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Understanding the Legal Requirements for Buying Property in the Canary Islands

Remote work and digital nomads: exploring the canary islands, road trip to paradise: discover tenerife in the canary islands, travel to gran canaria, great road trip: an itinerary around the canary islands.

Road-Tripping the Canary Islands: A Vibrant Voyage Awaits

The Grand Road Trip Around the Canary Islands. From the inky-black volcanic trails to the intoxicating splendour of the azure sea, the Canary Islands promises an extraordinary festival of colours, culture and climatic wonders. As a melting pot of Europe’s premiere biodiversity hotspots, these islands are an ideal backdrop for a grand road-trip. Embark on a memorable voyage as you weave through the tantalising labyrinth of landscapes, captivating architectures and rich cultural heritage. All of them, a testament to the heart-stirring beauty nested in these insular Spanish territories.

Key Takeaways:

The canarian history and biodiversity, savouring the canarian gastronomy, marvelling at the spellbinding canarian architecture, striking off iconic activities on your road trip, crafting an unforgettable itinerary.

• Essentials for a Canary Island's Road Trip

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• Intriguing island history and diverse ecosystems.
• Vibrant culture, gastronomy and architecture.
• Exhilarating road trip experience with strategic itinerary.
• Unique activities like stargazing, swimming in the natural pools and hiking.
• Essential tips for an unforgettable road trip experience around the Canaries.

Kick-off your road trip with a historical powwow at the Canarian Museum in Gran Canaria. Immerse in the island’s relics, piecing together the abstruse history of an extinct civilisation, the Guanches. Next, explore the exceptional ecosystems rooted in the islands. Navigate through the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Gran Canaria or drift in the marine wonderland of the Tenerife Island.

Take a gastronomic journey through the Canary Islands. Be ready to surprise your palate with a plethora of traditional Canarian dishes. From the spicy mojo sauce to the delectable honey rum, Canarian gastronomy is intrigue personified. Make a stop at the Tacoronte Acentejo wine region during your road trip to taste some exquisite local vintages.

Veer off the beaten path to witness the repertoire of Canarian architecture, a beautiful amalgamation of indigenous, Spanish colonial and modern influences. Experience the grandeur of Santa Ana Cathedral in Las Palmas, soak up the charm of colonial La Orotava and lose yourself in the avant-garde audacity of the Tenerife Auditorium.

Beat the monotonous road-trip vibe with a series of iconic activities. Stargaze at the Starlight Reserve of La Palma, enjoy volcanic thermal baths in Lanzarote Island, or go surf in Fuerteventura. Get your adrenaline fix by huffing along the mountainous trails of El Teide or take a calming dip in the natural pools dotting the islands.

Decipher the art of itinerary making to embrace the Canary Islands in all its glory. Split your time between activities, rest and travel. Prioritise key attractions based on your interests, adopt a flexible schedule to accommodate spontaneous discoveries, and ensure to savour the randomness that road trips inevitably bring along.

Essentials for a Canary Island’s Road Trip

Ensure your Canary Islands road trip is a roaring success by arming yourself with the essential know-how. Understand the driving specifics in the islands; familiarise yourself with the unique weather conditions, stay aware of the pronounced geographical features, and equip yourself with all necessary documents and equipment.

Sharing the Joy of Sustainable Travel

In an era focused on sustainability, harness your journey’s potential to make a positive impact. Adopt ‘Leave No Trace’ principles, opt for locally sourced products, and contribute to conserving the vibrant ecosystems and habits that make the Canary Islands a paradise.

Best Time for a Canary Islands Road Trip :

Unique canarian dishes :, making the most of the canary islands’ biodiversity :, starlight reserve :, driving in the canary islands :, promoting sustainable travel :, safety measures for a road trip :.

A grand road trip around the Canary Islands is not just about clocking miles. It’s a rite of passage that duces you to a unique world pulsating with life, beguiling traditions and breath-taking beauty. Are you ready for an unforgettable jaunt into the stunning Spanish Isles’ heart?

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Making solo travel easier.

Category Archives: Canary Islands

If you’re looking for inspiration and empowerment to solo travel in the Canary Islands, follow my adventures as I solo travel the Canary Islands.

Solo Travel in Fuerteventura

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Active GatG, Beach GatG, Digital Nomad GatG, Surfing GatG I have so many favourite islands, but Fuerteventura is definitely high on my list. This Canary Island is beautiful, and I have been lucky to have visited it twice, more recently in October 2022. If you are planning… Continue Reading…

Places To Visit in Lanzarote

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Active GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Wine GatG Lanzarote is a spectacular island. As the oldest of the Canary Islands, this volcanic land has a lot to see for solos. Having just spent a week on Lanzarote, I’ve put together a guide on the best places to… Continue Reading…

Tenerife Solo Travel Guide

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Golf GatG, Hiking GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Party GatG Are you planning a solo trip to Tenerife? Tenerife is a fantastic island to explore, especially for solos. If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife, I’ve put together an article with recommendations from myself and members of… Continue Reading…

Things To Do: Gran Canaria

Types of Girls about the Globe – Nature GatG, Adventure GatG The Canary Islands are a chain of volcanic islands off the northwest coast of Africa. There are seven islands in total which attract hikers, surfers and those looking to party. You’ve probably heard of Tenerife, the most well known with great nightlife and a… Continue Reading…

Things To Do in La Palma

Types of Solos – Active Solo, Island Solo, Nature Solo The Canary Islands are a chain of volcanic islands off the northwest coast of Africa. There are 7 islands in total which attract hikers, surfers and those looking to party. One of the furthest islands from Morocco is La Palma. Known as the beautiful island… Continue Reading…

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A first-timer’s guide to the best Canary Islands

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• a-first-timers-guide-to-the-canary-islands

written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.07.2023

The Canary Islands are home to the world’s second largest Carnival and the highest mountain in Spain . It is also home to world-class wines and beaches. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro - all have a lot to offer travellers. But what is the best Canary Island? Read our guide and choose for yourself.

What is the best Canary Island?

1. tenerife - best for an infinite variety, 2. fuerteventura – best for wind sports and beaches, 3. gran canaria – best for diverse landscapes, 4. lanzarote - best for an elegant ambience, 5. la graciosa - best for secluded getaways, 6. la palma - best for jaw-dropping scenery, 7. la gomera - best for heavenly hiking, 8. el hierro - best for utter escape, how to get to the canary islands:.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Spain , your essential guide for visiting Spain .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Spain, created by local experts

9 days  / from 2468 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 643 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3791 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Tailor-made trips for   Spain

The diversity of landscapes on the Canary Islands really is staggering, spanning dramatic deserts and snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys and towering cliffs. Then there’s the seemingly infinite number of beaches - of both the black and white sand variety - take a look at our guide to finding the best beaches in Gran Canaria as proof.

What’s more, the Canaries are volcanic (hence that black sand), and volcanic islands are never dull. For example, La Palma’s Teneguia erupted as recently as 1971 - if you find that thought exciting take a look at our guide to the top 20 volcanoes around the world .

Given all this diversity, there's no question about which is the best Canary Island - rather, it’s a case of which is best for you. And the good thing is, no matter what your travel style, there’s an island to suit your needs.

The caldera of Tenerife's Mount Teide © Shutterstock

The largest of the Canary Islands in size - Tenerife is especially suited to families and couples whose interests diverge. Say one of you is a confirmed beach bum while the other likes to hike.

While Tenerife’s dry southern strip is its tourist epicentre - a string of resorts, restaurants, water parks and bars beloved by Brits - most of the island’s attractions lie beyond this entertainment enclave.

On the north coast, picturesque Puerto de la Cruz has been attracting northern Europeans for over a century, with much of its colonial grandeur remaining intact, despite the commercialisation of its seafront promenade.

Fans of Spanish food and old-time charm would do well to visit La Orotava, an unspoiled town perched on a steep hill above Puerto de la Cruz. Blessed with stately mansions, ancient churches and cobbled streets, it’s also home to an abundance of beautiful local restaurants.

To experience Tenerife’s jaw-dropping crowning glory, head inland through cool pine forests to Teide National Park, home to the eponymous iconic volcano, and Spain’s highest peak. The epic lunar landscape around Mount Teide is best seen from a  cable car in the company of a local guide as part of a wider island tour.

Ready to escape the winter gloom? See our guide to the best places to visit in winter for sun .

Where to stay in Tenerife:

• For La Orotava stays: Hotel Alhambra
• For beach stays: Hotel Cleopatra Palace
• For luxury stays: Hacienda del Conde

Find more accommodation options in Tenerife

View Of Roque Nublo And El Teide, Gran Canaria © StockWithMe/Shutterstock

Next up in our guide to the best Canary Islands is Fuerteventura. The second largest island, Fuerteventura lies less than a hundred kilometres away from the African coast and is one of the least developed islands. Wind-swept, sandy and barren, it boasts the best beaches of the archipelago, most of which are blessed with fine golden sand.

Once a sleepy fishing port, unpretentious Corralejo is now a lively seaside resort town with a mix of Brits, Germans and locals contributing to its vibe. This tapas-bar-rich town is also close to some of the island’s top natural attractions.

The main highlight is Corralejo National Park, a swathe of protected sand dunes best explored on a  buggy or quad bike trip . Alternatively, try a 4x4 fix with a juddering jeep tour which takes in Cofete Natural Park - think cacti and incredible coves.

Fuerteventura windmill against a typical beautiful, blue sky backdrop © Shutterstock

If you’re seeking a beautiful beach experience, look no further than the soft sand of Playa del Moro. Its epic, windy setting gives it an appealing wildness, and it’s also one of the area’s best places to surf.

Lastly, no visit to Fuerteventura would be complete without heading to idyllic Isla de Lobos. Travelling to, and exploring, this largely uninhabited nature reserve is rewarding for nature-lovers and families alike.

Where to stay in Fuerteventura:

• For Corralejo stays: Luxury Cayetana
• For beach stays: Castillo Playa
• For family stays: H10 Tindaya

Find more accommodation options in Fuerteventura

The fine sand and turquoise waters of Fuerteventura's Jandia Beach © Shutterstock

The third largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria comes a close second to Tenerife in terms of having all-around appeal - dramatic scenery, perfect beaches, lively resorts, cultural sites aplenty, and restaurants worth writing home about.

Gran Canaria’s dramatic landscape comes courtesy of its classic volcanic cone profile and if you're up for an adventure take a look at our guide to exploring the rugged heart of Gran Canaria on foot . The island's mountainous nature also causes huge climate variations. So you might leave Las Palmas in damp and cloudy conditions and an hour later be enjoying the blazing hot sun on the spectacular Maspalomas Dunes.

As for Las Palmas itself? At once a major commercial hub, historical centre, cosmopolitan resort, and essential seaport, this is arguably the most beguiling of Canarian capitals. Adorned with attractive museums and galleries, it’s a stunning place to amble an afternoon with an informed Canary Islands travel guide taking you on an  Old Town walking tour .

For an easy hike to an epic sight that the entire family can enjoy, head to Roque Nublo. Given that this mighty rock was once worshipped by the island’s indigenous population, this is sure to satisfy culture vultures and outdoorsy types alike.

Where to stay in Gran Canaria:

• For rural stays: El Rinconcito de Tejeda
• For beach stays: Valentina Beach Apartments & Suites
• For family stays: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa

Find more accommodation options in Gran Canaria

Sunset on Gran Canaria - one of the best Canary Islands © Shutterstock

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The youngest of the seven main islands, the stylish Lanzarote is also the most aesthetically pleasing - largely thanks to the work of one man. César Manrique was a visionary architect who stamped his creative architectural style on lots of local projects.

To see the magical side of Manrique’s vision in situ, head to Jameos del Agua. The first visitor attraction Manrique designed, this mood-music accompanied fantasy journey through a gorgeous volcanic grotto and underground lagoon really is out-of-this-world.

Alongside Manrique’s unique architectural vision, Lanzarote is also known for its idiosyncratic viticulture that sees Malvasia wine grapes grown in the island's craters. Seeing as the island’s wine is made distinct by its volcanic terrain, it makes good sense to combine wine-tasting with a visit to the island’s Timanfaya National Park.

For family-friendly resort life, plus golden beaches and a bustling marina that’s perfect for people watching, Playa Blanca comes up trumps. It’s also where you catch the forty-minute ferry to Fuerteventura. Speaking of ferries, for a more remote (and incredibly beautiful) beach experience, head to tiny La Graciosa - a picture-perfect place to get away from it all for the day.

Where to stay in Lanzarote:

• For boutique stays: Hotelito Rural Flor de Timanfaya
• For beach stays: Apartamentos Acuario Sol
• For family stays: Grupotel Cinco Plazas

Find more accommodation options in Lanzarote

Lanzarote's weird and wonderful wine production landscape in La Geria © Shutterstock

At the northern tip of the Lanzarote is the small fishing port of Orzola. This is the embarkation point for a ferry service to the tiny Isla Graciosa, run by Líneas Maritimas Romero. With superb beaches, this is the place to get away from it all for the day and is also a great place for a family holiday .

For an unforgettable view of Isla Graciosa drive up to the Mirador del Río an observation gallery built into the cliffside – yet another of César Manrique’s unmissable creations. This is probably the most spectacular mirador in the Canaries. Great cliffs curve down to the beach, with Graciosa just across the strip of water called simply El Río (The River), and two smaller islands, Montaña Clara and Alegranza, in the background.

Combined with a small section of the northwest coast of Lanzarote, the islands form the Parque Nacional del Archipiélago Chinijo. The only sound here is the wind gently whistling through El Río.

Spain is well known for its amazing wines and this tailor-made trip to The Lands of Wine allows you to explore two famous regions: Ribera del Duero and La Rioja. Four different wineries, from traditional to modern, and many restaurants on the way await your visit.

Where to stay at La Graciosa:

• For couples stays: La Pardela Excellence Apartamentos
• For beach stays: La Graciosa Camelia Beach Vistas Mar
• For family stays: Apartamentos Graciosamar

Find more accommodation options in La Graciosa

La Graciosa © Shutterstock

The entire island of La Palma has been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve for its remarkable scenery - some parts are dramatically volcanic, and others are lushly forested. It’s no wonder that the most north-westerly of the Canary Islands is known as both La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island) and La Isla Verde (The Green Island).

The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is an attractive history-rich town that’s well worth a day (or two) of exploration. Clean and bright with a mix of traditional and modern architecture, back in the day (namely, the Renaissance era), it was the third most important port of the Spanish Empire, after Seville and Antwerp.

A cool way to uncover La Palma’s volcanic origins (in both senses of the word "cool" - these caves are chilly) is to take a guided tour of the unique 500-metre-long, 3-metre-wide lava tunnel .

Moving now from subterranean exploration to peak adventuring, the pinnacle of La Palma’s scenic highlights is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where the finest views of the archipelago can be seen from Roque de los Muchachos.

You can drive most of the way up and then ramble around the volcanic mound on foot. Blanketed in dense Canarian pine woods, and zigzagged with deep ravines, the park is a picture-perfect paradise for ramblers.

Where to stay in La Palma:

• For Santa Cruz de la Palma stays: Hotel Emblemático Holiday Time
• For beach stays: Puerto playa
• For country stays: Apartamentos La Caleta

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Find more accommodation options in La Palma

Columbian history, rugged terrain, and honey rum - more on that later - La Gomera is cheese to Tenerife’s chalk. It’s a mountainous island, criss-crossed by long, winding roads, with a coastline dominated by dramatic cliffs - and few beaches. 

But the real jewel in La Gomera’s crown is its interior - lots of vertiginous verdant valleys that are often capped by clouds, with the Parque Nacional de Garajonay at its heart. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park has a well-marked circular trail and contains rare laurel forests, subtropical plant species and archaeological sites - all the while serving up sweeping views.

Though small in size, La Gomera is big on delivering food and drink specialties, such as almogrote, a spicy cheese paste. To wash it down, there’s lots of local wine to choose from, or ronmiel liqueur (literally, rum honey). While Canarian rum is popular on all the islands, this is a La Gomera speciality. As is guarapo - a honey-like syrup made from the heated sap of Canarian palm trees.

Ready to explore the food of Spain? Don't miss our guide to the best Spanish food.

Where to stay in La Gomera:

• For sea views: Apartamentos Tapahuga
• For various activities: Telegraph Hostel
• For town stays: Hotel Torre Del Conde

Find more accommodation options in La Gomera

Local specialities on La Gomera © Shutterstock

Last (but not least) in our guide to the best Canary Islands comes rustic El Hierro - the smallest and most south-westerly island in the archipelago is also the hardest to get to, and the least set-up for tourists.

If you’re looking for bouncing bars in the company of 24-hour party people, this isn’t the island for you. And, as with La Gomera, if you’re looking for picture-perfect beaches, this isn’t your nirvana either. El Hierro is a sanctuary from tourist trappings - a haven for divers, hikers, and get-away-from-it-all-ers.

Valverde, the only Canarian capital located inland is small, with a cluster of friendly bars and restaurants. Other impressive inland sights include the Tubo Volcánico, a 295-foot volcanic cave, and El Sabinal, a forest of juniper trees (sabinosas) that have been twisted, gnarled and bent by the wind. If you’re desperate for a bit of beach time, Playa del Verodal is El Hierro’s best. 

For fine dining and diving, you’ll want to head to La Restinga, a laidback fishing village with a black sand beach, diving centre, and bunch of good fish restaurants. Neighbouring Bahía de Naos is a marine nature reserve.

Where to stay in El Hierro

• For wonderful views: El Laurel
• For coast stays: Salitre
• For beach stays: Lightbooking Varadero La Restinga

Find more accommodation options in El Hierro

El Hierro - a haven for hikers © Shutterstock

There are numerous airline flights from all UK airports to the Canary Islands. Some flights involve a stop-over in Madrid or Barcelona. You can also fly to Gran Canaria or Tenerife and get a connecting flight. Note that many people go to the Canaries on all-in package holidays, which can be the cheapest way to do it.

At present there are several flights to the Canary islands from the US operated by British Airways, Air Europa and Iberia, that usually go via Madrid or via London airports.

You can also travel to the Canary Islands by ship. The most popular operators are:

• The Trasmediterránea ferry company . Runs a weekly service from Cádiz to Arrecife, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Santa Cruz de la Palma.
• The Fred Olsen Shipping Line runs ferries between Gran Canaria and Tenerife and between Tenerife and El Hierro.
• Naviera Armas has services from Gran Canaria to Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Gomera and Lanzarote, and Tenerife to El Hierro and La Palma.

Do you want to explore the highlights in Spain while staying in nature at the same time? Look no further. Start your tailor-made Spanish adventure in Barcelona before heading off to the mountains - drive your rental car to Andorra and further on to Basque Country. Decide between driving yourself or guided tours.

Ready for a trip to the Canary Islands? Check out The Rough Guide to Spain . If you travel further in Spain , read more about the best time to go , the best places to visit and best things to do in Spain. For inspiration use our Spain itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Spain without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Canary islands solo travel: the ultimate guide.

Beloved of Northern Europeans escaping to the sun, this group of islands is a popular package tour destination. However, the Canary Islands are also a superb solo travel destination, even if this is your first solo holiday.

But what are they like to visit alone and which is the best Canary Island for solo travellers?

As I have visited most of the larger islands, this is where I can help you. Get the honest lowdown in my Canary Islands solo travel guide.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

TOP PICKS: BEST CANARY ISLAND FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS

In a rush and want to know which is the best Canary Island for a solo traveller? Let’s cut to the chase.

#1 GRAN CANARIA

A dramatically beautiful island, famous for its marked contrasts. from beaches surrounded by dunes to mountain peaks and ravines. Solo culture vultures will love Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, its lovely capital.

#2 TENERIFE

A vast array of landscapes and activities, particularly suited for solo hikers. Santa Cruz de Tenerife will provide a cultural fix whilst night owls can hit the bar and restaurants of the island’s lively resorts.

#3 LANZAROTE

An unforgettable, otherworldly landscape, formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, covers a swathe of Lanzarote. You can go wine tasting and visit vineyards and it’s home to the avant-garde architecture of César Manrique.

What Are the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands (Islas Canarias in Spanish) form an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean lying between Spain and North Africa. They are also known simply as the Canaries.

The seven main islands, from largest to smallest in area, are as follows:

• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria

There are also numerous smaller islands and islets in the archipelago.

Are the Canary Islands Good for Solo Travel? 

Spain is one of the best global destinations for solo travellers and the Canary Islands are no exception. They are safe, affordable and offer activities to suit every type of solo traveller.

• Friendly and welcoming – Spanish hospitality and warmth and is renowned. The Canary Islands are friendly and welcoming destinations, so meeting new people as a single traveller is relatively easy.
• Abundant accommodation – As these are popular package tour destinations, there are places to stay to suit every budget.
• Affordable – The popularity of the Canary Islands helps keep prices real making them affordable for a solo traveller.
• Vibrant social scene – There is a vibrant social scene in the livelier resorts on the Canaries, offering the restaurants and bars that you might expect. But if that’s not for you, there are quieter destinations.
• Diverse landscapes – The Canary Islands have landscapes to suit every solo traveller, from the ancient laurel forests of Tenerife to Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain.
• Warm climate – These islands enjoy a mild climate throughout the year, ideal for solo travellers looking to escape harsh winters or scorching summers.

Are the Canary Islands Safe to Travel Alone?

The Canary Islands are generally a safe destination for women travelling alone. Although serious crime is rare, in common with most tourist destinations, petty theft can occur.   Don’t make yourself a target.   Remain vigilant for nimble-fingered pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep your belongings safe.   Lock away your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

READ THIS NEXT: 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

Is it Easy to Travel Around the Canary Islands?

The most convenient and flexible way of exploring the Canary Islands is by car. However, this can be expensive and is not for everyone.     Hiring a car certainly isn’t for me and I used public transport to get around. Thanks to an extensive network and cheap fares, it’s easy to travel around the four largest islands – Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote – by bus.

READ THESE NEXT:

• How to Explore Tenerife by Bus
• How to Explore Gran Canaria by Bus
• How to Explore Lanzarote by Bus

Canary Islands Solo Travel Guide: The Larger Islands

Solo travel in Tenerife was the first Canary Island I visited as a solo traveller.

With just 7 days in Tenerife , you can easily hit its highlights, from the colonial charm of La Orotava and the cultural attractions of Santa Cruz and the peak of Spain’s highest mountain.

READ THIS NEXT : Tenerife Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Highlights of Tenerife

You can visit all of these places using public transport or on an inexpensive day tour.

• Puerto de la Cruz – one of the few resorts on the island that has retained its colonial charm and a fabulous base for exploring the north of Tenerife.
• Mount Teide – hike or take a cable car up Mount Teide for a quintessential Tenerife experience.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife – the island’s cultural beating heart with a number of good museums and some striking architecture.
• La Laguna – a gorgeous colonial town that is another important cultural hub on the island
• La Orotava – famous for the  Casas de Los Balcones , a concentration of the finest traditional wooden balconies on the island.
• Icod de Los Vinos – visit this small town to see Drago Milenario, the largest dragon tree on the island.
• Garachico – gorgeous Garachico is known for its historic town centre and its natural rock bathing pools.
• Anaga Forest – hiking in this primaeval laurel forest was the highlight of my solo holiday in Tenerife .
• The Ultimate 1-Week Tenerife Itinerary
• The Top 10 Tenerife Excursions
• Top 10 Things to do in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

FUERTEVENTURA

The clue is in the name. This is formed by the Spanish words for “strong” ( fuerte ) and “fortune” ( ventura ) and refers to the strong winds around the island and the danger they posed to seafarers of old.

Let’s just say that Fuerteventura is a superb destination for windsurfing.

Although the second-largest Canary Island, Fuerteventura is one of the least populous. In contrast to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, it is also rather flat.

But visitors don’t come to Fuerteventura for its peaks and valleys. The island’s dunes and miles of sandy beaches- possibly the best in the Canary Islands – draw the crowds.

Highlights of Fuerteventura

• Water sports – Fuerteventura is a Mecca for surfers, windsurfers and water skiers. You have those brisk breezes to thank.
• Corralejo Natural Par k – feel like you are in Africa by strolling amongst the rolling dunes of Corralejo.
• Take a day trip to Isla de Lobos – the tiny car-free Lobos Island in 15 minutes by boat from Corralejo.
• Betancuria – former capital of Fuerteventura.
• La Olivia – for the island’s iconic windmills and Casa de los Coroneles.

GRAN CANARIA

Gran Canaria is my favourite Canary Island as a solo traveller.

It pretty much has the lot. Sandy beaches and magnificent sand dunes; a vibrant and charming capital; gorgeous colonial towns; magnificent landscapes across which to ramble. There’s even a rum distillery.

Thanks to the sheer diversity of activities and landscapes, in my view Gran Canaria is the best Canary Island for solo travellers .

READ THIS NEXT : Gran Canaria Solo Travel: Itinerary & Essential Guide

Highlights of Gran Canaria

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – Vegueta , the colonial part of the island’s capital, is crammed with historic attractions and there’s a superb beach in town.
• Puerto de Mogán – Gran Canaria’s sunniest and most picturesque resort is a solo shutterbug’s dream destination.
• Maspalomas Sand Dunes – to indulge those Lawrence of Arabia fantasies.
• Arucas – slurp the good stuff at the Arehucas Rum Distillery, visit a show-stopping church and relax in its botanical garden
• Agüimes – a perfectly preserved old town with artisans’ workshops, a sculpture trail and epic landscapes.
• Teror – a colonial mountain town that is home to the most important religious site for Canarians, the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino.
• Tejeda – one of Gran Canaria’s prettiest mountain villages, famous for its almond trees and close to Roque Nublo and Pico de las Nieve .
• 10 Amazing Things to See in Las Palmas Old Town in One Day
• Top 10 Things to Do in Puerto de Mogán
• The Ultimate Guide to Agüimes, Gran Canaria
• The Ultimate Guide to Teror, Gran Canaria
• Top 10 Things to See in Arucas, Gran Canaria

Escape to a landscape that appears out of this world by travelling alone to Lanzarote .

Much of this volcanic island is blanketed in cindery malpais (badlands). Although many of its smaller beaches are formed from coarse volcanic soil, its resort towns have large stretches of golden sand.

Solo travellers who love modern art and architecture are in for a treat. César Manrique has left his stamp on the island with his one-of-a-kind buildings and gardens.

And if you are a wine lover, you’ve chosen the right Canary Island. Lanzarote has the most unique vineyards in the world.

READ THIS NEXT : Lanzarote Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Highlights of Lanzarote

• Timanfaya National Park – sculpted by six years of near-continuous volcanic eruptions this UNESCO-listed national park is a must-see.
• The wonderful world of César Manrique – explore his life and legacy at Fundación César Manrique, Jardín de Cactus and Jameos del Agua.
• Cueva do Los Verdes – a 5-mile cave network featuring interior lagoons and galleries.
• Teguise – the first colonial capital in the world.
• Arrecife – Lanzarote’s capital which is the best transportation hub on the island and has an excellent beach.
• Yaiza – taking the crown for the prettiest village on the island, this is a solo photographer’s dream.
• Famara Beach – my favourite beach in Lanzarote, popular with surfers and yoga lovers.
• La Geria – discover more about wine production on the island on a tour of Lanzarote’s vineyards.
• 18 Best Places in Lanzarote to Visit in One Week
• How to Visit the Cactus Garden, Lanzarote
• 10 Fabulous Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote
• 5 Reasons to Visit Famara, Lanzarote: The Hawaii of Europe

Canary Islands Solo Travel Guide: The Smaller Islands

Also known as San Miguel de la Palma, this is the most north-westerly Canary Island.

It’s easy to see why La Palma has been dubbed La Isla Bonita .

Its volcanic spine is enveloped by lush banana plantations, orchards and forests. But its most extraordinary natural feature is the massive horseshoe-shaped rock known as the Caldera de Taburiente.

However, if you are a solo traveller in search of a sandy beach, this is not the best Canary Island for you. The flip side is that the island’s often forbidding coastline with small black-sand beaches has insulated it from the march of mass tourism.

Called Isla Redonda (Round Island) by the Canarians, La Gomera is a popular day trip from Tenerife.

La Gomera is more used to independent travellers than its larger neighbours and has a good bus service and plentiful accommodation for its size.

Signposted walking trails lace the island. The island’s number-one attraction is Parque Nacional de Garajonay , La Gomera’s UNESCO-listed ancient laurel forest.

Again, beaches are of the small, black, pebbly variety.

Known to the locals as La Isla Chiquita (The Little Island), El Hierro is as far removed from the stereotypical image of the Canary Islands as you can get.

Relatively untouched by tourism, this is the least developed and most remote of the Canary Islands and is perfect for the solo traveller wanting to get away from it all. Thanks to its underwater landscapes, this is also a popular spot for diving enthusiasts.

Whilst El Hierro has few beaches, it does have idyllic natural pools, the most famous of which is Charco Azul.

And That’s a Wrap!

I hope that this review has helped to persuade you that the Canary Islands are not the sole preserve of families heading off on package holidays to the sun. They offer so much more than sun-and-sangria beach flops.

Whether you choose to hike in the Anaga Forest of Tenerife, explore the magical world of César Manrique or take in the cultural attractions of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, I hope that your Canary Islands solo travel will be as rewarding as mine has been.

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Canary Islands   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Canary Islands

You'd be right in comparing Spain's Canary Islands to a tropical paradise. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean off the southwest coast of Morocco, all seven islands in this archipelago flaunt enviable strips of shoreline that roll out into aquamarine waters. Surfers, windsurfers, scuba divers and sunbathers all flock to different shores to revel in the gnarly waves, vibrant underwater world and soft sands. And if you're visiting some of the bigger islands — namely Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Lanzarote — you'll find the requisite plush resorts. These luxury accommodations boast gourmet restaurants, sprawling golf courses and prime beach access.

But we'd argue that the Canaries are as much about the four natural parks as they are about beaches and resorts. Take the Parque Nacional del Teide on the island of Tenerife, for instance: It contains the globe's third-largest volcano — and visitors can hike it. Lanzarote houses Timanfaya National Park , where travelers can take camel rides across the almost lunar-looking terrain. Upon discovering this combination of beautiful beaches, luxurious accommodations and out-of-this-world natural parks, you're sure to feel like the cat that swallowed the canary.

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• # 2 in Best Beaches in Spain
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Best of Canary Islands

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• # 1 in Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
• # 2 in Playa de Maspalomas (Gran Canaria)
• # 3 in Parque Nacional del Teide (Tenerife)

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Canary Islands Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit the Canary Islands are between March and May and from September to November. Winter and summer bring loads of tourists, which make accommodations more expensive and more difficult to find. Meanwhile, in spring and fall, the Canaries continue to enjoy the same pleasant weather as the peak seasons, only without the tourist crowds.

Weather in Canary Islands

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

The national parks The Canaries' four national parks are just as worthwhile as the beaches.

The sunshine The weather is sunny and 70 practically year-round, so there's no bad time to visit. But don't forget to lather on the sunscreen.

The carnival The Canaries' version of Carnival is second only to Rio de Janiero 's. If you're visiting in February, book your hotel several months in advance.

How to Save Money in Canary Islands

Stay put The costs for inter-island planes and ferries can add up. Instead of island-hopping, save some coin by soaking in all of the charms of just one island rather than skimming the surface of them all.

Skip summer and winter Visit in the spring or fall when hotel rates are a bit lower and there are fewer tourists.

Book early and in a city Most of the budget hotels can be found in the island's big cities like Santa Cruz de Tenerife , Las Palmas and Arrecife. Book your accommodations a few months in advance to secure your spot.

Culture & Customs

Even though they're located hundreds of miles from the Iberian Peninsula — and about 70 miles from the northwest coast of Africa — the Canaries are a part of Spain. Residents of the Canary Islands think of themselves as Spanish citizens, just as much as those who live in Madrid .

The Canaries use the Spanish currency of the euro (€1 EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is  before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. When it comes to tipping, the Canary Islands also follow Spain suit. While tipping isn't compulsory, the service industry does appreciate it. Rounding up to the nearest euro in a taxi and leaving anywhere from 7 to 13 percent at a restaurant should be sufficient.

Locals in the Canaries speak Spanish, but you'll find that their accents sound more South American than Spanish. And on the island of La Gomera, some of the locals still speak their native language, Silbo. The deep whistle sound of the Silbo language supposedly carried quite a long way across the island, so natives could communicate from a distance.

Carnival is a big deal here, as are religious pilgrimages and parades that pay homage to different saints. The parades, known as Romeria , usually end up at a church or religious structure.

What to Eat

You'll find every cuisine imaginable on Tenerife and Gran Canaria. But if you want try one of the islands' culinary specialties, you should order parrot fish or sea bream, which are usually poached and served with hot sauce and fresh veggies. Sea salted potatoes served with a spicy pepper sauce are another common accompaniment to the main course.

Many restaurants on Fuerteventura serve up local goat cheese called majorero . And if you find yourself on Lanzarote, you should also sample some wine — the region's grapes are grown in volcanic ash, and labels like Los Bermejos have received high praise from wine experts.  

Sunburn is the most likely risk you'll encounter when traveling to the Canaries. Make sure to slather on the sunscreen and hydrate with water, whether you're at the beach or in a national park. You should also guard yourself against the possibility of petty theft, especially in popular tourist areas, by concealing your valuables on your person or even storing them in a hotel safe. Do not bring any valuables to the beach, or if you do, make sure someone is attending them at all times.

Getting Around Canary Islands

The best ways to get around the Canary Islands are by car and by plane. Although there are bus systems available on all the islands, most don't run frequently enough to be useful to tourists. And the islands' attractions are far too spread out to see completely on foot. A car will enable you to get where you want to go quickly and efficiently. When you want to island hop, a plane is a reliable and efficient way to get around. If you'd rather get around by boat, several companies also offer inter-island ferry services.

Although all seven islands have airports, the busiest airports are Tenerife South Airport (TFS), Tenerife North Airport (TFN) and Gran Canaria Airport (LPA). At the moment, however, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to the Canary Islands. To reach the islands, you'll have to first make a pit stop at a European airport like Madrid . When it comes to ground transportation, all of the airports offer some combination of taxis, car rental agencies and buses.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a U.S. passport that will be valid for a minimum of three months after you return from the Canary Islands. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on entry and exit requirements.

The seven isles that make up the Canary Islands boast everything from beaches and swimming to national parks and volcanoes to enjoy.

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A Guide To Island Hopping Around The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands lie approximately 100 kilometres from the south coast of Morocco. An archipelago of seven main islands, they may be part of Spain, but seem to have more in common with the Caribbean due to their laid-back vibe, island time and stunning beaches. Many of the Canary Islands have been awarded UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status because of their unique volcanic landscapes and national parks. Here’s our guide to island hopping between them.

Lanzarote may be a famous package holiday and clubbing island, but look beyond this and you’ll soon discover what it’s really about. An alien-like landscape of red and black volcanic rocks, Lanzarote is also known for its excellent wines, of the Malvasia variety. Don’t leave without visiting some of its otherworldly lava tubes, some of which you can even go inside. Its excellent climate, long sunny days and dramatic landscapes also means that Lanzarote is popular with athletes and sports teams, many of whom come here to train for Olympic swimming, running and cycling. Getting there Lanzarote is the northernmost Canary Island and is home to Arrecife Airport, serving many European destinations, as well as flights to mainland Spain. There is one ferry route from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, operated by three different ferry companies and offering daily sailings, taking just 25 minutes.

Fuerteventura

Gran Canaria

Home to the capital of the Canary Islands, the historic and vibrant Las Palmas, Gran Canaria is known as a continent in miniature. In one day here you can see lush volcanic craters, desert-like sand dunes at Maspalomas, beautiful beaches and rocky barren hills. It’s also a top wellness destination, offering many spa hotels as well as some of Europe’s biggest thalassotherapy centers. Getting there Las Palmas de Gran Canaria international airport is the busiest in the Canary Islands in terms of cargo and passenger traffic. It’s served by many airlines from all over Europe and also has many connections to West Africa. There are two ferry routes that run between Gran Canaria and Tenerife, mostly between the towns of Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offering a total of 64 sailings per week.

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The largest island in the Canaries, Tenerife is known for its party vibe and wild clubs, but it has so much more to offer, whether it’s nature, sports or beaches that you’re after. Tenerife is home to a total of eight golf courses with modern facilities, which you can enjoy all year round, and is also one of the Canaries’ top whale watching destinations – 26 species have been spotted off the coast here, including pilot whales, baleen whales and even the mighty blue whale. Tenerife also boasts Spain’s highest mountain, and the third highest island volcano in the world – Mount Teide, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Teide National Park. Getting there Tenerife is home to two international airports, the largest of which is Tenerife Sur, the second biggest in the Canary Islands and served by many international and budget airlines to a variety of European destinations. Tenerife also lies within easy reach of Gran Canaria and La Gomera by ferry. Ferries go from Los Cristianos de Tenerife to San Sebastián de La Gomera and take around 40 minutes.

La Gomera is one of the most enchanting and magical of the Canary Islands, where some of the streets are made of sand and there’s an ancient whistling language called Silbo. Explore La Gomera via its 650 kilometres worth of walking trails, taking you to some of its most stunning locations. Getting there La Gomera has one domestic airport, serving Tenerife North only, and offering two return flights per day. There is just one ferry between La Gomera and La Palma, operated by two ferry companies and taking around one hour 50 minutes.

La Palma is called the beautiful island due to its stunning landscapes of soaring volcanos, verdant forests and paradisiacal beaches. Because of its clear skies and lack of pollution, La Palma has also become known as one of the world’s best locations for star gazing, and was certified the first Starlight Reserve on Earth by the UNSECO Starlight Initiative . Getting there La Palma has one main airport, which is served mainly by Binter Canarias and CanaryFly, with island-hopping flights from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. It also serves a variety of other European destinations such as the UK, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. There are two ferry routes between Tenerife and La Palma, offering a total of 28 sailings per week.

El Hierro may be one of the smallest and most rural of the islands, but it’s also one of the most forward-thinking, with schemes in place to become completely self-sufficient in electrical energy. It’s also one of the best islands for for diving, boasting a marine reserve, home to an incredible 46 dive sites and a large variety of marine life. Getting there El Hierro has one domestic airport offering flights to Tenerife North and Gran Canaria only. There is one ferry route between El Hierro and Tenerife operating weekly and taking around two hours 15 minutes.

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20 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in the Canary Islands

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 13, 2023

Authors Michael and Lana Law spent a month touring the Canary Islands in the fall of 2022.

Golden-sand beaches that run for as far as the eye can see, craggy volcanic peaks piercing the sky, jungles full of rare trees, and a collection of vibrant towns with countless things to see and do, you'll find all of this and more on the Canary Islands.

Just off the coast of northwestern Africa, these sun-kissed islands have been drawing visitors to their shores since the 1970s. Lie on the beach and soak up the sun, splash in the waves, climb to an ancient volcanic spire, run up and down massive sand dunes, or explore the narrow streets of the Old Towns. No matter what you choose, it's all here for you.

Getting here is easy. Charter flights from Europe depart almost hourly. But leaving these beautiful islands is the hard part!

Plan the best places to visit on your vacation with our list of the top attractions in the Canary Islands.

1. Teide National Park, Tenerife

2. timanfaya national park, lanzarote, 3. beaches of gran canaria, 4. the beaches of tenerife, 5. the beaches of fuerteventura, 6. admire the works of cesar manrique on lanzarote, 7. go dolphin & whale watching in tenerife, 8. santa cruz de tenerife, 9. las palmas de gran canaria, 10. meet animals at loro park, tenerife, 11. san cristóbal de la laguna, tenerife, 12. la orotava, tenerife, 13. explore cueva de los verdes, lanzarote, 14. puerto del carmen, lanzarote, 15. santa cruz de la palma, 16. hike to roque nublo, gran canaria, 17. join the fun at the carnival of santa cruz de tenerife, 18. parque nacional de garajonay, la gomera, 19. go stargazing on mt. tiede, tenerife, 20. caldera de taburiente national park, la palma, map of attractions & places to visit in the canary islands, what are the canary islands like, when is the best time to visit the canary islands.

The third highest volcano in the world at 3,718 meters in altitude, Teide towers above the small island of Tenerife , the best known of the Canary Islands. Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , includes the entire mountain, and a trip inside the immense crater is a highlight of a trip to the Canary Islands.

Inside the crater's rim is a caldera - the crater floor - 19 kilometers in diameter, and a drive across this barren moonscape is like driving into the center of the earth. This crater is actually what's left of a much larger mountain that blew its top about three million years ago, collapsing into itself. In places, it left walls that rise 457 meters above the crater floor.

El Portillo Visitor Center is a good place to visit first, where an excellent little museum has interactive exhibits showing how volcanoes form and exploring the environment of the crater. Outside, a path leads through a botanic garden, where labels help visitors recognize and identify native plants they will see in the park.

To see the crater from above, and for wide-ranging views, ride the Teleférico cable car up Teide's cone, a newer volcanic peak that formed above the giant crater after the original top of the mountain slid off.

Although the view from the cable car is outstanding, it can't match the experience of crossing the crater floor to see the varied remnants of the volcanic action: lava fields; jumbles of jagged, black lava boulders; dunes of lava pebbles; and outcrops of red, blue, yellow, and black volcanic stone. Stopping points at various features have signs in English describing the flora and fauna and explaining the landscape, and walking trails lead to the highlights.

Lanzarote has a much more recent volcanic history than Tenerife - the cataclysmic eruptions that covered most of the island in molten lava and volcanic ash took place between 1730 and 1736. The seven-year series of eruptions buried 11 villages and drove the population from the island, which had previously been the garden of the Canaries.

After the eruptions stopped, the farmers returned and found innovative ways to cultivate parts of their ash-covered land. The most dramatic of the volcanic landscapes, including a still-active volcano, are now protected as the UNESCO-listed Timanfaya National Park.

You literally have to see it to believe it: huge areas of unearthly terrain covered in swirls of solidified lava, cracked into crevices by more molten lava still moving beneath it. To see the entire park, go to Islote de Hilario , at the top of a volcanic cone, where park rangers demonstrate the tremendous heat just beneath your feet. Dry brush thrown into a depression bursts into flame, and water poured down a pipe erupts back out in a boiling geyser.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Lanzarote

The far south coast of Gran Canaria has a succession of beautiful golden sand beaches. Between Playa de San Agustin on the west and Puerto de Mogán to the east, sunseekers will find no less than six major beach resort areas.

The largest is Maspalomas , with a protected reserve of huge sand dunes in behind stretching in layers to the sea. Mountains of wind-riffled sand undulate above beaches, where dunes as high as 12 meters are constantly carved and shifted by sea and wind. You can wander for hours on foot, marveling at their desolate beauty, but it's more exotic to climb on a dromedary for a lurching camel ride through this spectacular dunescape.

Just around the point to the east is another of the island's best beaches, Playa del Inglés. Similar to Maspalomas, but easier to access, this beach is painted with bright umbrellas and backed by a promenade and a line of restaurants, cafés, shops, and amusements. It's one of the island's liveliest beach scenes at any time of day or night.

Because of the clear, warm water, diving is popular here and an underwater park has been designated at Arinaga, north of Playa de San Agustin. There are diving schools at Maspalomas, Playa Ingles, and several other points, and you'll find facilities for all manner of other water sports here, including sailing and windsurfing.

The capital city of Las Palmas has several excellent beaches, including Playa Las Canteras, with a wide, sandy shore and gentle waters thanks to a natural breakwater formed by volcanic rock. This coast sees large waves from the Atlantic Ocean; the western end of the beach is one of the best places on Gran Canaria for surfing .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Gran Canaria

Like those of Gran Canaria, the fabled beaches of Tenerife lie along its sunny south coast. Among the most developed, with plenty of holiday homes, hotels, restaurants, and sports options, are the golden sands of family-oriented Playa de Las Vistas and the upscale enclaves around Playa del Duque , on the Costa Adeje to the west. At the latter, you'll find shopping, luxury spas, golf, windsurfing, jet skiing, and other activities.

Smaller natural beaches with darker sand dot the entire shore east of Los Cristianos as far as El Medano , a fun and funky place where you'll find a world-class kiteboarding and windsurfing destination. If you crave a bit of solitude, head a bit south of El Medano and check out the golden sands of spectacular Playa de la Tejita, Tenerife's largest natural beach, which is frequently featured on social media postings.

Perhaps the best beach for families is Playa de las Teresitas , just outside the capital of Santa Cruz. Its gently sloping, golden sands (imported from North Africa) are protected by artificial barrier reefs that make it perfect for children and swimmers, without the heavy surf of some other beaches.

Miles of beaches on the island of Fuerteventura are almost empty, and even most of those with well-developed tourist infrastructure, are uncrowded. The soft sands of Africa's deserts are blown across the 100 kilometers of open ocean to find their way to Fuerteventura's west coast and between your toes.

Along Fuerteventura's shorelines, these same sands are washed by the clear, clean waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The 16 kilometers of beaches around Corralejo are some of the best on the island. Here, you'll find ever-shifting sand dunes running right down to the water's edge.

Laze on the sand here and take a dip, or for the more sporty types, sign up for a surfing lesson. If the winds are up, be sure to swing by Flag Beach, also known as Playa Medano, and watch the kiteboarders race across the waves under their colorful kites.

Farther south is Playa Sotavento (leeward beach), which has earned Fuerteventura its reputation as a haven for beach lovers. This unique beach is a massive sand flat where the tides come up slowly, creating warm, shallow pools in behind the shore break.

At the far end of the Jandia Penisula, you'll find more amazing beaches. Playa Jandia and Playa Matorral are massive stretches of golden sand with a lively townsite packed with restaurants and shops behind. These beaches are favored by the beach-walking crowd for their flat and hard sands and wonderful views.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Fuerteventura

The artist Cesar Manrique is remembered not only for his works of art and architecture but for the inspiration and dedication that saved the character of his native island of Lanzarote. After a successful art career in New York and on the continent, he returned to Lanzarote in 1968, where he began a campaign to save Lanzarote from the unbridled tourist development that had ruined so many other holiday destinations.

He set the island on a new environmentally and culturally sustainable path by designing and building a series of tourist attractions that used and celebrated the nature of the island - its volcanic landscapes, ragged lava flows, and soaring cliffs.

These include his own dramatic home, Taro de Tahiche , built into a series of subterranean bubbles caused by lava flows; Jameos del Agua , an auditorium, swimming pool, and restaurant built inside a huge volcanic bubble; Monumento al Campesino , with a monumental modern sculpture and handcraft gallery; Mirador del Rio, a scenic overlook high above the sea on the north coast; Jardin de Cactus , a stunning cactus garden built into a former quarry.

He also repurposed a disused fort into the Museo Internacional del Arte Contemporáneo in Arrecife, designed the beautiful Salinas Hotel in Costa Teguise, designed signs for several other attractions, and created huge wind toys - mobile sculptures at road intersections throughout the island. But most of all, he imbued the islanders with a pride in their unique landscape and traditions, and a determination to protect its integrity.

Several of these attractions have gift shops filled with quality local crafts and art, excellent places for souvenir shopping .

The Atlantic Sea off Tenerife is known for its whales and dolphins, and a whale watching cruise is one of the island's favorite things to do for families. You can spot whales and watch pods of dolphins cavort – as many as five different species – on boat excursions from various harbors. Many cruises include a stop at a secluded bay for swimming or snorkeling.

A variety of crafts are available, from sleek sailboats and catamarans to luxury yachts. You'll be accompanied by trained crew members who will help you spot and identify the marine life you see. You'll also get different views of Mt Tiede and the coastline. For those who like their wildlife experiences to be closer to the water — or in it — there are tours for kayakers and divers, as well.

The capital of Tenerife is a lively and attractive city, marked by some outstanding architectural attractions. Foremost of these is the magnificent Auditorio de Tenerife , an opera house and concert hall overlooking the sea, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The concert hall hosts world-class performers, conductors, and orchestras.

Santa Cruz has other cultural highlights, including the excellent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts , where you'll find works by Spanish, Flemish, and Canarian painters.

At the fascinating Museum of Nature and Man , you can learn more about Tenerife's native people, before the arrival of European settlers, and about the volcanic history of the island. Close to the museum, the lively Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa is a good place to find local crafts. Santa Cruz is where you'll find the best shopping on Tenerife.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a sun-drenched seaside town with an interesting historic legacy from its Spanish colonial past, dating from the 15th century. The city was founded in 1478, Spain's first colonial foothold in its westward expansion toward the New World.

The impressive 16th-century Cathedral of Santa Ana has a Gothic interior, with unusual palm-shaped columns, and in the south wing is the Diocesan Museum, with a rich collection of religious art and gold and silver work. The interesting archaeological and ethnographic collections at the Museum of the Canary Islands reveal the prehispanic culture of the island.

The 15th-century Casa de Colon was the home of the first governor, where Columbus stayed en route to the New World. Exhibits in the museum detail his explorations. The house is a beautiful example of Canarian architecture, with delicate wooden balconies, lovely patios, and a monumental doorway.

The Néstor Museum exhibits the artwork of Néstor Martín-Fernández de la Torre, one of the most renowned Spanish Symbolist painters. The museum displays his paintings, including portraits and landscapes, as well as his drawings, sketches, and craftwork. The Néstor Museum is part of the Pueblo Canario (Canaries Village) built in an idealized "neo-Canarian" style. Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo , seven kilometers from Las Palmas, is a spectacular botanical garden filled with native Canarian plant species and set in a beautiful valley.

One of the most popular tourist attractions for families in the Canary Islands is Loro Park just outside of Puerto de la Cruz. Combining high standards of conservation with good entertainment, the park has one of the world's largest collections of parrots, a large dolphinarium, and an immense aquarium with an underwater tunnel where you can walk as sharks and other sea creatures swim overhead.

A bat cave; a gorilla jungle; a huge penguin habitat; and various exotic animals, including tigers and crocodiles, fill the large park.

Address: Calle San Felipe, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

This charming colonial city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional cultural heritage. San Cristobal de la Laguna, locally known simply as La Laguna, is the former capital of all the Canary Islands. The lovely historic town has many architectural gems, such as its elaborate cathedral, Renaissance and Neoclassical churches, and impressive mansions built by wealthy families in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The town's parish church, the Iglesia de Nuestra La Concepción , was built 1496 and modified in the 16th and 18th centuries. The sanctuary is simply adorned and has Mudéjar coffering. Another important church is the 17th-century Iglesia de Santo Domingo de Guzmán , with Plateresque details on the facade and an ornately designed Mudejar ceiling. Paintings by the Canary Island artist Cristóbal Hernández de Quintana decorate the interior.

For a historical overview of the region, head to the History and Anthropology Museum , housed in the lovely Casa de Lecaro, which dates from 1593.

In a beautiful valley of banana plantations, this colonial town has been designated as a National Historic-Artistic Site . The historic quarter is filled with gracious old homes, many with ornately carved wooden balconies.

The most outstanding of these architectural gems is the Casas de los Balcones , built in the 1630s as a home to a wealthy colonial family. Today, it's a museum and gallery of traditional Canarian crafts and needlework. To admire the interior balconies, step inside the plant-filled patio. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción , a 16th-century Baroque church, has two remarkable bell towers.

The beautifully landscaped Hijuela del Botánico is filled with more than 3,000 colorful tropical flowers and rare plants, set in lawns with decorative pools. An even larger botanical garden is in nearby Puerto de la Cruz, which was once part of La Orotava, a port known for its fishing (its boats still bring in the daily catch to its restaurants). Cesar Manrique, the artist, sculptor, and architect from the neighboring island of Lanzarote, designed its Jardin Beach among volcanic rocks.

One of the most popular things to do on Lanzarote is to explore the seven-kilometer-long volcanic tube that extends from La Coruna mountain to the sea. These tubes were formed when the surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened while the molten river of lava still flowed beneath it. When the subterranean lava emptied into the ocean, it left the hollow tube deep underground.

The two-kilometer section that you can tour inside the cave is in its original state - the only things that have been added are lights and walkways for safety. You enter the caves through a jameo — a hole created by the collapse of a thin place in the roof of the lava tube. Some of the larger chambers are as high as nine to 12 meters. The stone of the walls is red, orange, and black, formed by compounds such as iron oxide and calcium carbonate in the stone.

The biggest tourist town on Lanzarote is lively Puerto del Carmen, surrounded by more than six kilometers of sandy beaches with calm waters. The old fishing village has been transformed into a bustling vacation destination with a wide selection of hotels and restaurants, but for all its tourist amenities, it has not lost the feel of a real Canarian town.

Those visiting during the first two weeks of August will be delighted by the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen . This religious festival honors the patron saint of the fishing village, which is decked out with colorful bunting for the occasion. The village celebrates with a traditional procession of decorated boats. One of the boats holds the statue of the Virgen del Carmen, while other fishing boats follow in a twilight maritime parade.

Read More: Best Beaches on Lanzarote

This pleasant seaside town has the most unspoiled seafront of any in the Canaries and still reflects the favored position it held in the 1500s, when it was one of only three Spanish ports allowed to trade with the New World. Stroll along the cobbled Calle O'Daley to see the handsome homes of wealthy merchants and appreciate the prosperity this town enjoyed in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The 16th-century Iglesia del Salvador has a beautiful mudejar ceiling and a painted altarpiece. The Ayuntamiento (town hall) was once the cardinal's palace, built in 1569, and has a magnificently carved ceiling and Renaissance arcade. Every five years, the island celebrates its patron saint, the Virgin of Las Nieves, with Quinquennial Fiestas , following the same traditions the townspeople have enjoyed since 1680.

The symbol of Gran Canaria, this 220-foot pillar of stone is one of the world's largest natural crags.

The views from the base of the rock are stupendous. You are standing close to the center of the island, which stretches before you in all directions, layer after layer of ragged volcanic peaks. If the weather is clear, you can see the cone of Mount Tiede on Tenerife, the highest peak in Spain.

Be prepared for both wind and sun, and wear sturdy shoes; the trail is rocky and no place for sandals. The trail is only three kilometers long but is more challenging than many sightseers expect. It's uphill all the way, with no level sections, and some of it is very uneven and over rocks. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, especially on some of the steeper sections. Count on at least 1.5 hours of total hiking time there and back.

On weekends and holidays, it's a good idea to arrive early in the morning because parking is limited at la Goleta.

Each year, Tenerife's capital city goes wild for three days of carnival parades, parties, concerts, and general merrymaking. This is normally in February, before the start of Lent.

Carnival actually lasts for three weeks , but the first two are less colorful, given mostly to selecting the various queens who will participate in the grand finale, which is on the last three days. That's the time to be there, to witness the parades and join the open-air parties that continue day and night.

As many as 400,000 people fill the streets, music is everywhere, and the costumes are lavish confections of feathers and glitter that often overshadow the beautiful girls wearing them. The parade floats are even more elaborate and imaginative than the costumes.

The Carnival of Santa Cruz is second only to Rio de Janeiro's in popularity and worldwide recognition. Some tips: reserve lodgings early (a year in advance is not too soon), don't even think of bringing a car into Santa Cruz, arrive early to stake out a good viewing point for the parades, and wear a costume – however simple – so you can take part in the fun.

La Gomera rises so steeply from the Atlantic that it is impractical to build a road around its coast. Crowning the top half of the island is the world's largest pre-glacial forest, protected as Garajonay National Park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Seventy percent of the 9,325-acre park is covered by a dense laurel forest, similar to those covering Europe in the Tertiary Period.

These beautiful, green forests are home to many plants and animals that are indigenous only to this island, and the island's streams and springs are fed by clouds and mists that hover on the peaks in the park. The terrain is steep, and paths through the misty moss-draped forests open to breathtaking, if often vertigo-inspiring, views. The island capital of San Sebastián was where Christopher Columbus outfitted his ships before crossing the Atlantic in 1492.

While the volcano and its giant caldera are the island's top tourist attraction during the day, Tiede National Park offers another appeal after dark. It has been certified as a " Starlight Destination " by the Starlight Foundation, for the exceptional quality of stargazing.

This is due to a low level of light pollution, the trade winds, and its location close to the equator, which allows you to see all the constellations of the Northern Hemisphere and most of the Southern Hemisphere's. Of the 88 officially recognized constellations, 83 are seen from Tiede. This makes stargazing one of the favorite things to do at night on Tenerife.

Some of the most spectacular stellar events are meteor showers , the best known of which are the Perseids in August and the Quadrantids in January, although smaller ones occur throughout the year. A good way to see the stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena is with a Night Sky Star Safari Teide National Park Tenerife tour , where you can stargaze through a professional telescope with the help of an expert guide to explain the wonders of the night sky.

Known as the Isla Bonita (Beautiful Island), La Palma is the greenest of the Canary Islands. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , La Palma's landscape varies from pristine forests to sheer cliffs and black-sand beaches. Among its many protected environments is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where volcanic peaks rise to 2,400 meters, and lava flows descend to the sea.

For those in search of idyllic surroundings, the park has wooded areas with streams and waterfalls. Along the rocky coastline, picturesque little bays are hidden away in between steep hillsides.

Although part of Spain, the Canary Islands are much closer to Africa than they are to Europe. Fuerteventura is only 160 kilometers from the northwest coast of Morocco, close enough for its beaches to be made of blowing Sahara sand.

Spanish is the local language, but tourists may be surprised to find a distinctly Canarian character and culture that is quite different from mainland Spain.

In other words, don't expect bullfights or flamenco. Expect to find plenty of other tourists, especially on the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, most of whom have come for the fabled beaches.

The Canaries have long been popular with British and northern European sunseekers, so you'll find English spoken in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. You'll also find a surprising variety of things to do on these seven islands, from water sports and hiking trails to modern art and sightseeing in charming colonial towns.

Although each island is different, they have in common their volcanic origins, which have led to some of their most distinctive natural attractions. The four largest islands, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria, all have fascinating volcanic features, two of which are national parks. The islands have three UNESCO World Heritage sites .

There's no wrong season to visit the islands, as their placement where the tropical climatic zone joins the subtropical zone gives them an almost ideal climate of perpetual springtime, with average temperatures varying only 14 degrees throughout the year.

More on Spain

The Canary Islands are open to travelers, but here's what you should know about restrictions, weather, and the best time to visit

• If you're planning to visit the Canary Islands, it's important to stay aware of COVID-19 advisories.
• Keep reading for important details as you prepare to explore the Canary Islands.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations.

I travel frequently to the Canary Islands and have done so often during the coronavirus pandemic. 

The rules can be confusing and depend greatly on where you'll be arriving from, so make sure to take note if you plan to travel to the European Union first. It's also a good idea to check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Embassy for updates.

I usually check the requirements on the Canary Islands tourism bureau website , which works with the government to update visitors on the rules and regulations for entering. I highly recommend checking the page regularly to ensure you'll be fully prepared.

Do note these policies are current as of this writing but are subject to change at any time. 

If you're traveling directly from the US to the Canary Islands, be prepared to show the following:

• A health form , which can be filled out online before traveling. Once completed, you'll get a QR code you can either show printed or digitally to be scanned upon arrival.
• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19. Travelers arriving from the US to the Canary Islands, or from the US to the Spanish mainland for tourism purposes, must be fully vaccinated . Accompanying persons between 12 and 17 years old are exempt.
• Passengers aged between 12 and 17 must have a negative PCR test taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival.
• Antigen tests must be taken a maximum of 24 hours before arrival in Spain and NAAT tests (PCR, TMA, LAMP) taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival in Spain.

If you plan to visit another European hub before heading to the Canary Islands, make sure to check the requirements for entering that particular country from the United States before traveling.

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And if you're visiting the Canaries via mainland Spain and are above the age of 12, you'll have to show either a certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19, a negative COVID-19 test (antigen tests taken a maximum of 48 hours before arrival, and NAAT tests taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival), or a certificate of recovery confirming that the holder has recovered from COVID-19, issued at least 11 days after the first positive test.

Other key info to know before traveling to the Canary Islands

The volcanic eruption on la palma.

The island of La Palma experienced a volcanic eruption in September 2021 that spewed hot lava and ash over many businesses and residential homes in the immediate area and also temporarily affected the air quality. As of December 25, 2021, the eruption was declared officially over .

All areas outside Cumbre Vieja are safe to visit, as they were not affected by the lava. Though most places are up and running, make sure to check with local businesses or restaurants you'd like to visit that are near Cumbre Vieja in the following areas: El Paso, Los Llanos de Aridane, Tazacorte, Mazo, and Fuencaliente, which could still be affected by volcanic ash.

What to know about weather and what to pack

No matter which island you visit, the sun can be very strong, so pack sunscreen. 

Though it's typically warm at sea level, bring along layers and warm clothing if you plan to hike in the Canaries or visit the Teide volcano — temperatures can vary up to 30 or 40 degrees Fahrenheit at different elevations on all the islands. It may be 40F and raining on Teide , approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, and 74F and sunny down below.

It's also important to know the Canary Islands are windy, especially in summer but really year-round. Whenever there's high pressure over the Sahara, temps rise and humidity falls, creating trade winds that blow over the islands, often at strong speeds midday. This is why the islands are so apt for surfing.

Different islands and areas of each island can have very different wind speeds. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are usually the windiest islands .  Tenerife and Gran Canaria , especially the southern areas of these islands are usually slightly warmer, less windy, and much sunnier. Plan your vacation accordingly.

The best times to visit the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have sunny, warm temps year-round and it rarely rains . Winds are generally high year-round, too. It's slightly warmer in the summer when highs hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. December highs are about 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Canary Islands

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park

Gran Canaria

Discovered by a local farmer in the late 19th century, this is one of Gran Canaria's most important pre-Hispanic archaeological sites: a cave adorned with…

Casa-Museo de Colón

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

This fascinating museum documents Columbus’ voyages and features exhibits on the Canary Islands’ historical role as a staging post for transatlantic…

Pico del Teide

The cable car provides the easiest way to get up to the peak of El Teide. The views are great – unless a big cloud is covering the peak, in which case you…

Fundación César Manrique

Upon returning definitively to Lanzarote, César Manrique built his spectacular house and creative centre, Taro de Tahíche, into the lava fields just…

Parque Nacional de Timanfaya

Lanzarote's most spectacular sight, the eerie 51-sq-km Parque Nacional de Timanfaya sprawls around the Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire) formed by…

Santuario de la Virgen de las Nieves

Santa Cruz de la Palma

For splendid views down the valley to Santa Cruz, put aside time to tackle the 4km uphill hike north of town to La Palma’s main object of pilgrimage, the…

Playa de Cofete

This is the main beach in far-flung Cofete, near the southern tip of the island and the main draw on the island for many. It's huge, quite beautiful and…

Villa Winter

This impressive structure, with its castle-like turret, was built by German engineer Gustav Winter in the 1930s. Rumours linking Winter to the Nazi party…

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Just ahead of welcoming visitors flocking to its islands for the Easter break, Spain's Canary Islands are suspending some COVID-19 safety measures.

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Canary Islands and beyond

Tenerife or Lanzarote – Which One Should You Choose for Your Perfect Vacation?

• Post author By canariasacross
• Post date 12.12.2023

When it comes to choosing an island for your next vacation in the Canary Islands, Lanzarote and Tenerife are often at the top of the list. Both islands offer stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of activities to enjoy. But which one is better? Reddit users have been sharing their opinions, giving valuable advice to travelers looking to make the most of their trip.

One user describes Tenerife as a paradise for nature lovers. With its diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rugged coastlines, the island offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. The user also highlights the vibrant nightlife in Tenerife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to enjoy.

On the other hand, another Reddit user argues that Lanzarote is the perfect island for those seeking a more laid-back and tranquil vacation. Known for its unique volcanic landscape, Lanzarote offers a surreal and otherworldly beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. The user also mentions the island’s excellent cuisine, with local delicacies such as fresh seafood and traditional Canarian dishes.

Ultimately, the choice between Tenerife and Lanzarote depends on your preferences and interests. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and nightlife, Tenerife might be the better option. However, if you want to relax and immerse yourself in natural beauty, Lanzarote could be the perfect choice. Whichever island you choose, the Canary Islands offer a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Climate and Weather

When planning a vacation to the Canary Islands in Spain, one important consideration is the climate and weather. Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer warm and pleasant weather all year round, but there are some differences to take into account.

Tenerife, the largest island of the Canary archipelago, boasts a subtropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. It is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant weather conditions. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it perfect for beach and outdoor activities.

Winters in Tenerife are mild and rarely drop below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit), making it a popular winter destination for those looking to escape the cold. The island is known for its diverse microclimates, with different regions experiencing varying weather patterns. The northern part of Tenerife tends to be cooler and more humid, while the southern part is drier and sunnier.

Tenerife also offers stunning landscapes and natural wonders, including the Teide National Park, which is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring volcanic landscapes, and stargazing in this unique environment.

Lanzarote, located further east in the Canary Islands, also has a mild and pleasant climate. However, unlike Tenerife, Lanzarote experiences less rainfall and has a more desert-like landscape. The island is known for its volcanic origins, with black sand beaches and unique rock formations.

Summers in Lanzarote are slightly hotter than in Tenerife, with temperatures reaching up to 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are cooler but still enjoyable, with average temperatures around 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit).

Lanzarote is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Playa Blanca and Papagayo Beach, which offer crystal clear waters and a wide range of water sports activities. The island is also a paradise for surfers, with consistent waves throughout the year.

Advice for Choosing an Island:

When deciding between Tenerife and Lanzarote for your vacation, consider your preferences for climate and activities. If you enjoy warmer temperatures and diverse landscapes, Tenerife is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a drier climate and unique volcanic scenery, Lanzarote is the island for you.

Both islands offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions to suit every traveler’s needs. No matter which island you choose, a trip to the Canary Islands guarantees a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Beaches and Natural Beauty

When it comes to beaches and natural beauty, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer stunning landscapes and pristine coastlines. Each island has its own unique charm and attractions that make them worth visiting for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Tenerife, known as the largest of the Canary Islands, boasts a wide variety of beaches that cater to every taste. From the black volcanic sand beaches in the north to the golden sandy beaches in the south, Tenerife offers something for everyone. The famous Playa de Las Teresitas is a must-visit beach with its golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert. The island also offers picturesque coastal cliffs, rugged mountains, and lush valleys, making it a paradise for hikers and outdoor adventurers.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, is known for its unique volcanic landscape and pristine beaches. The island is home to the Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic park with surreal landscapes that resemble those of another world. The Playa Blanca and Papagayo beaches are among the most beautiful in the Canary Islands, with their crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores. Lanzarote also offers attractions like the Jameos del Agua, a natural cave turned into a concert hall, and the Cueva de los Verdes, a stunning lava cave system.

When it comes to choosing between Tenerife and Lanzarote for a beach vacation, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Tenerife offers a wider range of beach options along with its diverse natural beauty, while Lanzarote offers a more unique and otherworldly experience. Reading advice from Reddit users who have visited both islands can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences to help make the decision easier.

Accommodation Options

When planning a vacation to the beautiful Canary Islands of Spain, there are several accommodation options to consider. Whether you choose to visit Tenerife or Lanzarote, both islands offer a wide range of choices for travelers.

Tenerife Accommodation

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, boasts a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone. One popular option is to rent a holiday villa or apartment, which provides a more private and spacious experience. Many resorts in Tenerife also offer all-inclusive packages, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay without worrying about additional expenses.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, Tenerife has a number of rural accommodations and eco-friendly hotels nestled in the island’s stunning landscapes. These options allow travelers to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts of modern amenities.

Lanzarote Accommodation

Lanzarote, known for its volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches, also offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. The island has a mix of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and self-catering apartments. Many of the accommodations in Lanzarote are designed to blend in with the island’s unique architectural style, making for a truly immersive experience.

For those seeking a more secluded and tranquil vacation, Lanzarote has several small hotels and guesthouses located away from the main tourist areas. These options provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.

Travel Tips:

• Book your accommodation in advance to secure your preferred choice and avoid any last-minute disappointments.
• Read reviews from previous travelers on websites and forums like Reddit to get honest opinions and recommendations.
• Consider the location of your accommodation and its proximity to attractions, beaches, and amenities.

In conclusion, whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your needs and preferences. Take the time to research and choose the option that best fits your travel style and budget. Happy travels!

Activities and Attractions

When it comes to activities and attractions, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a plethora of options for travelers looking to make the most out of their vacation. Reddit users who have visited these Canary Islands shared their advice and recommendations for things to do and see.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote, both islands have something for every type of traveler. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, these Canary Islands are sure to provide an unforgettable vacation.

Cost of Living

When it comes to the cost of living, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer affordable options for vacationers. The Canary Islands, including Tenerife and Lanzarote, are known for their favorable living expenses compared to mainland Spain.

On average, Tenerife tends to be slightly cheaper than Lanzarote in terms of accommodation, dining out, and daily expenses. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the specific area and type of lifestyle you choose. In general, both islands provide a range of budget-friendly options, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to save money, consider booking accommodations in advance and opting for self-catering options. This way, you can prepare your meals and save on dining costs. Additionally, exploring local markets and supermarkets can help you save on groceries and snacks while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Tenerife offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts or budget-friendly hotels, you can find a wide selection to choose from. The island also has numerous restaurants and eateries that cater to various budgets, making it easy to find affordable dining options.

Lanzarote also provides plenty of affordable accommodation choices, including hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. The island is known for its charming villages and coastal towns, where you can find authentic local cuisine at reasonable prices.

Ultimately, your cost of living will depend on your personal preferences and spending habits. It’s always a good idea to do your research, compare prices, and seek advice from fellow travelers on platforms like Reddit to get valuable insights and tips for your trip to either Tenerife or Lanzarote.

Nightlife and Entertainment

When it comes to nightlife and entertainment, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a vibrant scene that caters to different tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening at a cozy bar or an all-night party at a bustling club, these Canary Islands have it all.

Tenerife, being the larger of the two islands, boasts a wide variety of options for nighttime entertainment. The capital city of Santa Cruz is known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues. The popular areas of Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos are also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of international and local clubs.

On the other hand, Lanzarote may be smaller in size, but it still has plenty to offer in terms of nightlife. The main hub for entertainment on the island is Puerto del Carmen, which is filled with bars, restaurants, and clubs. Here, you can enjoy live music, dance to the beats of renowned DJs, or simply relax with a drink in hand.

No matter which island you choose, you won’t be disappointed with the range of options for entertainment. However, it’s always a good idea to check out travel websites and forums like Reddit for local advice and recommendations on the best places to visit for a memorable night out.

Food and Cuisine

When it comes to food and cuisine on the Canary Islands, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have unique offerings that are worth trying. Reddit users have shared their advice and opinions on the delicious culinary experiences you can have on each island.

Tenerife is known for its diverse food scene, with a wide variety of international and local dishes. One of the must-try dishes is papas arrugadas, which are small potatoes boiled in sea salt and typically served with a mojo sauce. Another local specialty is conejo en salmorejo, a tender rabbit stewed in a sauce made from garlic, vinegar, paprika, and other spices. Seafood lovers will also enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes, such as viejas a la espalda, which are grilled parrotfish fillets.

For those with a sweet tooth, Tenerife offers delicious desserts like bienmesabe, a traditional almond cream, and quesillo, a creamy caramel flan. Don’t forget to try some local wines, as Tenerife has a thriving wine industry with vineyards producing unique volcanic wines.

Lanzarote also boasts a fantastic food scene with its own unique specialties. One of the most famous dishes in Lanzarote is the traditional gofio, a toasted flour made from cereals or legumes. It is often used in dishes like gofio escaldado, a hearty soup made with fish or meat broth, gofio, and various vegetables. Another popular dish is sancocho canario, a fish stew made with local fish, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and mojo sauce.

Seafood is also prominent on Lanzarote, and you can find fresh fish and seafood options such as grilled limpets or calamares a la plancha, which are grilled squid. Finish off your meal with traditional desserts like frangollo, a sweet semolina pudding, or bienmesabe, a local version made with almonds and eggs.

With such a rich and diverse food culture on both Tenerife and Lanzarote, you’ll have plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds during your vacation in the Canary Islands.

Public Transportation

When it comes to public transportation options, both Lanzarote and Tenerife offer convenient and reliable services for travelers. Whether you are visiting Spain’s Canary Islands for leisure or business, getting around these two islands is relatively easy and stress-free.

Reddit users who have visited both Lanzarote and Tenerife shared their advice and experiences regarding public transportation. The general consensus is that public transportation on both islands is efficient and affordable.

In Lanzarote, buses are a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. The island’s bus network covers most major towns and attractions, making it easy to explore different parts of the island. Bus routes are well-connected, and the buses are known to be comfortable, clean, and punctual. The fares are also reasonable, making it a cost-effective option for travel.

Similarly, Tenerife has an extensive bus network that covers the entire island. Buses are a popular choice for getting around Tenerife as they provide easy access to the island’s popular tourist destinations, including the stunning beaches and mountains. The buses are known to be clean, reliable, and affordable, with regular services throughout the day. Additionally, the bus drivers are known to be helpful and friendly, making the journey even more pleasant.

Both Lanzarote and Tenerife also have taxi services available, which are a convenient option for travelers who prefer more privacy and flexibility. Taxis can be found at designated taxi ranks or can be hailed on the street. While taxis may be slightly more expensive than buses, they offer the convenience of direct transportation to your desired destination.

In conclusion, whether you choose Lanzarote or Tenerife for your travel plans in Spain’s Canary Islands, you can expect reliable and efficient public transportation options. Whether you prefer buses or taxis, both islands offer convenient and affordable ways to explore and experience all that these stunning destinations have to offer.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

When it comes to hiking and outdoor adventures, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer incredible options for nature enthusiasts. Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and volcanic formations.

One of the most popular hiking spots in Tenerife is the Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Hikers can trek through a variety of trails that showcase the island’s unique flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Lunar Landscape, a volcanic moonscape, is another must-see attraction in Tenerife for hikers looking for a unique experience.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, offers a different kind of hiking experience. This volcanic island is known for its dramatic landscapes and rugged coastline. The Timanfaya National Park is a popular destination for hikers, with its lunar-like terrain and volcanic craters. The Seven Mountains, or Los Ajaches, is another hiking spot in Lanzarote that offers stunning views of the island’s coastline.

Reddit users who have visited both islands have offered their advice on the best hiking and outdoor adventure experiences. Many suggest that Tenerife is better for more challenging hikes, thanks to its volcanic terrain and higher peaks. Others recommend Lanzarote for its unique landscapes and less crowded hiking trails.

Ultimately, the choice between Tenerife and Lanzarote for hiking and outdoor adventures depends on personal preferences. Both islands offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Canary Islands. Whether it’s hiking through volcanic terrain, taking in stunning coastal views, or discovering unique flora and fauna, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have something to offer outdoor enthusiasts.

Family-Friendly Options

When it comes to choosing a family-friendly destination in Spain, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a variety of options that cater to the needs and interests of all family members. Whether you’re travelling with young children or teenagers, there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained.

In Tenerife, families can enjoy the beautiful beaches and warm waters, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. There are also several water parks, such as Siam Park, which is one of the best water parks in Europe and offers a range of thrilling slides and attractions for all ages.

Lanzarote also has its fair share of family-friendly options. The island offers stunning natural landscapes, such as the Timanfaya National Park, where families can explore volcanic formations and take part in guided tours. Additionally, the Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is a popular attraction that combines wildlife encounters with water park activities, making it a great choice for families.

Both islands also offer a range of family-friendly accommodation options, including resorts and hotels with swimming pools and children’s entertainment programs. Restaurants and cafes often have child-friendly menus and facilities, ensuring that families can enjoy a stress-free dining experience.

In conclusion, whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your family holiday, you can rest assured that both islands offer a range of family-friendly options that will make your trip enjoyable and memorable. It ultimately comes down to personal preferences and the specific activities and attractions that appeal to your family.

Cultural Experience

If you are looking for a cultural experience during your vacation in the Canary Islands, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have plenty to offer. Tenerife is known for its vibrant capital city, Santa Cruz, which is filled with historical sites, museums, and lively festivals. You can explore the charming streets, visit the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife, or wander through the peaceful Parque García Sanabria. Additionally, Tenerife is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a beautiful town with rich history and stunning architecture.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, provides a unique blend of art, nature, and culture. The island’s famous artist, Cesar Manrique, has left his mark all over Lanzarote, creating beautiful attractions such as the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden. You can also visit the Timanfaya National Park to witness the volcanic landscapes and take part in a camel ride.

Regardless of which island you choose, make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional foods, attending local events, and interacting with the friendly locals. Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a truly authentic cultural experience that will make your trip to Spain’s Canary Islands unforgettable.

So, whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, these islands have something to offer to everyone. Check out the advice on Reddit before making your decision, but rest assured that you won’t be disappointed with the cultural experiences in either Tenerife or Lanzarote.

Shopping and Souvenirs

When it comes to shopping and souvenirs, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have plenty to offer. Reddit users have shared their advice on the best places to shop on these beautiful Canary Islands.

Tenerife is known for its vibrant shopping scene, offering a wide range of options for visitors. One popular area is the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where you’ll find numerous shops, boutiques, and department stores. Some users also recommended visiting the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local handicrafts, and souvenirs.

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, check out the town of Tegueste, known for its traditional handicrafts. Here, you can find handmade pottery, textiles, and local artwork to take home as a memento of your trip. Another popular spot for shopping is the Costa Adeje, which is home to luxury shopping centers and designer boutiques.

Lanzarote also has plenty to offer when it comes to shopping and souvenirs. One Reddit user recommended visiting the town of Teguise, where you’ll find a weekly Sunday market known as the Teguise Market. Here, you can browse through stalls selling everything from clothing and jewelry to local crafts and artwork.

The capital city of Arrecife is another great place to shop on the island. It boasts a variety of shops, including major retailers and smaller boutiques. If you’re interested in buying local products, head to the Craft Market in the Old Town of Arrecife, where you can find handmade items created by local artisans.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, both islands offer a wide range of shopping options. From bustling markets to luxury boutiques, you’re sure to find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to these beautiful Canary Islands.

Language Barrier

When it comes to travel, one of the concerns that tourists often have is the language barrier. This is especially true when visiting foreign countries, such as the Canary Islands in Spain, like Lanzarote or Tenerife.

Fortunately, both Lanzarote and Tenerife are popular tourist destinations and have a well-established tourism industry. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and most tourist attractions. So, if you’re worried about communication during your vacation, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to get by with English.

However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.” This shows respect for the local culture and can go a long way in making a positive impression with the locals. Additionally, it can be helpful to carry a phrasebook or use a translation app on your phone, just in case you encounter a situation where English isn’t readily available.

Local Dialects

It’s worth noting that while English is widely spoken, the locals in Lanzarote and Tenerife primarily speak Spanish. In addition to Spanish, there are also variations in dialects across the Canary Islands. So, if you have a basic understanding of Spanish, it can be helpful in certain situations.

Some locals may also speak other languages, such as German, French, or Italian, due to the high number of tourists from these countries. However, English is still the most common second language spoken by locals, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble communicating during your visit.

Advice for Travelers

If you’re concerned about the language barrier, here are some tips to help you have a smooth vacation:

• Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to show respect and make a positive impression.
• Carry a phrasebook or use a translation app on your phone as a backup.
• Make an effort to speak slowly and clearly when communicating with locals.
• Be patient and understanding if there are any misunderstandings due to the language difference.
• Use gestures and body language to help communicate your point if needed.
• Take advantage of the English-speaking staff available in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Overall, while there may be a language barrier in the Canary Islands, particularly in non-tourist areas, it’s not a major concern for most travelers. By being prepared and respectful, you can easily navigate your way through Lanzarote or Tenerife and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

When planning a vacation to the Canary Islands, accessibility and infrastructure are important factors to consider. Luckily, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer dependable transportation options and a well-developed infrastructure to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Both islands have international airports that are well-connected to major cities in Europe and beyond. This makes it easy to reach either Tenerife or Lanzarote no matter where you are coming from. Additionally, once you arrive, you’ll find reliable public transportation networks that can take you to various destinations within the islands.

On Tenerife, the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has a well-established bus system that can transport you to popular attractions and towns. The island also has a modern tram system that connects Santa Cruz with the popular tourist areas of La Laguna and Tenerife North Airport. This makes it easy to explore the island without needing to rent a car.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller transportation network compared to Tenerife, but it is still efficient and reliable. The island’s main mode of transportation is buses, which can take you to different parts of the island. If you prefer more freedom and flexibility, renting a car is a popular option, as the island has a well-maintained road network and parking is generally easy to find.

In terms of infrastructure, both islands have a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Both Tenerife and Lanzarote also have a good selection of restaurants, shops, and tourist services to cater to visitors’ needs.

In conclusion, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer excellent accessibility and infrastructure for travelers. Whether you prefer the larger and more diverse Tenerife or the smaller and more serene Lanzarote, you’ll find that both islands have all the necessary amenities for a memorable vacation in the Canary Islands.

Health and Safety

When it comes to health and safety, both Tenerife and Lanzarote are considered safe destinations for travel. The Canary Islands, where both islands are located, are a part of Spain and follow the same health and safety regulations as the rest of the country.

Tenerife and Lanzarote have well-developed healthcare systems with modern facilities and qualified medical professionals. Tourists can feel confident knowing that medical assistance is readily available in case of any emergencies or healthcare needs during their vacation.

COVID-19 Precautions

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have implemented strict health and safety measures to ensure the well-being of their residents and visitors. These include:

• Face mask requirements in indoor public spaces and on public transportation.
• Social distancing measures in place, with capacity restrictions in certain establishments.
• Frequent sanitization and hygiene protocols implemented in hotels, restaurants, and other public areas.
• Regular testing and monitoring of COVID-19 cases to detect and prevent the spread of the virus.

It is important for travelers to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines provided by local authorities and health organizations to ensure a safe and healthy vacation experience.

Emergency Services

In case of any emergencies, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have efficient emergency services in place. The islands have well-equipped hospitals, emergency helplines, and ambulance services to provide immediate assistance when needed.

Travelers are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers any potential medical emergencies during their stay on either island. It is also wise to familiarize oneself with the local emergency contact numbers and healthcare facilities before embarking on the trip.

In summary, both Tenerife and Lanzarote prioritize the health and safety of their residents and visitors. With well-developed healthcare systems and strict COVID-19 precautions in place, travelers can enjoy a safe and worry-free vacation experience on either island.

Local Communities and Expat Scene

When planning a vacation or travel to a new island, it’s always helpful to get advice from local communities and expat scenes. Reddit, a popular online forum, is a great platform to connect with people who have firsthand knowledge and experience.

Tenerife and Lanzarote are both beautiful islands in Spain that offer unique attractions and activities. If you’re considering a trip to either island, seeking advice from Reddit users who live or have lived in these places can provide valuable insights.

On Reddit, you can find communities dedicated to specific locations, such as r/tenerife and r/lanzarote, where you can ask questions and read posts from people who have experienced life on these islands. They can share their opinions, recommendations, and personal experiences, giving you a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle.

Expats in Tenerife and Lanzarote often form tight-knit communities, creating a support system for fellow expatriates. They arrange events, meetups, and social activities to help newcomers settle in and make new friends. If you’re planning to move to one of these islands, connecting with the local expat scene can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote have diverse expat communities with people from various backgrounds and nationalities. Whether you’re looking to socialize, find work, or simply immerse yourself in the local culture, the expat scene can provide important resources and connections.

In conclusion, when planning a trip or considering a move to Tenerife or Lanzarote, don’t hesitate to seek advice from local communities and expat scenes. Reddit and other online platforms offer a wealth of information and insights from people who know the islands best. Connect with these communities to get first-hand advice, recommendations, and support for your journey.

Cultural Festivals and Events

Tenerife and Lanzarote, being two of the Canary Islands in Spain, offer a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of festivals and events that attract both locals and tourists alike.

In Tenerife, one of the most famous festivals is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which is considered one of the biggest and most extravagant carnivals in the world. This lively event takes place in February and features colorful parades, music, dancing, and elaborate costumes. It’s a must-see if you’re visiting the island during that time.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, is known for its unique cultural events such as the Festival de los Verdiales. This traditional folk music festival celebrates the island’s cultural heritage and showcases local music, dancing, and traditional costumes. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the island’s authentic traditions.

Both islands also offer a variety of other cultural events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and more. These events provide a glimpse into the rich history and artistic talent of the Canary Islands.

If you’re planning a vacation to either Tenerife or Lanzarote, make sure to check the local event calendars and consider attending one of these cultural festivals. It’s a great way to connect with the local community, learn about the island’s heritage, and create lasting memories during your trip.

Overall, whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, you can be sure to find a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of festivals and events that showcase the unique charm and traditions of these beautiful Canary Islands.

Recommended Places to Visit

If you’re planning a vacation to the Canary Islands in Spain and are seeking advice on where to go, look no further! Reddit users have shared their favorite spots on the islands of Tenerife and Lanzarote. Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote, there are plenty of incredible places to explore.

1. Teide National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. Take a cable car ride to the top for breathtaking views of the island.

2. Los Gigantes – Known for its towering cliffs, Los Gigantes is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. Take a boat tour to see the cliffs up close or relax on the beach.

3. Santa Cruz de Tenerife – The capital city of Tenerife offers a mix of historic and modern attractions. Explore the charming old town or visit the contemporary Auditorio de Tenerife.

1. Timanfaya National Park – This unique volcanic landscape is a must-see in Lanzarote. Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s volcanic history and witness geothermal phenomena.

2. Jameos del Agua – Created by renowned artist Cesar Manrique, Jameos del Agua is a stunning cave complex with a natural pool and unique architecture.

3. Famara Beach – Known for its golden sand and rugged cliffs, Famara Beach is perfect for surfing and beach walks. Enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, these recommended places to visit will surely make your trip unforgettable. Take the advice of fellow Reddit users and explore these incredible spots in the Canary Islands!

Outdoor Sports and Water Activities

If you’re looking for a vacation with plenty of options for outdoor sports and water activities, both Tenerife and Lanzarote in the Canary Islands of Spain are great choices. Reddit users have shared their advice and experiences, giving you insights into what each island has to offer.

• Tenerife offers a diverse range of activities for adventure lovers. From hiking in the Teide National Park, exploring the Anaga Rural Park, to cycling and golfing, there’s something for everyone.
• For water sports enthusiasts, Tenerife has some excellent diving spots, with clear waters and diverse marine life. You can also try your hand at surfing, snorkeling, and sailing.
• Lanzarote, on the other hand, is a paradise for those who love outdoor sports in a unique volcanic landscape. The Timanfaya National Park offers stunning hiking and cycling routes, and you can even go camel riding.
• Water activities in Lanzarote include surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. The island also has beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the sun.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote, you’ll have no shortage of options for outdoor sports and water activities during your vacation in the Canary Islands.

Wildlife and Nature

When it comes to wildlife and nature, both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer unique experiences. As part of the Canary Islands, which are located off the coast of Spain, these islands are known for their diverse ecosystems and stunning natural landscapes.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and is home to an impressive array of plant and animal species. Its varied terrain includes lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and stunning coastlines. One of the most notable natural attractions on the island is Teide National Park, which is centered around Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors to Tenerife can also explore the Anaga Rural Park, known for its ancient laurel forests, or take a boat trip to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, has a more unique and otherworldly landscape due to its volcanic origins. The island is known for its “lunar” landscapes and stunning black sand beaches. Timanfaya National Park is a must-visit destination, where visitors can witness firsthand the powerful forces of nature that shaped the island. The park’s volcanic landscapes create a dramatic backdrop for hiking and exploration. Lanzarote also has its share of wildlife, including rare bird species and marine life. The island is home to the Jameos del Agua, a natural wonder formed by volcanic eruptions, where visitors can spot unique creatures such as albino crabs.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, both islands offer incredible opportunities to connect with nature and experience the unique wildlife of the Canary Islands. Before making a decision, it’s helpful to read advice from fellow travelers on sites like Reddit, where you can find firsthand experiences and recommendations from those who have visited these islands.

Historical and Architectural Sites

If you are a history and architecture enthusiast, both Tenerife and Lanzarote have plenty to offer.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. One of the most iconic historical sites on the island is the Pyramids of Güímar . These six-step pyramids, similar to those found in Mexico and Peru, have been a subject of mystery and speculation. Whether you believe they were built by ancient civilizations or are simply natural formations, they are definitely worth a visit.

Tenerife is also home to the Historical Centre of La Laguna , a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming old town features beautiful colonial architecture and narrow streets that lead to quaint shops, cafes, and museums. History buffs will enjoy exploring the well-preserved buildings and learning about the town’s past.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, is known for its unique architectural style, thanks to the influence of local artist César Manrique. One of the must-visit landmarks is the Timanfaya National Park , where you can see the incredible Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains). These volcanic formations offer a surreal landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

Another architectural gem in Lanzarote is Jameos del Agua . Designed by César Manrique himself, this underground cave complex is a true work of art. It features a stunning pool, concert hall, and restaurants, all built into the natural volcanic rock. A visit to Jameos del Agua is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, you won’t be disappointed when it comes to historical and architectural sites. Both islands have their own unique offerings that will captivate any traveler. So, take the advice of fellow Reddit users and embark on an island adventure you’ll never forget!

Best Time to Visit

When planning your travel or vacation to Tenerife or Lanzarote, it’s important to consider the best time to visit each island in order to make the most of your trip. Reddit users have shared their advice on when to visit these Canary Islands, both located off the coast of Spain.

Tenerife: Many Reddit users recommend visiting Tenerife during the spring or fall months, specifically April to May or September to October. During these times, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Additionally, Reddit users mention that visiting Tenerife in these shoulder seasons means avoiding the peak tourist crowds that can be present during the summer months. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience without the overcrowding.

Lanzarote: For Lanzarote, Reddit users suggest visiting between the months of October and May. During this time, the weather is still warm and sunny, but not as scorching hot as during the summer months. This makes it more comfortable for exploring the island’s unique volcanic landscapes, taking part in outdoor activities, and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

Furthermore, visiting Lanzarote during the off-peak months allows for a quieter and less crowded experience. Reddit users mention that it’s easier to find accommodations, book tours, and enjoy the island’s attractions without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Tenerife and Lanzarote according to Reddit users is during the shoulder seasons or off-peak months when the weather is still pleasant but the tourist crowds are less overwhelming. However, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking to experience during your visit to these beautiful Canary Islands.

Ferry and Airline Connections

When it comes to traveling between Tenerife and Lanzarote, there are several options for both ferry and airline connections. Whether you’re looking for a quick and convenient flight or a scenic ferry ride, there are plenty of choices available to suit your travel needs.

Ferry Connections

If you prefer traveling by sea, there are regular ferry connections between Tenerife and Lanzarote. The ferry journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the specific route and ferry company. Some popular ferry operators include Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen, both of which offer reliable service and comfortable amenities on board.

It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. You can easily book your tickets online through the ferry company’s website or through a reliable travel agency. Additionally, it’s recommended to arrive at the ferry terminal well in advance to allow for check-in and boarding procedures.

Airline Connections

For those looking for a quicker travel option, there are multiple airline connections between Tenerife and Lanzarote. Several airlines, including Ryanair, Vueling, and CanaryFly, offer regular flights between the two islands. The flight duration is typically around 1-2 hours, making it a convenient choice for those with limited travel time.

When booking your flight, it’s important to compare prices and check for any additional fees, such as baggage fees or seat selection charges. Additionally, it’s advisable to book your flight well in advance to secure the best fares and availability, especially during popular vacation seasons.

Overall, both ferry and airline connections provide convenient options for traveling between Tenerife and Lanzarote. Whether you prefer the scenic views and relaxed atmosphere of a ferry ride or the convenience and speed of an airline flight, there’s something for everyone. Ultimately, the choice between the two modes of transportation will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and travel itinerary.

Local Laws and Regulations

When planning a vacation to the Canary Islands, such as Lanzarote or Tenerife, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. Familiarizing yourself with these rules can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some important things to know:

1. Customs and Entry Requirements

• Visitors to Spain, including the Canary Islands, must have a valid passport to enter the country.
• It is important to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements specific to your country of residence.
• When traveling with children, it is advisable to carry proper identification and documentation, such as birth certificates or passports.

2. Safety and Security

• Both Lanzarote and Tenerife are generally safe destinations, but it is always wise to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
• As with any popular tourist destination, it is advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items.
• In case of an emergency, the emergency number in Spain is 112.

3. Health and Medical Facilities

• Both Lanzarote and Tenerife have adequate medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics.
• It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.
• Ensure to have any necessary vaccinations before traveling to the Canary Islands.

4. Local Laws and Customs

• Respect the local culture and customs, as the Canary Islands are part of Spain.
• Smoking in enclosed public spaces is prohibited by law.
• Drug possession, including marijuana, is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
• It is important to abide by the local laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues during your vacation.

By familiarizing yourself with the local laws and regulations in Lanzarote and Tenerife, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. Remember to always follow the advice of fellow travelers on forums like Reddit and consult official travel websites for the most up-to-date information.

Local Wildlife and Flora

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote, as part of the Canary Islands in Spain, offer unique opportunities to observe diverse wildlife and flora. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst nature, both islands have something to offer.

Tenerife, known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The island is famous for its lush forests, including the Anaga Rural Park and Teide National Park. These areas are home to unique species such as the Canarian pine and the endangered Blue Chaffinch.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, showcases a more arid landscape with its volcanic terrain. Despite this, the island boasts a surprising diversity of plant life. The Timanfaya National Park is a must-visit, where you can witness the resilience of plants that have adapted to the harsh volcanic conditions.

Both islands offer opportunities for bird watching, with Tenerife being particularly well-known for its bird species. The Laurel forest in Tenerife is home to several endemic bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers. Lanzarote, on the other hand, offers sightings of migratory bird species, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.

If you are lucky, you may also spot other native species such as lizards, geckos, and butterflies on both islands. These unique creatures add to the charm of exploring the local flora and fauna in Tenerife and Lanzarote.

Whether you choose Tenerife or Lanzarote for your vacation, make sure to take the time to appreciate the local wildlife and flora. If you are an avid nature lover, both islands offer unforgettable experiences and the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Canary Islands.

Join the conversation on Reddit for more advice and tips from fellow travelers.

Recommended Itineraries

Planning a vacation to the Canary Islands in Spain but not sure which island to visit? Reddit users have shared their recommendations based on their personal experiences in Tenerife and Lanzarote. Here are a few itineraries to consider:

These itineraries are just suggestions, and you can customize your visit to suit your preferences and interests. Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer unique attractions and experiences, so plan your vacation wisely and make the most of your time on whichever island you choose to visit.

Final Verdict

If you are seeking a more traditional, laid-back island experience, Lanzarote may be the perfect choice for you. With its unique volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and relaxed atmosphere, it offers a truly authentic island experience. The stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round pleasant weather make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more vibrant and lively atmosphere, Tenerife might be the better option. The island is known for its bustling tourist resorts, vibrant nightlife, and wide range of entertainment options. Whether you enjoy shopping, dining, or exploring the natural beauty of the island, Tenerife has something for everyone.

In terms of nature and outdoor activities, both islands offer a wealth of opportunities. Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park, with its lunar landscapes and geothermal wonders, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Tenerife, on the other hand, boasts the impressive Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak and a paradise for hikers and stargazers.

Ultimately, the choice between Tenerife and Lanzarote comes down to personal preference and what you hope to get out of your island vacation in the Canary Islands. Both islands have their unique charm and attractions, and with the right advice and planning, you can have an unforgettable experience on either island.

So whether you decide to explore the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote or indulge in the vibrant energy of Tenerife, get ready for an amazing adventure in the Canary Islands!

Question-answer:

Which island is better for a family vacation.

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer great options for a family vacation. Tenerife has a wider range of activities and attractions, including water parks, zoos, and theme parks. Lanzarote, on the other hand, has beautiful beaches and unique volcanic landscapes to explore. It ultimately depends on the interests and preferences of your family.

Which island is better for beach lovers?

If you’re a beach lover, Lanzarote is a great choice. The island boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sand. Its unique volcanic landscapes also provide a unique backdrop for beach activities. Tenerife also has beautiful beaches, but Lanzarote may have the edge in terms of beach quality and scenery.

Which island offers better nightlife?

If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Tenerife is the better choice. The island is known for its bustling nightlife, with numerous clubs, bars, and live music venues. Lanzarote, on the other hand, has a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with fewer options for nightlife entertainment.

Which island is better for outdoor activities?

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Tenerife is known for its hiking trails, including the famous Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. It also offers water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. Lanzarote, with its unique volcanic landscapes, provides opportunities for activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring lava caves. Both islands have plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts.

Which island is better for a relaxing vacation?

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, Lanzarote may be the better choice. The island has a more laid-back atmosphere with fewer crowds and a slower pace of life. It offers beautiful beaches, tranquil landscapes, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Tenerife, while also offering relaxation options, tends to be more bustling and lively, especially in popular tourist areas.

Which island is more suitable for families with kids?

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote offer a variety of family-friendly activities and accommodations. However, many Reddit users mentioned that Tenerife has more options for families with kids, including water parks, theme parks, and zoos.

What are the main attractions in Tenerife?

Tenerife is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and natural wonders. The main attractions include Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, the picturesque village of Masca, and the stunning beaches of Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas.

Are there any unique activities to do in Lanzarote?

Yes, Lanzarote offers several unique activities that you can’t experience anywhere else. Some of the popular ones mentioned by Reddit users are exploring the lunar-like landscape of Timanfaya National Park, visiting the underground natural caves of Cueva de los Verdes, and taking a camel ride in the volcanic landscape of Timanfaya.

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Best Canary Island to visit - Which one to choose?

If we lived in an ideal world, we wouldn't have to have to choose between travel destinations and we would simply go everywhere we wanted.

In the real world, where we actually live, we have to make a choice for our holiday based on time, the activities we what to do and also financial criteria.

The Canary Islands receive millions of tourists every year from all over Europe, but mostly from the UK, Germany and the countries in northern Europe.

If it's your first time traveling to the Canary Islands , you might find yourself wondering which is the best Canary Island to visit?

As you may suspect, there's no definitive answer, since in the end the decision is personal and based on what your needs for the holiday are and who you are traveling with.

So... which Canary Island to visit?

Tenerife - The island that has it all

There's no doubt as to why Tenerife is so well-loved among visitors - great weather all year long with around 300 days of sunshine per year and lots of things to do for everyone.

Traveling with kids?

Tenerife has 2 large water parks, 3 great animal parks, a submarine that takes you underwater to see marine creatures and many playgrounds with activities for children, from escape rooms, to bowling or climbing walls.

With children happy and occupied, parents will have the time to enjoy a cocktail in the evening at one of the many great bars on the island. Tenerife is also lucky to have 2 Michelin starred restaurants, if you're looking for a special evening, plus a few luxury hotels like Bahia del Duque or Abama by The Ritz Carlton.

In Tenerife you can get a taste for the Canary Islands and you can find something to do for everyone. From beaches, to hiking trails, Tenerife has it all, including the highest peak in Spain - Mount Teide, the volcano in the middle of the island that simply can't be missed.

Tenerife is however the busiest island in the Canaries, so if you like a more chilled vibe, this might not be the right one for you. There are some periods when there's less tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere, so you can read more in our article about the best time to visit Tenerife .

Find it difficult to decide which area on the island to choose for accommodation ? See our advice on where to stay in Tenerife , to get a better sense on what you can find.

Gran Canaria - Best Canary Island for couples and digital nomads

Gran Canaria is a great travel destination for couples, since it has a lively nightlife, many fiestas and festivals, especially in the south area of Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles.

Gran Canaria is also one of the most popular destinations for gay tourism in Europe, with many events happening on the island such as Las Dunas Festival or Gay Pride Maspalomas.

You can also find more relaxed areas in Gran Canaria, such as Puerto Mogan or Puerto Rico and if you want to explore more traditional villages and get to know more about the canarian lifestyle, head over to the north of Gran Canaria to the villages of Teror or Agaete.

The capital Las Palmas is a beautiful city to explore, with a really nice beach so you can even have a city break in Las Palmas if you don't have much time for a proper holiday.

 We recommend Gran Canaria for couples because you have plenty of options for nightlife, with many reputable clubs on the island.

Gran Canaria is also a good destination for digital nomads, especially the capital Las Palmas, where there is already a community of remote workers who enjoy the warm sun of the Canaries. 

Gran Canaria is a big island, just a tad smaller than Tenerife, so read more about where to stay in Gran Canaria before you book your holiday.

Lanzarote - Best Canary Island for families

Truth be told... all the Canary Islands are a good choice for a family holiday. It just depends on what type of family you are.

The island of Lanzarote is small enough that even if you want to go out and explore, you don't have large distances to go by car. If you stay in Puerto del Carmen , which is situated on the east coast and very close to the airport, you will be able to move around the island without having to drive for more than 30 - 45 minutes at a time, which is a great plus.

On top of that, Lanzarote has 2 water parks for kids: one in Playa Blanca and one in Costa Teguise, plus Rancho Texas, a great animal park in Puerto del Carmen.

We usually prefer to visit Lanzarote in autumn, when the ocean water is at its highest temperature, ideal for swimming and spending full days on the beach. But Lanzarote is a year round destination , just like all the other Canary Islands.

The great thing about Lanzarote is that it packs a lot of fun activities on a really small island, so everything is right up close. Read more on our list about things to do with kids in Lanzarote , to get see for yourself that you can't go wrong with choosing this island as a destination for your holiday.

Also, if you'd like to split your days between the beach and exploring, Lanzarote may well be the best Canary Island to visit because it's so simple to move around.

Still not convinced?

Read more about the great beaches in Lanzarote and also a guide on where to stay in Lanzarote .

Fuerteventura - Best beaches in the Canary Islands

Without a doubt, Fuerteventura has the best beaches in all the Canary Islands and also one of the top in Europe.

Actually, Corralejo, El Cotillo, Cofete, Sotavento were all named as some of the best beaches in Spain and were also included in the top best beaches in the world by various publication, from Tripadvisor to National Geographic.

If all you want is to lay on the beach and swim in crystal clear waters, then Fuerteventura is what you're looking for.

There's not much else to visit in terms of attractions, or cultural activities, but the island boasts some amazing beaches and landscapes, that will keep you occupied for some time.

Corralejo is probably the most popular resort among UK visitors, followed by Caleta de Fuste and then Costa Calma and Morro Jable, which are more popular among German tourists.

No matter where you decide to stay in Fuerteventura , make sure to rent a car or buy a bus ticket and go out to see as many beaches as possible. They all have a different charm and you'll definitely fall in love at the sight of Corralejo Grandes Playas and the amazing sand dunes.

Fuerteventura is still more relaxed compared to the other Canary Islands, so if you want a more quiet and slow paced holiday, this is the best Canary Island to visit.

See when is the best time to visit Fuerteventura

La Gomera and La Palma - Ideal for hiking and an active holiday

If you're looking for an active holiday in the Canary Islands, look no further - La Palma and La Gomera both have many trails and amazing landscapes, where you can explore and discover the beauty of these volcanic islands.

It's easier to get to La Palma, since you can find direct flight from the UK and Spain mostly and if you want to get to La Gomera you have to fly to Tenerife first and then take a short flight from Tenerife north to La Gomera, or the ferry from the south, from the harbor in Los Cristianos.

La Palma and La Gomera are not as commercialized compared to the other bigger islands, so here you won't find the all inclusive hotels, waterparks or other typical attractions. But if you want a holiday where you can spend time in nature and escape the crowds, there islands won't disappoint, since they have have the best hiking trails in the Canary Islands.

El Hierro - Away from it all

If you just want to escape the world...then go to El Hierro. It's a place that not many people can say they've visited and the most remote of the Canary Islands. It's also the smallest Canary Islands and if you want to stay here you'll have more luck in finding an Airbnb than a hotel, since the island is just not that developed in terms of tourism.

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