Where to stay in Tenerife

Best for: promenade strolls and gourmet delights

As one of the older holiday resorts on the island, Puerto moves at a more relaxed pace than its siblings in the south of the island. Its long promenade takes in the cute historic town centre, the port, beaches and the famous Lago Martiánez swimming pool complex built and designed by Canarian architect César Manrique. It’s an ideal spot to cool off on sunny days. Puerto is also a great base for exploring the nearby Orotava valley, famed for its vineyards and restaurants. Try El Calderito de la Abuela – a short taxi ride away – for classic Canarian dishes. Snag a table by the window for mind-blowing views over Puerto de La Cruz.

Stay here: For something traditional, bed down at Hotel Monopol with its Canarian pinewood balconies and interior courtyard, or try the laid-back family-run Hotel Tigaiga.

Best for: a little luxury

Over the last 10 years, the area of Costa Adeje has blossomed into one of the most-coveted holiday spots on the island. Unlike some of its neighbouring resorts, it has opted to go upmarket and there are countless luxury hotels and swanky resorts. Perhaps unsurprisingly, you’ll find most of the island’s Michelin Star restaurants here including the famed El Rincón de Juan Carlos and the standout Japanese-inspired Kensei. There are some gorgeous beaches along this bit of coast, too, from the popular Fañabe to more intimate Playa del Duque.

Stay here: The pink-hued Tivoli La Caleta has all the cool beach club vibes and a spa by the famous Anatara group, while the Hard Rock Hotel brings the punk to this piece of paradise.

Best for: city sights, carnival and plenty of good spots for drinking

The Tenerife capital has a reputation for being a bit sleepy, that is until carnival sweeps into town each February bringing parties, parades and plenty of noise. These are the largest carnivals outside of Rio de Janeiro, so book early if you’re planning on joining the fun. At other times, you’ll find the city wonderfully chilled out. Take a wander around the historic centre of La Noria or sidle up to the TEA arts space to while away the hottest hours of midday. If you like local food, swing by La Recova market where you’ll be able to pick up plenty of non-touristy souvenirs including local wine and cheese. Stop at La Pamelita café for a barraquito – a layered coffee with condensed milk, Liqor43, hot milk, foam, cinnamon and a twist of lemon peel.

Stay here: The super-chic InnSide Santa Cruz de Tenerife is about as central as you can get and has a gravity-defying rooftop infinity pool. The adults-only Hotel Emblemático F24 is housed in an old mansion right next to the city’s main park.

Best for: nightlife, beaches and value

This is one of the first places people think of when talking about Tenerife, and while it has had a bit of a reputation, there have been huge strides over the past few years to shift the stereotype. It’s still one of the best places for nightlife and stunning beaches, but it’s also home to the Pirámide de Arona auditorium that hosts shows, concerts and live acts, and the area has some good restaurants such as the Spanish Meson Las Lanzas. Jump on a whale-watching boat and head out into the strait between Tenerife and neighbouring island La Gomera, Europe’s first Whale Heritage Area. Choose an ethical, low-impact company that supports conservation efforts.

Stay here: The ocean-front H10 Las Palmeras gives you direct access to Playa de Las Américas and also has sports facilities. Golf fans should check out Gara Suites Golf & Spa hotel with its cute duplexes in the centre of Las Américas golf course.

Best for: stargazing and solitude

The central peaks and north-west of the island are much less developed and perfect if you fancy getting away from it all or favour hiking and stargazing. The Canaries are one of the best places on earth to see the stars and as El Teide volcano is so tall, your feet are above the clouds, so you are pretty much guaranteed clear skies. Meanwhile, in quaint coastal towns such as Garachico you can enjoy peaceful breaks in places made for finally writing that novel. El Rebojo is a great spot for sustenance as the restaurant has a hyper-local philosophy, so ingredients are sourced from within the area.

Stay here: The highest hotel on the island and the best place if you want to touch the stars is the Parador Las Cañadas del Teide, or for a quiet stay by the coast, check into historic Hotel La Quinta Roja.