, and Playa Jardin.
What makes this tour appealing is the independence it grants—after being dropped off, you can wander at your own pace, enjoying the quaint streets, shops, and cafes. The travel is smooth, with air-conditioned coaches ensuring comfort during the ride. Reviewers appreciate the value—”Getting there from southern resorts by public transport takes nearly 3 hours, so this is a much easier option,” explains one. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed day without the hassle of planning transport or navigation.
Bottom Line: This is a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience northern Tenerife without sacrificing comfort or freedom to explore.
4. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Undefeated City
At number 4, the Undefeated City tour offers a deeper dive into Santa Cruz’s heritage. For just over $15, you’ll spend about 2 hours and 15 minutes exploring landmarks like the Black Castle, Fishermen’s Quarter, and the striking auditorium. This walk takes you through layers of history, from Roman settlements to modern architecture.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on uncovering hidden treasures and lesser-known stories behind Santa Cruz’s most famous sites. The guide’s local insights are highly rated, and the combination of historic and contemporary sights provides a well-rounded picture of the city. One reviewer noted, “Knowledgeable guide, very informative—a good start before staying longer in the city.” It’s perfect for those who want an affordable, compact overview with a personal touch, especially if you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a budget-friendly walking tour that offers a significant historical perspective, this is a great pick.
5. Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Tuk Tuk Tour of the Cultural and Modern City
For a fun, mobile way to experience Santa Cruz, consider the Tuk Tuk Tour. Lasting about 2 hours, this private ride covers both cultural sights and modern hotspots, including viewpoints, street art, and local markets. Its compact size and open-air design make it a lively, intimate experience that captures the city’s vibrant street life.
Although reviews are not yet available, the appeal lies in its personalized nature and the ability to see more in less time. It’s particularly suited for art lovers and those wanting a relaxed, authentic glimpse into city life without walking long distances. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a casual, engaging, and memorable way to see Santa Cruz’s highlights.
Bottom Line: A tuk tuk ride is perfect for small groups or couples who want an interactive, breezy introduction to Tenerife’s capital.
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Tenerife
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, physical activity level, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a relaxed, guided introduction with historical insights, the Discover Santa Cruz walking tour is hard to beat. For the active traveler eager to explore independently, the electric bike rental offers flexibility and fun. If you want a hassle-free day trip with free time to explore, the Puerto de la Cruz transfer is perfect. And for a more playful, intimate experience, the Tuk Tuk Tour offers a lively glimpse into both the modern and traditional sides of Santa Cruz.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Tenerife offers a surprising variety of ways to discover its cities, whether you prefer walking, cycling, or hopping in a tuk tuk. For a comprehensive introduction to Santa Cruz, the Discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife, The Ultimate City Tour is a top pick, especially for first-time visitors. If you’re looking for independence and active exploration, the electric bike rental stands out. For those wanting to visit the north without fuss, the Puerto de la Cruz transfer provides comfort and ease.
With options ranging from budget-friendly jaunts to private, personalized rides, Tenerife’s city tours cater to different interests and travel styles. No matter which you choose, booking in advance will help you enjoy a smooth, memorable experience. Now, get ready to learn about Tenerife’s lively streets and rich sights—your urban adventure awaits.
