Car Rental Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

Arriving at Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofia) marks the beginning of an unforgettable escape. Whether you’re in Tenerife for the eternal spring sunshine, the volcanic landscapes, or the vibrant nightlife, there is one decision that will define the quality of your trip: How you get around.

While Tenerife has a public bus system, the real beauty of the island (like hidden guachinches in the north, the sunset spot above the clouds in Teide, the secret coves of Anaga) is only accessible if you have your own set of wheels. Renting a car at Tenerife South Airport isn’t just about convenience; it’s about freedom.

1. Arrival at Tenerife South (TFS): A Walkthrough

The Terminal Layout

Tenerife South is a busy international hub but is relatively easy to navigate.

• Arrivals Hall: Once you pass passport control and collect your luggage from the carousels, you will exit into the main Arrivals Hall (Ground Floor).
• Rental Car Counters: Turning slightly to your left or right, you will see a long row of rental car desks. This is where the major brands (Cicar, AutoReisen, Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Goldcar) are located.

Picking Up Your Car

The car rental parking lot is located directly opposite the terminal building.

1. Exit the terminal through the sliding doors.
2. Cross the taxi lane and the bus lane.
3. You will see signs for “Rent a Car / Alquiler de Coches”.
4. There is a massive parking structure. Most rental companies are on the Ground Floor.

2. Choosing the Right Company: Local vs. International

Tenerife is unique because its local car rental companies often outperform the big international names in terms of price, transparency, and conditions.

The “Big Two” Local Favorites

1. Cicar (Canary Islands Car)

• Pros: Part of the Cabrera Medina group. They are the market leaders. Full Insurance Included.

2. AutoReisen

• Pros: Incredible value for money. Transparency is their motto.

3. Demystifying Insurance: SCDW vs CDW

When you book, you’ll see a lot of acronyms. Here is what they legally mean in Spain:

• TPL (Third Party Liability): Mandatory by law. Covers damage you do to others.
• SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver): This is the “Full Insurance”. It usually reduces the excess to €0.

4. Driving in Tenerife: Rules & Tips

The Roads

• TF-1 (South) & TF-5 (North): The two main highways encircling the island. Excellent condition, speed limit 120km/h.

Parking

• White Lines: Free parking.
• Blue Lines: Paid parking (Zona Azul).
• Yellow Lines: NO PARKING.

5. Three Perfect Road Trip Iternaries

Route A: The Vulcanic Ascent (Teide & Masca)

• Start: Costa Adeje.
• Stop 1: Vilaflor: The highest village in Spain.
• Stop 2: Teide National Park: Drive up via the TF-21.

Route B: The Green North (Anaga & La Laguna)

• Stop 1: La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Stop 2: Playa de Benijo: Wildest black sand beach.

6. Which Car to Rent?

• The Couple: A Fiat 500.
• The Family: A Citroën Berlingo.

7. Refueling & Gas Stations

• Price: Fuel in the Canary Islands is significantly cheaper than mainland Europe.