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Icod de los Vinos is well known for its DragoMilenario, an enormous tree and major tourist attraction. The tree is over 800 years of age, and the topic of legends that will fascinate you. However, it’s just one of numerous interesting activities to engage in in this town, which is one of the most notable locations to visit in northern Tenerife.
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Teide lies the historic village of Icod de los Vinos and land of the Guanches where you can wander through an attractive town square and along cobblestone streets. Here, you can sample delicious Canarian cuisine, learn about the island’s banana-growing tradition, and visit one of the longest volcanic tubes worldwide.
Without any doubt, this is highly recommended for any vacation to Tenerife, so continue reading to see what I advise doing in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife!
Table of Contents
1. Parque del Drago, the most popular thing to do in Icod de los Vinos
Legend proposes that the dragon tree is affiliated to an ancient, one hundred-headed dragon, and in Parque del Drago, you can view the oldest living dragon tree globally. The ‘Drago Milenario’ in Icod de los Vinos is a national landmark and one among the greatest icons of the Canary Islands.
At greater than 800 years long past, Icod de los Vinos’ dragon tree is a legendary enticement. It’s too well-cared-for, towering 60 ft high and estimating 66 ft around the crown. The lovely 7.5-acre botanical foliage where the tree is located is too deserving thinking about.
The myths and anecdotes encompassing the tree have been handed down by oral history throughout the centuries, however if you want to learn more, I propose reserving this ticket to the park. Thousands of visitors come here annually to see the Drago Milenario, so it’s a wise idea to get your admission ahead of time.
2. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, a beautiful place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
Another location in Icod de los Vinos that demands a visit is the Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres. It rests in the main square of the historic town center and acts as a communal and civic gathering place for allicodenses (locals of Icod de los Vinos).
The plaza, which dates back to the sixteenth century, has now expanded into its current form, including a neoclassical balustrade and flowers from all over the globe, like beautiful Indian laurels. The most prominent aspects of this attraction are the fountains and the Church of San Marcos, the patron saint of the town.
Additionally, from the plaza’s gardens, you can see Icod de los Vinos’ dragon tree, so if you don’t want to pay the park’s entrance charge, this is a free alternative.
3. Plaza de la Pila, one of the best places in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
Plaza de la Pila is an additional reason to visit Icod de los Vinos, and it’s near Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres. This square has gone by other names such as Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza Mayor, Plaza Real, and Plaza de Calvo Sotelo during the Franco dictatorship.
The name Plaza de la Pila originates from the fountain situated in the center of the square. It was placed there at the beginning of the 18th century, although the plaza itself is even older, being constructed in 1631 by some local residents.
What makes Plaza de la Pila unique is that it served as the starting point (together with the Church of San Marcos) for the town of Icod de los Vinos in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Hence, this marks where it all began!
4. Casa del Drago, an amazing restaurant in Icod de los Vinos
While you’re in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife, you must visit the Casa del Drago, a fairytale-like setting where you can enjoy delicious wines and cheeses.
This prominent eatery located in Icod de los Vinos is renowned for serving the finest brunches around, although it also creates a wonderful ambiance for relaxing with drinks while enjoying live musical performances. Not only that, but it is housed in an old Canarian building, lending it a charming historical feel.
It is impossible to discuss Icod de los Vinos without bringing up wine, and at Casa del Drago, you can sample some of the finest local varietals.
5. Casa del Plátano, a traditional place to visit in Icod de los Vinos
Another essential stop during your visit to Icod de los Vinos is the Casa del Plátano. At this old estate, you’ll gain firsthand knowledge about how to cultivate bananas, one of the most vital products to the Canary Islands’ economy.
It’s worthwhile touring this authentic banana plantation to discover the characteristics and history of Canarian bananas. The initial part of the plantation is a museum with old photos and machinery, while the other part is the farm itself, where you’ll see the production process. Check out the banana trees up close and learn how to distinguish Canarian bananas from other types of bananas.
The plantation is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and the entrance fee is USD $5.30 for non-residents. That said, this is one of the top things to do in Icod de los Vinos, so it’s worth the small price.
6. Museo Guanche, the best museum to visit in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
The Museo Guanche in Icod de los Vinos is an ethnographic museum where you can learn all about the history of the Guanches. The Guanches were the first inhabitants of the Canary Islands, dating back to about two millennia ago.
The Museo Guanche includes various reconstructed representations of the Guanches based on human remains analysis and anthropological research. Exhibits also describe the Guanches’ way of living, beliefs, customs, and burial rites, which were rather peculiar.
You’ll also see artistic representations of each island in the Canary Islands, so this location provides a cool place to visit during your time in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife.
7. Visit the Cueva del Viento, one of the best things to do in Icod de los Vinos
Another iconic site in the town of Icod de los Vinos is the Cueva del Viento. This volcanic tube formed 27,000 years ago in basaltic lava as a result of the first eruption of Pico Viejo, a volcano adjacent to Mount Teide.
This is the fifth-longest volcanic conduit worldwide, with the primary four located in Hawaii. What sets the Cueva del Viento apart is its distinctive landform traits, like its three overlapping layers. It’s a otherworldly spectacle difficult to encounter anywhere else.
The tube also has lava vents, lakes, and waterfalls, making it a must-see for visitors to Icod de los Vinos,Canarias, Spain. While you can only see a small section of the tube, it’s one of the top places to visit in Tenerife, so it’s worth it.
To ensure you secure a ticket, I advise booking ahead as they’re restricted to a few dozen per day. Also, remember to bring a jacket and long pants because interior temperatures can drop significantly. If you lack a car but still wish to visit, check out this excursion from Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
8. Museum Malvasia, another interesting attraction in Icod de los Vinos
The last spot I recommend in Icod de los Vinos is the Museum Malvasia. This family vineyard is renowned for its longstanding traditions and dedication to crafting superb wines.
Any visitor who comes here can recognize the dedication and effort put into these delicious wines, rums, and spirits. Also, if you want to accompany your drink with a snack, you can sample amazing Canarian mojos (sauces) and cheeses here. Without question, it’s the finest thing to do in Icod de los Vinos whether as a couple or with friends.
Best hotels in Icod de los Vinos
There are a few accommodations in Icod de los Vinos that are recommended, with the initial one being Hotel Emblemático San Agustín, a renovated 18th-century Canarian-style residence in the heart of the historic center and one of the top accommodations in North Tenerife. Additionally, there is Platanera Suites, another colonial-style lodging with comfy amenities. It’s in an old banana plantation, therefore it’s a distinctive lodging option with wooden floors and beautiful views.
For visitors seeking a more natural setting to rest in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife, I suggest Casa Montiel. Here, one will have perspectives of the mountains and the ocean, as well as a sun terrace and garden. There is even an area for sitting with a fireplace, the ideal spot to snuggle up on cooler evenings.
Best restaurants in Icod de los Vinos
If you want to sample authentic Canarian cuisine, dine at one of the premier eateries in Icod de los Vinos. I advise the Casa de Comidas – La Parada, where you can trytetillas canarias (cheese croquets) and polvorón uruguayo (a type of shortbread). In my view, it’s one of the top restaurants in Tenerife.
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Another superb choice is El Mortero, which serves generous portions; and Restaurante Agustín y Rosa, a well-known restaurant serving traditional cuisine and international dishes.
How to get to Icod de los Vinos
The ideal way to explore Icod de los Vinos involves renting a vehicle in Tenerife. You can review my guide on finding reasonably priced rental automobiles, even though I’ll mention now that we always rely on DiscoverCars.
The following holds a button link to rent cars in Tenerife: “
As can be seen, cars with manual transmission are much more affordable to rent than those with automatic transmission. Nevertheless, if you do not know how to drive a manual or would feel uneasy doing so, go with an automatic to be safe .
Tours to Icod de los Vinos from Puerto de la Cruz
Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife is worth a visit, but if travelling without a vehicle, it can be more challenging to arrive there. Fortunately, if staying in Puerto de la Cruz, you`re in luck since some of the best excursions in Tenerife depart from here, and many include Icod de los Vinos in the itinerary.
One option worth considering involves this excursion taking in Mount Teide, Icod de los Vinos, and Garachico from Puerto de La Cruz. You`ll also get to discover the town of Masca and view the Cañadas del Teide.
Another great option is this excursion to see the towns and landscapes of northern Tenerife. In addition to visiting Icod de los Vinos, Masca, and Garachico, you’ll cross Los Realejos to the La Corona viewpoint, where you’ll have spectacular views of the La Orotava valley.
Map of Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
Once you decide that you want to explore this charming town (which I know you will!), this map will help you locate all the things to do in Icod de los Vinos that I suggested.
We also have this map of Tenerife, which can assist you throughout your trip around this lovely island.
All that remains is to book your trip! Of course, if you have any questions or would like to share your experience in Icod de los Vinos, leave a comment below. Until then, have a wonderful trip!
