Tenerife (Spain)
Destination Overview
Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and a popular destination for students, expats, and young professionals. Known for its subtropical climate, volcanic landscapes, and beaches, the island offers year-round sunshine and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. The University of La Laguna (ULL), located in the north, attracts a large Spanish and international student population, giving Tenerife a strong academic and social scene alongside its well-known tourist appeal.
Quick Facts, Tenerife
Climate
Warm and sunny year-round, with mild winters and hot summers.
Cost of Living
Affordable, with student rooms typically €250–€400 and groceries €25–40 per week.
Lifestyle
Outdoor-focused, relaxed, and beach-oriented.
Vibe
International, laid-back, and student-friendly with strong local culture.
Safety
Very safe, with low crime rates across the island.
Transport
Good public buses and tram links between key student cities; cars useful for exploring.
Areas & Neighbourhoods
1. San Cristóbal de La Laguna
▲Historic, UNESCO-listed university town and Tenerife’s main student hub. Affordable, lively, and atmospheric, with student bars, shared flats, and a strong academic community.
2. Santa Cruz de Tenerife
▼3. La Cuesta
▼4. Puerto de la Cruz
▼5. Los Cristianos
▼6. Costa Adeje
▼Transport
Within Tenerife
Buses
Trams
Cars / Scooters
Domestic & International
Airport
Ferries
Inter-island Flights
Culture & Lifestyle
Cost of Living: Generally affordable compared to mainland Spain. Shared flats usually cost €250–€400 per month, studios €450–€650. Meals €8–12, coffee €1.20–2, beer around €2. Groceries €25–40 per week.
Climate: Subtropical and warm year-round. Summers average 28–32°C, winters around 18–22°C. The north is greener and cooler, while the south is sunnier and drier.
Culture: A blend of Spanish, Canarian, and Latin American influences. Carnival of Santa Cruz is one of the biggest festivals in Europe.
Social & Nightlife: Strong student nightlife in La Laguna and Santa Cruz. Southern resorts offer clubs and international nightlife, particularly in summer.
Lifestyle: Outdoor-focused and relaxed, with beaches, hiking, surfing, and nature central to daily life.
Inclusivity & Safety
LGBTQ+ Community
Welcoming and visible, with Pride events and LGBTQ+-friendly nightlife, especially in Santa Cruz and southern resort areas.
Top Attractions & Local Experiences
Must-Sees
- Teide National Park – Volcanic landscapes and Spain’s highest peak.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Capital city with museums, nightlife, and shopping.
- La Laguna – Historic university town and cultural centre.
- Playa de las Américas & Costa Adeje – Beaches, resorts, and nightlife.
- Loro Parque – Renowned zoo and aquarium in the north of the island.
- Puerto de la Cruz – Traditional coastal town with a local feel.
- Anaga Rural Park – Lush forests, hiking trails, and viewpoints.
Local Gems
- Carnival of Santa Cruz – Huge February festival with parades and street parties.
- Guachinches – Traditional local eateries serving Canarian food and wine.
- Bajamar & Punta del Hidalgo – Natural swimming pools popular with locals.
- Masca Valley – Dramatic mountain hikes and scenery.
- Surfing in El Médano – One of the island’s top surf and windsurf spots.
Pre-departure Essentials
Documents & Visas: EU students do not need a visa to study or live in Spain. UK students and other non-EU nationals usually need a Spanish student visa if staying longer than 90 days, arranged before arrival through the Spanish consulate.
Health Insurance: EU students should bring a valid EHIC. UK students should apply for a GHIC. Non-EU students must arrange private health insurance that meets visa requirements.
Banking: Spanish banks such as Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank are widely used. Many students also use Revolut or N26, though a Spanish account may be required for rent.
SIM Cards: SIM cards are easy to buy from Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and MásMóvil, with monthly plans from around €10–20.
Post-arrival Essentials
Registration: Students staying longer than three months must register their address at the town hall (empadronamiento). Non-EU students must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
Banking & SIM: Open a Spanish bank account and purchase a local SIM card if not arranged before arrival.
Health & Safety: Carry your EHIC/GHIC or insurance details. Emergency number is 112. Pharmacies are widely available across the island.
Shopping: Major supermarkets include Mercadona, Carrefour, HiperDino, and Lidl.
Apps: Useful apps include Moovit (transport), Glovo (delivery), Too Good To Go (discount food), and Bizum (payments).