CAR HIRE IN TENERIFE

Whatever the purpose of your visit or the size of your group, Avis car hire in Tenerife will have the right vehicle for you. We’ve got practicality, performance and comfort all covered, so you can enjoy your car as much as possible. We can provide anything from a compact city car to a 7-seater family SUV – get in touch for more information about the exact models that are available.

Hire a car in Tenerife with Avis to traverse the island’s varied landscapes, discover private coves and beaches and access its many charming towns and villages.

The largest and most populated of the seven Canary Islands has a fascinating history that dates back to 200BC. If it’s culture you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Tenerife’s cosmopolitan capital, Santa Cruz. But while its museums, galleries and Plaza de España are certainly absorbing, many locals choose to bask in the sun on Playa de Las Teresitas, a 10-minute drive from the city. This famous white sandy beach is lined with kiosks selling refreshments, making it an ideal choice for a laid-back afternoon.

Playa de las Américas is another great beach and comes as supersized as its name might suggest. Sunbeds, umbrellas and ice-cream kiosks are all in ready supply for an easy family day out. Quieter seaside options include the basalt beaches around Los Gigantes, a stretch of raw sand at the base of cliffs in the northwest that soar up over 500m.

Which side of the road?
In Spain, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

• Mobile phones may not be used at all whilst driving
•  Do not use headphones when driving (except hearing aids)
•  Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight visibility
• Always use indicators, you will be fined for not using indicators when needed
•  Cyclists have right of way, at all times

Speed limits
All speed signs will be in km/h.
For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Rural areas: 90 km/h (55 mph)
• Motorways: 120 km/h (74 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

•  It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a       seatbelt
•  Children aged under 12 and less than 135 cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
•  Children aged under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front seat

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

We’ve unlocked Spain’s driving rules and regulations for your journey to help keep you safe and avoid the unexpected. Familiarise yourself with our comprehensive guide.

Had your fill of lazing on the beach? The dizzy heights of dormant volcano Mount Teide are well worth scaling. It’s a tough six-hour hike from the base to this summit, which is the highest peak in Spain. and the views are ample reward. It’s located in the very centre of the island, so it’ll be a short drive to the base, regardless of where you’re staying. If you’re not in the mood for hiking, you could just drive through the surrounding Teide National Park, exploring lunar landscapes pocked with craters and traversed by rivers of petrified lava.

Another fun thing to do if you rent a car in Tenerife is driving out to Masca. This idyllic hamlet is built high up on a cliffside, in the middle of the Teno mountains. Its charming cobbled streets date back several centuries, to Spain’s medieval past. And you won’t want to miss the Millenary Dragon Tree that serves as one of the island’s main tourist attractions. Located in Icod de los Vinos, this umbrella-shaped tree is claimed to be over a thousand years old.

Which is the best month to go to Tenerife?

Tenerife offers year-round sunshine and warm weather. Visit in spring or autumn for mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer offers hot, sunny days perfect for beach lovers. Those hoping to escape winter chill can enjoy comfortable weather and little chance of rain.

Is English spoken in Tenerife?

The official language in Tenerife is Spanish, but as one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations you will find that in hotels, restaurants and bars, English is also widely spoken.

How long are UK citizens allowed to stay in Tenerife?

Post-Brexit, UK nationals can spend up to 90 days in Tenerife in any 180-day period.

 Is Tenerife in Europe?

While Tenerife is geographically located just off the coast of Africa, Tenerife is part of Europe, and as a province of Spain is also part of the European Union.

Van Hire in tenerife

If you’re moving house or travelling with a particularly large load, a van might be the best choice for you. Check out our van hire options to find your ideal larger vehicle.