What to do in Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain: Travel Guide

Planning for Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain, with travel guide with accommodation tips, how to get there, attractions, where to eat and practical information.

Lanzarote is one of the seven Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and sunny weather. Lanzarote has a lot to offer for travelers of all kinds, whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.

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Brief History of Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the ancient times. The first inhabitants of the island were the Guanches, a Berber people who arrived from North Africa around the 10th century BC. They lived in caves and villages, and practiced agriculture and fishing. They also left behind some mysterious rock art and stone monuments.

The island was later visited by Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs, who influenced its culture and language. In 1402, the Spanish conquistadors arrived and began the colonization of Lanzarote and the other Canary Islands. They faced resistance from the native Guanches, who fought bravely but were eventually defeated and enslaved.

Lanzarote experienced several volcanic eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries, which transformed its landscape and created new fertile lands. The island also suffered from droughts, famines, and pirate attacks, which forced many people to emigrate to America.

In the 20th century, Lanzarote became a tourist destination thanks to its natural beauty and climate. The island also developed its own artistic and cultural identity, thanks to the influence of César Manrique, a famous local painter, sculptor, and architect who designed many landmarks and attractions in Lanzarote.

Where is Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote is located in the eastern of the Canary Islands, approximately 125 km (78 miles) from the shores of Morocco. It has an area of 845 km2 (326 sq mi) and a population of about 150,000 people.

The island is subdivided into seven municipalities for administrative purposes. Among these divisions, Arrecife stands as the principal urban center and capital, joined by the municipalities of Haría, San Bartolomé, Teguise, Tías, Tinajo, and Yaiza, each contributing to the island’s cultural and administrative landscape.

How to go to Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

To reach Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain, you can typically travel by air or sea:

By Air: The most common and convenient way to reach Lanzarote is by air. The island has its own international airport, Lanzarote Airport (ACE), which receives flights from various European cities and mainland Spain. You can find direct flights to Lanzarote from major airports in Spain like Madrid, Barcelona, and other European cities.
By Sea: Although less common for most travelers, there are ferry services available from certain ports in Spain and neighboring islands to Lanzarote. Ferries operate from ports like Cadiz or Huelva in mainland Spain, as well as from other Canary Islands like Fuerteventura.

Once you arrive at Lanzarote, the island has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis, to help you navigate and explore the different areas. Renting a car is also a popular option for visitors as it allows more flexibility in exploring the island at your own pace.

Option of transfer:

Fuerteventura to Lanzarote Ferry Crossing with Bus Service

What are the best times to visit Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and low rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature is around 21°C (70°F) in winter and 29°C (84°F) in summer. The island enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year and has a constant breeze that makes it pleasant even in the hottest months.

The best times to visit Lanzarote depend on your preferences and activities. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can go in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). If you want to enjoy the beach and water sports, you can go in summer (June-August). If you want to see some cultural events and festivals, you can go in winter (December-February).

Lanzarote: Guided Off-Road Volcano Buggy Tour with Pickup

Guided Off-Road Volcano Buggy Tour with Pickup – Join a buggy tour from Costa Teguise and discover the incredible scenery of northern Lanzarote. Ride to the tallest peak on the island, Peñas del Chache on this exciting off-road tour.

Where to stay near Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain – Best Areas and Region /Best Resort, hotel, hostel and Bed & Breakfast)

Lanzarote has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. You can choose from resorts, hotels, hostels, apartments, villas, or bed & breakfasts.

Some of the best areas and regions to stay near Lanzarote are:

Puerto del Carmen: This is the most popular tourist area in Lanzarote. It has a long sandy beach with many bars, restaurants, and shops along its promenade. It also has a lively nightlife scene with clubs and casinos. You can find here many resorts, hotels, hostels, and apartments for all budgets.
Costa Teguise: This is another tourist area on the east coast of Lanzarote. It has several beaches with calm waters and windsurfing spots. It also has a golf course, a water park, and a market. You can find here many hotels, apartments, villas, and bed & breakfasts for all budgets.
Playa Blanca: This is a tourist area on the south coast of Lanzarote. It has a beautiful beach with a marina and a ferry terminal that connects it with Fuerteventura. It also has a shopping center, a spa, and a castle. You can find here many hotels, apartments, villas, and bed & breakfasts for all budgets.
Arrecife: This is the capital and the largest city of Lanzarote. It has a historic center with a castle, a church, and a museum. It also has a modern area with a shopping mall, a cinema, and a theater. You can find here some hotels, hostels, and apartments for all budgets.
Haría: This is a rural area in the north of Lanzarote. It has a charming village with white houses and palm trees. It also has a valley of a thousand palms, a cactus garden, and a cave. You can find here some hotels, hostels, villas, and bed & breakfasts for all budgets.

There are also some other accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to do in Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote has many things to do for travelers of all kinds. You can enjoy its natural attractions, its cultural heritage, its gastronomy,
and its leisure activities. Some of the things to do in Lanzarote are:

Visit the Timanfaya National Park: This is the most famous attraction in Lanzarote. It is a volcanic park with stunning scenery of lava fields, craters, and geysers. You can take a guided bus tour or a camel ride to explore it.
Explore the Cueva de los Verdes: This is one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. It was formed by the eruption of the Corona volcano and has an underground lake and a concert hall. You can take a guided tour to see its amazing formations and colors.
See the Jameos del Agua: This is another part of the volcanic tunnel that has been transformed into an artistic and cultural center by César Manrique. It has a natural pool with albino crabs, a museum, a restaurant, and a nightclub. You can admire its architecture and its atmosphere.
Enjoy the beaches: Lanzarote has many beaches for all tastes and preferences. You can find golden sand beaches, black sand beaches, pebble beaches, or rocky beaches. You can also find calm beaches or windy beaches for surfing or kitesurfing. Some of the best beaches in Lanzarote are Playa Grande, Playa de Papagayo, Playa de Famara, Playa de las Conchas, and Playa de la Garita.
Visit the Mirador del Río: This is another creation of César Manrique that offers spectacular views of the island of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago. It is located on a cliff at 400 meters above sea level and has a café and a souvenir shop. You can enjoy its panoramic windows and its landscape.

Suggestions for touristic attractions, activities and guided tours in Canary Islands, Lanzarote:

Top 10 attractions in Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote is one of the most amazing islands in the world. It is part of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Lanzarote has a unique landscape, with volcanic formations, black sand beaches, and turquoise waters. It is also a paradise for culture, gastronomy, and adventure lovers.

There are so many things to see and do in Lanzarote that it is hard to choose only 10. But here are some of the most popular and impressive attractions that you should not miss:

Timanfaya National Park: This is the most iconic place in Lanzarote, where you can witness the power of nature and the beauty of the volcanic landscape. You can take a guided tour by bus, camel, or on foot, and see geysers, craters, and lava fields.
Cueva de los Verdes: This is a stunning cave system that was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. You can explore the underground tunnels and chambers, and admire the natural formations and colors. There is also a secret surprise at the end of the tour that will leave you speechless.
Jameos del Agua: This is another amazing creation of nature and art, where you can see a volcanic tube that has been transformed into a cultural center by the famous artist César Manrique. You can enjoy the views of the lagoon, the gardens, the auditorium, and the museum.
Mirador del Río: This is a viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the island of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago. It is also a work of art by César Manrique, who integrated the building into the natural environment.

Dolphin Watching Sunset Cruise – Enjoy an evening cruise along the stunning coast of Puerto del Carmen and look out for wild dolphins. Relax on board with a chilled mojito in hand as the sun melts over the horizon.

Jardín de Cactus: This is a botanical garden that showcases more than 1,000 species of cacti from all over the world. It is another masterpiece by César Manrique, who designed the garden with different levels, shapes, and colors.
Playa de Papagayo: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote, with golden sand and crystal-clear water. It is located in a natural park, so you have to pay a small fee to access it. But it is worth it, as you can enjoy the tranquility and the scenery.
Fundación César Manrique: This is the former house and studio of César Manrique, who was not only an artist but also an environmentalist and a visionary. You can visit his home, which is built on top of a volcanic bubble, and see his paintings, sculptures, and personal objects.
La Geria: This is a unique wine region in Lanzarote, where you can see how the local farmers cultivate their vines in volcanic soil. You can also taste some of the delicious wines that are produced here, such as Malvasia or Moscatel.
El Golfo: This is a small fishing village that has a natural attraction called Charco de los Clicos. It is a green lagoon that contrasts with the black sand beach and the red cliffs. It is a stunning sight that you should not miss.
Teguise: This is one of the oldest and most charming towns in Lanzarote, where you can see the traditional architecture and culture of the island. You can also visit the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, which is a fortress that houses a pirate museum.

Top 10 attractions in Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

North Lanzarote: Cave, Jameos del Agua, and Viewpoint – Take in unforgettable views and explore highlights including volcanic caves and an underground garden on this day trip in Lanzarote, entry fees included.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

If you only have one day to visit Lanzarote, you might want to focus on one area or theme. Here are some suggestions for different itineraries:

Volcanic itinerary: If you want to discover the volcanic essence of Lanzarote, you can start by visiting Timanfaya National Park, where you can see the amazing geothermal phenomena and learn about the history of the eruptions. Then you can head to Cueva de los Verdes or Jameos del Agua, where you can explore the underground wonders created by lava flows. Finally, you can end your day at El Golfo or Playa de Papagayo, where you can relax and enjoy the views of the coast.
Artistic itinerary: If you want to admire the artistic legacy of César Manrique in Lanzarote, you can start by visiting his foundation, where you can see his house and studio. Then you can head to Mirador del Río or Jardín de Cactus, where you can appreciate his integration of art and nature. Finally, you can end your day at Jameos del Agua or Cueva de los Verdes, where you can enjoy his cultural and artistic projects.
Cultural itinerary: If you want to learn more about the culture and history of Lanzarote, you can start by visiting Teguise, where you can see the old town and the castle. Then you can head to La Geria, where you can see the traditional wine production and taste some local wines. Finally, you can end your day at Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, where you can visit the Castillo de San Gabriel, the Church of San Ginés, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote: Full-Day Island Highlights – Explore the attractions of Lanzarote, including Timanfaya National Park, Cueva de los Verdes, and Jameos del Agua, while enjoying breathtaking views. Be amazed by the geysers in the Fire Mountains.

Where to eat in Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain – Tips for bars and restaurants

Lanzarote has a rich and varied gastronomy, influenced by its location, climate, and history. You can find many dishes that are based on fresh fish, seafood, meat, cheese, potatoes, and vegetables. You can also try some of the typical sauces, such as mojo picón or almogrote.

Here are some tips for bars and restaurants where you can taste some of the best food in Lanzarote:

El Risco: This is a restaurant that is located in Famara, a beach town that is famous for surfing. It offers a menu that is based on local products and seasonal ingredients. You can try some of the specialties, such as grilled octopus, tuna tartare, or lamb stew.
La Tegala: This is a restaurant that is located in Mácher, a village that has panoramic views of the island. It offers a menu that is based on creative cuisine and fusion of flavors. You can try some of the dishes, such as goat cheese salad, cod confit, or chocolate cake.
El Chupadero: This is a bar and restaurant that is located in La Geria, the wine region of Lanzarote. It offers a menu that is based on tapas and snacks that pair well with wine. You can try some of the options, such as cheese board, croquettes, or meatballs.
Casa de la Playa: This is a bar and restaurant that is located in Arrieta, a fishing village that has a nice beach. It offers a menu that is based on fresh fish and seafood from the local market. You can try some of the dishes, such as grilled sardines, fried calamari, or paella.
La Cantina: This is a bar and restaurant that is located in Teguise, the old capital of Lanzarote. It offers a menu that is based on international cuisine and vegetarian options. You can try some of the dishes, such as hummus, falafel, or curry.

Key tips and practical information of Lanzarote, Canary Islands in Spain

Lanzarote is an island that has a lot to offer to its visitors. But before you go, here are some key tips and practical information that you should know:

Climate: Lanzarote has a subtropical climate, with mild temperatures all year round. The average temperature is around 20°C in winter and 25°C in summer. The island has little rainfall, but it can be windy at times.
Transportation: Lanzarote has an airport that connects with other islands and mainland Spain. You can also take a ferry from other islands or from Morocco. The best way to get around the island is by car, as public transportation is limited and not very frequent. You can rent a car at the airport or in other towns.
Accommodation: Lanzarote has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. You can find hotels, resorts, apartments, villas, hostels, campsites, or rural houses. You can book online or through an agency.
Activities: Lanzarote has many activities for all tastes and ages. You can enjoy the nature, the culture, the gastronomy, or the adventure. You can go hiking, biking, surfing, diving, sailing, golfing, or horse riding. You can also visit museums, art galleries, markets, or festivals.

Timanfaya National Park Trekking Tour – Feel the energy of the volcanoes on a guided hike in Timanfaya National Park. Visit volcanoes, walk on a crater, and taste typical products of the Canary Islands including white wine.

Lanzarote is an island that will surprise you with its diversity and beauty. It is a place where you can have fun and relax at the same time. It is a destination that you will never forget.

General international travel tips

For general travel tips, be sure to check out: