Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a lively city that offers more than just beaches and urban charm. With its proximity to stunning landscapes, volcanic wonders, and cultural sites, it’s a perfect base for exploring through guided tours. Whether you’re after a breathtaking sunset over Mount Teide, a bike ride through historic streets, or an intimate wine tasting, Santa Cruz has options to suit every interest. We especially like the Mount Teide Sunset Picnic & Stargazing Tour for its combination of natural beauty and unique stargazing, and the Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Tapas Bike Tour for a fun way to sample local flavors while seeing the city.
If you’re planning a trip, these experiences can help you dive into Tenerife’s diverse offerings, adding memorable stories to your visit. Now, let’s look at the best tours that can turn your stay into something special.
1. Mount Teide Sunset Picnic & Stargazing Tour – Tenerife
This tour is a winner for those wanting a mix of nature, scenery, and a touch of magic. After exploring the volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park, you’ll settle in for a sunset picnic just above the clouds. The experience includes wine and snacks while marveling at the views of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. Then, the night sky unfolds in one of the top three clearest places in the world for stargazing.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of a scenic drive, lunar-like volcanic terrain, and a peaceful night under the stars. The guide takes you through lava rock formations like Roque García, offering insight into the park’s geological history. The Mirador de Samara provides a stunning vantage point for sunset, and the star gazing introduction makes it a truly enchanting experience. The tour lasts about six hours, with good logistics—pickup points, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace.
Guests consistently rate it highly, with a 4.9/5 based on 62 reviews. Many say the sunset and stargazing are unforgettable, and the picnic setup offers a cozy, personal touch. It’s perfect for romantics, nature lovers, or anyone wanting an evening away from the crowds with spectacular views.
Bottom Line: If you love natural scenery, cool evenings, and the chance to see the stars, this tour offers outstanding value and a memorable experience.
2. Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Tapas Bike Tour
For around $35, this 2.5-hour guided bike tour is a lively way to explore Santa Cruz’s streets and sample its culinary scene. It’s a fun route that covers historic and modern sights, with stops at key landmarks like Plaza de la Candelaria and the Guimerá Theater. A big highlight is the chance to taste authentic Canarian tapas at a local eatery, a delicious way to connect with local flavors.
The tour offers a choice between a regular bicycle and an electric bike, making it accessible for different fitness levels. The guide shares insights into the city’s past and present, pointing out vibrant neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and hidden corners. The route is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for photos and breaks.
While it’s a short tour, reviewers love its intimate feel. One reviewer called it “a delightful mix of history, culture, and food,” and appreciated the relaxed pace. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, friendly introduction to Santa Cruz without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and casual cyclists, this tour offers a tasty taste of Santa Cruz’s street life and history.
3. Tenerife: Romantico Tour in Buggy Sunset
Looking for a fun, adventurous way to share a sunset experience? This buggy tour combines scenic drives along Tenerife’s coasts with a romantic picnic. You can choose between a 2-seater Beach Buggy or a 4-seater Family Cartoon Buggy, making it suitable for couples or families. The highlight is exploring southern Tenerife’s beaches and cliffs in a dune buggy, feeling the wind and the sunshine.
The tour concludes with a special setting: a picnic on a lawn with typical local products and stunning views, all just before sunset. The guides are friendly, and the route is designed to maximize scenic beauty and fun. If you want to surprise a partner or enjoy a playful adventure, this is a perfect choice. You can even request a surprise for your partner by contacting the tour operator after booking.
Rated 4.9/5, the tour is praised for its originality and romantic vibe. The combination of off-road fun, scenic views, and a personalized picnic makes it a memorable outing, especially for couples celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom line: For a romantic yet lively activity, the buggy sunset tour offers a playful and scenic break from the usual.
4. Tenerife: Santa Cruz Guided Bike Tour 1.5 hour
If you want a quick, energetic way to see Santa Cruz’s highlights, this guided bike tour is a solid choice. It covers iconic spots like the Auditorio de Tenerife, Castillo Negro, and the Parque García Sanabria in just 1.5 hours. The route is manageable for most fitness levels, especially with the available electric bike option, making it accessible even if you’re not a cycling fanatic.
The tour kicks off from Tenerife Bike Rental & Tours, with a safety briefing and a chance to choose your bike. Along the way, your guide shares insights about the city’s history, architecture, and local life. Stops are made at each landmark for photos and quick explanations, giving you a snapshot of Santa Cruz’s rich character.
In reviews, many appreciate the brief but comprehensive nature of this tour—perfect for a quick overview. One traveler mentioned, “It’s a great way to see the main sights without feeling rushed,” emphasizing its efficiency.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with limited time who want a lively, guided introduction to Santa Cruz’s most famous sights.
5. Tenerife: Guided Historical Bike Tour with E-Bike Option
For those who want to explore Tenerife’s cultural side, this 2.5-hour guided bike tour offers a detailed look at the city’s landmarks and hidden gems. You have the choice between a traditional or electric bike, making it accessible for different fitness levels. The route covers areas like Plaza de España, the Masonic Temple, and the Parish of St. Francisco de Asís.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Tenerife’s history and architecture, with the guide sharing stories about each site. Stops include a visit to the Monumento to Captain Diego Fernández Ortega and scenic viewpoints that reveal the city’s vibrant urban landscape. Many reviews mention how the guide’s insights add depth to the experience, and the electric bike option helps manage hills comfortably.
The price point is attractive at $29, offering good value for a thorough cultural exploration. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts or travelers who like a leisurely ride with educational commentary.
Bottom line: Perfect for culture-minded visitors with limited time who want a detailed city overview with the option of electric assist.
6. From Costa Adeje or Santa Cruz: Contrasts of Tenerife Tour
This all-day tour is a comprehensive exploration of Tenerife’s diverse scenery and culture. Starting from either Costa Adeje or Santa Cruz, it takes you through lush forests in Anaga, the impressive Pyramids of Güímar, and the sandy expanse of Playa de Las Teresitas. The 9.5 to 10.5-hour itinerary is packed with highlights, making it ideal for travelers who want to see everything in one day.
You’ll visit UNESCO sites, walk through the Anaga Rural Park, and enjoy free time at the beach. The tour provides a broad overview of Tenerife’s natural beauty and cultural history, giving you a chance to appreciate the island’s contrasts — volcanic landscapes, green forests, and bustling towns.
Reviews note that it’s a full day, so good for those prepared for a long, active day. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
Bottom line: For a compact, full-day overview of Tenerife’s varied environments, this tour is hard to beat.
7. Tenerife: Anaga and La Laguna VIP Tour
If privacy and exclusivity matter, this VIP tour offers a personalized experience of Tenerife’s highlights. It lasts about six hours and includes private transportation, guiding you through Anaga, La Laguna, and the Casa del Vino, where you can explore and buy local wines. It’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and a tailored itinerary.
The tour’s standout feature is its private nature, allowing for a flexible schedule and in-depth exploration. You’ll walk through historic La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the wine museum where tasting is optional. The guide’s local expertise ensures you see less touristy spots and get insider tips.
Rated at 4.3/5, some reviews mention the exceptional personal attention and unique access to local wineries. This is a high-end experience suited for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, or travelers wanting a stress-free, custom tour.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who prefer private, relaxed exploration with a focus on authentic local experiences.
8. Private Tour Tenerife: Anaga, Taganana, Benijo & La Laguna
For travelers wanting a private, flexible day, this customizable tour covers Anaga Rural Park, Taganana village, Benijo beach, and Las Teresitas. With private transportation and the option for a tailored schedule, it’s all about personalized discovery.
Highlights include walking in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, exploring authentic villages, and relaxing on the black-sand beaches. The tour includes scenic drives, with plenty of stops for photos and breaks, plus the chance to enjoy local fruits and water. The 8-hour duration makes it substantial but not exhausting.
Rated 5/5 based on 2 reviews, travelers love the comfort and flexibility, especially those who prefer a more intimate, less structured experience. It suits families, couples, or small groups who want to go at their own pace.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a tailored, private day with the freedom to focus on what interests them most.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Tenerife tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. Want a romantic, scenic experience? The Mount Teide Sunset Picnic & Stargazing offers spectacular views and a peaceful night sky. Looking to discover the city and local flavors? The Tapas Bike Tour is a fun intro to Santa Cruz’s streets and eateries, perfect for foodies. For a full-day adventure exploring the island’s contrasts, the Contrasts of Tenerife tour covers it all.
If privacy and personalized attention appeal, the VIP Anaga and La Laguna Tour or the Private Anaga, Taganana & Benijo trip are excellent picks. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want to marvel at a sunset from Mount Teide, pedal through historic streets, or enjoy a private wine tasting, there’s something to make your trip memorable. For spectacular scenery and stargazing, the Mount Teide sunset tour is hard to beat. For a quick, flavorful city overview, the bike and tapas tours deliver fun and insight without a huge time commitment. And for those seeking a bespoke experience, the private and VIP tours provide personalized service.
Remember, booking in advance is wise — especially if you’re visiting during peak times. Whichever adventure you choose, these tours are sure to add a special touch to your Santa Cruz de Tenerife holiday.