Things to Do in Icod de los Vinos

1. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres

Start your day at Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, the most charming square in Icod de los Vinos. From here, you can see the famous Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario) for free. No tickets needed—just head to the square’s viewpoint to admire this incredible tree in all its glory.

This 16th-century plaza has been beautifully renovated and is surrounded by trees like palms, Indian laurels, and jacarandas, offering plenty of shade throughout the day.

On weekends, you might find a small market with traditional Tenerife crafts. The plaza also features statues honoring notable local figures. What stands out most is the elegant neoclassical balustrade surrounding it.

2. San Marcos Parish

Located in Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, the San Marcos Parish is the most important religious building in Icod de los Vinos. Built on the site of an old chapel after the appearance of Saint Mark the Evangelist, it’s a must-see.

The first thing you’ll notice is its striking exterior: pristine white walls and a bell tower topped with a pyramid-shaped cap. The main entrance on the south side is a fine example of Mannerist style in the Canary Islands.

Inside, you’ll find beautifully crafted wooden ceilings and the stunning main altar, featuring a Gothic statue of Saint Mark. Don’t miss the “Corn Christ” (Señor Difunto de Icod de los Vinos), a unique statue made by indigenous artists from Michoacán, Mexico, using corn paste.

History lovers can also visit the Parish Museum, showcasing embroidered vestments and the impressive 2-meter-high Filigree Cross, crafted in Havana in 1165 and gifted to Icod de los Vinos.

Admission

• Free

3. Plaza de la Pila (Plaza de la Constitución)

The Plaza de la Pila, also known as Plaza de la Constitución, is another highlight of Icod de los Vinos. Its name comes from a fountain installed in the 18th century to supply water to the town.

The square is surrounded by tropical gardens with palms and hibiscus, giving it a serene vibe. Around the plaza, you’ll spot charming Canarian-style houses, including the standout Casa de los Cáceres, a yellow building from the early 19th century. Legend has it the house has 365 doors and windows!

Today, it houses the local music school and hosts temporary exhibitions. If you have time, check out its lovely courtyard.

4. Malvasía Museum

Don’t miss the Malvasía Museum, located in Plaza de la Pila. This family-run winery showcases Tenerife’s wine tradition, particularly Malvasía, a unique local wine.

The friendly staff will share fascinating stories about winemaking and the area’s grape-growing heritage. Wine tastings of 3 or 5 varieties are available, paired with Canarian cheese and mojo sauce. You can book on their website or on-site.

Behind the winery, there’s a patio where you can relax and enjoy the wines. If you’re a wine lover, this is a must-visit spot in Icod de los Vinos.

Admission

• Express tasting: €9.4
• Historical tasting: €12.4

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays and Sundays

5. Casa del Drago

Looking for a great spot to grab a bite in Icod de los Vinos? The Casa del Drago is a beautifully restored old Canarian house that now operates as a restaurant. They serve traditional Canarian food with a modern twist. What stands out most is their amazing brunch options.

The highlight? You can enjoy breathtaking views of the famous Drago Milenario from their charming patio. Even if you’re not hungry, stop by their shop, which features a fantastic selection of Canarian wines and local products. Definitely a must-visit spot in Icod de los Vinos.

6. Parque del Drago Milenario

On your 7-day trip around Tenerife, you’ll see many Drago trees, but none quite like this one. This iconic tree stands 18 meters tall, with a canopy spanning 20 meters in circumference. Its base measures over 20 meters wide, with more than 300 main branches. Visiting the Drago Milenario is an unmissable experience in Icod de los Vinos.

The tree is believed to be between 700 and 1,000 years old, making it one of the oldest trees in the world. Declared a National Monument in 1917, it’s more than just a tree—it’s a symbol of the island. While you can view it from Plaza Andrés Lorenzo Cáceres, exploring the Drago Milenario Park is worth it. The park features a botanical garden with local plant species and even a nursery where young Drago trees are grown.

The park also offers spectacular views. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Teide in the distance.

Admission Fee

• Adults: €5
• Students and seniors: €3
• Children under 8 years: €2.50
• Residents of Icod de los Vinos: Free

Opening Hours

• April to September: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Rest of the year: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Get Your Tickets for the Drago Milenario Park

7. Mariposario del Drago

The Drago Butterfly Garden is one of the most unique places to visit in Icod de los Vinos. It’s not just about the incredible variety of butterflies but also the carefully selected plants that support their life cycle.

Each butterfly species relies on a specific host plant to lay its eggs. These plants, often sourced from the butterflies’ native regions like Bali, Costa Rica, and Thailand, recreate the natural habitat and ensure their well-being.

Admission Fee

• General Admission: €9.50
• Residents and Seniors: €7.50
• Children (2–12 years): €6.50

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM

8. Casa del Plátano

The Banana House is a family-friendly museum and one of the best activities to enjoy with kids in Icod de los Vinos. Just a few streets from the old town, this museum dives into the history of banana cultivation in the Canary Islands. Learn how bananas were introduced to the islands and became a key agricultural product.

During your visit, you’ll discover the different types of bananas grown in Tenerife and the tools used on plantations. You’ll even see banana plants from around the world.

As a treat, you’ll be offered a banana to enjoy, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous banana liqueur. Their shop also features unique handcrafted banana-based products.

Admission Fee

• Adults: €5
• Residents of the Canary Islands: €3
• Children under 15: €3
• Children under 5: Free

Opening Hours

• Daily: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Get Your Tickets for the Banana House

9. Ex-Convent of San Francisco – Library

The Ex-Convent of San Francisco is a historic gem in Icod de los Vinos. Founded in 1641 by Franciscan monks, this building has served many purposes over the years, from a convent to a town hall, a military barracks, and even a cemetery.

Today, it houses the Municipal Library. If you visit, you can admire its stunning Renaissance cloister, complete with a fountain featuring a Poseidon sculpture. Legend has it this statue was a gift from Italian sailors rescued by the monks after a shipwreck.

Next to the convent, you’ll find the Church of San Francisco, which remains an active place of worship. Inside, don’t miss the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows, a magnificent example of 18th-century Baroque art, with Portuguese-influenced woodwork.

Admission Fee

• Free

Opening Hours

• Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Closed on Sundays

10. Icod de los Vinos Town Hall

A bit further from the Drago tree but still along our route of things to do in Icod de los Vinos, you’ll find the Town Hall, located in Plaza de León Huertas.

This 17th-century building stands out with its elegant, palatial architecture. Its façade features three wooden balconies and a graceful double staircase.

The Town Hall is usually open in the mornings. If you’re nearby, take the chance to step inside and admire this magnificent historic building.

11. San Agustín Church

The San Agustín Church, located right next to the Town Hall, is another must-see spot in Icod de los Vinos.

This 16th-century church features a simple structure with a single nave and two side chapels.

If you’re lucky enough to find it open, take a peek inside! You’ll discover two beautiful baroque altarpieces and a rococo-style altarpiece—an unusual feature, as none are located at the head of the church.

12. Guanche Museum

If you love history, the Guanche Museum is a must among the things to do in Icod de los Vinos. Here, you’ll uncover the fascinating world of the first inhabitants of the Canary Islands, who settled over 2,000 years ago.

Although it’s slightly outside the historic center, this museum is worth the visit. Inside, you’ll find life-sized representations of the Guanches, created using studies of human remains and reconstruction techniques.

The museum also showcases artistic depictions of life across the islands during their time. It’s a great way to understand the history of Tenerife and why Guanche culture is still so significant today.

13. Cueva del Viento

The Cueva del Viento is one of the most impressive natural wonders on the island. Just a short drive from Icod de los Vinos, this volcanic formation is the longest lava tube in Europe and the sixth longest in the world, stretching an incredible 18 kilometers. Formed over 27,000 years ago by the Pico Viejo volcano, it offers a glimpse into the volcanic origins of the Canary Islands.

Visits are guided tours lasting about 2–3 hours, conducted in small groups for an intimate and informative experience. The tour starts with a walk across fossilized lava fields to the cave entrance, where you’ll wear a helmet with a headlamp since the cave has no artificial lighting. The terrain is easy to navigate, but it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing—and get ready for an adventure!

Tours are limited, so be sure to book your spot in advance through their website.

Entry Fees

• Adults: €20
• Canary Islands residents: €10
• Children (5–12 years): €8.50
• Resident children: €5

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

14. San Marcos Beach

With black volcanic sand and a few rocks, San Marcos Beach is just 3 kilometers from the historic center of Icod de los Vinos. It’s easy to get there by bus, on foot, or by rental car. Bring water shoes for a more comfortable experience.

This beach is well-protected from the strong waves typical of the area, making it a great option for families looking for things to do in Icod de los Vinos with kids.

Here, you can enjoy a swim out to a man-made platform to sunbathe or dive into the water. There’s also a promenade for a relaxing stroll.

Nearby, you’ll find the San Marcos Church, a small, recently restored chapel famous for its stunning altarpiece.

Excursions to Do in Icod de los Vinos

From Icod de los Vinos, you can visit La Orotava, Puerto de La Cruz, and Garachico. Since these places are relatively close, it’s easy to get there by bus or rental car.

As you’ve seen, there are several things to do in Icod de los Vinos. If you’d like to explore more of the island, check out these excursions. Here’s a list of my top recommendations:

Visit Mount Teide by Cable Car

You can’t leave Tenerife without going up Mount Teide. If you want a hassle-free experience with a guide who will explain everything, this excursion is perfect for you.

Book a Mount Teide Cable Car Excursion

How to Get to Icod de los Vinos

Although Tenerife has two airports, the best way to get to Icod de los Vinos is by flying into the North Airport. Located about 45 kilometers away, it’s the most convenient option.

But don’t worry if you find a good deal flying into South Tenerife Airport. In this case, the best way to travel around the island is by rental car, giving you the freedom to explore without depending on buses. Both the airport and the port have car rental offices. My go-to rental company in the Canary Islands is CICAR.

If you don’t want to drive or don’t have a license, you can always use the Titsa buses. From the North Airport, take a bus to the Puerto de la Cruz station in about 30 minutes. Then, catch another bus to reach Icod de los Vinos, which will take another 30 minutes. I recommend downloading the Titsa App to check the routes. Although you’ll need to transfer buses, this is a great option if you prefer not to drive.

Where to Stay in Icod de los Vinos

Icod de los Vinos is the perfect place to enjoy an authentic atmosphere in Tenerife. As the evening sets in, the views of Mount Teide are simply magical.

Staying in Icod de los Vinos is ideal if you want to explore Tenerife while enjoying cooler weather compared to the south of the island. During the summer, the temperatures here are pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of the south.

Where to Eat in Icod de los Vinos

Here are three of the best restaurants to eat in Icod de los Vinos: El Mortero Restaurant, La Parada, and Agustín and Rosa Restaurant.

FAQs About Icod de los Vinos

If you still have questions about your trip to Icod de los Vinos, here’s a quick summary of the most common questions and a list of the main things to see in Icod de los Vinos.

How old is the Millenary Drago Tree?

Although the exact age of the Drago Tree cannot be determined (as its age rings are hard to study), it is estimated to be between 700 and 1,000 years old.

How long does it take to explore Icod de los Vinos?

While you can visit the recommended spots in just a couple of hours, I suggest spending half a day to fully enjoy Icod de los Vinos at a relaxed pace.

Is Icod de los Vinos worth visiting?

Absolutely. While there are many Drago Trees across Tenerife, none compare to the one here.

What can you see in Icod de los Vinos in one day?

Start at Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres and visit the San Marcos Parish. Then, take a stroll through Plaza de la Pila before heading to the Malvasía Wine Museum. Don’t miss the Drago Tree House. If you’ve already seen it, check out the Butterfly Garden or the Banana Museum.

Other spots include the San Francisco Convent, the Town Hall, and San Agustín Church. End your tour at the Guanche Museum.

What free activities are there in Icod de los Vinos?

From Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, you can enjoy a free view of the Millenary Drago Tree. You can also enter the San Marcos Parish and San Francisco Convent for free, as well as stroll through Plaza de la Pila. The Town Hall and San Agustín Church are other free attractions in Icod de los Vinos.

What to do in Icod de los Vinos with kids?

Two great places to visit with kids are the Drago Tree House and the Butterfly Garden, where they can see beautiful butterflies in a tropical setting.

Map of Things to Do in Icod de los Vinos · Tenerife

Below is a Google Maps guide to help you easily locate all the spots mentioned.

Things to Do in Tenerife for One Week

If you’re planning to visit the largest island in the Canary Archipelago, here’s a 7-day itinerary for Tenerife so you don’t miss the must-see spots.
7-day itinerary for Tenerife