Year round holiday destination

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has long been a favourite for holidaymakers looking to grab some sun, sea and relaxation. Perfect for a summer holiday, its mild climate also makes it a great place to escape from the chill of the British winter. It's estimated that somewhere between five and ten million visitors head to Tenerife each year, and with a landscape that ranges from sandy beach to volcanic rock, it's easy to understand the island's allure.

The southern areas of Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos may be familiar to many Brits, and are popular areas for holidaymakers looking two weeks in the sun. However, the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a wholly different experience, with the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife) in the city's port area serving as something of a landmark for both city and the island.

Why go?
Tenerife is an island blessed with diversity, and there's an experience for most types of holidaymakers. Numerous beaches draw sun-worshippers, the capital’s many sights appeal to culture-vultures and the area around Mount Teide – Spain's highest peak – is great for walkers.

When to go?
Average summer temperatures above 26˚C and winter temperatures that tend to stay above the 20˚ mark make Tenerife a year-round destination. Expect the beaches to be busy during the summer holidays.

How to get there?
Low-cost airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, Monarch and Thomsonfly all serve Tenerife South airport. Direct flights from across the UK take around three and a half hours. Jet2 offers flights from cities in the North of England and Northern Ireland, and Iberia offers one-stop flights from London via Madrid.

Must see
Built in 2003, the Auditorio de Tenerife has become a symbol for Tenerife and hosts numerous musical performances and events. Every February, the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife erupts with the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, considered by many to be second only to Rio’s carnival. The area around the semi-active Mount Teide is a spectacular landscape and is great for walking.