Tenerife is one of my favourite places for a winter sun holiday. I think I’ve visited 12 times now and I love taking my three children, chasing that easy winter sun and the relaxed, family-friendly vibe that the island does so well. And honestly, Tenerife never gets old.
If you’re planning your first trip or you’re heading back for another visit and want to make the most of your time, this 5-day Tenerife itinerary is exactly what I’d recommend. It balances must-see highlights with proper downtime, works beautifully for families and still feels fresh even if you’ve been before.
I visited Tenerife for 5 days last February. It was during the February half term and I’d found incredible cheap flights from Liverpool so I couldn’t resist! Here’s what we got up to…
Day 1: Loro Parque: The ‘must’ of the Canary Islands for kids
If you’re travelling with kids then you have to visit Loro Parque.
Loro Parque has been recognised twice by TripAdvisor as one of the best zoos in the world, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. This is a world-class conservation centre, home to more than 40,000 animals from over 600 different species. The animals are safely distributed across habitats designed to recreate ecosystems from all five continents.
Every visit feels different to me. Sometimes it’s the sheer scale of the park that impresses me, other times it’s how much thought has gone into education and conservation. My children love seeing the animals up close, and I love knowing that conservation is at the heart of everything here.
My top tips for visiting Loro Parque:
- Arrive early and plan to spend most of the day there.
- Use the park map so you can pace yourselves.
- Take regular breaks as there are plenty of shaded areas and places to eat.
By the end of day one, you’ll already feel like choosing Tenerife was a very good idea!
Day 2: Beaches, downtime and sunset views
After a full first day, I always like to slow things down. This is where Tenerife really shines. Day two is all about relaxing, soaking up the sunshine and getting into holiday mode.
Spend your day enjoying the beaches that Tenerife is famous for. Whether you prefer golden sand or darker volcanic beaches, there’s something for everyone. When I’m travelling with my kids, we usually choose beaches with calmer waters and easy access to facilities, which makes the day much more relaxed for everyone.
Our favourite area of Tenerife is Playa del Duque. It’s a more expensive area to stay so, even if you’re not staying here, I’d drive here for a day trip for your beach day.
This is a great day for:
- Swimming in the sea
- Building sandcastles with the kids
- Enjoying a long, unhurried lunch
Read more: The best beaches in Tenerife
Day 3: Mount Teide and the heart of the island
No Tenerife itinerary would be complete without a trip to Mount Teide. Even after all these visits, this part of the island still takes my breath away. One minute you’re driving through pine forests, and the next it feels like you’re on another planet.
If you can, hire a car for this day. The drive itself is an experience, with incredible views and plenty of places to stop for photos. The volcanic landscapes are fascinating, especially for children, who always seem amazed by how different it looks from the rest of the island.
This day is perfect for:
- Exploring unique volcanic scenery
- Easy walks suitable for families
- Learning more about Tenerife’s natural history
I always recommend bringing layers. It can be warm at the coast and surprisingly cool higher up, especially in winter. On the way back down, stop in a small inland village for lunch. These quieter spots often serve some of the most memorable meals of the trip.
Day 4: Siam Park, a world-class water adventure
Day four is all about fun, and Siam Park delivers it in a big way. Ranked by TripAdvisor as the best water park in the world, this is a must-visit if you enjoy water parks (with or without children!)
I’ve visited water parks in many countries, and Siam Park really is on another level. The design is beautiful, the park is immaculately maintained, and there is something for every age group.
What I love most is that:
- Thrill-seekers have plenty of excitement
- Younger children have safe, well-designed areas
- Parents can actually relax and enjoy the day too
We usually dedicate a full day here because once you’re inside, you won’t want to rush. Arrive early, pace yourselves, and expect to finish the day tired but very happy.
Day 5: Northern Tenerife and Puerto de la Cruz
For your final day, head north to Puerto de la Cruz. This charming town feels greener and more traditional than the southern resorts and offers a lovely contrast to the rest of the trip.
I love wandering through the old town with a coffee while the kids explore the squares and small parks. It’s a great place to slow down and experience a more local side of Tenerife.
Spend your morning:
- Walking through the historic streets
- Browsing local shops and markets
- Enjoying lunch at a family-run restaurant
In the afternoon, take a stroll along the seafront. The northern coastline feels dramatic and wild, and it’s a wonderful way to end your trip with something a little different.
Practical tips for your 5 days in Tenerife
After visiting Tenerife so many times, these are the things I always share with friends:
- Tenerife is a true year-round destination but I love it best in the winter as the contrast between those warm sunny days in Tenerife and the cold, grey days in the UK feels like magic!
- It is incredibly family-friendly, from accommodation to restaurants and attractions.
- Hiring a car makes exploring the island much easier and it’s very affordable too. Pick up a hire car at the airport.
- Mixing busy days with slower ones makes the trip more enjoyable.
Why Tenerife works so well for families and repeat visitors
What keeps drawing me back to Tenerife isn’t just the sunshine. It’s how easy everything feels. You can have a full, exciting day out and then completely switch off the next day without feeling like you’re missing out.
My children love it because there is always something fun to do, and I love it because it never feels stressful. Whether this is your first visit or your tenth, Tenerife has a way of fitting around you.
If you follow this 5-day itinerary, you’ll see the best of the island while still having time to relax. And don’t be surprised if, like me, you start planning your return before you’ve even left.
