Local Transport
Rental Car — The Best Choice
A rental car is by far the best option on Tenerife. The island can be crossed from north to south in 1–1.5 hours, the highways (TF-1 in the south, TF-5 in the north) are excellent, gasoline is cheaper than on the mainland, and many of the most beautiful places (Anaga, Masca, Teide) are difficult to reach without a car.
| Provider | Prices from | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cicar (local) | 12€/day | Best local provider, full insurance included |
| AutoReisen (local) | 10€/day | Cheapest option, good service |
| Goldcar | 8€/day | Cheap, but watch out for additional insurance! |
| Hertz/Europcar/Sixt | 20€/day | International, well-known, but more expensive |
Important:
- Full insurance without excess: Often included with local providers like Cicar. With Goldcar and others, be sure to check the insurance — otherwise, you may quickly face 100–200€ excess.
- Mountain roads: The roads to Masca, through the Anaga Mountains, and to Teide are winding and narrow. If you don't like hairpin bends, drive slowly and use pull-off areas.
- Parking: In Santa Cruz and La Laguna: use parking garages (1–2€/h). In the south: usually free hotel parking. At Teide: large, free parking lots.
TITSA Buses
The TITSA bus network (green buses) connects all parts of the island — surprisingly well, punctual, and affordable. The TenMás card (rechargeable chip card, 2€ deposit) saves 30–50% compared to cash payment. Important lines:
- Línea 110: Santa Cruz ↔ Costa Adeje (highway, fast)
- Línea 102: Santa Cruz ↔ Puerto de la Cruz
- Línea 348: Puerto de la Cruz ↔ Teide National Park
- Línea 473: Buenavista ↔ Masca (spectacular mountain road!)
Tram (Tranvía)
The modern tram connects Santa Cruz ↔ La Laguna in 30 minutes. Runs every 5–10 minutes, ticket: 1.35€ with TenMás card. Perfect for a city visit without a car.
Ferries
Ferries depart from Los Cristianos to the neighboring islands:
- La Gomera: Fred Olsen Express (50 min., from 35€ return) or Naviera Armas (60 min., from 28€ return). Several times daily. Perfect day trip!
- La Palma: Fred Olsen (2.5h) or Armas. Less frequent, but doable as a day trip.
- El Hierro: Naviera Armas (2.5h). Only sensible for overnight guests.
💡 Tipp
Cicar is the most recommended rental car provider in Tenerife: good cars, full insurance included, transparent prices, and offices all over the island. Book online at least 2 weeks in advance — prices rise sharply at short notice. For Goldcar & Co., make sure to read the fine print regarding insurance!
