Located in the Canary Islands archipelago, Tenerife is a popular seaside resort throughout the year, as winters here are mild and pleasant. Therefore, a language stay is ideal at any time of the year. Being of volcanic origin, it has some dark sandy beaches and extraordinary mountain landscapes. There are numerous national parks, zoos, and even ancient pyramids. Many of the island's treasures are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The largest city on the island, Puerto de la Cruz, has many parks perfect for relaxing after language school or between walks in the streets and squares of the city, which are dotted with numerous bars and restaurants where you can easily meet locals and practice speaking Spanish.
950,000 inhabitants
island, tropical climate, beaches
5 H from Geneva
Tenerife is located on the Atlantic Ocean coast, approximately 950 km south of the Iberian Peninsula. The largest and most populous island of the Canary archipelago is characterized by a unique volcanic landscape, with the majestic Mount Teide rising in the center of the island. Tenerife enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with hot, dry summers often refreshed by sea breezes, and mild, pleasant winters. Daytime temperatures typically hover around 20°C throughout the year. The island also benefits from abundant sunshine, with more than 3,000 hours of sun per year, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Originally known as Guanche by the indigenous peoples, Tenerife’s coasts were discovered by Spanish explorer Alonso Fernández de Lugo in 1494. Soon after, colonies were established on the island, and Tenerife became an important economic and cultural center in the centuries that followed. With natural resources such as timber, salt, and fish, the island prospered through maritime trade and emerging industries such as agriculture, tourism, fishing, and handicrafts. Tenerife is also renowned for its culinary specialties such as goat cheese, fresh fish, and local wines, which attract food lovers from around the world.
Explore Mount Teide and its UNESCO World Heritage National Park. Visit the Tenerife Planetarium for an immersive journey through the universe and stroll through botanical gardens rich in native and exotic plants. Enjoy water activities along the coast of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas, then discover the island’s culture by visiting the Museum of Nature and Man as well as the Eduardo Westerdahl Museum of Contemporary Art. Don’t miss the famous Santa Cruz Carnival in February, featuring colorful parades and lively performances.
Tenerife offers a well-developed public transport network, with suburban trains and buses making it easy to travel around the island. Cruises along the coast are also available aboard paddle boats, offering a scenic experience. Ferries are a practical option for exploring coastal villages and the other Canary Islands. In terms of cost of living, Tenerife is more affordable than some major European cities, with expenses approximately 30% lower than in Geneva. Visitors will also find numerous shopping centers in the region, including the Centro Comercial Parque Santiago 6 in Playa de las Américas, one of the island’s largest.
Tenerife Tourist Office
38002 Santa Cruz De Tenerife, Tenerife
Phone: +34 902003121