North Tenerife offers a greener, more authentic side of the island — historic towns, volcanic landscapes, and cooler temperatures compared to the south.

Most travelers arrive via Tenerife North Airport and use a rental car to explore coastal resorts, mountain villages, and cultural cities at their own pace.
This guide covers the three main northern areas and explains where renting makes the most sense.
🌊 Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is the main resort town in the north — famous for its oceanfront promenade, botanical gardens, and relaxed atmosphere.
Best for:
- seaside walks
- traditional Canarian vibe
- northern beaches
👉 Full local guide:
Cicar Puerto de la Cruz Car Rental
https://autolisboa.com/cicar-puerto-de-la-cruz/
Approx. 25 minutes from Tenerife North Airport.
🏛 San Cristóbal de La Laguna
A UNESCO-listed historic town with colorful streets and student life — perfect for culture lovers.
Best for:
- colonial architecture
- cafés and local markets
- central island access
Most visitors rent at the airport and drive here directly.
⚓ Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The island’s capital and main port — ideal for shopping, museums, and ferry connections.
Best for:
- urban Tenerife
- ferry trips to other islands
- business travel
Santa Cruz is about 20 minutes by car from TFN.
✈️ Rent in Town or at the Airport?
Many travelers wonder whether it’s better to rent locally or directly at
Tenerife North Airport.
Town pickup
✔ closer to accommodation
✔ relaxed pace
❌ limited vehicles
❌ fewer automatic cars
Airport pickup
✔ widest choice
✔ usually cheaper
✔ better for late arrivals
✔ easier to find SUVs & automatics
👉 Airport guide:
Cicar Tenerife North Airport Car Rental
https://autolisboa.com/cicar-tenerife-north-airport/
For most visitors, airport pickup is the safest option — especially in high season.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
💰 Typical Car Rental Prices in North Tenerife
Approximate daily ranges:
| Car Type | Low Season | High Season |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | €25–40 | €45–70 |
| Compact | €30–50 | €60–90 |
| SUV | €50–80 | €90–130 |
Prices vary by season and availability.
🔄 Cicar vs Comparing All Suppliers
Cicar is a reliable local provider — but it only shows its own cars.
Comparison platforms show many suppliers at once.
| Cicar | Aggregators | |
|---|---|---|
| Suppliers | 1 | 10–20 |
| Prices | Fixed | Competitive |
| Availability | Limited | Wide |
| Cancellation | Limited | Often free |
That’s why many travelers compare first — then book.
🚘 Best Option If Cicar Is Sold Out
If Cicar has no availability (very common in summer):
👉 Best Alternatives to Cicar in Tenerife
https://autolisboa.com/best-cicar-alternatives-tenerife/
This page compares airport and city suppliers and often reveals cheaper or newer vehicles.
Most people end up there when:
✔ booking last minute
✔ needing automatic transmission
✔ traveling July–September
✔ looking for SUVs or family cars
🔗 Related Cicar Guides
Main hub:
👉 Cicar Tenerife Car Rental – Complete Guide
https://autolisboa.com/cicar-tenerife-car-rental/
North Tenerife cluster:
• Cicar Tenerife North Airport
https://autolisboa.com/cicar-tenerife-north-airport/
• Cicar Puerto de la Cruz
https://autolisboa.com/cicar-puerto-de-la-cruz/
South Tenerife hub (for full island coverage):
👉 South Tenerife Car Rental
https://autolisboa.com/south-tenerife-car-rental/
✅ Final Thoughts
North Tenerife is perfect for travelers who enjoy culture, greenery, and quieter beaches.
Whether you stay in Puerto de la Cruz, La Laguna, or Santa Cruz, having a car means:
✔ easy mountain drives
✔ access to hidden villages
✔ freedom beyond tour routes
✔ trips to
Mount Teide
Start by checking Cicar — but always compare first for the best deal.
