Discovering the Real Tenerife Through Its Traditions
When you are planning to visit Tenerife holidays, there are easy temptations of getting seduced by the sandy beaches and sunbeds. What most of the tourists fail to note about this beautiful island is that it is a rich source of culture. Besides the resort, there is a vivacious world of local carnivals and handicrafts and mouth-watering stuff, and all that is really Tenerife.
Colourful party with Carnaval de Santa Cruz or prime arts of crafts in the rustic villages like La Orotava, of Tenerife cultural region has its narration. Try the local dishes that consist of predominantly locally grown products and are the most equivalent to the culinary traditions of the island: that fresh seafood, those traditional papas arrugadas, and that sweet gofio.
The further you step through the sunbeds, the more you will know about Tenerife; how the customs and traditions are transformed with the help of warm hospitality and the spirit of the community. Follow us and get tips on secrets and find the pearls that Tenerife is hiding, so we do not turn it into a resort destination but into an experience of life itself.
Romerías & Local Festivities
Another key feature of the colourful Tenerife cultural regions is Romerias and local festivals that will provide every visitor with a chance to sample the local customs. Such pilgrimages are not mere religious acts and observances, but they are Kaleidoscopic celebrations with music, dancing and festive local foods and specialities. The participants are dressed in folk costumes which reflect the heritage of the island to give a colourful spectacle that both the locals and the tourists are fascinated by.
The Romer de San Benito in La Laguna is one of the most popular ones when people come in thousands to celebrate their patron saint and have fun tasting typical food and listening to country music. On the same note, the Corpus Christi festivals in La Orotava turn the city streets into an outstanding flora-carpet and artistic procession, an artistic spirit of Tenerife.
To all those making a dream for holidays to Tenerife, something like these cultural areas during such celebrations is a memorable event of actually participating in the traditions and social life of the island. Do not miss such passionate festivals that can be regarded as the core of Tenerife!
Guanche Roots & Island Heritage
The history of Tenerife is a colourful mosaic of events that has the flavour of the old Guanche culture that is still felt in the island, even in the present-day Tenerife local customs. The Guanches, who were the original dwellers of the island, left behind exciting remains that present us with a blight of their exclusive lifestyle. Whether they are the mysterious mummies found in volcanic caves to the old cave dwellings dispersed throughout the country, there is one intriguing story displayed through these artefacts that is indicative of strength and adaptation.
To know more about this pre-Hispanic existence, visitors may visit several museums where the Guanche heritage may be learnt. Mummies and artefacts can be seen in the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre located in Santa Cruz and emphasise their customs and beliefs. Whilst visiting the historical attractions such as Cueva del Viento or the famous Pyramids of Guimar, tours will help to immerse people in the past of Tenerife.
When you visit these cultural treasures, you not only pay respect to the heritage of the Guanches but also gain a deeper knowledge of the lively identity of Tenerife.
Food as Culture: Traditional Dishes & Drinks
Food is a plate of culture and in Tenerife, locals have traditional food and drinks that reflect the richness of rich culture on island. It is impossible to go without trying the papas arrugadas, the wonderful wrinkly potatoes which are served with a spicy mojo sauce which has all the Canary flavours. Another staple is gofio, a versatile flour made of roasted grains which can be taken in various ways, as a porridge as well as a dough for local delicacies.
The coastal geographic location of Tenerife will also give it the advantage of having fresh seafood, and that experience of fresh seafood cannot be had anywhere in the world. There is nothing like eating and drinking local wines to make a meal perfect; vineyards around Tenerife make some of the best varieties in the world that go well with the food in the region.
The actual representation of Tenerife local customs is the social practice of drinking barraquito, which is a layered coffee liqueur which is a blend of espresso, condensed milk and cinnamon. Not only does this delicious beverage warm the soul, but it also becomes an excellent conclusion to lunch or dinner, or an excuse to invite your friends over.
Handicrafts & Artisanal Skills
Tenerife has one of the most attractive crafts works full of related Tenerife local customs. On the island, various artisanal talents are on offer, with elaborate embroidery and fine lacework, gorgeous pottery and classic basket weaving. The crafts have stories behind them, something that is based on history and the culture of that island.
To get an idea about these unusual pieces, one really needs to approach local markets or craft fairs. Such towns as La Orotava or Guiamar are distinguished by colourful gatherings of local artisans, and such places are where you may get to meet skilful craftsmen and women who are proud of the job they do. In this place, there is a possibility to experience stalls full of artworks that are created by hand and can be a great souvenir or present.
Your activities in the craft scene in Tenerife will not only aid the local artisans, but they will also offer an idea of how the island used to be when it comes to traditions. Whether it is something out of a beautiful piece of pottery or a handwoven basket, whatever you carry, it is something which has new life because it carries the spirit of the rich culture of Tenerife. Do not miss this chance of getting to know the core of the island.
Conclusion – A Culture Carved by Land & People
Even though the mesmerising beaches of Tenerife are sure to make waves break and attract tourists, one must take a wider perspective on the island, to see what it has and should offer. Tenerife traditions are deeply incorporated in the beautiful mountains, the lovely villages and unique beats of life that rhythm through the communities. This colourful island is full of stories that can be heard in each of its corners by visiting local festivals, following ancient hiking routes, or even trying original Canarian food.
Travelodeal suggests that you plunge into such experiences so that you can feel the core and essence of Tenerife. Trading away the shoreline and getting to the local culture can teach you much more about how this is such a special island. And here is your cue, so pack your bags and get ready to go on a journey beyond the ordinary route of the tourists.

Kay Bustin is a seasoned freelance business consultant specializing in the travel industry. With over 18 years of experience in travel and tourism, she has helped numerous brands shape successful marketing and commercial strategies tailored to a dynamic global audience. Beyond her professional expertise, Kay is a passionate traveller herself, deeply enthusiastic about discovering new destinations and cultures, which brings an authentic perspective to her writing.