Wintering in Tenerife: a practical guide to seasonal rentals

Can you spend the winter in Tenerife renting by the month? Yes, and it is more common than you might think: every year thousands of northern Europeans spend November to April in the south of the island. Here is how seasonal renting works, which areas work best and what paperwork you need if you come from the EU.

Why the south of Tenerife for the winter

The reason is the climate: in the middle of winter the south coast sits around 20-24 degrees during the day, with plenty of sun and little rain. Life happens outdoors all year: beach, terraces, hiking trails. The logistics help too: direct flights of 4 to 5 hours from Germany, the UK or Scandinavia, the euro, European healthcare and the same time zone as the UK.

One detail that surprises first-time visitors: the north of the island is greener but cooler and cloudier in winter. That is why winter visitors concentrate in the south, from Costa Adeje to Los Cristianos.

Where to stay

• Costa Adeje: the area with the most services open all year (shopping centres, the private Quirónsalud Costa Adeje hospital, restaurants). Browse property in Costa Adeje.
• Los Cristianos: flat, with a seafront promenade, a harbour and a neighbourhood feel; the classic choice for European retirees who come back every winter. Here are the properties in Los Cristianos.
• Palm-Mar: small, quiet and right next to the La Rasca nature reserve; for those who want silence without being far from services.

How seasonal renting works with us

Our holiday and seasonal rentals are registered as holiday homes (vivienda vacacional), come equipped and have cleaning arranged. Every listing shows the price (per month or per stay), real photos and an availability calendar synced with bookings, so what you see free is actually free. You deal directly on WhatsApp with the agent managing the property.

Honest advice: winter is high season in the south. If you want to be here from January to March, start looking in summer or early autumn; the good homes get booked months ahead.

Paperwork and practicalities for EU citizens

• Staying: EU citizens need no visa. From three consecutive months onwards you must register as an EU citizen and get an NIE.
• Healthcare: the European Health Insurance Card covers public healthcare. The south also has private hospitals such as Quirónsalud Costa Adeje and Hospiten Sur.
• Tax: more than 183 days a year in Spain can make you a tax resident. If your plan comes close to six months, check with an adviser first.
• Getting around: the TITSA bus network covers the south well, though most people staying the season rent a car for at least a few weeks.

Frequently asked questions

How much does wintering in Tenerife cost?

It depends on the area, the size and the dates; there is no honest single figure. The real price of each home is on its listing, per month or per stay.

When is the best time?

The season runs from November to April. January and February see the highest demand and sell out first.

Can I stay six months?

Yes, many of our homes take long seasonal stays. Keep in mind the EU registration after three months and the 183-day tax threshold.

Own a property in the south you would like to rent out in winter?

That is the other side of what we do: we manage your holiday home with listings, guests, calendar and cleaning included.