Tenerife Transport

Tenerife has excellent roads which cover nearly every town, village and beach on the island. Driving a car is one of the best ways to explore the less-visited parts of Tenerife. It allows for more flexibility and will likely end up saving you money on transportation costs. The island’s public bus system is quite good and covers most areas, but using the buses can be time consuming. Mopeds and motorcycles are another popular option of getting around. There are many companies which rent everything from 90cc scooters up to larger 650cc motorcycles. The rental fees are relatively cheap and you’ll get a discount by renting for multiple days. Taxis are reliable and will take you anywhere you need to go.

By bus

The public bus service on Tenerife is very good, but travleling by bus can be time consuming. Buses are called guagua in the local language. The public bus service, called TITSA, operates several routes throughout the island, with fares being very reasonable. You can save even more money by purchasing a Bus Card, which can be charged up with whatever amount you wish. Fares are reduced by using the card, but only one passenger can use each card. You can get a bus schedule from any bus station or from your hotel. If you have more than two people in your party or plan to visit several sites, then it may be better to rent a car.

Taxis

Taxi drivers on Tenerife generally have a good reputation for being honest and providing good service, but watch out for the few who are willing to take advantage of tourists, especially on trips to and from the airports. All taxis are metered, but for short trips, drivers often won’t bother to put the meter on. The main taxi companies display their fixed rates between popular destinations. Taxis can also be privately hired for sightseeing and many offer planned itineraries covering the more popular attractions on the island.

Tourist services

There is no special tourist transportation system on Tenerife. However, between the buses, taxis and private vehicle rentals, you can easily get around the whole island. All of the towns and cities are easy navigated on foot once you get there.

From the airport

As there are two different airports, one in the north and one in the south of the island, make sure you book your flight to the airport that is closest to where you want to stay.

Several buses connect the northern airport, Los Rodeos, with destinations around the island including Puerto de la Cruz, La Laguna and Santa Cruz. Buses depart from the airport every 30 minutes from 06:00 until 23:00. Once in Santa Cruz, you can take a connecting bus to other, smaller towns. Taxis, located outside the main terminal, are also an easy way to reach more remote destinations.

If you are driving from the airport, take the TF-5 motorway, which will take you towards Santa Cruz and other destinations around the island.

If you arrive at the southern Reina Sofia Airport, there are buses located outside the Arrivals Area which regularly leave the airport on three routes. Bus 341 runs to the central bus station in Santa Cruz. Bus 340 goes to the northern airport and Puerto de la Cruz, while bus number 487 runs to Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas. Taxis are also readily available from outside the Arrivals Area to take you to any place on the island.

If you are driving from the southern airport, take Highway Tenerife 1 (TF-1), which will lead you north towards Santa Cruz 60kms away. Several car hire companies have offices at the southern airport, but it’s advisable to book your car online to avoid any hassles and to get the best rates.