Car Rental at Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

Where to drive

• Drive to Teide National Park: Journey approximately 60 km (1 hour drive) from TFS to the heart of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide. Explore lunar landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Visit Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas: These popular southern resorts are just a short 15-20 km (20-30 minute drive) from the airport. Enjoy vibrant beaches, dining, and nightlife.
• Explore the charming town of Garachico: Head northwest, a drive of approximately 90 km (1 hour 30 minutes) through scenic routes, to discover this historic town with its natural volcanic rock pools.
• Discover Masca Village: A picturesque, remote village nestled in the Teno Rural Park, about 80 km (1 hour 45 minutes) from TFS. The drive involves winding, narrow roads but rewards with stunning scenery.
• Relax at El Médano: This laid-back town, famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing, is only about 10 km (15 minutes) east of the airport, offering a different beach vibe.
• Circuit the island: With a car, you can easily drive the entire perimeter of Tenerife, approximately 200 km, in a day, stopping at various points of interest along the way.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you typically need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least one year (some companies require two years). If your license is not in English or Spanish, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or often required. You will also need your passport or national ID card and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, with surcharges for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices at Tenerife South Airport vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from approximately 20 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to be higher during the peak winter sun season and summer holidays, potentially doubling or tripling for popular models.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on non-urban roads, and 120 km/h on motorways (autopistas). The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, or 0.03% for new drivers (less than 2 years of experience). Headlights must be used in tunnels and during periods of low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 1.35 meters tall must use an appropriate child seat.

Parking

Parking in Tenerife varies. In tourist areas and larger towns, paid street parking (blue zones) is common, often requiring payment at a meter or via an app. Free parking can be found, especially outside peak areas, but may be limited. Many hotels offer private parking for guests. Always check signs for restrictions. Underground car parks are available in busier centers for a fee.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Tenerife, especially in and around major towns and along main roads. Both petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasóleo) are sold. Prices are generally lower than mainland Spain, but fluctuate; expect to pay approximately 1.40-1.60 EUR per liter for petrol. Most stations accept major credit cards and cash. It's advisable to fill up before long journeys into less populated areas like Teide National Park.

Which car to choose

For general island exploration and resort stays, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient and easier to navigate and park in towns. If you plan to explore the more mountainous regions, particularly areas like Masca or Anaga, a car with a slightly more powerful engine or even an SUV can be beneficial for comfort and handling the steep, winding roads. An automatic transmission can also make driving on these roads less strenuous.

Frequently asked questions