Car rental at Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

Tenerife South Airport is the beating heart of air travel to the Canary Islands. Just about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it’s the go-to landing spot for anyone heading to the sun-drenched southern coast. A quick 15-minute drive puts you right in the action at hotspots like Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas.

The airport runs on a single, three-level terminal that packs in 34 gates—8 of them with airbridges for smoother boarding. Inside, you’ll find all the comforts travelers expect: duty-free shopping, solid food options, free Wi-Fi, and chilled-out lounges. It welcomes over 12 million passengers a year, proving just how vital it is to the Canary Islands’ tourism lifeblood. You can find more information on the airport’s official website: Tenerife South Airport

Picking up a rental car at Tenerife South Airport is refreshingly easy. Most rental desks are right inside the arrivals hall on the ground floor, so you can sort your car as soon as you touch down. A few companies have offices just outside the terminal, but no worries—they run free shuttle services to get you there in no time. Some even offer a handy meet-and-greet service, where a rep meets you at arrivals and walks you through everything. To keep things smooth, especially in busier months, it’s smart to double-check pickup details and book your car ahead of time.

Book early to save money. Lock in your rental as soon as your flight to Spain is booked. Early reservations often mean lower prices, more car options, and less stress once you land. Last-minute bookings? They rarely end well.

Double-check for hidden fees. Always read the fine print before booking. Some rentals sneak in extra charges like young driver fees, airport surcharges, or extra driver costs. Knowing what you’re paying for can spare you an unpleasant surprise.

Pick the right car for your trip. Think about your route, luggage, and how many people you’re traveling with. A small car saves fuel, but space and comfort go a long way on longer drives around Tenerife.

Inspect the car before driving off. Take a good look—scratches, dents, chips, whatever stands out. Snap a few photos and flag any damage before you hit the road. It only takes a minute and can save you big time later.

Know Spain’s driving rules. Brush up on the basics before sliding behind the wheel. Speed limits, road signs, and roundabout etiquette—it’s all part of driving smart and avoiding fines while cruising through beautiful Tenerife.

Teide National Park. Rising proudly at 3,718 meters, Mount Teide dominates the heart of Tenerife and holds the title of Spain’s tallest peak. The park’s lunar-like landscape, winding trails, and breathtaking cable car ride make it unforgettable.

Loro Parque. Tucked away in Puerto de la Cruz, Loro Parque is a true gem of Spain’s wildlife attractions. From colorful parrots to captivating dolphin and orca shows, it’s a vibrant, family-friendly escape that’s both fun and educational.

Siam Park. Over in Costa Adeje, Siam Park delivers full-throttle water thrills with a tropical twist. Towering slides, a lazy river, and one of the world’s biggest wave pools keep adrenaline junkies and chill-seekers equally entertained.

Masca Village. Hidden in the rugged Teno Mountains, Masca feels like stepping into a postcard. Its steep ravines, dramatic views, and timeless charm attract hikers, photographers, and anyone craving a taste of authentic Canarian life.

Anaga Rural Park. On Tenerife’s lush northeastern tip, Anaga stuns with misty forests, cliffside trails, and sweeping coastal views. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers looking to experience Spain’s wild side.

El Médano. Just 15 minutes by car from Tenerife South Airport, El Médano is a breezy beach town with a soul. Known for golden sand and world-class windsurfing, it’s the kind of place that instantly slows your pace.

Los Cristianos. A quick 20-minute drive lands you in lively Los Cristianos, where the marina buzzes with ferries and the boardwalk hums with restaurants. Once a sleepy fishing village, today it’s a go-to for sun, shopping, and a taste of coastal charm.

Costa Adeje. Reach Costa Adeje in 20 minutes and step into a more polished slice of Tenerife. With chic resorts, high-end restaurants, and calm coves, it’s where the island shows off its luxury side without losing its warmth.

Garachico. Around 50 minutes by car from Tenerife South Airport, Garachico is a coastal town that turned tragedy into charm. Once destroyed by a volcanic eruption, it’s now famous for its natural lava rock pools, cobbled streets, and quiet, timeless beauty.

La Orotava. About 1 hour and 15 minutes north, La Orotava rewards every minute of the drive. This elegant colonial town is rich with history, garden-lined streets, and breathtaking architecture, all wrapped in the misty air of Tenerife’s green highlands.