Icod de los Vinos is a classic stop in northern Tenerife, but it deserves more than getting out of the car, taking a photograph of the ancient dragon tree and hurrying onwards. It has a historic centre, squares, local wine, views towards the coast, Cueva del Viento very close by and a perfect location for combining with Garachico or Isla Baja.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tenerife Island Council lists general admission to Parque del Drago at \u20ac5, with a \u20ac3 rate for students and pensioners, \u20ac2.50 for children under eight and free access for Icod residents. The opening hours published by Tenerife Tourism are 09:00 to 20:00 from April to September and 10:00 to 18:00 during the rest of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also see the dragon tree from the area around the square without entering the park, but a visit inside helps you understand the garden better and lets you see the tree at a more relaxed pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cueva del Viento is one of the major attractions near Icod. It is not a place for an improvised visit: you need a reservation and suitable footwear, and must follow the centre’s instructions. If you are interested in Tenerife’s volcanic geology, it is one of the most special visits in the north.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My recommendation is not to try to fit the dragon tree, old town, Cueva del Viento, Garachico and Masca into the same day. It sounds impressive in a list, but you will enjoy very little of it. Icod with Garachico, or Icod with Cueva del Viento and a relaxed lunch, is better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Icod works very well on a northern route with La Orotava, Garachico or Los Silos. If you have a car, allow time for parking and do not drive into the centre in a rush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you come from Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava or Garachico, Icod works very well as a central stop. If you travel from the south, allow more driving time and do not combine it with too many visits. The north is more enjoyable when you accept its bends and leave some room in the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The general admission price listed by Tenerife Island Council is \u20ac5, with reduced rates for students, pensioners and children, and free access for Icod residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, you can see it from the area around the square. Entering Parque del Drago lets you see it from closer and explore the botanical garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The historic centre, Church of San Marcos, Plaza Andr\u00e9s de Lorenzo C\u00e1ceres, Casa del Pl\u00e1tano, Cueva del Viento and San Marcos Beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A relaxed half day is enough for the dragon tree and town centre. If you add Cueva del Viento or Garachico, set aside a full day for the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n