the best places to visit in lanzarote

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30 Things To Do in Lanzarote - Best places to visit (2024 Guide)

If you're planning a trip to Lanzarote and you want to go out and explore (which you definitely should do), then read our list of the best things to do on the island.

What to do in Lanzarote - excursions, sightseeing and attractions

1. puerto del carmen, 2. costa teguise, 3. playa blanca, 4. discover lanzarote on a full-day tour, 5. rancho texas, 6. fun family day at aqualava waterpark, 7. timanfaya national park, 8. el golfo, 9. los hervideros, 10. admire the view from mirador del rio, 11. jameos del agua, 12. cueva de los verdes, 13. cactus garden , 14. playas de papagayo, 15. learn to surf at playa de famara, 16. lanzarote carnivals, 17. go on a cruise along the coast of la graciosa (lunch, drinks and water activities included), 18. take a walk through haria, 19. visit teguise, lazarote's former capital, 20. go to teguise market on a sunday, 21. go on an exciting volcano buggy-tour, 22. visit la geria and taste the lanzarote wine, 23. admire lanzarote's coastline on a sunset cruise, 24. visit arrecife, lanzarote's capital, 25. shop at the local markets, 26. walking tours inside timanfaya national park, 27. spend a day in fuerteventura, 28. césar manrique foundation, 29. coastal walk between puerto del carmen and puerto calero, 30. pirate museum.

Although it is one of the smaller islands in terms of size, Lanzarote is actually one of the most popular Canary Islands among foreign visitors, so there are plenty of things to do and activities for the entire family.

Best day trips and excursions in Lanzarote

There are 3 main tourist resorts in Lanzarote: Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise so we encourage you to find the best tours and excursions available from where you're staying. 

• Tours from Puerto del Carmen (Visit Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua and go on a sunset boat tour from Puerto del Carmen)
• From Playa Blanca: 40-Minute Jet Ski Excursion in Marina Rubicón (40 minutes of jet skiing for one or two people accompanied by a monitor)
• Tours from Costa Teguise (Visit Mirador del Rio, Cueva de los Verdes or spend a day at Aquapark Costa Teguise )

Puerto del Carmen is the largest and most popular resort in Lanzarote.

It's a great place for nightlife, as there are plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs that stay open until the early morning hours.

Puerto del Carmen also has several great beaches, shops and activities for kids, so it's good for a family holiday also, especially the Matagorda area. The town is situated close to the airport, so it's extremely easy to get here, by bus, taxi or car. Since it's situated very centrally on the island, it's easy to make daily excursions on your own or with tour companies.

One of the rising resorts in Lanzarote, great for families with young kids, as there are many activities around. The largest waterpark on the island is right in Costa Teguise and there are also many hotels with kids clubs so that mom and dad can also have a proper holiday. Playa de las Cucharas is known as one of the best beaches in Lanzarote , although a bit windier compared with the beaches in other resorts.

Situated in the very south of Lanzarote, Playa Blanca is a bit quieter compared to Puerto del Carmen, but it's got great beaches and many attractions nearby.

Playa Blanca also has a large marina from where you can take a lot of boat trips, including the ferry to Fuerteventura, if you're curious to spend a day in Corralejo.

If you don't want to rent a car and drive on the island on your own, you always have the option of going on an organized tour, which will show you the highlights of the island.

The main points of interest in Lanzarote are all included in this tour: Timanfaya National Park (bus ride through the volcanic landscape), Jameos del Agua, Haria Valley (or the valley of the 1000 palms) and many more interesting places, like Monumento del Campesino.

This is a really comprehensive tour and also one of the most popular tours in Lanzarote, which will surely make you fall in love with the beauty of this charming volcanic island. The tour is recommended especially for first-time visitors to Lanzarote who want to discover and see as much as possible in one day.

• Duration 9 - 10 hours
• Includes entrance to Timanfaya National Park & Jameos del Agua
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

What to do in Lanzarote for a fun family day: visit the animal parks and water parks

Ranchos Texas is the only animal park in Lanzarote, with a wild west theme and it's a great attraction for both kids and adults.

The park is situated very close to Puerto del Carmen and it's easy to get to by taxi or shuttle bus.

You can spend an entire day looking at the animals and the shows and in the evenings they have a western night, where you can party like you are in Texas.

• Visit a unique wildlife park with a Wild West theme
• Includes access to a dolphin demonstration and the chance to watch exotic birds and birds of prey

Aqualava Waterpark is located in the Playa Blanca resort and although fairly small if you compare it to Siam Park for example, it can provide a day of family fun, featuring the only saltwater wave pool in Lanzarote.

Aqualava is a great place to visit in Lanzarote, especially for families with kids, since they have attractions for all ages, including a lazy river, which is also popular with adults.

• Includes All-access tickets, Sunbeds, Umbrellas
• Recommended for families with kids

Places to visit in Lanzarote: don't miss Lanzarote's most unique attractions

If you have to choose just one place to visit in Lanzarote (but I personally don't know why you'd do that), it should be Timanfaya National Park and the bus trip around the volcanoes, to see the crater and learn more information about the volcanic of Lanzarote. 

Also, even if you don't have lunch at the restaurant located at the car park, you should go inside to see their barbecue where the chicken is cooked using the heat coming from the volcano.

• Includes lunch and wine tasting
• Visit Timanfaya National Park, El Golfo and a tasting of the award-winning wine of La Geria

The green lagoon or the Green Lake appears in many photos when you look for info about Lanzarote and it's really a place you should see with your own eyes. The color looks different depending on the moment of the day and the light outside, but no matter when you do, it's interesting to admire the lake and the ocean so close together.

Los Hervideros is usually paired as a visit with El Golfo and it's one of the best places where you can see the force of the ocean around the island of Lanzarote. The best time to visit is when it's high tide, to see the full force of the currents and waves, as this side of the coast will show you the wild nature of Lanzarote, very different from the vibe you get in the resorts.

Mirador del Rio offers the most breathtaking views in Lanzarote, overlooking the island of La Graciosa. Take care to go up there on a sunny day, otherwise, you won't see much.

You have to visit Jameos del Agua to understand more about Cesar Manrique's vision for Lanzarote. With it's lake filled with albino crabs and its unique concert hall, Jameos del Agua is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote.

By visiting the Green Caves or Cueva de los Verdes in Spanish you get the opportunity to go inside a lava tube that has solidified after the various eruptions that have taken place in Lanzarote. The cave is visited with a guided tour that lasts for one hour and it's really interesting to learn about the island's volcanic history.

An entire garden, filled with different types of cacti, offering also great views of the ocean. It's a nice activity for an hour or two, especially on a more cloudy day when you don't feel like being on the beach.

The Cactus Garden (Jardin de Cactus) is also the brainchild of Lanzarote's famous César Manrique, so the place brings together the volcanic nature of the island with a collection of cacti, making for an interesting place to visit while in Lanzarote.

Situated inside a protected area, Papagayo beach is probably the most famous beach in Lanzarote and the one that you see on all the postcards. Go there to see the most beautiful turquoise waters but remember to take something to drink and eat with you, as there are no shops inside this natural park, although there is a restaurant overlooking the beach.

If you don't have a rental car or you simply don't want to drive all the way there, you can hop on a catamaran cruise, which also includes lunch and unlimited drinks and it's a fun way to see the beaches of Costa de Papagayo, while stopping to swim and snorkel along the way.

• Includes lunch, welcome mojito cocktail, unlimited draft beer, sangria, soft drinks and water
• Transfers from and to the nearest pick-up point to your accommodation in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise included

Famara Beach is any surfer's dream and the place to come if you want to start surfing. Also, come visit to see the most amazing sunsets in Lanzarote and to enjoy a meal with fresh fish at one of the small local restaurants.

Each year, between the months of February and March, Lanzarote and the rest of the Canary Islands celebrate Carnival season. There's a party everywhere from Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Arrecife and even La Graciosa. If you're visiting at that time, do read more about the carnival in Lanzarote .

After seeing La Graciosa from Mirador del Rio you'll definitely wish to see it with your own eyes from up close. The island has very few residents and most of them live there only during the summer months. There are no asphalt roads and you rent a bike if you want to explore the island and enjoy its beauty. Playa de la Francesa and Playa de las Conchas are the best beaches on La Graciosa , just remember to take your sunscreen as there's no place to hide from the sun.

• Sail along the coast of La Graciosa on a luxury catamaran cruise
• Includes lunch, welcome mojito, unlimited beer, sangría, soft drinks, and water + use of kayaks

Haria is a typical Canarian village, situated in the valley known as the Valley of 1000 palms.

This is actually the greenest part of Lanzarote, compared to the arid aspect the rest of the island has. You can stop for a short walk in Haria or maybe come on Saturday to visit the local market. Here's a list of things to do in Haria .

Teguise was the capital of Lanzarote before Arrecife, so it's a small town full of historic buildings and significance.

Teguise is a sleepy town during the weekdays and only comes alive on Sunday, when it's a big market day. If you want to explore more around the town, you can come during the other days and walk around to find out more about the history of Lanzarote.

• Read more about things to do in Teguise .

The market in Teguise takes place every Sunday and it gets visitors from all over the island.

There are hundreds of stalls, with handmade objects, clothes, food and even the usual fake bags and watches. There's something for everyone, just take care of your purse and haggle the price before you buy something.

Teguise market is the largest market in Lanzarote and probably the largest in the Canary Islands.

Explore the north of Lanzarote on a unique and adrenaline-pumping tour.

Enjoy a small group of a maximum of 5 buggies, starting from Costa Teguise and visiting places like the old quarries of Guatiza, Los Cocoteros and reaching Lanzarote's highest point, Peñas del Chache.

• Go on a 2 or 3-hour, private or group buggy tour from Costa Teguise
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, dust protection glasses, bottled water, helmet

La Geria is the valley where the wine region of Lanzarote is located and a visit here will give you the opportunity to sample various types of wines produced on the island. Being the driver while on a wine tour may be a pretty bad experience for the one behind the wheel, so in this case, a tour would be more suitable , so everyone will be able to have a taste. 

Watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean by embarking on a 2.5-hour cruise aboard a modern and super-fast boat. There's also a good chance of seeing dolphins and other types of marine life during your trip, which is always exciting.

The cruise includes champagne and complimentary pastries, served by the professional crew while you enjoy watching the sunset over the ocean.

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Includes champagne and pastries

Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote and it's located very close to the airport and it's easy to get there either by car or by bus.

Although it's not the most exciting thing to see in Lanzarote, it can give you an idea in regards to local life beyond the tourist resorts. And they do have some pretty places like Charco San Gines and or Playa del Reducto. You can read further about the best things to do in Arrecife if you do decide to visit..

If you want to shop while on holiday in Lanzarote, a good idea is to visit the local markets. Every town and resort has at least one market day and you can read all about markets in Lanzarote if you want to know more. You'll find everything from authentic craft products to souvenirs and knock-offs like sunglasses and clothing. Teguise has the largest market on the island, but the one in Playa Blanca is in a nice location, in the marina, and some of the stalls move from one market to another, so you can find similar products between all markets.

If you've already visited Timanfaya National Park with the bus tour and you'd like to explore even further, you can go on one of the walking tours organized by the authority that has the park into administration. There are several guided walks available and you need to book online in advance.

If maybe you are curious about Fuerteventura, why not pop over and visit for the day? It is very easy to cross from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura on board of the ferry, and afterward, you can spend the entire day either in Corralejo, or you can take a quick taxi to Corralejo Natural Park, see the sand dunes and the amazing beaches, before heading back again to Lanzarote in the evening.

• Transport to the ferry and back to the pickup point
• Roundtrip ferry ticket & 5 hours of free time

The famous Spanish César Manrique was originally from Lanzarote, so a lot of the main attractions in Lanzarote are his creations, showing us today the vision he had for his island in terms of blending design and functionality with respect for the environment and the surrounding natural space. 

The location where the Foundation is now used to be Cesar Manrique's home for twenty years, between 1968 and 1988, and the house offers truly a unique experience, as it sits on a 30,000 sqm plot, and it combines modern elements of design with old traditional architecture, specific to Lanzarote.

If you're staying in Puerto del Carmen, one of the island's most popular resorts, we highly recommend the walk to Puerto Calero, which can be completed in under one hour one way.

If you've done it all and think there's nothing more to discover on the island...think again! Here's a list of secret places in Lanzarote to add to your list of places to see.

• This museum is temporarily closed due to renovation works.

Located inside the Fortress Santa Barbara, the Pirate Museum can prove to be an interesting experience for adults and children as well.

The Pirate Museum is located next to the Villa de Teguise and boasts spectacular views of the ocean and the island.

Lanzarote is a great place to visit with the family and you should check out our list of things to do with kids in Lanzarote in order to plan some fun days for the little ones. 

• Best apartments in Lanzarote: Apartamentos Fariones (Puerto del Carmen) • Apartamentos El Guarapo (Costa Teguise) 
• Popular hotels in Lanzarote: Barceló Teguise Beach - Adults Only  4* (Costa Teguise) • Hyde Park Lane 3* (Puerto del Carmen)
• Luxury 5* hotel in Lanzarote: Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park (Playa Blanca) • Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa (Arrecife)
• See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Lanzarote .
• Best Excursions & Tours: Volcanoes and Caves: Full-Day Tour  • Fire Mountains in Southern Lanzarote: Half-Day Tour

20 Best things to do in Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote (2024 Guide)

17 Things To Do in Costa Teguise, Lanzarote - Best Places to Visit

10 Best Beaches in Lanzarote and La Graciosa

18 Best Things To Do in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

Visit El Golfo & the Green Lake in Lanzarote

Los Hervideros, Lanzarote - See the volcanic cliffs and caves

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The 13 best things to do in Lanzarote

Looking to explore this wild wonderland in the Canary Islands? Enjoy the best things to do in luscious Lanzarote

There is much more to Lanzarote than Brits abroad and English breakfasts. Sure, you’ll find plenty of both, but if you can manage to swerve overdeveloped areas like Playa del Carmen and Costa Teguise you’ll find a wild wonderland waiting to be explored and adored.

This beautiful Canary Island is actually filled with palm-filled towns, gorgeous beaches and delicious fresh fish. Lanzarote is often a love letter to the heart and soul of influential artist César Manrique, with many stunning homes and attractions related to the great man. The best things to do in Lanzarote might surprise you.

RECOMMENDED: 🌵 The best things to do in Gran Canaria 🏄‍♀️ The best things to do in Fuerteventura 🗻 The best things to do in Tenerife 🏨 The best hotels in Lanzarote

Gemma Bowes is a travel writer with expertise in Lanzarote . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Lanzarote things to do

1.  Timanfaya National Park

What is it?  Volcanoes! But don’t worry, you won’t have to flee from bubbling lava. The dormant volcanoes haven’t erupted since 1824. Massive eruptions from more than 100 of them, between 1730-36, created the vast basalt landscape that covers around a quarter of the island. It’s now, largely, a national park. 

Why go?  This spectacular moonscape is too dangerous to explore on foot, but a coach tour gives an exciting overview of the sea of lava with 25 craters. At the Montanas del Fuego centre, you can watch guides drop straw into a hole, where it bursts into flame. Dishes are cooked using geothermal heat at the El Diablo restaurant. An alternative, quirky way to explore is in an open-sided electric Twizy car.

2.  César Manrique Foundation: Taro de Tahiche

What is it?  Manrique’s to-die-for home/studio in Las Palmas is built into an old lava flow, with five underground cavern rooms in natural volcanic bubbles, interconnected with tunnels.

Why go?  Unless you’re a millionaire rock star, the Tahíche is  probably the coolest home you’ll ever step foot in, a blend of volcanic rock, clever architecture and art. Curvy swimming pools set into white terraces surrounded by palms and stunning mid-century furniture are offset by the bubbly black rock walls.

3.  Museo Atlántico

What is it?  Europe’s first underwater sculpture museum, in the sea near Marina Rubicon, features cement figures and sculptures by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, which are slowly being colonised by marine life.

Why go?  Lanzarote is famous for  scuba diving , but drifting through thought-provoking sculptures 12-metres down is a whole different experience. When you visit Museo Atlántico , look out for the Raft of Lampedusa, showing a dingy full of refugees.

4.  Natural swimming pools

What is it?  Outdoor sea swimming pools can be found around Lanzarote’s southern and eastern coasts, most natural formations in the rocks, with only steps and ladders added. Others are more built structures but with an opening to the sea.

Why go?  A calmer place to swim than out in the sea proper but wilder than a chlorinated pool, these seaside lidos are often deserted. Do some laps in Los Charcones near Playa Blanca, and Punta Mujeres in the north.

5.  Famara surfing

What is it?  Surfers worldwide are drawn to Famara’s epic beach and reef breaks, but its five-kilometre swathe of sand is a joy even for those who don’t like checking into the green room. The cool little town behind it is full of colourful surf cafes, bars and hostels.

Why go?  Paddle, run its length, or build a sandcastle, then duck into Restaurant El Risco for a delicious fish lunch. Or book a two-day surf course.

6.  Jameos del Agua caves

What is it?  Lanzarote’s most famous artist, César Manrique, gave the island a funkadelic aesthetic, of which this sexy underground location is the crowning glory. The Jameos del Agua caves  are home to a restaurant, curvy pool, and auditorium with bar seats built into the rocks and ferns cascading from the walls. 

Why go?  Imagine a fantasy party hosted by James Bond, Barbarella and Twiggy in the sixties – this would be the venue, and it will blow your mind. After dark, there are live music and gastronomy events.

7.  Haría

What is it? The drive up to the hilltop village of Haría might be a bit white-knuckle, but the reward is a super-chilled atmospheric enclave of whitewashed villas, towering palms and tropical plants that feels like some lost Arabic paradise.

Why go? The exotic vibe here is a world away from the tacky resorts in the south. Visit Haría 's Casa de César Manrique, one of the artist’s more homely abodes, in a palm grove. Here you’ll find an enviable haul of bubble chairs, zany textiles and art, plus unfinished work left as it was in his old studio.

8.  Teguise

What is it?  Found in 1402, Teguise is the oldest settlement in the Canaries and was Lanzarote’s capital for 450 years, thanks to its elevated position. It’s full of attractive white buildings, squares and palm trees, with a great Sunday market (top buys: local cheese and leather bags).

Why go?  It’s a charming place for pottering between craft shops and bars. Nearby in Nazaret, you’ll find LagOmar, another Manrique creation. Explore this home built from lava and caves and furnished with bits from shipwrecks, and then pop into the stylish museum restaurant.

9.  Arrieta

What is it?  A small village in the northeast of the island. You’ll find unspoilt white beach Playa de La Garita and a harbour where fishing boats bob. There are lovely places to eat a simple, relaxed lunch.

Why go?  A surprisingly good place to eat is  Marisqueria El Charcon , where the harbour juts out into the sea, and there are steps to the water that people fish from. It looks like a bog-standard cheap and cheery caff, with plastic chairs, but does plates of fresh fish and chips that will just make you happy.

10.  Jardín de Cactus

What is it?  A lovely garden full of cacti of every size, shape and variety, laid out like an amphitheatre in an old quarry. Mr Manrique is to thank once again for this ultra-Instagrammable attraction.

Why go? Jardín de Cactus  might just be  the coolest, spikiest place on earth, with 4,500 specimens of 450 species thriving in a sun-trap of a dip in the arid landscape. The stylish café/bar sells fresh juices and green-tinged cactus burgers made from prickly pear cactus and potato.

11.  El Golfo

What is it?  Where powerful Atlantic breakers pound the western volcanic coast, several paper tablecloth cafés, such as Restaurant Costa Azul, offer ringside seats. Feel the sea spray on your cheeks while devouring fresh fish with Canarian potatoes.

Why go?  It’s invigorating to watch the drama of waves smashing onto the black rocks a few feet away and seabirds soaring above. Prepare to scream when a big wave hits. The jagged rocks at Los Hervideros nearby provide good photo ops.

12.  Marina Rubicon

What is it?  This busy marina full of yachts and seafront cafes on the edge of the southern town of Puerto del Carmen is hugely popular with tourists and worth a trip for duty-free shopping.

Why go? The Marina  may verge on being a tad tacky, despite the upmarket stores, but it’s good fun if you need a retail hit but don’t fancy hitting the big city of Arrecife. Stores behind the seafront sell designer clothing, from the likes of Tommy Hilfiger and Lacoste, for bargain prices.

13.  Playa de Papagao

What is it?  A beach beauty. In fact, seven. A series of pale yellow stretches on a headland in the far south, separated by lava rock. They’re sheltered, with no scary undertows or currents.

Why go?  While other beaches on the island are interesting in their way – Playa del Charco de los Clicos for its black sand, red cliffs and a green lagoon, Playa Chica for its thriving seabeds – this is the go-to spot for soft sand and safe, easy swimming.

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25 Best Things to Do in Lanzarote, Spain + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Canary Islands | Lanzarote | 25 Best Things to Do in Lanzarote, Spain + MAP

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If you’re looking for the best things to do in Lanzarote , you’ve come to the right place. This Canary Island has plenty to offer, including countless activities and an unbeatable year-round climate that attracts many tourists.

In fact, we once took a trip here in the middle of January and were still able to go swimming at some stunning beaches. This island is a declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so we also enjoyed hiking in some of the best national parks in Spain . For all these reasons, Lanzarote is considered one of the most beautiful Canary Islands .

With so many lovely places to visit in Lanzarote , it’s a good idea to rent a car so you can quickly and easily get around the island. With your own vehicle, you can even reach the more remote attractions on Lanzarote .

Of course, if you don’t want to drive or you have limited time here, you can take this tour that covers the best areas in Lanzarote in one day. In case you have more time, it’s definitely worth spending several days on the island to really explore.

To help you plan your trip to Lanzarote , I’m sharing my top tips, including what to see in Lanzarote , where to stay, and the best restaurants. And don’t forget that you can find cheap flights to Lanzarote , making this an affordable destination for your next holiday!

1. Timanfaya National Park, one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote

First, visiting Timanfaya National Park is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote , as it’s one of the most impressive places to visit in Spain .

This park features some very interesting geomorphological structures dating back to the volcanic eruptions of 1730, 1736, and 1824. As a result, there isn’t any vegetation here, although there are lichen that create an otherworldly landscape that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, the volcanic cones and the badlands have red, orange, ochre, and black tones that provide a beautiful contrast.

The best way to experience Timanfaya National Park is by traversing the volcano route , which is only accessible by a bus that takes you to the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains). You can also go to the camel stables and book a camel ride, but we prefer to avoid animal attractions and instead explore the park on foot.

If you’re staying far from the park and don’t have a way to get there, you can book an excursion to Timanfaya . This way, you’ll have transportation and the help of a guide who will share all kinds of interesting information and tips. I recommend this full-day tour , which departs from Costa Teguise, Arrecife, and Puerto del Carmen.

If you’re traveling with kids, visiting Timanfaya is an excellent thing for families to do in Lanzarote . You should also stop at El Diablo Restaurant, which does cooking demonstrations using the heat from the fumaroles.

2. Visit Cueva de los Verdes, a popular thing to do in Lanzarote

Cueva de los Verdes is another important attraction in Lanzarote that you should see. It is not just a lava tube formed thousands of years ago, but also an artistic monument created by César Manrique, the most celebrated artist in Lanzarote.

Over 4,000 years ago, the La Corona Volcano erupted, and lava flowed through the area, which eventually cooled and formed lava tubes. The tubes extend about 3.7 miles long and were used as a refuge from pirate attacks in the 17 th century.

Nowadays, a section of these volcanic tubes is open to visitors, thanks to the efforts and craftsmanship of César Manrique. His aim was to make several natural landmarks in Lanzarote accessible to the public, and the Cueva de los Verdes is an excellent example of this.

You can visit the lava tube on your own, or book this tour , which also goes to Timanfaya, the Mirador del Río, and the Jameos del Agua, which I’ll talk about next.

3. Los Jameos del Agua, one of the most unique attractions in Lanzarote

The La Corona Volcano is one of the most important volcanoes in Lanzarote , especially since it also formed the Jameos del Agua . This is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote , and it also owes part of its creation to César Manrique.

Here, the sea water trickled through and created an interior lake, where one of the rarest species in the world lives. The jameito, or albino crab, is the star of this Lanzarote attraction , although it’s not the only thing you’ll see here.

Inside the cave, there is also a restaurant, an interesting museum, and a concert hall designed by Manrique. It hosts live music and other entertainment, so coming here is a unique thing to do in Lanzarote .

You can take this guided tour to enter the Jameos del Agua and other Lanzarote hot spots like Timanfaya National Park, the Cueva de los Verdes, and the Mirador del Río.

4. See the Mirador del Río, an amazing thing to do in Lanzarote

As I’ve alluded to, the Mirador del Río is one of the most beautiful places in Lanzarote , so it’s a must-see during your trip. From here, you can get the most gorgeous views of the island, including panoramic views of La Graciosa and the other islands that comprise the Chinijo archipelago, as well as the Salinas, Montaña Clara, and Alegranza.

The viewpoint is yet another work by César Manrique and sits nearly 1,550 feet above sea level, making it the highest point of the Risco de Famara. To access this lookout, you must reserve a ticket in advance, preferably for sunset. You can also book this excursion , which includes access to the viewpoint and several stops, including Timanfaya, the Cueva de los Verdes, and the Jameos del Agua.

5. Papagayo Beach, a beautiful place to visit in Lanzarote

The beautiful beaches here are must-sees in Lanzarote , although if there is one that you can’t miss it’s Papagayo Beach . Not only is it one of the best beaches on the island, but it’s also considered one of the top beaches in Spain .

Part of Papagayo’s allure is its prime location within the Ajaches Natural Monument . This is a protected reserve where you can also find natural caves and ancient engravings. Also, if you like to hike, check out Pico Redondo, the highest point in the Ajaches and one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote .

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting this area by car, you’ll have to pay the $3 parking fee, which is a small price to pay for some of the most stunning landscapes on the island. And if you’re interested, you should know that this is one of the few areas where you can go camping in Lanzarote .

Also, since Papagayo Beach is in the southernmost part of the reserve, it’s an excellent place to enjoy swimming and watersports like kayaking and snorkeling or a catamaran cruise . For something even more exclusive, I recommend this adults-only sailing trip .

6. Go to Puerto del Carmen, a fun place to visit in Lanzarote

Puerto del Carmen is one of the best towns in Lanzarote , especially if you like to party, as some of Lanzarote’s best clubs are here. If you time your trip right, you can visit during some popular events like the Puerto del Carmen Carnival, the triathlon, or other local festivals.

Of course, there are other fun things to do in Puerto del Carmen . For example, watersports are common here since the beaches in Puerto del Carmen offer the perfect conditions. If you want to go swimming, snorkeling, or diving, check out Playa Chica, Playa de los Pocillos, or Playa Grande. The seabed in these areas is incredible, so I highly recommend this diving experience . It’s designed for all levels, so it’s the best option for beginners.

In addition to having some of the best things to do in Lanzarote , Puerto del Carmen is home to a wide range of hotels. A good idea could be making this town your home base from which you explore other parts of the island. You can read our guide on where to stay in Lanzarote to find some great accommodation options.

7. Go whale and dolphin-watching, one of the best things to do in Lanzarote with kids

Without a doubt, whale and dolphin-watching is one of my favorite things to do in Lanzarote . Whenever we have the chance to take one of these tours, we jump on it, as seeing these gorgeous animals in their wild habitat is absolutely incredible. I like this tour in particular, although you can find several great options in our guide.

The best thing about the boat tour in Lanzarote I recommended is that the guides offer lots of interesting information while also respecting the wild whales and dolphins. Plus, the tour includes snacks, champagne, and pick-up/drop-off service, so everything is taken care of for you.

Of course, you must keep in mind that these are wild animals, so it’s impossible to predict their movements with 100% accuracy. That said, the tour operators have many years of experience, so you have a very good chance of spotting whales or dolphins. We’ve always had luck on our trips, and I think it’s one of the most memorable activities in Lanzarote that you can do.

8. Playa Blanca, a touristy place to visit in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Playa Blanca is another place where you can find fun things to do in Lanzarote . This town offers a vibrant nightlife scene and some of the best bars on the island, so it’s an ideal place to visit with friends. If that sounds good to you, I recommend Jungle’s Bar or Swing nightclub, which has a tamer atmosphere.

Along with all the parties and entertainment options, there are other attractions in Playa Blanca . For example, one of the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote , Papagayo Beach, is in this area, along with several other great beaches.

You can also head to the dock and take one of the ferries to Fuerteventura , another Canary Island that’s worth visiting. You can even take a one-day trip to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote , so if you don’t have much time, you can still discover all the wonderful places on Fuerteventura .

9. Arrecife, one of the best places to visit on Lanzarote’s southern coast

Arrecife has been the capital of Lanzarote since the 19 th century, and it stands out as the island’s commercial hub. As you can imagine, it offers plenty of things to do in Lanzarote , especially if you’re interested in history and culture.

The Castles of San José and San Gabriel are among the best places to see in Arrecife , although it’s also worth visiting the Castle of San Ginés and the Puente de las Bolas . There are also lovely beaches here, with Reducto Beach being my favorite. It’s protected by a reef, making it one of the most beautiful places in Lanzarote .

Without a doubt, Arrecife is one destination in Lanzarote that you can’t miss, and you can even find several top-rated Lanzarote excursions that depart from here.

10. Costa Teguise, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Lanzarote

Speaking of the best places to go in Lanzarote , I must also add Costa Teguise . This town has lots of fun activities, including nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. It also hosts music festivals and even has a waterpark, so you can come here with kids.

For those who prefer the outdoors, Costa Teguise offers a variety of watersports like diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Don’t worry if you’re new to any of these sports; instead, book this scuba lesson and discover the underwater wonders of this area.

If you’d rather just enjoy the sunny beaches of Costa Teguise , check out Playa de Las Cucharas or Jablillo Beach. Both are perfect for sunbathing, and they have calm waters, so visiting them is a nice thing to do in Lanzarote for families .

Finally, don’t forget to spend some time enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Pueblo Marinero, one of the top attractions in Costa Teguise created by César Manrique.

11. Go wine-tasting in La Geria, one of the best activities in Lanzarote for couples

If you’re visiting the island with your partner and looking for things to do in Lanzarote for couples , I recommend visiting La Geria . This is Lanzarote’s coveted wine region, and its vineyards are in a protected area, so the quality of the grapes is unmatched.

What’s interesting about La Geria wine is that its grapes are grown in volcanic sediment and cultivated using special methods. This creates a unique and delicious flavor, which many consider to be the best of Lanzarote. I recommend the Malvasía white wine, which is world renowned and the perfect accompaniment for fish dishes.

Even if you don’t like wine, visiting La Geria is a romantic thing to do in Lanzarote since the landscape is quite striking. I’m sure you’ll appreciate the picturesque scenery of green vineyards contrasted by the black volcanic earth.

And if you do want to try some wines, I recommend the tour we took , which includes a visit to one of the La Geria wineries. Your guide will explain the unique cultivation methods used here, and your wine tasting is paired with gourmet chocolate.

12. El Golfo, another good place to visit in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

El Golfo is a quaint fishing village with some of the most wondrous landscapes in Lanzarote. What really stands out are the cooled remains from the volcanic eruptions of 1730 and 1736, which contrast against the white facades of the traditional houses.

In addition, El Golfo shares a border with Timanfaya National Park, so it’s one of the best towns in Lanzarote to visit. From here, you can walk along the Ruta del Litoral and go through the park or stay in town and explore its charming streets and seaside promenade. I also recommend checking out Charco de los Clicos, one of the coolest things to do in Lanzarote .

In addition, there are also lots of delicious restaurants here, so it’s a great opportunity to try some authentic Canarian dishes . After enjoying some sightseeing in Lanzarote , you can tuck in for an amazing meal in El Golfo.

13. Charco de los Clicos, one of the coolest attractions in Lanzarote

As I mentioned, if you’re in El Golfo, you must go to Charco de los Clicos  because it’s pretty close.

Charco de los Clicos is a volcanic crater that has been eroded on one side, giving it the shape of a crescent moon. The erosion also allows seawater to fill up the crater, which forms a lagoon with an intense green color. The color comes from the algae inside the crater, which has a high sulfur content.

While you can’t swim here, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Lanzarote , and an excellent spot to photograph. To get there, follow the path from El Golfo that goes to the panoramic viewpoint of Charco de los Clicos. It’s a pleasant walk thanks to the lovely surrounding landscapes, so don’t forget your camera.

14. Los Hervideros, something you must see in Lanzarote

Another Lanzarote attraction that you can find in Los Volcanes Natural Park in Yaiza is Los Hervideros . The name comes from the effect caused by the ocean waves that hit these ancient lava tunnels. The splashing of the water against the cliffs evokes the image of boiling water or a hot spring ( el hervidero ).

Los Hervideros borders Timanfaya National Park, so from here, you can get amazing views of the cliffs with the volcanoes in the background. Ideally, you should visit this area when there are rough seas so you can really experience the effect.

While this is a fun, free thing to do in Lanzarote , you should be especially careful if you’re traveling with kids. Don’t get too close to the edge and keep an eye on the little ones so they don’t slip and fall.

15. Hike the Ruta del Litoral, one of the best outdoor things to do in Lanzarote

The Ruta del Litoral (Coastal Route) is one of the best hiking trails in Lanzarote , so if you enjoy the outdoors, this is one of the best activities in Lanzarote . Plus, it’s a hike you can do with family or friends. While the surrounding landscapes are wild and rugged, the path itself is short and simple, so you shouldn’t have any trouble.

The trailhead is in El Golfo, and you’ll follow it to El Paso Beach, then through Timanfaya National Park. Along the way, you’ll be able to discover the unusual features of the island’s volcanic geology and landscapes. You should also keep an eye out for the Cory’s shearwater, an endangered bird species that’s native to the island.

The entire hike is about 4.3 miles, so it’ll take around three hours to complete. If you’re interested, I suggest checking here to see if there are any official park rangers who are available to do a guided hike. It’s free to do, so if you want to explore one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lanzarote , I highly recommend it.

16. Do the Tremesana Route from Yaiza, another adventurous thing to do on Lanzarote

The Tremesana Route is another hike that you can do in Lanzarote. If you want to hike this trail, you must join a guided tour and book your spot through this link since reservations are required. Tours are limited to eight people per group , so it’s best to book your spot in advance. We actually had to change our itinerary so we could join the only group that had two free spots.

Of course, it was totally worth it, as we had a knowledgeable guide with us who shared all kinds of interesting facts about the area and its geological history. Plus, it was a free thing to do in Lanzarote , which was an added bonus.

You’ll go through Timanfaya National Park and meet your guide in Yaiza, where you’ll begin an incredible journey through the volcanic landscape of Tremesana. The total hike is a little less than three miles and takes around three hours to complete. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best things to do in Lanzarote , especially if you want to learn more about the island’s flora and geology.

17. Visit the town of Teguise, another fun thing to do in Lanzarote

Teguise is another one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote . With its picturesque streets and charming allure, it’s considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain .

You can visit Teguise on your own, but if you want to learn more about its history and culture, you can take this free tour (in Spanish). If you’re exploring on your own, I recommend strolling through the historic town center and getting lost among its narrow streets and traditional architecture.

There are other cool things to do in Teguise , such as visiting the Teguise Market, one of the most famous markets in the Canary Islands. Here, you can find all kinds of goods and artisan products, although the handmade ceramic handicrafts are the most popular. Los Novios de El Mojón (The Bride and Groom of El Mojón) are iconic symbols of Teguise, so you’re sure to see these figures are the market.

The market is only open on Sundays, but if you’re visiting on any other day, it’s still worth it. This is one of the best towns in Lanzarote , and you can easily spend half a day here exploring its attractions. Afterward, head to one of the local restaurants for a traditional Canarian meal.

18. La Graciosa, one of the top places to visit near Lanzarote

Visiting La Graciosa is a must-do in Lanzarote , and you can find several excursions in Lanzarote that go to La Graciosa in one day. While you can see the main attractions in a day, we decided to spend a night on this incredible island so we could take our time exploring.

To get to La Graciosa from Lanzarote , you must take the ferry from Órzola. Once you reach La Graciosa, you can rent a bicycle and visit Las Conchas Beach , Bermeja Mountain , or Francesa Beach . Or, you can take a hike on one of the trails and enjoy the stunning scenery. If you’re short on time, I suggest booking this tour , which includes your round-trip ferry ticket and a catamaran cruise around the coast of La Graciosa.

This may be a small island, but it’s full of wonderful natural sights and volcanic landscapes, so it’s one of the top places near Lanzarote to visit.

19. Stroll along Famara Beach, a relaxing thing to do in Lanzarote

You can’t go to Lanzarote without checking out the beach, and Famara Beach is one of the best. Here, the waves and ocean breeze are perfect for enjoying water activities in Lanzarote , so if you’re a fan of surfing, it’s the place to go.

There are all kinds of things to do here, such as surfing, bodyboarding, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. You can also take a paragliding flight like this one to see the beach from above. If you’re in the mood for something not so extreme, take a walk along the coastline and check out the puddles and tidepools that form with the rise and fall of the tide.

Another thing you can do here is visit the Risco de Famara viewpoint , a 1,575-foot cliff that overlooks the beach and part of the island. Bring your camera, because the photo opportunities here are undeniable. The viewpoint is located in El Bosquecillo Park, between Teguise and Haría. It’s accessible by car, but the road is quite narrow and winding, so be extra careful.

20. Las Grietas, a little-known place to visit in Lanzarote

Las Grietas is a nice place to visit in Lanzarote  and a hidden gem that some tourists don’t know about. Here, you’ll find layers of solidified lava that were formed thousands of years ago by several volcanic eruptions. The area is known for its curious geological features, particularly where the slope of the Montaña Blanca volcano cracks, and this is where the name Las Grietas came from.

As I said, this place isn’t very well-known, so if you’re looking for attractions in Lanzarote that are off the beaten path, Las Grietas is a great choice. Besides, this area is an excellent example of the island’s volcanic history, so it holds a lot of significance.

To get there, take the LZ-35 highway, which connects the towns of San Bartolomé and Tías. You’ll find an unpaved lot where you can park your car. Then, walk across the tunnel to the other side of the road and follow the path leading up the mountains to Las Grietas.

21. Visit the Jard ín de Cactus, an interesting place to visit in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

The Jard ín de Cactus (Cactus Garden) is another César Manrique masterpiece that has become a popular tourist attraction in Lanzarote .

21. Visit the Jardín de Cactus, an interesting place to visit in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

This unique 54,000ft² garden contains about 10,000 cacti and 1,400 different species. It’s easily recognizable thanks to its 26-foot-tall statue, which is actually a giant cactus. The garden is in Teguise and also has old, preserved mills, a bar, and a café with one of Manrique’s murals.

You can explore the garden on your own, but if you’re interested in seeing other works by César Manrique, consider this tour . It includes admission to several of his most important monuments, including the Jardín de Cactus and the Jameos del Agua. It’s a great way to visit a few Lanzarote landmarks in one tour.

22. Browse the Cesar Manrique House Museum, something to do in Lanzarote with kids

Another way to appreciate the works of César Manrique is by visiting the César Manrique House Museum . It’s known as one of the top attractions in Lanzarote , as it preserves the art and history of Manrique’s creations, which are essential to the island.

Inside, you’ll learn all about the artist and his mission to bring parts of Lanzarote to the public while also sharing the island’s history, culture, and traditions. The museum describes the motivations and processes behind iconic works like the Mirador del Río, the Cueva de los Verdes, the Jameos del Agua, and the Jardín del Cactus.

The building itself is in the middle of a beautiful palm grove in Haría and is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission is just €10 and €3 for kids ages 7-12, making this a good thing for families to do in Lanzarote . Also, remember that if you’re interested in seeing some of Manrique’s creations in person, you can take this tour and save on admission to several attractions.

23. Janubio Salt Flats, another hidden place to visit in Lanzarote

The Salinas de Janubio (Janubio Salt Flats) offer a one-of-a-kind perspective of the island, and they’re close to Charco de los Clicos and Los Hervideros, so you can combine all three Lanzarote attractions in one day. I recommend saving the salinas for last since, at sunset, the golden glow is reflected beautifully in the salt flats.

Although the salt flats were non-functional for a time, they’re back in operation and produce some of the best salt in the world. This natural protected area also contains Janubio Beach, which is made up of black volcanic pebbles. It’s worth visiting both places in Lanzarote , especially since the landscapes are so striking.

24. The Atlantic Museum & other diving sites in Lanzarote

For a totally unique thing to do in Lanzarote , I recommend going to the Atlantic Museum . This museum is super special in that it’s located 50 feet under the sea. Below the surface of the water, you’ll find a collection of underwater sculptures by artist Jason de Caires Taylor, as well as native marine life and coral.

If you’re up for the adventure, head to Playa Blanca, one of the best towns in Lanzarote and home to the Atlantic Museum. Don’t worry if you’re an inexperienced diver, because each underwater dive is accompanied by an instructor. And if you prefer, you can book this beginners diving experience in Costa Teguise (or this one in Puerto del Carmen) to get your sea legs and practice before diving to the Atlantic Museum.

25. Visit Los Charcones & other natural pools in Lanzarote

By now, you’re probably no longer wondering what to do in Lanzarote , but I have one last recommendation. The natural pools of Lanzarote are stunningly beautiful, formed by volcanic lava and offering a one-of-a-kind place to go swimming.

There are several popular natural pools on the island, but the most impressive one is Los Charcones . It’s in Playa Blanca and nestled between the Pechiguera Lighthouse and the Janubio Salt Flats. The crystal clear waters of this lagoon invite you to jump in and enjoy a relaxing swim.

Another lovely natural pool is in the town of Haría. Charco del Palo is a popular place to visit in Lanzarote for nude swimming and sunbathing and was the first area to allow nudism in the Canary Islands back in the ‘70s.

Another one that I recommend is Caletón Blanco , a natural cove with calm, crystalline waters and a mix of fine white sand and black volcanic pebbles. It’s near Órzola and is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote with children since the waters are super tranquil.

Where to stay in Lanzarote – Best hotels in Lanzarote

There are many places to stay in Lanzarote , so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding an accommodation that suits your travel needs.

We’ve visited the island several times and have stayed in different kinds of hotels, villas, and apartments. One of our favorites is the Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa in Puerto Calero. It’s an adults-only resort, making it the perfect place for couples who want to spend a few relaxing days together. It’s also one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain , so you’ll be able to fully recharge after visiting all the attractions in Lanzarote .

Even if you’re on a budget, you can find lovely hotels with affordable rates and nice facilities. I like the Jardines del Sol , one of the best apartments in Playa Blanca . The complex also has villas that accommodate up to 10 people, so it’s a good option if you’re traveling as a group.

Another excellent option is the Hotel Club Siroco , one of the cheapest hotels in Lanzarote , specifically in Costa Teguise. It offers a prime location and very clean facilities at a competitive price. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside, or you want an accommodation with relaxing amenities like a pool, this is one of the top choices.

After enjoying all the fun things to do in Lanzarote , you’ll want a nice place to rest for the night, so check out our specific guides for more ideas on where to stay:

Best hotels in Lanzarote

Discover the best hotels in Lanzarote

All-inclusive hotels in Lanzarote

Find the best all-inclusive hotels in Lanzarote

Cheap hotels in Lanzarote

The best cheap hotels in Lanzarote for tight budgets

Villas in Lanzarote

Discover the best villas in Lanzarote for a luxurious stay

Apartments in Lanzarote

Discover the best apartments in Lanzarote

5-star hotels in Lanzarote

Discover the best 5-star hotels in Lanzarote for a worry-free holiday

Family hotels in Lanzarote

If you're traveling with kids, book one of the best family hotels in Lanzarote

Boutique hotels in Lanzarote

Discover the best boutique hotels in Lanzarote for a charming stay

Where to eat in Lanzarote – Best restaurants in Lanzarote

There are many delicious restaurants in Lanzarote where you can try typical Canarian dishes and flavors. I recommend avoiding the touristy places, as they tend to have higher prices for mediocre food.

Instead, check out my favorite place in Lanzarote to eat, La Cocina de Colacho . It’s in Playa Blanca and serves signature dishes made with the finest ingredients. Not only is it considered one of the best restaurants in Playa Blanca , but it also has a permanent art exhibition with beautiful paintings and photographs.

If you’re in Arrecife, I suggest eating at El Nido , a lovely oceanfront restaurant specializing in Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. While it has all kinds of dishes, I recommend ordering the laing , a tuna steak that has earned this restaurant a great reputation as one of the top restaurants in Arrecife .

Over in Puerto del Carmen, I like La Carmencita del Puerto , a tapas restaurant with affordable prices and nice ocean views. They serve all kinds of tapas, but the cider choricitos are particularly good. Overall, it’s one of the best restaurants in Puerto del Carmen in terms of price and quality.

Map of things to do in Lanzarote

To help you plan your itinerary, here is a map with all the best things to do in Lanzarote , as well as the hotels and restaurants I mentioned:

It’s also worth checking out our Lanzarote tourist maps if you’re looking for something more specific, such as a trail map or road map.

How to get around Lanzarote

One of the most frequent questions I get is how to get around Lanzarote. I will say that the best option is to rent a car on the island so you can visit all the must-see places in Lanzarote on your own schedule. Having your own vehicle also makes it easier to go to more remote places on the island. Plus, you can pick up and drop off the car at the airport, so it’s pretty easy.

We always use DiscoverCars to find the best prices on rental vehicles. DiscoverCars searches various car rental companies to find great deals, and you can browse a variety of cars, trucks, and SUVs. I recommend reserving your Lanzarote rental car before your trip starts, so you can pick up the vehicle as soon as you land at the airport.

Another option is to rent a campervan in Lanzarote. This way, you can combine your accommodation and transportation all in one. I recommend this option for those who enjoy the outdoors and nature and have experience camping. If that sounds like you, check out Yescapa , which is the site we use to rent campervans and RVs.

If you don’t want to drive, you can use the Canarian buses, or guaguas . While the public transportation network is quite good and connects the best towns and places in Lanzarote , keep in mind that it’s designed for locals, not tourists. This means that it’ll take much longer for you to go from one attraction in Lanzarote to another, and you won’t be able to reach more remote areas. You’ll also have to rely on the bus schedule, which you can find on the official website , along with all the routes.

Finally, you can book one or more excursions in Lanzarote to get around the island and see various areas and attractions. The tours include transportation, so it’s faster than riding the bus. Of course, this option is more expensive, but you have to factor in that it includes your admission tickets, tour guides, and any activities, so I think it’s worth it.

Visit other Canary Islands, something to do in Lanzarote if you have more time

To finish up, it’s also worth noting that you can take advantage of your trip to Lanzarote by visiting other Canary Islands. I mentioned earlier that La Graciosa is one of the best places near Lanzarote , but you can also go to Fuerteventura, which is nearby.

Excursion to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote

Fuerteventura isn’t as touristy as some other Canary Islands, but it’s still one of the most beautiful places to visit. With nearly 100 miles of virgin beaches and stunning landscapes, there are plenty of things to do in Fuerteventura .

You can book this excursion , which includes ferry transportation from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura. During the tour, you’ll go to several attractions like the town of El Cotillo, the city of Corralejo, and the Dunes of Corralejo Natural Park.

You can also explore on your own by taking the ferry out of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote. The ride takes less than 30 minutes, and you’ll disembark in Corralejo, Fuerteventura. You can even bring your rental car aboard and ride around the island in complete freedom. For schedules and ticket prices, check the DirectFerries website.

I don’t recommend flying from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, as it takes up a lot of time. However, if you’re interested, you can get the best deals on Kiwi .

Both DirectFerries and Kiwi include information on ferry rides and flights to other Canary Islands. So, if you’re interested in visiting other islands after enjoying all the things to do on Lanzarote , you have options.

And with that, you have all the info you need about what to do in Lanzarote , where to stay, and the best restaurants. I hope you feel better prepared to plan the perfect trip to this marvelous island, and that you enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment with any questions you may have. I’d also love to hear about your favorite places to visit in Lanzarote !

Have a safe trip and tons of fun in Lanzarote!

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Canarias Lovers

To awaken your senses in the Canary Islands

21 best things to do in Lanzarote (with photos)

by Claire ROBINSON , Region Lovers | January 10, 2024 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

What a unique island! Between nature and architecture, there’s no time to get bored. So what is there to do in Lanzarote ? Here are 21 activities in Lanzarote, with photos, tips and map:

• inspiring volcanic landscapes,
• picturesque beaches,
• unique architecture,
• fun activities,

BEFORE ALL OUR TIPS , OUR favorites

Our favorite car rental platform with great offers: DiscoverCars

Our favorite activities:

Dolphin-watching boat tour Bus tour: Timanfaya + El Golfo + Los Hervideros + Wines

Our favorite hotels:

Boutique: Royal Marina Suites in Puerto Calero 5 stars: Hotel Fariones in Puerto del Carmen Adults-only: CalaLanzarote in Playa Blanca Family: Aequora Suites in Puerto del Carmen

This opinion is completely independent , based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

1. Best thing to do in Lanzarote: Montana Cuervo

We did a lot of walking on the island. But our favorite is actually one of the easiest: Montana Cuervo. Located in the Lanzarote Volcanoes Natural Park (around Timanfaya), it is easily accessible by road. First, you’ll walk across the entire volcano, with a breathtaking view of a well-preserved cone. All around you, there’s lava in various forms. Panels help you understand the landscape around you and the volcano’s geological history. Then, the path allows you to walk around it and even enter the interior through a side that has collapsed.

Allow 1 to 2 hours, depending on the length of your visit and the number of photos you wish to take. There’s no shade, so bring water and wear good shoes. If you don’t want to drive, excursions leave from all the resorts, on a volcanic circuit that includes the first third of this walk (the best part). See program and book .

2. Dolphin-watching: Incontourable!

We love the whale and dolphin watching tours. We had high hopes, and were lucky enough to see an impressive number of dolphins. A wonderful experience with the Lanzarote landscape in the background. You can also often see bottlenose dolphins in the Canary Islands, including Lanzarote. See our article .

Choose from 4 tour formats:

Option 1 – Daytime speedboat – duration 1h30 with swimming See details and availability Option 2 – sunset speedboat – 2h30 with champagne See details and availability Option 3 – fast boat and Lobos Island – 5h with discovery of part of Lobos Island See details and availability Option 4 – Catamaran sunset cruise – 2h See details and availability There are resident dolphins all year round. Some say that June is the best month to see many of them, but we haven’t found confirmation.

3. Explore the island of La Graciosa

La Graciosa is a small island to the north of Lanzarote. Access is by ferry and there are no roads at all, just tracks in the sand. You can explore it on foot or with one of the 4WD cabs. Unlike Lanzarote, it is covered in golden-white sand. But there are also a few volcanoes. The colors are magnificent and you can enjoy different landscapes: beaches, volcanoes and basalt columns. Even the ferry crossing is fascinating, with superb views of the Famara cliffs to the north of Lanzarote. See our article .

We recommend taking the first ferry in the morning to avoid the crowds who come to spend the day at the beach. Ferries depart from Orzola. Note that for those staying in Playa Blanca, it takes longer to get to the north (1h10min by car). 2 companies offer ferries from Lanzarote to La Graciosa. See departures and book or book with bus pick-up . And on site, we recommend hiring a 4WD cab to explore the island’s most beautiful landscapes: book your 4WD tour in advance!

Another option if you don’t rent a car is to take part in a day’s sailing on a catamaran around La Graciosa – see program .

4. Discover Timanfaya National Park

The most famous activity in Lanzarote is the bus tour inside Timanfaya National Park. Located in the west, this is one of the best and most unique parts of the island. It is entirely covered by volcanic soil. There aren’t many ways to experience it. The main one is the bus excursion along the park’s only road. You can’t get out of the bus (to protect the landscape), but you can see some of the most incredible views you could imagine. It’s like visiting another planet! We loved it. See our article .

Allow less than half a day. Come early to avoid queuing at the entrance. If you don’t want to drive, half-day excursions take you from all the resorts to experience Timanfaya. See the program .

OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Lanzarote

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• A small car is all you need.
• But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
• There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early .

Read our tips

5. Visit the Cactus Garden

A garden full of cacti!!! We really like these funny and varied plants. Of all the best places to visit in Lanzarote, this is our favorite. The Cactus Garden is the work of the famous artist Cesar Manrique . He imagined how to transform this former “Rofera” (quarry) into an exhibition of the most beautiful cactus flowers from all over the world. It boasts some 1,500 specimens of 450 different species representing all 5 continents. See our photos of the Lanzarote cactus garden

Visit at opening time or in the late afternoon if you want a less crowded experience. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can take part in a Lanzarote excursion from all the major towns, which cover many of the places created by César Manrique. The tour includes the Cactus Garden. See the program (English, Spanish or German guide)

6. Enjoy the wild beaches of Papagayo

One of Lanzarote’s most famous spots is Papagayo beach. Located on the south coast, this is the oldest part of the island. The small cove has a beautiful shape and emerald waters. There are no roads to get there, only a very bumpy track (where you’re not normally allowed to go with rental cars). We recommend that you enjoy the beautiful hiking along these beaches. See our article .

7. Explore the canyons of Las Grietas, off the beaten track

Las Grietas, in Spanish, literally translates as “the cracks”. This is a formation on the side of the 600m-high Montaña Blanca volcano. 3 cracks have formed. The cracks aren’t very long, but they are quite narrow, reminiscent of a miniature version of the canyons in Arizona and Utah. We loved the different-sized crevasses with beautiful lines carved into the rock, as well as the views towards Puerto del Carmen and the sea. And it’s easy to get to! See more photos and our practical tips .

For more “hidden” places, see our list of off-the-beaten-track attractions .

WHERE TO STAY IN Lanzarote

Option 1: Playa Blanca

To the south, the resort is charming with beautiful beaches. We recommend..:

• Hotel Resort Princesa Yaiza, right in the center – see prices, pictures and availability
• Boutique-Hotel Cala Lanzarote – see prices, pictures and availability
• Aparthotel Jardines del Sol – prices, pictures and availability

Option 2: Puerto del Carmen

Main seaside resort with large beaches. We recommend..:

• Hotel Fariones, 5 stars above the beach – see prices, photos and availability
• Boutique-Hotel Aqua Suites – see prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel Seaside Los Jameos, for families – see prices, photos and availability

Option 3: Costa Teguise

Smaller and more central, for exploring the whole island. We recommend..:

• Barcelo adults-only Hotel – prices, pictures and availability
• Radisson Blu resort hotel, adults-only- see prices, pictures and availability
• H10 Lanzarote Family Guard – see prices, photos and availability

8. Jameos del Agua: lava, pool and crabs

We think it was one of the most frustrating things about Lanzarote. This pool in Jameos des Agua is so inviting!!!! Isn’t it? Here, César Manrique transformed part of a long lava tunnel that had collapsed in several places. There’s an underground lake, restaurants and an amphitheatre… See our article

Also at Jameos del Agua, the natural underground lake inside the section of the tunnel that didn’t collapse is home to small white crabs. You can sit on your side to spot them.

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can take part in an excursion that covers several places imagined by César Manrique, including Jameos. See the program

WITH OUR GUIDE PLAN YOUR DREAM TRIP TO lanzarote

All the information you need for your trip:

• 7 maps that make planning easier
• + 75 pre-selected locations
• Practical advice
• + 140 photos to help you choose

9. Climb to viewpoint: Mirador del Rio

Lanzarote’s most famous viewpoint is Mirador del Rio. It is considered one of the best places on Lanzarote. Located in the north of the island, on the Famara cliffs, this former military base was modified by César Manrique and camouflaged in the rock. It offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and the island of La Graciosa. If you don’t want to drive, it’s also included in the César Manrique day trip. See the program (English, Spanish or German guide)

10. Admire the waves at Los Hervideros

One of our favorite landscapes on Lanzarote was Los Hervideros . We really enjoyed the mix of turquoise water, dark basalt columns and the little red volcano behind. We sat there watching, fascinated by the intensity of the colors. A path has been laid out to explore these cliffs and even to go down and look under one of the arches. The walk is short but fun and easy. See our article .

Los Hervideros is located on the west coast, south of Timanfaya National Park, and the views are best at high tide, when you may see the waves crashing. If you don’t want to drive, organized tours combine Los Hervideros with a visit to the famous Timanfaya National Park. See program (English-speaking guide)

11. Vertigo at Cueva de los Verdes

This photo was taken at Cueva de los Verdes, in the north of the island. Jesus Soto installed lights in the lava tunnel to create a fascinating experience. We won’t say too much, as we risk spoiling the surprise. But we were very impressed with the experience in the end! See our article .

12. Lounging on Lanzarote’s most beautiful beaches

Of course, many people also come to Lanzarote to lie on the beach and enjoy the sun. Lanzarote’s 3 seaside resorts offer very pleasant beaches: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise. We prefer the beaches of Playa Blanca. See our article on Lanzarote’s most beautiful beaches .

13. Fun on land, water and in the air

There are plenty of activities on offer in Lanzarote, from dirt roads to sea and air!

HAVE FUN WITH THESE Lanzarote activities

Dolphin watching Diving at the Museum of the Atlantic Buggy / Quad Catamaran outing Ferry to the island of La Graciosa Kayak excursion Paddle excursion Parasailing

14. Learn more about Lanzarote wine

Yes, there are vineyards on Lanzarote. It’s quite amazing, but by using picon on the soil to capture moisture and creating small rock walls to protect from the wind, they are able to grow grapes and make wine! You can visit several Bodegas on the island. The most famous is La Geria with its impressive valley (see tour program – English-speaking guide). But our favorite was El Grifo, with its small museum and more intimate setting for tasting. Find out more about the Lanzarote wine route .

15. Enjoy the colors of the salt marshes: Janubios

We’ve always loved salt marshes: their shapes, colors and little cones of white salt. On the west coast of Lanzarote, you can find the Janubios Salinas. In this astonishing landscape, it’s quite a sight!

16. See the sunset and the reflections of Famara

It’s well known that one of the best places to see the sunset in Lanzarote is on Famara beach. And when we saw that the conditions were going to be favourable, we jumped in the car and off we went. We were not disappointed! The wet sand reflects Famara’s impressive cliffs, struck by the setting sun. This is one of Lanzarote’s best photo sites, with silhouettes of surfers and light effects. But you won’t be the only photographer, because it’s a camera magnet. Definitely one of the most beautiful beaches on Lanzarote .

17. Hiking in Lanzarote

In addition to Montana Cuervo, there are numerous hikes to enjoy the beauty of the volcanic landscape. Among our favorites:

• Montana Colorada and its volcanic bomb
• Montana Los Rodeos
• Montana Roja

See our selection of the most beautiful hikes .

18. Getting lost in a LagOmar labyrinth house

One of our favorite places by César Manrique, was imagined by him but designed by Jésus Soto. It’s a labyrinth house inside an old quarry. We love the way hollows and shapes are used and transformed. This was Omar Sharif’s house. Find out more about LagOmar .

19. Tapas and local gastronomy

Another way to get a taste of Lanzarote is to escape to a small fishing village off the beaten track, and enjoy seafood by the water.

And if you’re looking for more gastronomic ideas, check out our selection of the best restaurants in Lanzarote .

20. Amusement parks

Lanzarote offers several theme parks for families:

• In Lanzarote, you can visit the Rancho Texas park, which combines a zoo, water park and other outdoor activities. It’s near Puerto del Carmen – Book your tickets
• Lanzarote also has a second water park on the Costa Teguise with a paintball area – Book your ticket

See Lanzarote theme parks

21. Vister cities in Lanzarote

It’s a good idea to alternate days of excursions with quieter days in the city where you’re staying. Here are a few local activities to enjoy in each of them.

Best things to do in Puerto del Carmen Lanzarote

• Boat trip in search of dolphins during the day or at sunset – with a breathtaking view of Lanzarote from the sea – Find out more
• A buggy ride through the Lanzarote countryside on dirt tracks – Find out more
• Parasailing off Lanzarote (photo below) – We love this activity, you feel safe but the sensations and views are amazing! – Read more
• Visit Rancho Texas Park, a combination zoo and water park – Buy your ticket
• Coastal walk to Puerto Calero

See our article on Puerto del Carmen must-sees .

Best things to do in Playa Blanca Lanzarote

• Walking by the sea
• Climb to the top of Montana Roja
• Hiking along the beaches of Papagayo
• Kayaking, Snorkeling
• If you go scuba diving, there’s an underwater museum.
• Or you can take the ferry to discover the nearby island of Fuerteventura – See options

See our article on Playa Blanca must-sees .

Best things to do in Costa Teguise Lanzarote

• Visit the aquarium – Buy admission tickets
• Fun at the Aqua Park
• Windsurfing

See our article on Costa Teguise must-sees .

Explore Lanzarote – the Video

Before we give you a few more suggestions on local activities in each resort, here’s a short video to give you an idea of what it’s like to explore Lanzarote:

And driving in Lanzarote really isn’t that difficult.

Frequently asked questions

Best things to do in lanzarote with children.

Children love all the activities listed above:

• Rancho Park with zoo
• Water parks
• Dolphin-watching tours
• The beaches

What to do in Lanzarote when it’s too hot

The sun can sometimes be brutal on Lanzarote. In hot weather,

• visit one of our museums
• take a boat trip, it’s always a little cooler with the breeze.
• cool off in the water park
• go down a lava tube
• stay in the hotel pool

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Lanzarote

Most beautiful landscapes Best things to do in Lanzarote Most beautiful beaches Best boat tours César Manrique’s attractions Secret places, off the beaten track

25 tips for a successful trip to Lanzarote How to get around How to rent a car in Lanzarote Driving tips Best excursions Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days

• Where to stay

Where to stay in Lanzarote Best hotels in Lanzarote Best 5 star hotels in Lanzarote Best hotels for families Best adults-only hotels Best all-inclusive hotels in Lanzarote Best boutique-hotels Best hotels with water park

• The must-dos

Dolphin watching on Lanzarote Timanfaya National Park Best things to do in the old town of Teguise Jameos del Agua Cactus Garden La Graciosa Island Vineyards Lanzarote’s water parks

SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Claire

Region lovers' 10 commitments.

• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, stay in at least one hotel and visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
• Pay all our invoices in full, refuse any partnership or sponsorship.
• Periodically update our articles, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our first-hand experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
• Use digital tools in a reasoned and transparent way, feeding them with information verified on site.
• Provide information on the traveler/writer pairing that gave rise to the article.
• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

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30 amazing things to do in Lanzarote

The volcanic landscape of Lanzarote scattered with whitewashed villages has an austere quality, with spiky cactus and exotic palms, softened by a fringe of golden beaches. Situated just off the coast of Africa, the climate of the Canary Islands is balmy year round, making this a favourite winter sun destination. But look beyond the popular holiday resorts and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Lanzarote, from vineyards and volcano tours to the many cultural attractions designed by artist Cesar Manrique.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

My top 5 things to do in Lanzarote

With so many amazing places to visit in Lanzarote (read on for over 30 that I recommend!), you may not have time to see them all, even on the typical 7-10 day break. So for those short of time I’ve listed my top 5 things to do first, to get you started. We stayed at the centrally located  Finca Malvasia on this leg of the trip.

• Timanfaya National Park or the surrounding Parque Natural de los Volcanes – to discover the unique volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote.
• Take a wine tour and go bodega hopping in the La Geria wine region – to taste the quality white wines and see how the vineyards thrive, despite the lack of water.
• Visit Playa Papagayo and the string of rocky coves nearby – beautiful and undeveloped, they sit within a protected reserve, for sheltered swimming on the warm south coast of Lanzarote.
• Visit Jameos del Agua , created by celebrated local artist Cesar Manrique – it’s a volcanic cave, turquoise lagoon, restaurant and events space all in one. If you can’t make it, try and visit at least one of the Cesar Manrique sites scattered around Lanzarote.
• Take a day trip to La Graciosa – the smaller island to the north of Lanzarote which is just half an hour by ferry and great for cycling and swimming.

1. Timanfaya National Park

The austere landscape of Lanzarote is shaped by the volcanic eruptions of the past, notably those from 1730-1736. During these six years a third of the island was covered with lava flow and ash. The Timanfaya National Park was created in 1974, taking a slice out of the surreal moonscape left by the cooling lava and it’s one of the most popular things to see in Lanzarote.

There are several different things to do within the park, which is accessed from the road between Mancha Blanca and Yaiza. Since the different attractions are spread along the road, you’ll ideally need to visit the Timanfaya National Park by car or take a guided tour .

Discover why Lanzarote is a top winter sun destination in Europe

What to see in Timanfaya National Park

Timanfaya National Park tickets are available at the booth for the Montañas del Fuego or Fire mountains, allowing you to drive up the access road to the car park. Leaving your car here, the ticket includes a 30 minute coach tour on the Ruta de los Volcanes that winds through the park to view the charcoal and ochre moonscape.

At the end of the tour the guides create a water geyser and demonstrate the geothermal heat of the active volcano. You can also access the adjoining El Diablo restaurant designed by Cesar Manrique where chicken and steaks are roasted over an open barbeque, heated by underground volcanic activity.

A little further along the main road towards Mancha Blanca is the Timanfaya visitor centre. It’s free to visit and has a viewing platform over the volcanic lava fields, as well as interesting displays to explain the volcanic activity.

Also just off the road in the Yaiza direction is the Echadero de Camellos or camel station. Here you can take a ride in the camel train and visit the small museum to learn how camels were used in the past to work the land. The cost is €12 per camel for 2 people for a 20 minute ride.

Visitors on a budget can drive along the Mancha Blanca to Yaiza road through the park and look around the visitor centre for free. If you don’t want to pay for the Montañas del Fuego tour, an alternative is to drive to the parking spots in the nearby Parque Natural de los Volcanes , where there are interpretation boards and walking trails to some of the volcanoes.

To learn more about the park and activities available, read my article: Timanfaya National Park and the volcanoes of Lanzarote

2. Parque Natural de los Volcanes

Much of the volcanic landscape outside the Timanfaya Park is included in the Parque Natural de los Volcanes . There are parking areas with information boards and walking trails to a number of the volcanoes.

A great way to learn more about the geology, flora and fauna of this area is with an expert guide, on the 3 volcanoes tour we took with Eco-insider . If you prefer to visit independently, the following volcanoes have parking areas and walking trails around them.

Walking trails in the Parque Natural de los Volcanes

• Caldera Blanca / Montana Blanca – Head west from Mancha Blanca to find the car park at the start of this walking trail. This round trip takes a few hours, through the badlands or malpais , as the lava fields are known. Passing the smaller Caldereta, you’ll reach Caldera Blanca for an easy climb to the top of the crater and walk around the rim with views towards the coast. If you don’t have time for the long walk, the 3 volcanoes tour with Eco-insider will take you directly to the base by land rover.
• Montana Colorada / Caldera Colorada – an easy trail from a parking area runs around the volcanic cone, although you are not allowed to climb it. Beside the trail is a huge volcanic bomb which is thought to have been deposited by the lava flow in the 1730s eruptions.

• Caldera de los Cuervos / Volcán el Cuervo – From the parking area a well marked trail leads towards the crater and runs right inside, then around the crater to take you back to the car park.
• Montaña Los Rodeos – This 4 hour walk takes you along a straight dirt track to a high volcanic cone, with a trail that runs up to the peak, for views over the surrounding area. There is a parking area just south of La Mancha.

Read my article about our walking tour in the Parque Natural de los Volcanes and our 3 volcanoes tour with Eco-insider .

3. Lanzarote wines in the La Geria region

The La Geria region of Lanzarote is where you’ll find the vineyards and wineries, to learn about the island’s unique style of viniculture and taste the high quality wines. While the sweet Malmsey wine of the Canary Islands was praised by Shakespeare, most of the Lanzarote vineyards were planted after the 1730 eruptions, which covered the fertile farmlands with volcanic ash. Finca Malvasia Vineyard , where we stayed, is set in a working vineyard in the heart of this region.

The vineyards have a stark appearance, with vines planted individually in hollows, then covered in a mulch of grey picon gravel. With very low rainfall, the vineyards receive moisture from the northern trade winds and the dew that is channelled to the base of the vine. Low semi-circular stone walls known as zocos protect the vines and help to create a sheltered microclimate.

Making a bodega hopping wine tour is a fun thing to do in Lanzarote, either with a company like Wine Tours Lanzarote or on your own by driving around the different wineries. The main grape variety of Malvasia Volcanica makes a light, fresh white wine, but you can also look out for varieties such as Diego, Listan Negro and the Moscatel used to make sweet, perfumed dessert wines.

Check out my 7-day itinerary for hiking in La Gomera in the Canary Islands

Looking for a place to stay in Lanzarote? We can recommend the boutique vineyard accommodation at Finca Malvasia – read my review

Wineries to visit in Lanzarote

It’s easy to spot the wineries on the road between Monumento al Campesino and Uga, and they all offer wine tastings either as a small taste to try before you buy, or sold by the glass from their bar or restaurant. Larger wineries such as El Grifo or Bodegas Rubicon offer a wide range of wines and additional things to see like a wine museum or restaurant.

It’s also fun to explore down the side roads to find smaller boutique wineries like the El Tablero winery that sells direct to the public or the Vega Volcan smallholding that we discovered on our tour with Wine Tours Lanzarote. If you like hiking, you may enjoy this La Geria vineyards hiking tour which includes a wine tasting.

You can read more about Lanzarote wine in my article about our tour of the vineyards and wineries

4. Lanzarote beaches – Playa de Papagayo

Some of the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote are around Playa de Papagayo to the south of the island, which provides an unspoiled alternative to the busy holiday resorts. This string of coves can either be accessed from the large car park at Playa Papagayo or by turning off on side tracks that lead to other beaches such as Playa Mujeres and Playa Caleta del Congrio.

The beaches are within the Los Ajaches reserve so there’s no development here. You’ll need to pay a small charge of €3 to take your car into the reserve, payable at a booth on the entry road. Expect scenic views from the cliff tops, sandy beaches and crystal clear water for swimming, making these beaches a great place to relax for a few hours.

The two beach restaurants get very busy, so bring your own picnic and water if you plan to spend the day here. These beaches are also visited by yachts and boat tours from Puerto del Carmen, so this is another way to enjoy their beauty for a day of sailing and swimming .

5. Jameos del Agua caves

The Jameos del Agua caves are one of the popular Lanzarote attractions designed by Lanzarote’s most famous artist, Cesar Manrique. Entering through a system of lava tubes, you pass a dark and mysterious underground lake, populated by tiny white albino crabs, sitting like tiny stars on the bottom.

The path leads you up into the sunlight, to a turquoise lagoon surrounded by palm trees and protected by walls of volcanic stone. There’s a 60s vibe and you half expect to spot Roger Moore or Sean Connery surrounded by a bevy of bikini clad Bond girls.

At one end of the lake is an underground auditorium used for concerts, created in another of the lava tubes. Scattered about the site are several cafes and the restaurant offers special evening events with live music. Jameos del Agua is my top tip for instagrammers – it’s incredibly photogenic even though it was created long before Instagram was invented!

This full day tour of Lanzarote includes Jameos del Agua as well as several other places around the island.

Looking for a place to stay in Lanzarote? We can recommend the eco-village at Finca de Arrieta – read my review

6. A day trip to La Graciosa

Take a day trip to the island of La Graciosa, just north of Lanzarote, for a relaxing day of cycling and swimming. The ferry ( book tickets in advance here ) takes just 30 minutes from Orzola and is part of the fun of the trip, as you spot seabirds and look up at the looming Famara cliffs topped by the Mirador del Rio. With only a few dirt tracks that criss-cross the island and one main town of Caleta del Sebo, a trip to this unspoiled island is like stepping back in time.

Read my article from our visit: Visit La Graciosa from Lanzarote: a day trip of cycling and swimming

One of the fun things to do in La Graciosa is to rent bikes and cycle through the volcanic landscape to discover golden beaches such as Playa de las Conchas and Playa de la Francesca. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Caleta del Sebo where you can eat delicious seafood and admire the views of the ocean and the fishing boats in the harbour. If you love sailing and swimming there are also plenty of sailing trips that will take you to La Graciosa for the day .

If you prefer, you can also walk the trails to reach the far side of the island or skirt along the south coast for sheltered beaches and swimming. La Graciosa is part of the UNESCO Biosphere reserve made up of the five Chinijo islands and it’s a glorious place to spend a day when the sun is shining .

South Coast – Things to do in Lanzarote

Having covered my top 5 things to do in Lanzarote, let’s take a tour around the rest of the island. We’ll start with the warm and sheltered south coast, home to numerous sandy beaches and the most popular holiday resorts.

7. Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen is the largest and busiest of the Lanzarote holiday resorts, with sandy beaches and plenty of bars and restaurants. This is where many expats have holiday homes and where you’ll get the typical package holiday experience of sun, sea and relaxation.

As holiday accommodation is plentiful, Puerto del Carmen is where you are most likely to find a bargain holiday if you are on a budget. Although the resort is a bit busy for my tastes as a place to stay, I enjoyed a wander round and here’s what I’d recommend if you are just visiting;

Explore my La Gomera travel guide – transport, accommodation and things to do

Top things to do in Puerto del Carmen

• Take a stroll from the old town harbour along the boardwalk overlooking the marina.
• If you have time, continue on the coastal walk following the cliffs to Puerto Calero.
• There’s a water bus from the old town harbour of Puerto del Carmen to Puerto Calero with Lineas Romero so you can walk one way and take the water bus on the return.

• In the opposite direction you can relax or swim from the beaches of Playa Chica and the long stretch of golden sand at Playa Blanca.
• Diving schools operate from Playa Chica, which is a small beach bounded by rocks, so it’s a good place for beginners to learn to dive .
• There are plenty of bars, restaurants and coffee shops on the strip that backs Playa Blanca as well as in other parts of the resort.

8. Puerto Calero

A little further along the coast from Puerto del Carmen is Puerto Calero, which is not so much a beach resort as a marina that’s oozing with style and money. There is some holiday accommodation but it’s mostly private apartments and villas rather than hotels , and the whole place is a lot smaller than Puerto del Carmen.

I popped in here for a walk around and thought it was a great place to stop for lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants around the marina. Sadly there’s no beach for swimming, but Puerto Calero will appeal to anyone who enjoys sailing and watching the yachts in the harbour. If you have a taste for designer shopping there’s also a small arcade of upscale clothes shops, with a few more gift stores set back from the marina.

This is also the base for sailing trips along the coast, or you can take the water bus to and from Puerto del Carmen as an alternative to the coastal path.

9. Arrecife – capital of Lanzarote

As the capital of Lanzarote since the 19th century, Arrecife has more of a working town feel than a holiday vibe. It’s the administrative and commercial centre of the island, with the bustle of locals going about their business. To get a feel for local life I’d recommend spending a few hours here, to wander around the old quarter and see some of the cultural attractions. Here are my top picks for things to do in Arrecife.

• We started with a wander around the Charco San Gines , an enclosed lagoon full of small fishing boats and leisure crafts that’s lined with cafes and restaurants.
• Our walk continued through the streets of the old quarter, past the old church of San Gines in a pretty square and the enclosed market or Ayuntamiento de Arrecife .
• On one of the main pedestrian streets leading to the seafront we stopped at La Casa Amarilla , which was originally the government headquarters. The elegant old building is now used as a cultural centre with changing exhibitions about life on Lanzarote.
• Reaching the seafront, we crossed the old stone bridge to visit the Castillo de San Gabriel , a small fortress that has been made into a museum about the history of Arrecife.
• Nearby on the seafront is the Casa de la Cultura , an art museum which has some original murals and artworks by local artist Cesar Manrique.
• Further along the seafront is the UNED library belonging to the university which has some original Cesar Manrique murals. It’s not generally open to the public but if things are quiet they may let you in to take a look.

Castillo de San José in Lanzarote

On the outskirts of Arrecife we visited Castillo de San José , a stone fortress guarding the harbour that was built in the 18th century. It now houses the International Contemporary Art Museum which was founded by Cesar Manrique, opening in 1976 to house a collection of contemporary art with leading local artists, including a few of Manrique’s own paintings.

South-West coast – things to do in Lanzarote

The south west coast of Lanzarote is the most sheltered part of the island, home to the glorious beaches around Playa Papagayo that I’ve already mentioned in my top 5 things to do. The main holiday resort here is Playa Blanca, with the swanky Marina Rubicon and from here the road skirts north along the coast with several interesting places to stop.

10. Marina Rubicon

The resort of Playa Blanca is full of holiday apartments and hotels with some pleasant beaches and a strip of shops and restaurants. On the edge of the resort Marina Rubicon is worth a stop, if you enjoy looking at at beautiful yachts and hanging out with the sailing community.

Like many marinas this tends to be a magnet for the stylish crowd, with bars, restaurants and upmarket shopping clustered around the harbour. There’s also an artisan market held at Marina Rubicon on Wednesday and Saturday with a range of local crafts and produce.

11. Lanzarote Underwater Museum

Just off the coast from Marina Rubicon is the Lanzarote underwater museum , also known as Museo Atlántico which is an underwater sculpture park. Divers will enjoy swimming around the cement figures which are 12 metres deep, created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor.

Dive tours are arranged from Playa Blanca and even if you don’t have a licence, you can take the beginner’s diving package which involves some basic training and then a dive with an instructor. Museo Atlántico has ten different groups of underwater figures which form a natural reef including the famous Raft of Lampedusa, a reference to the refugee crisis in Europe.

12. Las Salinas de Janubio

Follow the road north from Playa Blanca (along smaller LZ-701 road that runs parallel to the newer LZ-2) and you’ll arrive at Las Salinas de Janubio. This patchwork of salt flats makes a pretty photo at sunset and the Mirador de las Salinas restaurant is a good place to stop for lunch with a view.

In the past much of the coastline was covered with salt pans, to harvest sea salt that was used to preserve food in the days before refrigeration. Tours are also available of the salt pans run by the  Salinas de Janubio  on weekdays – check the website for times.

If you continue your drive around the coast, there’s a car park on the headland with access to the black volcanic sand beach of Playa de Janubio.

13. Los Hervideros

Continuing on the coast road brings you to Los Hervideros where the waves crash against the cliffs and bubble up through blowholes and lava tunnels. The name Los Hervideros literally means “boiling pots”, since the sea here washes in and out of the caves, churning and throwing up spray.

Follow the path from the car park to find balconies and viewpoints where you can feel the power of the Atlantic waves and look down into the blowholes and foaming water.

14. Charco de los clicos

Nearby, on the southern edge of the village of El Golfo is the curious green lagoon known as Charco de los Clicos, glowing in the sun like an emerald against the black sand. You can reach it easily in a short walk from the carpark to a viewpoint where you can look down on this green lagoon or “Lago Verde” and the black sand beach.

The green colour comes from the algae that live in the water and this area is protected as a nature reserve, with no swimming in the lagoon allowed. A path also leads down to the black sand beach where blue fishing boats are left on the shore, making a pretty picture. If you don’t have a car, this full day tour of Lanzarote includes a stop at Lago Verde and El Golfo.

15. El Golfo

After visiting Lago Verde, walk into the village of El Golfo, a quiet fishing village with white houses, that’s known for its seafood restaurants. I can recommend settling down for lunch on one of the restaurant terraces, with a view of the Atlantic waves breaking against the jagged black rocks.

From the car park at the furthest end of the village is a coastal path from El Golfo to Playa El Paso, which runs along the rugged coast on the edge of the Timanfaya lava field.

Central region – things to do in Lanzarote

The central part of Lanzarote was once fertile farmland, although much of it was covered by the lava flow and ash from volcanic eruptions in the 1730s. I’ve already mentioned the Timanfaya National Park and the La Geria wine region in my list of the top 5 things to do in Lanzarote but there are several other places that are well worth a stop.

Where to stay in Lanzarote

We stayed in the centre of Lanzarote at Finca Malvasia – boutique rural accommodation in the heart of the La Geria wine region, set among a working vineyard. The stylish cottages converted from the old winery are furnished in contemporary style, around a turquoise Cesar Manrique style swimming pool. Read my review of Finca Malvasia here .

In the north of Lanzarote we stayed at the delightful Finca de Arrieta with Lanzarote Retreats – a small eco-village on the northern coast at Arrieta which has a number of different villas, stone lodges and yurts with a relaxed and friendly vibe, that are ideal for independent travellers. Read my review of Finca de Arrieta here .

For more places to stay check out these Lanzarote hotels .

16. Museo-Casa del Campesino

The  Museo – Casa del Campesino is one of the sustainable tourism initiatives founded by artist Cesar Manrique and is dedicated to the farmers and artisans of Lanzarote. The traditional finca or farmstead hosts craft shops and workshops set around the courtyard, with an excellent restaurant serving local dishes.

I tried my hand at painting with the red dye from cochineal beetles that feed off the local cactus. Other workshops include making the Mojo Canarian sauce, plaiting palm leaves to make hats and baskets, and baking with the gofio cornmeal.

Monumento a la Fecundidad

Next to the Campesino is the Monumento a la Fecundidad (Monument to Fertility) designed by Cesar Manrique as a tribute to the farming communities of Lanzarote. The abstract sculpture made of old water tanks is reminiscent of an ear of corn, a camel or a goat depending on which way you look at it. If you’d like to discover more, you can take this Cesar Manrique full day tour which includes this and many other attractions designed by the artist.

17. Lagomar

LagOmar is a unique house and visitor attraction in Lanzarote that once belonged to 70s heart-throb Omar Sharif, who bought it after filming on the island. The property was the design of artist Jesús Soto, but Omar Sharif barely lived here, since the story goes that he lost it in a game of bridge and never returned to Lanzarote.

Built into the hillside, with not a straight line in sight, the property is full of hidden chambers and vistas over the turquoise pools and sheltered gardens. After falling into disrepair, LagOmar was redeveloped by new architect owners in the 1980s to create an artistic and cultural centre. This is a place where you’ll want to photograph every beautiful nook and cranny and we can also recommend the cafe and restaurant overlooking the lagoon pool.

18. Cesar Manrique Foundation at Tahiche

The Volcano House near Tahiche was the home of artist Cesar Manrique for 20 years from 1968 to 1988 and is now headquarters of the Cesar Manrique Foundation that maintains his artistic legacy. Although it was closed when we visited, it’s well worth a visit to see the place that Cesar Manrique himself designed, built into a series of lava bubbles left from the volcanic eruptions.

The lower floors enclosed by volcanic rock, house a characteristic turquoise lagoon pool and built in seating areas with sculptural plants and vegetation. The upper floors are spacious, light and bright, while the artists’ former studio is now used as an exhibition space.

Cesar Manrique later moved to a quieter home at The Palm House in Haria (also run by the Cesar Manrique Foundation) and used the Volcano House as his headquarters and exhibition space, until he sadly died in a car crash in 1992.

If you’d like to discover more, you can take this Cesar Manrique full day tour which includes this and many other attractions designed by the artist.

19. Teguise

Teguise is the former capital of Lanzarote which was founded in 1402 and definitely on my list of top places to go in Lanzarote. The old town area is mostly pedestrianised, so you can wander among the pretty whitewashed buildings and traditionally built houses, now converted into restaurants or gift shops. My top things to do in Teguise include:

Best things to do in Teguise

• Visit the Teguise market that takes place on Sundays in the morning until around 2pm for artisan crafts and traditional produce. On market day the town is lively but it’s quieter at other times and many shops are closed on Mondays.
• Wander around the gift and artisan shops – this is the place to find a great selection of stylish items and traditional crafts.
• Have a drink or lunch in one of the pavement cafes in the old town and watch the world go by – we can recommend Cantina Teguise which has a modern take on traditional dishes.
• Visit the Casa Museo Palacio Spinola , a gorgeous old mansion that now houses the Museo del Timple dedicated to Lanzarote’s traditional instrument similar to a small guitar.
• Look around the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the central square that built over the giant water cistern that held the town’s water supply.
• For a place to stay in the heart of the old town, take a look at the stylish boutique hotel Palacio Ico with 9 contemporary suites and bedrooms in an historic 17th century mansion.

20. Castillo Santa Barbara and Pirate museum

While you are visiting Teguise, you might want to drive up the hill overlooking the town to the Castillo Santa Barbara , a fortress on the volcanic hill that was started in the 14th century. The Castillo now houses the Museo de la Pirateria which documents the Berber pirate attacks on Teguise during the 16th and 17th century.

Most of the invaders came in search of slaves or those they could kidnap for ransom. The castle and Lanzarote Pirate Museum were closed for renovation at the time of our visit but should be open later in 2021.

North – things to do in Lanzarote

The north of Lanzarote has a wild and rocky character, in contrast with the sheltered and warm south coast. The prevailing winds from the north make the beaches windy and popular for surfing, with dramatic cliffs and a volcanic landscape mixed with fertile hidden valleys like that at Haria.

We stayed in the north of Lanzarote at the delightful Finca de Arrieta with Lanzarote Retreats – a small eco-village on the northern coast at Arrieta which has a number of different villas, stone lodges and yurts with a relaxed and friendly vibe, that are ideal for independent travellers. Read my review of Finca de Arrieta here .

In the centre of Lanzarote we stayed at Finca Malvasia – boutique rural accommodation in the heart of the La Geria wine region, set among a working vineyard. The stylish cottages converted from the old winery are furnished in contemporary style, around a turquoise Cesar Manrique style swimming pool. Read my review of Finca Malvasia here .

• For more places to stay check out these hotels in Lanzarote .

The small town of Haria has a peaceful, rural feel with an Arabic flavour due to the number of palm trees. It’s known as the Valley of 1000 Palms due to the local custom of planting two palm trees on the birth of a boy and one on the birth of a girl. As you approach on the hill road from Teguise you’ll get the most dramatic views of Haria as the road winds steeply down into the valley.

Most people visit on Saturday when the Haria market is in full swing, with artizan craft stalls set out on the main square of Plaza León y Castillo. At other times there isn’t a huge amount to see, other than wander around some of the craft shops or visit the Cesar Manrique House on the edge of town.

22. Cesar Manrique house museum – Haria

The Cesar Manrique house museum at Haria is in a quiet location on the edge of the town and was closed when I visited Lanzarote, but I’d love to go back to see it. After living for 20 years at his house in Tahiche (now the Cesar Manrique Foundation) the artist started work in 1986 on land that he had owned for some years, to renovate and rebuild an old farmhouse.

In this quieter location, set among the palm groves, Cesar Manrique made his home and had his studio until his untimely death in a car crash in 1992. The Palm House at Haria is the most intimate of the Manrique designed properties that are open to the public around Lanzarote, and has been left as if he had just walked out of the door.

The artist’s studio in a separate building has been conserved as it was on the day he died, with canvases and unfinished paintings stacked around the walls and floor and oil paints lying all around.

If you’d like to discover more, you can take this Cesar Manrique full day tour which includes many attractions designed by the artist.

23. Jardin de Cactus

The Jardin de Cactus was one of my favourite places to visit in Lanzarote, with a collection of 4500 cactus and succulents from all over the world. They are contained within a sheltered garden surrounded by the walls of an old quarry. The cactus garden is another creation of Cesar Manrique’s, who spotted the potential of this rofera or volcanic plug, with the photogenic windmill at one end.

We spent a pleasant couple of hours here, basking in the suntrap with the high rocky walls providing shelter from the wind. It’s amazing to see the variety and sculptural quality of the cactus that take many years to grow to such size. In case you don’t have a car, the Cactus garden is included in this full day Cesar Manrique tour .

There’s an excellent cafe with a terrace overlooking the garden, specialising in local dishes from Lanzarote . You might like to sample the cactus burgers made from the fleshy cactus leaves or other dishes made from prickly pear cactus fruit.

24. Cueva de los Verdes

Close to Jameos del Agua, which I’ve already mentioned in my top 5 things to do in Lanzarote, are the Cueva de los Verdes . The “Green Caves” are an underground complex of volcanic lava tubes from the eruption of nearby Volcán de la Corona. They were transformed into a tourist attraction by local artist Jesús Soto, who designed the illuminations with coloured lights and soft, atmospheric music.

Entrance is through a guided tour that takes you through the caves, with some narrow and claustrophobic passages opening up into a series of chambers. Within the final cave is an underground auditorium, which is used regularly for underground concerts. The Green Caves are included in this full day Cesar Manrique tour which covers many of the attractions designed by the artist.

25. Arrieta

We stayed at Arrieta in the north of Lanzarote at the relaxing eco-retreat of Finca de Arrieta , with Lanzarote Retreats ( read my review here). The eco-village is set just outside this laid back coastal village, made up mostly of whitewashed holiday homes and apartments with no hotels.

Even if you’re not staying at Finca de Arrieta, it’s worth a stop at the beach when you’re driving north along the coast road. I can recommend lunch at the Casa de la Playa beach restaurant right on the beach which serves excellent seafood or a drink at the Mojito van on the promenade. Read more about some of the best food in Lanzarote .

Playa de la Garita in Arrieta is a popular beach with surfers who are mesmerising to watch as they hang in the swell, waiting to catch the perfect wave.

Walking through town there’s another small beach with the unusual Casa Azul, which was built by a local man for his daughter so that she could recover from tuberculosis, which is said to be modelled on her doll’s house.

26. Mirador del Rio

Yet another creation of Cesar Manrique, the Mirador del Rio on the northern tip of Lanzarote, is part viewpoint, part visitor centre, part cafe. Sitting 400m high on top of the sheer Famara cliffs, the views are towards the island of La Graciosa and the “Rio” or strait of water that lies between it and Lanzarote.

We visited right at the end of the day, when the light was turning golden and illuminating the flat plain of Isla Graciosa with just a few bumps of the extinct volcanoes. There are several different viewing levels and numerous ‘selfie’ spots, as well as the coffee shop designed by Cesar Manrique with panoramic windows. The Mirador del Rio is included in this full day Cesar Manrique tour which covers many of the places designed by the artist.

Explore the volcanic landscape of Teide National Park in Tenerife

There’s a charge to visit, or you can buy a multi-visit card to include the other attractions run by CACT Lanzarote. If you’re on a budget you can just walk a little way down the road to find other viewpoints on the clifftop.

27. Famara surfing

On the north-west coast of Lanzarote, Famara beach is known for its long stretch of sand backed by dunes, which is a mecca for surfers. The Atlantic surf that pounds this beach makes it an obvious choice for surfing and other sports such as kitesurfing, with numerous surf schools that offer surfing lessons .

There’s a cool, hippy vibe here, with a string of cafes, seafood restaurants and side streets that are covered with sand between the low whitewashed houses facing the ocean. I can recommend the cafe of Las Bajas which had super- friendly staff, where they make the most amazing Venezuelan arepas, a spongy wrap made with corn flour and lots of tasty fillings.

Although I didn’t try out the surfing, I found it very soporific watching the surfers in action from the beach, willing them to stay on their board as they caught each wave.

28. Ermita de las Nieves

At the top of the Famara cliffs, looking down on the beach, is an amazing viewpoint at Ermita Nieves, well worth driving up to for the views. The small chapel, which is closed except for services, was established in the 15th century and is dedicated to the “Virgin of the Snows”.

In front is a large parking area and from here you can walk along the cliff top to look down on the town of Famara. There are numerous rocks and boulders where you can perch for that perfect Instagram image, making you look as if you are on the edge of a sheer drop even though you are a little way from the edge! For walkers there’s a path from here that winds steeply down the cliff and takes you to the beach at Famara.

Around Lanzarote

There are a few other things to do in Lanzarote that I want to recommend that aren’t specific to one part of the island.

29. Local markets in Lanzarote

The local markets in Lanzarote are a fun way to discover the artisan crafts and shop for authentic souvenirs. Look out for the stalls that sell traditional food products such as goats cheese, fig or mulberry jam, local breads and fresh vegetables like the local cherry tomatoes.

Some of the markets focus on fruit and vegetables, ideal if you are self-catering and want to buy locally grown produce. The best known are Haria market on Saturday and Teguise market on Sunday but there are many more. Here’s a list of some of the popular Lanzarote markets:

List of Lanzarote markets

• Teguise market – Sunday 9am – 2pm
• Haria market – Saturday 10am – 2pm Plaza León y Castillo
• Uga market Saturday / Sunday 10am – 2pm
• Puerto del Carmen – Friday 10am – 3pm Plaza del Varadero
• Puerto Calero market – Tuesday and Friday 10am – 2pm Plaza de Las Carpas
• Mancha Blanca market – Sunday 9am – 2pm by Church of Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores
• Playa Blanca market at Marina Rubicon Wednesday and Saturday 9am – 2pm
• Arrecife market – Saturday 9am – 2pm Old Town
• Arrecife market – Wednesday and Thursday 9am 2pm Charco de San Ginés
• Costa Teguise market – Wednesday 6pm – 10pm and Friday 5pm – 10pm Plaza del Pueblo Marinero
• Tahiche market – Thursday 9am – 2pm Plaza del C.S.C. Santiago el Mayor

30. Swim in the natural pools

For lovers of wild swimming, the natural swimming pools in Lanzarote make a fun change from the beaches. They are created on rocky shores where the rock formations have been enclosed and equipped with ladders and steps to make it safer to swim, sheltered from the waves and surf.

We visited the rock pools at Punta Mujeres, just north of Arrieta where we were staying. This small fishing village has a whole series of rock pools on the seafront, which are easy to locate as you walk along the promenade.

The other well known rock pools of Los Charcones are in a more secluded location off the small LZ-701 road between Playa Blanca and las Salinas de Janubio. The access track is rocky and you’ll need good shoes to climb down to the pools to be rewarded by swimming in clear, turquoise water.

31. Eat seafood in Lanzarote

The seafood in Lanzarote is outstanding and inexpensive, much of it locally caught by the fishing boats that work from different ports. All around the island you’ll find seafood restaurants, overlooking a rocky shore or Chiringuita style on a sandy beach, where you can dine with a view of the ocean.

The waiter will recite a list of the fresh fish of the day but if you’re not sure what to order, a paradilla or platter for two is a good option, giving you a selection of fish and seafood.

Typical specialities are Sancocho (fish stew), pulpo a la plancha (grilled octopus) gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns in sizzling oil) and lapas (limpets) grilled with green Mojo sauce.

Read more about the delicious seafood: Food in Lanzarote: 25 dishes and drinks you’ll want to try!

32. Cesar Manrique wind toys

Driving around the island, we came across unusual sculptures on some of the roundabouts and learned that these juguetes del viento or “wind toys” were designed by artist Cesar Manrique. As they catch the trade winds from the north, the sculptures move and turn to catch the eye, in a reference to the windmills that were once common on Lanzarote.

The Cesar Manrique wind toys can be found at the following locations:

• Arrieta – near the garage on the roundabout into town
• Tahiche – on the roundabout closest to the Cesar Manrique Foundation Volcano House
• Tahiche – in the gardens of the Cesar Manrique Foundation Volcano House, which can only be viewed as part of a visit.
• Lanzarote airport – on the roundabout as you exit the airport
• Montaña Blanca – the roundabout on the road from Tías to San Bartolomé, where you turn off for Montaña Blanca.

Plan your trip to Lanzarote

For a comprehensive but compact guidebook covering all you need to know about Lanzarote, I recommend the Lanzarote Marco Polo pocket guide .

This is the guidebook that I used while were were there and it gives lots of background information and insider tips on the best things to see, including a free touring app with maps to download and use offline.

Looking a guidebook for Lanzarote? We used and can recommend the Marco Polo pocket guide

We stayed at two delightful places during our 10 day trip to Lanzarote

• Finca de Arrieta with Lanzarote Retreats – a small eco-village on the northern coast at Arrieta which has a number of different villas, stone lodges and yurts with a relaxed and friendly vibe, that are ideal for independent travellers. Read my review of Finca de Arrieta here .
• Finca Malvasia – boutique rural accommodation in the heart of the La Geria wine region, set among a working vineyard. The stylish cottages converted from the old winery are furnished in contemporary style, around a turquoise Cesar Manrique style swimming pool. Read my review of Finca Malvasia here .

Map of Lanzarote

Click on the my map of the best things to do in Lanzarote to explore some of the places mentioned in this article.

Pin it for later!

Some of the activities, attractions or tours mentioned were provided* by Lanzarote Tourism or the tour companies concerned, while other costs we covered ourselves.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Monday 13th of June 2022

Great write up on Lanzarote! There are so many cool things to see on the island. Favourite hikes have to be Caldera Blanca and walking from Puerto Del Carmen to Puerto Calero. The diving is spectacular as well! So much marine life to see! The Angel Sharks and Seahorses are amazing to see!

Heather Cowper

Tuesday 14th of June 2022

@Rachel Thanks for your tips

Sunday 6th of June 2021

Wow! that sounds like a real adventure. I can't wait to visit Lanzarote and having fun in Volcanic Timanfaya National Park and those caves, which are amazing. Thanks, Heather for sharing your experience.

Monday 24th of May 2021

Okay now! I am LOVING the vibe there! You've made Lanzarote sound absolutely amazing. I lived in Spain for some time, but I've never been to the Canary Islands. I think after seeing this, that's going to have to be a priority in the future! Thanks for putting together this wonderful, in-depth guide to help inspire us! By the way, I'm Rocky from The Rocky Safari https://www.therockysafari.com/ travel blog. It's so fabulous to connect with you! Keep up the awesome work.

@Rocky So pleased you enjoyed the article, Lanzarote is really worth a visit!

Happy camper

Thursday 1st of April 2021

Lanzarote has been on my list of place to visit for some time. As an armature surfer and foodie it has the perfect balance of great food market and also I would love to visit the The Mojito van in Arrieta. Great in-depth article

Sunday 23rd of May 2021

@Happy Camper - so pleased you found it useful

40 best things to do in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 10/12/2023

Lanzarote is not just a land of volcanoes but also a land of natural pools, giant cliffs, breathtaking viewpoints, beaches with turquoise water and vineyards of unique beauty. This island is a real treasure. You will find out when you visit Lanzarote. For now, in this post I will show you which are the best places to see in Lanzarote.

After this huge list of the best things to do in Lanzarote, you will find a map where I have marked all these places on the island. You will also find some advice on where to stay in Lanzarote.

Table of contents

📝 MY LANZAROTE TRAVEL GUIDE .

Things to do in Lanzarote

Ready to find out that to see in Lanzarote? Let’s begin!

1. Go on a day trip to La Graciosa

If you are going to spend several days in Lanzarote, I recommend taking a trip to La Graciosa, located in the north of Lanzarote. It is the least inhabited island of the 8 populated islands in the Canary island chain. It only has 737 inhabitants. You can imagine how peaceful this island is!

To get to La Graciosa, first you have to go to Orzola port and take a ferry to Caleta de Sebo , one of the two urban centers of La Graciosa (the other is Pedro Barba). The ferry ticket costs €28. You can also go on an organized trip .

You can get more information on how to get to La Graciosa from Lanzarote here . Once you get there, you need to visit the Playa de la Cocina, Montaña Amarilla, Playa Francesa, Playa de las Conchas and Montaña Bermeja.

🛏️ You haven’t booked your hotel in Lanzarote yet? I recommend you the place we stayed at: Conylanza Golf and Mar Suites , an apartment located in a very quiet neighborhood in Costa Teguise. The place was spacious, clean and had a shared garden with a pool. We loved it!

2. Snorkeling in Caleton Blanco Beach

If you want to swim in calm waters and enjoy a good day at the beach, you cannot miss Caletón Blanco. This white sand beach with turquoise waters is located in the north of the island,  2km from Órzola. There are natural pools that were formed by volcanic rocks. You’ll be able to snorkel and observe marine life. Visiting this beach is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote with children.

Next to the beach, there is a parking lot where you can park your car. You can easily drive to the beach. Of course, if you go during high season and don’t get up early, you will have to have some patience until you manage to park your car.

3. Visit Famara Beach and Caleta de Famara

One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is visiting Famara Beach. This beach left me speechless. It is not for less! This beach is more than 5 kilometers long with cliffs in the background. My recommendation is that you spend the last hours of the afternoon here and wait for the sun to set and enjoy an incredible sunset.

This pristine beach is ideal for taking long walks and cooling off with a swim, but it is also perfect for those who enjoy water sports. The wind and waves make this place excellent for surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing. If you are interested in surf lessons, you can take a surf course in Famara . It is also common to see people paragliding.

Once you’ve visited Famara Beach, you should visit Caleta de Famara which is the town next to the beach. If decide to watch the sunset and visit Caleta de Famara, you will find many places to dine in town. We ate twice at La Mar Café. The place is very cool and the food is delicious. The only downside is that the service is a bit slow. If you are not in a hurry, it will not be a problem.

4. Risco de Famara Viewpoint (El Bosquecillo Park)

If you thought that Risco de Famara was beautiful from the beach, wait till you get on top of the cliff. The view is even more incredible when you visit the viewpoint. From the Risco de Famara viewpoint, 480 meters high, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the ocean and the coastline of Lanzarote.

This viewpoint is located in El Bosquecillo Park. You must drive on a dirt road but if you go slowly and carefully, you can get there with any car. Admission is completely free. I share the exact location of the parking and the exact location of the viewpoint .

5. Las Cabras Cave

If you visit Risco de Famara viewpoint, you must visit Las Cabras Cave. Once you’re at the viewpoint, walk down along the edge of the cliff and you will get there in less than ten minutes. You will see a small plain at a lower pass with a strange rock where you can head down.

If you begin to go down, you will soon see a small hole in the cliff. You’ve arrived at Las Cabras Cave! You can find the exact location here .

6. Visit “Las Grietas”, famous volcanic crevasses in Lanzarote

A secret spot in Lanzarote is “Las Grietas”, which are cracks on the ground created by the Montaña Blanca volcano. You will be able to enter the crevasse and enjoy the silence and tranquility. To make it very easy for you to find the location of Las Grietas (Lanzarote), the exact coordinates are: 28 ° 58’24.9 ″ N 13 ° 38’09.4 ″ W. You can park your car right in front on a parking space next to the road.

🏥 Remember it is very important to purchase travel insurance for Spain if you don’t have medical coverage in this country. I always use and recommend the company Heymondo, where I can offer you a 5% discount on your travel insurance .

7. Los Charcones natural pools

There are many natural pools throughout the Canary Islands. One of the most beautiful natural pools in Lanzarote are known as “Los Charcones”, located in the southwest part of the island. In order to visit these pools, you will first have to go to Playa Blanca, which is one of the most popular towns in Lanzarote. I recommend visiting the natural pools when the tide is low.

Once in Playa Blanca, you have to go to an abandoned hotel located on the coast. To make it easier for you to find it, the exact coordinates are: 28 ° 53’27.9 ″ N 13 ° 52’24.3 ″ W. On the way to the natural pools, you’ll run into a section of the road that is unpaved. I advise you to go very slowly and very carefully. You will see the abandoned hotel right on the coast.

Once you’ve arrive at the hotel, you can leave your car there and go down the rocks to Los Charcones natural pools. There are several pools formed when the tide is low. You can choose the one you like the most and enjoy bathing in it. I went to the one that is right here: 28 ° 53’25.7 ″ N 13 ° 52’35.2 ″ W. By the way, when I was there there were a lot of sea urchins in the pools which made bathing somewhat complicated.

8. Papagayo Beach, one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote

Playa del Papagayo is definitely one of the most beautiful and visited beaches in Lanzarote. Its turquoise waters, golden sand and the surrounding cliffs make this beach so enjoyable. This beach is one of the best places to snorkel in Lanzarote.

The beach is located in Los Ajaches Natural Monument. The access is not free. Admission costs €3 per vehicle until 6:00 p.m. After 6:00 p.m admission is free. The dirt road to the beach doesn’t have many potholes. There is a parking lot very close to the beach. You will also find a restaurant next to it.

The beach can get very crowded therefore, I advise you to go first thing in the morning or at sunset. If the sky is clear, you’ll be able to see Fuerteventura in the distance. Don’t forget to bring something to eat and water. You can also head up the cliff to the viewpoint in Playa del Papagayo.

Activities in Papagayo

In Playa Blanca you can go on a kayak and snorkel trip through Playa del Papagayo . It’s a 4-hour trip and costs €40 per person (€32 for children ages 8 to 12). The tour includes kayaking equipment, snorkeling equipment, a snack and a guide. It is a fun and different way to visit this beautiful beach.

If you’re seeking a relaxing plan, you can opt for a sailing tour around the beaches in the area . It costs €59 per person (€35 for children ages 3 to 11) and lasts 4 hours. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, boat ride between Puerto del Carmen and Papagayo Beach, welcome mojito and tortilla pincho, open bar, lunch, and equipment for water activities. Sounds like a great plan!

9. Spend an afternoon at Playa Mujeres Beach

If Playa del Papagayo is crowded, I recommend going to Playa Mujeres, also located in the Natural Monument of Los Ajaches. It is much larger (it measures 400 meters in length) and it’s less crowded. You’ll spend some relaxing time at this beach. The water is also very clear and has little waves. There is a parking lot right next to it.

You can also visit Playa del Pozo and Playa de la Cera.

10. Visit Timanfaya National Park

One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is visiting Timanfaya National Park. It’s a protected reserve home to 25 volcanoes. The landscape you’ll see is a result of volcanic eruptions throughout the years; 1720, 1736 and 1824.

As mentioned before, Timanfaya National Park is a protected reserve. Thus, visiting the national park without a guided tour is not possible. There is a bus tour that takes you in the national park. The bus ride is 30 minutes long and takes you up close to the “Fire Mountains”. During this visit you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful and colorful landscape inside the park.

The entrance to the National Park is located on route LZ-67. You’ll find a parking lot where you can leave your car. You’ll also find a restaurant and some information about geothermal energy. You can get on a bus tour right after the entrance.

Price: €12 (general admission), €6 (children ages 7 to 12). Office hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The last bus leaves at 4:00 p.m.

Important: If you are going to visit the Fire Mountains (Timanfaya) and other places, such as the Los Verdes Cave, the Jameos del Agua or the Cactus Garden, you may want to purchase one of the pases available to visit Lanzarote . The pass allows entry to 3, 4 or 6 places. You will save some money.

If you like to walk, there are two hiking trails through the park. The first, called the Tremesana Route, must be done with a guide and can be booked at the Mancha Blanca visitor center. The second, the Littoral Route, can be done on your own and runs along a path parallel to the coast.

Another option is to visit the Timanfaya National Park on an organized tour. On this website , you will be able to see different tours that include the bus tour to the Fire Mountains and visits to other places.

11. Go up to Caldera Blanca

Outside of ​​Timanfaya, there are volcanoes that you can visit. One of the main hiking routes in Lanzarote is the one that leads you to the crater of Caldera Blanca. The trail begins just outside the small town of Mancha Blanca. It takes about an hour to climb the crater. I recommend going early, as there is little space to leave your car.

12. Teguise, the most beautiful town to visit in Lanzarote

You must visit the little town of Teguise on your trip to Lanzarote. It is a town full of history and charm. Did you know that it is the ancient capital of Lanzarote from the 15th century until 1852 until Arrecife became the capital. Teguise has managed to maintain its beauty and splendor.

Strolling through the old town of Teguise is simply wonderful. Geting lost in its streets and discovering each of the beautiful corners in this little town is just amazing. You must visit Plaza de la Constitución and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe de Teguise.

Every Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Teguise market is open. It is one of the most popular markets in the Canary Islands. In it you will find a great variety of handicrafts, ecological products, souvenirs, etc. If you are staying in Arrecife or Costa Teguise and do not have a vehicle, you can take a trip to the Teguise market on your own.

13. View from Rio Viewpoint in Lanzarote

Visiting Rio Viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote. It is located 400 meters above Risco de Famara, in the north of the island. Apart from having incredible views of the island of La Graciosa, this viewpoint is also very popular for being one of the most representative works of César Manríquez. This famous Lanzarote-born artist was known for integrating art with nature in a very harmonious way.

At this viewpoint you will find a cafeteria and a parking lot. You can also walk along the path next to the parking lot for a free view.

• Price: €5 (general admission), €2.50 (children ages 7 to 12).
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Activity included in the Lanzarote Pass .

14. Jameos del Agua

Jameos del Agua was made by César Manríquez. This place is located inside a volcanic tunnel created by the eruptions of the Corona Volcano. Once again, the artist knew how to integrate nature with man made architecture to create a space full of beauty, harmony and peace. I recommend going first thing in the morning to be able to avoid a crowd.

• Price: € 10 (general admission), €5 (children ages 7 to 12).
• Hours: 10: 00 a.m – 18: 00 p.m. Last visit at 5:45 p.m.
• Activity included in the Lanzarote pass .

15. Visit Los Verdes Cave

Los Verdes Cave is located in one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. The tunnel begins in the crater of the Corona Volcano and ends in the sea. In the past, this cave was used by locals in the area to hide from pirate attacks. In 1964 the place was conditioned to accommodate visitors Now tourists are able to enter the depths of Lanzarote with a guide.

• Price: €10 (general admission), €5 (children ages 7 to 12).
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. It is recommended to visit it at 3:00 p.m.

16. Visit La Corona Volcano, one of the best things to do in Lanzarote

In the northern part of the island, in Haría, you’ll be able to visit La Corona Volcano. If you want to go up to the crater, which is 600 meters above sea level, you will first have to go to the small town of Yé, located on the skirts of the volcano. The climb is 45 minutes. I hope you enjoy the view!

18. Cactus Garden

On the outskirts Guatiza, you’ll be able to visit The Cactus Garden. It has a total of 4,500 cactuses of 450 different species. It is also a work of art of César Manriquez. There is a bar where you can enjoy local tapas surrounded by a beautiful landscape. In this very special garden you will also find one of the last remaining mills in Lanzarote.

• Price: €6.5 (general admission), €3.25 (children ages 7 to 12).

18. Visit Cuervo Volcano, one of the best things to do in Lanzarote

One of the best things to do in Lanzarote for the whole family is visiting the Cuervo Volcano. This volcano is located between the Timanfaya National Park, the Red Mountain and the Black Mountain. Once you leave the car in the small parking lot next to the road, you just have to follow the path that leads you to the volcano. It is a 5km circular route. There is also a path that takes you inside the caldera.

19. El Golfo Town

El Golfo is a fishing village worth visiting in Lanzarote. Not only because it is next to one of the most beautiful places to see in Lanzarote, the Charco de los Clicos, but also because it has a wide variety of restaurants where you can eat with beautiful views of the sea. We ate very well at the Casa Torano Restaurant. I recommend it!

20. Charco de los Clicos (Green Lake)

We arrive at another of the great essentials of Lanzarote, the Charco de los Clicos, located next to the small town El Golfo, on the southwest coast of the island. This lagoon is popular not only for its beautiful surroundings, but also for the intense green color of its waters, coming from the algae that inhabit the bottom.

The green color creates an incredible contrast with the black sand of the beach, the blue of the ocean and the yellow and red tones of the surrounding mountains. It is one of those places that seem taken from another planet. You will have the best view from the viewpoint, which is accessed by a small path that leaves the parking lot.

21. Bermeja Mountain beach, a wild beach in Lanzarote

I really like Bermeja Mountain beach. If you want to visit a beautiful beach that looks like something out of a science fiction movie, I recommend this place. It is made of sand and black stones. It has a green lake and is sheltered by a red mountain. This beach is ideal to relax and connect with nature.

22. Los Hervideros

Los Hervidores is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote. If you head south after visiting Bermeja Mountain Beach you’ll arrive at Los Hervidores. You can observe how the waves crash against the rocks and create large columns. Admission is free.

23. Janubio Beach

Janubio Beach is one of the most beautiful black-sand beaches in Lanzarote. It is a beautiful beach to visit; however, due to its strong current, it is not a great place to go for a swim. It not a touristic place therefore, you’ll be able to enjoy some peace and tranquility at Janubio Beach.

24. Janubio Salt Flats

These salt flats are located right next to Janubio Beach. They are the largest salt flats in the Canary Islands. If you’ve never visited salt flats in the past, I recommend visiting Janubio Salt Flats and enjoying the landscape. You should visit the slat flats during sunset. You can book a guided tour of the salt flats and also purchase salt.

25. Lagomar Museum

If you enjoy visiting museums, Lagomar Museum is definitely a place you don’t want to visit during your trip to Lanzarote. The museum was designed by Jesus Soto and Cesar Manrique. It is located in the district of Nazaret and is built on a volcanic quarry formed by natural caves, rocks and tunnels. One of the owners of the house was Omar Sharif who is an Egyptian actor. Inside, you will find exhibitions of emerging artists from the island, a restaurant and a bar.

• Price: €6 (general admission).
• Hours: 10: 00 a.m – 18: 00 p.m.

26. Climb Black Mountain, one of the best things to do in Lanzarote

One of the things to do in Lanzarote is to climbing Black Mountain. The you arrive at the top you can enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape. One of the most beautiful landscapes you will see up there will of Cuervo Volcano. You will also have a very beautiful view of Red Mountain.

This mountain is located next to the LZ-56 road. There is a small parking lot where you can leave your car and start walking. There are several trails to climb to the top. On of which is straight and steep one, where it is very difficult to climb, and others that zigzags. It takes about 40 minutes to the top.

27. Bodega La Geria, must-see in Lanzarote

One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is visiting Bodega la Geria. You’ll be amazed by this unique way of cultivating grapes. Large holes are made on the ground and rocks are places around it. In the middles of the hole, grapes are planted. These holes are dug in a perfect pattern on volcanic land. These holes create quite a landscape as you can see in the photo above.

We decided to enter the vineyards. The exact location is: 28°58’16.4″N 13°42’43.9″W. You’ll also be able to taste wine in the nearby shop. There are also guided tours available.

28. Antigua Rofera, a unique place in Lanzarote

Bodega la Geria isn’t the only strange and unique place in Lanzarote. When you visit Antigua Rofera, you’ll feel like you’re at a set of a sci-fi movie. In the roferas “rofe” is extracted, which is another word for volcanic sand with large and rough grains. Rofe is used as a top layer in agriculture. If you approach this abandoned “rofera”, you will be able to walk between very unique volcanic shapes.

The exact location: 29 ° 03’26.6 ″ N 13 ° 30’19.1 ″ W.

29. Do a discovery dive in Lanzarote

Never went diving? You should consider giving it a try in Lanzarote. I tried it for the first time a few months ago and it was an incredible experience. If you want to get to know the underwater world, you can book your discovery dive here .

You can book one dive (€75) or two dives (€115). If you have time, I recommend booking two dives because, the first one you may be a little nervous. You’ll definitely be more comfortable on the second drive. Don’t forget your underwater camera!

This activity includes hotel pickup and drop-off, theory and practical class, english-speaking instructor, all diving equipment and insurance.

30. Haría, a charming town in Lanzarote

Visiting Haría is one the best things to do in Lanzarote. It is located in the north of the island in an area known as the “Valley of the Thousand Palms”, since there is a microclimate that allows its lands to be the greenest on the island.

Do not forget to take a walk losing yourself through its streets, visit a local store and have a drink on one of its terraces. Don’t miss the Plaza de León y Castillo and the César Manrique House Museum.

• César Manrique House Museum Price: €10 (general admission), €1 (children up to 12 years old).
• Hours of Operation: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm.

31. Visit Cesar Manrique Foundation

If you like the work artist César Manrique and are interested in knowing more about it, you may want to visit the César Manrique Foundation, located on a lava flow in Tahiche. The foundation is in a house Cesar Manrique lived for 20 years, from 1968 to 1988.

One of the more interesting spaces in the house is Manrique’s old studio, where some of his paintings are exhibited. The garden is also beautiful.

• Price: €8 (general admission), €1 (children up to 12 years old).
• Hours: 10: 00h – 15: 00h.
• If you are also going to visit the César Manrique House Museum, you can buy a combined ticket for € 15.

32. Jabillo Beach (Teguise Coast)

Some of the best restaurants in Lanzarote are in Teguise Coast. However, what I liked the most about this part of the island was snorkeling at El Jablillo Beach. The water was incredibly clear! It is a small beach (350 meters long) with white sand and turquoise waters. It is easily accessible, so there are usually a lot of people, especially families. I recommend going early or late in the day.

33. Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote

It is not a touristic place in Lanzarote. However, if you are in the area at sunset time, I recommend taking a walk through the Charco de San Ginés. Here the sea water enters the city creating one of the most beautiful postcards of Arrecife.

Around the pond, you will find numerous restaurants with terraces where you can sit down to enjoy a pleasant evening while trying some of the typical dishes. Be sure to try the famous potatoes with mojo.

34. Take a stroll through Arrieta

I recommend visiting Arrieta which is a small town in the north coast of Lanzarote. One of the main attractions of Arrieta is Playa de la Garita, quite popular amongst those who love to surf.

Another reason why some travelers visit Arrieta is because it is very peaceful. Unlike other towns on the island, Arrieta is very quiet. If you want to enjoy a very quiet bath, do not forget to bathe in El Charcón.

35. Cueva del Agua natural pool

Cueva del Agua is another natural pool worth visiting. It is located between Charco del Palo and the Los Cocoteros neighborhood, in a fairly isolated area. It’s somewhat complicated to get to Cueva del Agua natural pool. It is a positive thing, since you will find few people in the pool. From Guatiza, you have to take a dirt road that takes you to a lonely house. Here you can leave the car. Then you walk a bit north, past the house.

Unlike other pools, you have to visit this pool during high tide. There is a cave through which the sea water enters and, if the tide is low, it enters with more force. Also, when the tide is high, you can jump into the pool, as it is deep enough. If you are going to go, I recommend wearing flip-flops.

• Exact location: 29°04’12.3″N 13°27’24.1″W.

36. Walk around Montaña Colorada, a great thing to do in Lanzarote

If you want to walk between volcanoes but do not want to have to climb a lot, I recommend taking the circular route that surrounds Red Mountain. As you can imagine based on its name, this mountain stands out for the reddish color of its slopes. It is a very simple route, suitable for the whole family. Along the way you will find different information panels about the different volcanoes in the area. It is very interesting.

37. Diving in Atlantic Museum of Lanzarote

Did you know that in Lanzarote there is an underwater museum? It also caught my attention when I discovered it! It is the only underwater museum in Europe. You can dive among the sculptures created by Jason deCaires Taylor , who also created a museum of this type in Granada (country) and Cancun (Mexico). If you are interested, you can book a diving trip in advance to the Atlantic Museum of Lanzarote .

38. Charco del Palo Natural Pool

Charco del Palo Natural Pool is ideal if you like to feel free and wild in nature. This pool is located in Charco del Palo, a nudist area in Lanzarote. As you can imagine, everyone who visits this place is completely naked. If you want to feel the rays of the sun in every corner of your body, this is the place for you. This neighborhood is located in Mala, in the northeast of the island. The pools are very easy to access.

39. Pools of Punta Mujeres

Some of the most popular pools are in Punta Mujeres, a charming town located in the northeast of Lanzarote. In Punta Mujeres you will find several natural pools, some of them well protected from the sea, which make them ideal for children. If you want to enjoy the sun, the sea and village life, you cannot miss this beautiful corner of the island.

40. Playa Blanca, in the south of Lanzarote

Playa Blanca is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote. There are many beautiful beaches nearby like Papagayo Beach. Unlike other towns, Playa Blanca has a more relaxed atmosphere. After visiting the beaches of Los Ajaches Natural Monument, you can stop for dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

In Playa Blanca you can go parasailing , get on a jet ski or water bike tour .

You can also go on an organized day trip to Fuerteventura from Playa Blanca. If you are also visiting this island, have a look at my post on the best things to do in Fuerteventura .

Other places to see in Lanzarote: Casa del Campesino Museum, Casa José Saramago, Honda Beach, Bodegas El Grifo, Caleta del Mojón Blanco and the inclined palm tree of Lanzarote, located at the base of Black Mountain (update: the palm tree was cut off).

Where to stay in Lanzarote

One of the main concerns people have when planning a trip to this island is figuring out where to stay in Lanzarote . There are many towns on the island that are great options. Your decision will depend on whether you are going to visit the entire island, if you are going to spend every night in the same place, if you prefer a quieter or more lively place, etc.

Lanzarote is not a very large island, therefore, it is not necessary to stay in different places. You can choose a town and visit all of Lanzarote staying in one place.

We stayed in Costa Teguise and visited every corner on the island. We chose this coastal town because it is in a more or less central location and very close to the highway that crosses the island from north to south. It is also on the coast and has many places to eat.

We stayed at Conylanza Golf and Mar Suites which are apartments located in a very quiet neighborhood in Costa Teguise. The apartment was spacious, bright, clean and had a terrace overlooking the sea. There was also a common garden with a pool. It had no private parking but on the street there is a lot of space to park. I highly recommend it!

Best towns to stay in Lanzarote:

• Hotels in Costa Teguise .
• Hotels in Playa Blanca .
• Hotels in Caleta de Famara .
• Hotels in Haría .
• Hotels in Arrieta .

Map of places to visit in Lanzarote

On the following map, I have marked all the places to visit in Lanzarote mentioned in this article:

If you are visiting other parts of this beautiful country, check my Spain travel guide .

I hope this post about the best things to do in Lanzarote has been very useful and informative and has helped you organize your visit to this charming island. If you have more questions or want to tell me about your trip to the Canary Islands, you can leave a comment or write me an email. Until next time, travelers!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

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2 Responses

6) and 21) are not allowed to do. I know some people do this regulary, but I guess its not a good idea to recommend it.

Hello, Sabrins. It was totally fine to visit both of the places you mention when I visited the island in 2021. I am not sure if anything has changed…

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17 Best Things to do in Lanzarote

With its raw beauty and unassuming charm, Lanzarote is a vibrant tapestry of beaches, dramatic volcanos and otherworldly landscapes. Explore the best things to do in Lanzarote with this guide. 

Don’t underestimate Lanzarote. The most spectacular of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote stands apart as a place where the simplicity of island life meets a rich cultural tapestry and the full force of nature’s drama. 

While it might have a bit of a reputation for all-inclusive holidays spent lounging by the pool, there’s plenty to see and do on the island. Trust me.

Whether it’s curious vineyards where vines poke out of shallow holes in black volcanic earth, vast underground caves or stunning views of the island and beyond, there’s a lot to keep you entertained. 

Read on to discover the best things to do in Lanzarote.

Best Things to Do in Lanzarote

Hike the caldera blanca.

Avid hikers are spoilt for choice on the island, but one of my favourite hikes was hiking the Caldera Blanca – a journey that takes you straight into the heart of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. 

The so-called “White Crater” is part of the Timanfaya National Park (which I’ll cover in more detail later in this guide) and was formed around 5,000 years ago during the eruptions that created the Timanfaya lava fields. 

That eruption resulted in the widest crater on the island at 1,200 metres across, one that rises dramatically out of a sea of black lava rock. 

Sounds epic right? It is, as is the hike you do to get there. The trailhead starts near the village of Macha Blanca, winding its way through the lava field (wear sturdy footwear, it is quite uneven) before skirting up the side of the caldera to the rim of the great crater of this extinct volcano. 

Don’t stress if you’re a hiking noob, though — the ascent is gradual, so most consider this a moderate 5.9-mile (9km) loop trail. 

Once you’re at the top of the rim, you have a couple of choices – the first is to extend the hike and do the loop around the crater’s rim before heading back down, or to simply take in the views and head back down. I chose to hike around the quarter of the rim to see the crater from a few different angles, but it was getting quite late in the day and I didn’t want to lose the light. 

The whole hike takes 3-4 hours to complete, more if you hike the rim too. 

It can get very windy at the top of the crater. Wear good hiking shoes to maintain your footing on the volcanic rocks.

Admire the Beauty of Timanfaya National Park 

Timanfaya isn’t your average national park – a patchwork of dramatic volcanic landscapes that were primarily formed by the eruptions of more than 100 volcanoes between 1730 and 1736 and again in 1824. 

The result is a barren moonscape that’s eerily beautiful – a vast area of volcanic soil that was one of my highlights from my time on the island. 

While you can access some areas of the park (like the Caldera Blanca) independently, access to most of the park is restricted to coach tours that are organised by the park to protect the delicate natural environment. These guided tours delve into the geology and history of the park, along with providing fascinating insights about its unique ecology. 

Interesting as the whole experience is, the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) really stand out – an area where the heat below the earth’s surface is still so intense that when the guides pour water into boreholes, it almost immediately erupts out in the form of steam. 

It’s a stark reminder of the volcanic activity still simmering below the earth’s surface.

You can book the coach tour direct with the park or via Get Your Guide

Explore the Jardin de Cactus 

This isn’t your granny’s succulent garden. Actually, it’s famous Lanzarote architect César Manrique’s. 

Sitting pretty in the village of Guatiza, the Jardín de Cactus used to be a quarry where they extracted volcanic sand to spread it on cultivated areas to help them retain moisture. Now, it’s levelled up to something of an aesthetic dream. Opened in 1990, it’s a vertical maze of 4,500 cacti, including 1,000 different species, artfully arranged in the contours of the quarry to create a living work of art. 

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from my visit – on the face of it, a cactus garden sounds like it could be a bit of a snooze, but the reality was anything but. There were spindly asparagus spears, towering saguaros, and spiky soccer balls with pools of black volcanic sands and red rocks between them. 

Manrique’s central philosophy revolved around working with the island’s natural landscapes – a philosophy that helped shape some of the island’s quirkiest destinations like the Cactus Garden and the Jameos del Agua Caves featured below. 

The fact that the garden’s built in a low-lying quarry helps it trap sunlight and heat, making it a haven for its solar-loving inhabitants.

The garden is open from 10am to 4.30pm. Tickets cost €6.50 for adults, €3.25 for children aged 7-12. Children under 7 go free.

Venture Into the Jameos del Agua Caves

You know how I said that Lanzarote was full of weird and wacky places you can’t find anywhere else? The Jameos del Agua Caves are one such place. 

Another masterpiece by César Manrique, the caves are a prime example of blending art with nature for a unique experience. 

The caves were originally formed by the eruption of La Corona and are actually a series of collapsed lava tubes. Manrique saw the potential in these twisted, arching caverns and transformed them into a magical subterranean realm. 

Venturing down the stairs from the entrance, I was immediately plunged into the gloomy darkness of the main cave, an underground lake with tiny albino crabs huddled in its waters like a marine galaxy of white stars. 

The whole effect was surreal, even more so when I followed the path towards sunlight, where a crystalline turquoise pool fringed with palm trees and a swinging 60s decor vibe. 

There’s also an auditorium used for concerts surrounded by scattered cafés and a restaurant, which plays live music come nightfall, plus a small museum dedicated to volcanology. 

The caves are open between 10am and 5.15pm daily. Tickets cost €10 for adults or €5 for children aged 7-12. Alternatively, you can book onto a guided tour to learn more about this unique location. 

Take in the Views from Mirador Del Rio 

Perched a jaunty 479 metres above the sea on the northernmost part of Lanzarote, the  Mirador del Rio is the place to go for straight-up spectacular views, as well as an architectural attraction in its own right.

Designed by (you guessed it…) César Manrique, it was originally constructed in the 1970s, tucked away into the cliffside of Risco de Famara. 

Manrique’s sculpture of a fish and bird meshed into one, a metaphor for water and air sits just above the entrance – a bold piece that encapsulates what’s to come. 

Head beyond the entrance to catch a look at the large domed windows showcasing the stunning panoramic view where the El Rio sea separates Lanzarote from the small island of La Graciosa. Beyond that, the Chinijo Islands lie scattered in the azure blue of the Atlantic. On a clear day, the view stretches for miles. 

You can buy tickets on the door, in advance from the website or book onto this tour to see this and three other of Manrique’s iconic architectural works .

 Visit late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and to catch some of the best light for admiring (and photographing) the views.

Marvel at Los Hervideros

“Los Hervideros” translates to “the boiling pots” in Spanish — which is kind of a giveaway about what to expect. 

This is where the craggy coastline of volcanic rocks meets the wild Atlantic Sea. The black-pockmarked cliffs feature lava tunnels and blowholes where the churning waters rush and throw seaspray skywards, much like a geyser. 

The area was created by the very same volcanic eruptions that created Timanfaya National Park – the molten lava cooled rapidly as it reached the sea, leaving in its wake a geological marvel formed of layers of solidified lava, each with its own unique texture and shape. 

There’s no charge to visit. You have to explore the area on foot – wear sturdy shoes and stick to the marked paths as some of the rocks can be slippery and the waves can be unpredictable.

Sip Wine (And Learn About it’s History) at Bodegas El Grifo

Where there’s wine, that’s where you’ll find me.

I’ll bet that if I say Lanzarote, wine isn’t one of the first things that springs to mind, but the island has a long winemaking history that stretches back centuries. 

In fact, established in 1775, Bodegas El Grifo is one of the ten oldest wineries in Spain and the oldest in the Canary Islands. Nope, I didn’t know that before I visited either. 

But wait, doesn’t the winery date from close to the time a series of volcanic eruptions pretty much rewrote the whole of Lanzarote’s landscape? Correct. 

The eruptions left the island covered in a layer of volcanic ash – and locals discovered that rather than the ash killing the vines, they actually thrived in the unlikely environment. They’re planted in cone-shaped pits and surrounded by a small stone wall to help protect them from the elements – a method that gives Lanzarote’s wine a distinct taste. 

The people who currently own Bodegas El Grifo are the fifth-generation descendants of the family who bought it in 1880. 

There’s a museum where you’ll find wine pumps, crushers, and presses, amongst 500 other preserved pieces of wine-making history. 

Otherwise, you can (and should) tour the cellars, museum and vineyard in the heart of the protected La Geria area. There’s also a wine bar on-site to sample the fruits of the facility’s labours (dad joke alert). 

This is one of the more popular spots on the island, and I r ecommend booking guided tours in advance .

Be Wowed at Mirador De Guinate

More stunning views of Lanzarote? Don’t mind if I do! 

The Mirador de Guinate is perched 500 metres above the sea on the cliffs of Risco de Famara, boasting gorgeous views of the Chinijo Archipelago and churning Atlantic Ocean.

It’s a much quieter alternative to the Mirador del Rio down the road – and the views are no less spectacular either. 

You can even see past La Graciosa island to Montaña Clara and Alegranza in the distance – lying before you is the European Union’s largest marine reserve, about 70,000 hectares.  

There’s also a wall separating the viewpoint from the abyss with a mosaic that bears the words “déjate llevar”, which in English translates to “let yourself be carried away”. 

It’s often cold here, so bring a jacket. Also, don’t come before 11 am as it’s usually foggy, so the view won’t be worth much.

Wander Around the César Manrique House Museum

If you’ve got the feeling from reading this guide that César Manrique was kind of a big deal in Lanzarote, you’d be right. 

Manrique was an artist, architect and environmentalist who played a pivotal role in shaping and protecting many of Lanzarote’s natural wonders. Where better to learn more about this fascinating artist than in his former home in Haría? 

The Cesar Manrique House Museum is a work of art in itself –  built out of an old lava flow, with five rooms in underground caverns formed from the natural bubbles of cooling lava, complete with interconnecting tunnels. Pretty cool, I think.

His touch is evident everywhere you look: from the bubbling volcanic walls that combine beautifully with the curvy lines, to the white terraces and mid-century furniture. 

Bearing Manrique’s obsession with blending the natural with the man-made, it  should come as no surprise that the indoor spaces give way to stunning views of the Valley of the Thousand Palms beyond. 

Learn about Manrique’s personal life and artistic process via an engaging range of exhibits in the very places he lived and worked.

The house museum is open daily from 10.30am to 6pm, Tickets cost €10 for adults €3 for children. Alternatively, you can nab a spot on this tour to spend the day exploring some of Manrique’s most important works – including the house museum.

Pay a Visit to Cueva De Los Verdes

The Green Caves (or Cueva De Los Verdes )  should be high on your Lanzarote list. 

Much like the Jameos del Agua I featured above, the caves were formed by the eruption of Volcán de la Corona, which formed an intricate labyrinth of lava tubes underground. 

A local artist, Jesús Soto, put his creative mind to work setting up coloured lights in designed illuminations combined with soft, moody music. 

Do so, to see chamber after chamber opening up as you go, with the final cave revealing an underground auditorium that hosts concerts. 

 You have to visit on a guided tour to navigate the passageways, some of which can be narrow and claustrophobic.

Climb to Peñas Del Chache, Lanzarote’s Highest Point

It’s not some big reveal to say that Peñas Del Chache, the highest point on the island, comes with some seriously good views. 

Sitting an impressive 672 metres, while Lanazarote is best-known for its volcanic landscapes, the journey to this viewpoint reveals a series of different landscapes, including lushly-vegetated areas at odds with the normal stark volcanic fields. 

On a clear day, you can see across most of the island and across to neighbouring islands like La Graciosa. Stick around after dark to stargaze at the observatory and examine the glorious night sky far from the bright lights of big cities. 

You can drive to the peak, but there are a number of trails to the summit for the avid hikers among you. Go prepared with suitable footwear, water and protection from the sun.

See the Salinas del Janubio (and Shop at the Tienda) 

The patchwork of the Salinas del Janubio salt flats’s pretty colours in hues of pink, baby blue, charcoal and ecru may look like an Instagrammer’s dream, but in reality you’re looking at one of the most important historical sites on the island. 

Constructed in the late 19th-century, the salt pans quickly became the largest production site for salt in the Canary Islands and played a pivotal role in the island’s economy. 

More than that, it also serves as an important ecological area – attracting numerous bird species, particularly during migration periods. 

Afterwards, pop into the Tienda de Salinas del Janubio, which sells all sorts of salts from the Salinas de Janubio or the salt flats. 

Visiting the Salinas del Janubio is free.

Enjoy More Wine Bodegas Rubicón

The Bodegas Rubicón winery has supplied locals and tourists with stellar wines for over three centuries. Located in La Geria, there’s a museum, wine shop, and restaurant for visitors, plus beautiful courtyards to admire.

You’ll be treated to some great views, too, as the winery, with its huge 100-year-old eucalyptus trees, faces Timanfaya National Park. 

Seeing the sun set behind the low mountains with the vineyards before you and a glass of vino in your hand is one of the ultimate things to do on Lanzarote. Their Moscatel is particularly delicious. 

Take a stroll through the grounds and then stay for a delectable dinner of traditional dishes — you won’t regret it.

Soak Up the Vibes at Playa Blanca 

Playa Blanca, a vibrant coastal town, known for its beautiful beaches – is one of the island’s most popular destinations. 

What’s so special then? First up, there’s the stunning white beaches that give the town its name – perfect for a spot of sun worshipping. 

Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo are good options, with beautiful clear waters and water sports. If you want something a little more secluded, head to the Papagayo beaches, a series of coves that are accessible via a dirt track. 

Beyond this, there’s a glitzy marina, Marina Rubicón, and a lovely promenade lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops.

There’s a cool market twice-weekly in Playa Blanca, where you can pick up some beautiful local crafts and artwork, along with fresh produce.

Head to the Pretty Coves at Playa de Papagayo

A series of stunning coves on the southern tip of Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches. 

Have to be honest, I was totally blown away by the beaches, which were my favourites on the island. 

Tucked away in the Los Ajaches National Park, they’re the perfect place to head to if you want to spend time on some of the island’s most beautiful beaches in a quieter setting. 

There’s a small entrance fee for access to the park – bring some change to pay at the booth.

Take a Day Trip to La Graciosa, The Island With No Roads 

If Lanzarote draws in the crowds, La Graciosa, one of the Chinijo Islands and just a short hop away from Lanzarote, is its polar opposite. 

This serene island measures just 29 square kilometres and is a wonderful blend of postcard-perfect beaches, whitewashed houses and quiet charms. In fact, there aren’t any paved roads on the island – only sand and dirt tracks that lead you to unspoiled beaches. 

About those beaches – Playa de las Conchas, Playa de la Cocina and Playa de la Francesco are each stunning – a pristine triumvirate of powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. 

Beyond this, the island is also a hiker’s paradise – with several trails heading into its volcanic interior to scale peaks such as Montaña Amarilla and Montaña Bermeja and many more circumnavigating its otherwise relatively flat terrain.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to La Graciosa is by ferry from Orzola in Lanzarote to Caleta de Sebo on Graciosa.

Spend Time in Teguise (and Visit the Sunday Market)

Nestled in the heart of Lanzarote the former capital of Lanzarote, Teguise, is the perfect place to wander around, seeing traces of the island’s long past. 

Founded in the early 15th century, it’s filled with historic buildings and old churches meandering out from the Plaza de la Constitución, the town’s main square. 

Be sure to visit the Castillo de Santa Bárbara – a pretty castle with panoramic views and a rather fun Pirate Museum. Another highlight is the Palacio Spinola, an old aristocratic house that offers insight into life on the island in times past. 

Top Tip: Teguise is famous for its Sunday market, which is the biggest on the island. Every Sunday, the town fills with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional Canarian foods and unique souvenirs. I can’t recommend visiting it enough.

Practical Tips for Your Lanzarote Trip 

Top Tips for Your Visit

• Rent a Car: Public transport on the island is limited and having a car will give you the freedom to explore at your leisure. 
• Book The Tour at Timanfaya National Park Early: Tickets do sell out – so book as far in advance as you can. Also plan to go early in the day for a quieter experience. 
• Come Prepared for the Wind: The island can get (really) windy – try and have a light jacket or windbreaker on you all the time as it can whip up at short notice. 
• Stay Hydrated and Protect: The arid climate can cause dehydration faster than you’d think. Wear sunscreen to protect you from the fierce sun, particularly during outdoor activities. 

How Long to Visit in Lanzarote? 

You can see most of Lanzarote’s attractions and enjoy a few excursions in around four days. But seven days is a good time estimate for a more leisurely exploration of the island and its wonders. 

Best Time to Visit Lanzarote?

Lanzarote offers a mild climate for the most part, meaning any time of year it’s bound to be warm. In summer (June to August), the temperatures rise to around 28ºC, and in winter (December to February), you’re more likely to encounter rain. 

So the shoulder months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are best if you want to avoid peak heat (and tourism). 

Where Should I Stay in Lanzarote? 

Arrecife gran hotel & spa (mid-range) .

A spa, indoor pool, and modern rooms with relaxing and fresh colour palettes — what more could you want? 

This fi v e-star hotel offers city or beach views and Mediterranean and international cuisine at their restaurant. 

Check Rates and Availability

Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa (Luxury) 

Crystal infinity pools, cabana sunbeds, and luscious warm interiors make Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort a magical experience. 

Only 200 metres from the beach with a bar on-site, it’s the perfect holiday respite. 

Recommended Tours

Things to Do in Lanzarote: Map

Discover More Winter Sun Destinations 

• Winter Sun Locations in Europe
• Unmissable Places to Visit in Spain

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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21 of the best things to do in Lanzarote

You know all about the beaches – but what about the vineyards, the hiking trails and the underwater museum.

T he fourth largest of the Canary Islands (twice the size of the Isle of Wight), Lanzarote ’s benign climate and unique appearance see it attract a disproportionately high number of visitors. Its volcanic landscapes are the colour of elephant hide, with villages like spilt white paint nestling in folds of this pachydermic skin. And yet, amid all that sombre aridity, stuff grows, creating stark contrasts of fresh green on black, in what is one of Unesco’s foremost biosphere reserves. But there are other more touristic reasons for coming, too. Beaches are plentiful , resorts are cheerful, and prices are competitive. Sporting facilities, particularly for cyclists and watersports enthusiasts, are excellent.

Main photo: Timanfaya (Alamy)

1. Admire Timanfaya’s fire

Although the last actual eruption was back in 1824, there is still plenty of heat just beneath Lanzarote’s rictus sea of jagged lava. The heart of the action is in Timanfaya National Park, a fiercely hostile landscape that covers a quarter of the island. Visitors to Timanfaya’s Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) Centre are driven around a circuit specially designed for maximum drama, while back at base, rangers demonstrate the heat that lies below the surface by dropping straw or buckets of water into holes: the straw turns to flame, the water to hissing pillars of steam. Even the restaurant, El Diablo, grills using volcanic heat.

2. Prom along in Puerto

Puerto del Carmen is Lanzarote’s grandaddy resort. Despite architectural lapses, it is a buzzing, happy, place, with a long, tiled promenade linking the four generous miles of beaches and bays that originally attracted the holiday industry. It is ideal for a family with teenagers looking for a bit of action, or for someone for whom shopping and nightlife are essential. Walk, or ride, the prom and admire the installations of outdoor gym equipment placed at intervals to lure visitors away from the temptations of the all-inclusive buffet.

3. Browse the Sunday Market

Lanzarote’s charismatic former capital, Teguise, is a sleepy place of convents, churches and cobblestone lanes that was deliberately located deep inland, away from opportunist seaborne raiders. These days its new cousin, upmarket coastal resort Costa Teguise, takes care of those who need to be beside the sea, but on Sundays both locals and tourists flock inland to the stalls and restaurants that line its streets and squares. Jewellery, designer wear, leather goods and crafts are big — merchandise that will make you realise how close you are to Morocco. And there are unusual delicacies, from cactus burgers to Transylvanian pastries.

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4. explore the badlands.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of setting off on foot into Lanzarote’s malpais, or badlands, a landscape so tortured by heat that centuries later it is still angry and raw. Craters, cones and hollowed-out lava tubes, where lava has cooled and solidified externally but still flows internally, are common here. To make sense of it all — and to gain access to some of these huge underground tunnels — join a guided walk. Be warned: lava rock is jagged and sharp; wander off-piste and you’ll throw away your shoes afterwards.

5. Do the Manrique trail

Much of the distinctive look of Lanzarote — whitewashed cuboid houses with green or blue shutters and doors — is down to one man, local artist César Manrique. Born in island capital Arrecife, his career took him to Madrid and New York, but his biggest impact was back home, where he returned to live, creating unique attractions out of natural caverns and tubes in fossilised pyroclastic outflows. His tall sculpture made out of disused water tanks stands at the San Bartolomé crossroads, a key central landmark on any Manrique tours of the island.

6. Taste La Geria’s wines

Making wine is something of an ecological miracle in Lanzarote , with its minimal rainfall. The vineyard belt, La Geria, is on the road that runs up the centre of the island from Yaiza to San Bartolomé. Here the landscape is honeycombed with shallow cone-shaped depressions of picon, or volcanic cinders. Each depression is shaped to catch the overnight dew, which then trickles down to nourish the vine at its centre. A handful of roadside bodegas offer tastings and sales, and the wine is pretty good, if a little pricey.

7. Test your inner iron

A conducive climate, and an enterprising cabildo (town hall) have crafted Lanzarote’s image as a training place for athletes of all varieties, particularly during Europe’s long winter months. Various national teams in a whole host of sports come to the island, particularly to the sports resort of Club La Santa, which has two Olympic-size pools, a running track, a lagoon for kayaking and windsurfing, and much more. Between the club and the island as a whole there’s a busy calendar of Ironman, swim camps and mountain-bike races.

8. Going underground

Two of the most eye-popping manifestations of volcanic power are located up in the island’s northeast. Jameos del Agua is a cavern whose roof was blown off when seawater rushed into a fissure of molten lava, leaving behind a giant luminous pool populated by blind crabs and surrounded by terracing. The whole thing has been transformed by artist César Manrique into an otherworldly visitor attraction and concert venue. Meanwhile nearby Cueva de los Verdes is a tunnel formed by explosive gases pressurised by lava into finding an escape route. It has been imaginatively lit to bring out its strange colours and eccentric rock formations.

9. Rural ride around Tinajo

The area around the small settlement of Tinajo, with its old cart tracks, goat-herders and sleeping dogs, is a remnant of traditional Lanzarote, ideal for exploring on two wheels. Here, the farmer’s fields — vegetables grow surprisingly well in the volcanic ash — are a labour of love. Agricultural machinery deteriorates quickly in sharp lava, so donkeys sometimes still do the ploughing. Rent a bike, and expect to stop a lot to take photographs.

10. Family beach hunt

The best selection of family-friendly beaches is down at Playa Blanca, on the island’s southern tip, a sprawling, newish, family-oriented resort in its own zone, away from the rest of the island. Here the big-brand hotels and villa villages cover large footprints of land, and they’ve created a succession of intimate urban beaches, with all facilities to hand. Head eastwards, however, and you hit the more natural, more remote pristine beaches of Playa Mujeres and Playa del Pozo, and then the ultimate in perfectly sheltered crescents of sand that is Playa del Papagayo.

11. Pose on a camel

With the relative proximity of Africa, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to see a camel train threading its slow-moving stitch of beige through Lanzarote’s dusky jacket. Historians tell how camels were first introduced back in the 15th century, and how the broad pads on their feet were ideal for cinder surfaces. These days they no longer work the farms, but instead carry tourists along the flanks of Timanfaya starting from the Echadero de los Camellos, just off the main road from Yaiza. Their ungainly gait makes for an uncomfortable ride, but the photo opportunity is something else.

12. Bright lights of Puerto

Much of the night-time action in Puerto del Carmen is in the nest of little streets above its bijou little fishing port. Have a piña colada in the Skyy bar, or a Guinness in Paddy’s Paradise, and watch the world stroll by. Then adjourn, past the German fashion boutique and the Indian electronics store (all open late) in search of a Mexican taco, a Thai curry, a Salad Dodger’s special, or a fish supper from the Cod Father. In truth, you could be anywhere in the world, but you’re definitely on holiday!

13. Go boho in Famara

The village and beach of Famara, on Lanzarote’s less-popular northeastern shore, is a dreamy, bohemian zone, where the young and the boho-chic sit around in cafés in the village square, while kitesurfers make eyebrows in the sky. Prevailing winds mean that the wide beach is ideal for all kinds of watersports, and you can rent boards and source lessons at several locations in town. Additionally, there’s also a certain amount of soul surfing, with yoga and massage here too.

14. Road trip north

While most of the island accommodation is based down south, the northernmost section of Lanzarote repays a bit of extra effort. For a start, it has trees — palm trees — around the traditional settlement of Haria, location of artist Manrique’s house, now a museum. Beyond that is the short hike to the crater rim of the Corona, the most accessible volcano on the island. End your trip with tea in the Mirador del Rio, a dramatic Manrique-designed viewpoint glassed into the top of a cliff looking out over the island of La Graciosa.

15. Boat over to La Graciosa

Anyone seeking to get a feel for what the Canaries were like in pre-tourism days should head for the raw but beautiful island of La Graciosa. This is one of the last places in Europe with no paved roads, and only one settlement, Caleta de Sebo. The latter is the port where the boat arrives from Orzola, a small fishing village on Lanzarote’s northern tip. Graciosa’s highlights are an empty, pristine beach in Playa de las Conchas, better than any on Lanzarote, and dramatic sets of volcanic caves where the ocean meets the lava. Plus of course silence — lots of it.

16. Ride ’em cowboy!

Rancho Texas is a carefully landscaped Wild West-themed park near the airport, with the emphasis on well-choreographed animal shows featuring parrots, birds of prey and crocodiles. If you have never stroked a sea lion or seen a cockatoo ride a bicycle, now is your chance. The Rancho also has the sort of zoo collection — from boa constrictors to Shetland ponies — that is particularly popular with children, plus teepees, water slides and a canoeing lake.

17. Sundowners at El Golfo

There are two visual attractions worth a sunset trip on Lanzarote’s western rump, within easy reach of Playa Blanca. First comes the striking tessellation of saltpans at the Salinas de Janubio, the white piles of salt made all the brighter against the dark rock. Then the emerald-green lagoon in the crater lake at Charco de los Clicos, sheltering behind its black-sand beach. And finally, the village of El Golfo, just beyond, has a string of little restaurants along its west-facing front. Settle at a waterside terrace, watch the sun go down and have a glass of Grifo, one of the best Lanzarote wines.

18. Culture in the capital

The island’s modern capital, Arrecife, is an inoffensive place of administrative offices and one-way systems. Head for its port, to gaze out at the odd mix of ships — sleek cruise liners and battered old rustbuckets sheltering from the stormy Atlantic — from the spectacular glass-walled restaurant at the base of the 18th-century fortress of Castillo de San José. This building hosts the Museum of International Contemporary Art, with a strong collection of mainly abstract works, including some by island hero César Manrique.

19. Do the full tour

Lanzarote’s compact size means that a good sample of its key attractions are manageable in just one (long) day by guided tour. All operators inevitably include Timanfaya National Park, with the option of a camel ride. Most will head out west to El Golfo, visiting the shoreline rocks and waterspouts of Los Hervidores, and the Charco emerald lagoon. Wine-tasting in the Geria region is likely to feature, as will the drive north to take in Manrique’s Jameos del Agua and the palm trees of the Haria valley.

20. Dive the underwater museum

Scuba diving around Lanzarote is more a matter of compelling locations than multitudes of marine life. Puerto del Carmen has a swim-through Blue Hole, and half a dozen wrecks of tuna-fishing boats are now providing their own marine ecosystems. The big headline location, however, is off Playa Blanca, where the artist Jason De Carnes Taylor has created the Museo Atlántico, the only underwater museum in Europe. It’s a surreal sculpture park, 10 metres down, populated by sunken statues.

21. Ferry to Fuerteventura

Highly visible from Lanzarote’s southern shore, and easily reached thanks to regular ferries from Playa Blanca, Fuerteventura is actually much larger than Lanzarote, although its blend of arid volcanoes and Saharan sands made it historically difficult to settle. These days tourists have replaced nomadic goat-herders, thanks to the best beaches of the Canaries, the best diving and the best windsurfing. The ferry arrives in main settlement Corralejo, from where Flag Beach is a key day-trip destination for anyone interested in watersports.

Take me there

Inspired to visit Lanzarote but yet to book your trip? Here are the best Tui Holidays and British Airways breaks to the Canary island.

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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What to see in Lanzarote, 13 unmissable attractions

Information

We tell you what to see in Lanzarote on our journey around the Canary Islands.A tourist guide to accompany those on Tenerife ,  Gran Canaria  and  Fuerteventura .

Discover  all you can do  on this island that never fails to surprise. Lanzarote’s alien, powerful and enigmatic volcanic landscapes often give travellers the feeling of being on another planet. Travelling over the island’s 850 square kilometres of coast and lava fields is like discovering a new land.Even mass tourism has not obliterated its image as an unknown territory, an impression further heightened when visiting areas such as the Timanfaya National Park.

Visitors are captivated by the small, sister island of La Graciosa, and particularly by its breathtaking natural scenery. But Lanzarote has also been shaped by the hand of man — the artist César Manrique , a figure with the power to put the brakes on urban expansion. His respect for the environment and his capacity for integrating architecture into nature produced unforgettable attractions, including the Jameos del Agua, the Mirador del Río [River Viewing Point], and the Jardín de Cactus [Cactus Garden]. Examples of how something that is already beautiful can be made even more beautiful.

• Jameos del Agua
• Cueva de los Verdes
• The island of La Graciosa
• Mirador del Río
• Jardín de Cactus

Los Hervideros

• Fundación César Manrique
• El Golfo and the Charco de los Clicos
• Papagayo Beach
• Famara Beach

Playa de los Caletones

Playa del pozo (playa quemada).

Playa Honda

Playa del Janubio

Playa El Ancla o Playa del Rey

• Hotels in Lanzarote

Places not to be missed in Lanzarote

Timanfaya, an out-of-this-world volcanic landscape

A remarkable landscape, like the surface of another planet, awaits travellers to  Timanfaya .  Montaña de Fuego, Montaña Rajada, the islet of Hilario, the Caldera del Corazoncillo , the  Rodeos Mountains   and the Señalo Mountains , Pico Partido, the Caldera de Rilla … These are just a few of the volcanic formations to be found in this large area of rough, barren lava flows in Lanzarote. A silent, transcendent landscape.

Timanfaya owes its unique landscape to volcanic activity that occurred between 1730 and 1736 , when part of the island shuddered and was left covered in lava and glowing rock. As many as twelve villages were left buried beneath the ash. The high temperatures of the surface here remind us that below ground a magma chamber remains, a real heart of fire.

The area’s designation as a National Park in 1974 , followed later by a declaration of over 90% of the land as a Reservation Area, has meant that it has remained virtually unspoilt. To find out all about it, your first step should be to call in at the Mancha Blanca Visitor and Interpretation Centre . Here, visitors can get in-depth information about this spectacular, volcanic park that stretches over more than 50 square kilometres. Although part of the park is protected, and therefore not open to visitors, there is still a great deal to see. In this sublime place, where the black of the landscape mingles with glowing ochre and red tones, you can visit places that are truly unforgettable.

Hiking enthusiasts have a choice of trails through Timanfaya, but the simplest and most popular way to tour the area is on a guided bus tour. The forty-minute trip includes a volcano tour and a ride through volcanic tubes, and pyroclastic and lava fields. If you want to see more of these remarkable landscapes, there are other options, including the Tremesana tour, or the Coastline tour . While it is always advisable to undertake these tours with guides, the most competent hikers could attempt some of them independently. Camel tours are also extremely popular in the area. A perfect adventure activity for families with children.

Jameos del Agua , a journey to the centre of the Earth

The  Jameos del Agua  is a fascinating project by  César Manrique . The artist is a constant presence in so many corners of the island. His architectural works, which are always mindful of the environment, are expertly integrated into the natural setting. In the case of the Jameos del Agua, Manrique played with the idea of a journey to the centre of the Earth . This is the impression that accompanies the visitor from the outset, even as he or she walks down the steps on the first stage. From that moment onwards, one jaw-dropping sight follows another.

Manrique’s starting point for this architectural attraction was his fascination with the volcanic tunnel formed after the eruption of the Volcán de la Corona . This tunnel, over 6 kilometres in length, extends from the crater of the volcano itself to the sea, and continues for a further kilometre and a half under the sea. The Jameos del Agua is the section of the tunnel that lies nearest the coast. It owes its name to the cave that lies inside the tunnel, and which constitutes a remarkable geological formation. It originated from filtration, because of its position below sea level. It comprises three ‘jameos’, or openings, in the surface of the ground. The ‘Jameo Chico’ [‘little opening’], through which visitors enter; another, the ‘Jameo Grande’; and a third, known as the ‘Jameo Redondeo’ [round opening].

Los Jameos del Agua

Plant life breaks through the basalt rock, and the place provides a home for tiny crabs. The space, designed as a Centre for Art, Culture and Tourism, contains a pool with whitewashed sides, an auditorium, and a centre specialising in vulcanology. The Jameos del Agua has some truly awe-inspiring features. These include a natural lake with clear waters, and a barrel vault, resembling a cathedral nave with a hole in the top which allows in what appears to be a remarkable beam of heavenly light.

The gardens are full of luxuriant vegetation. The palm, cactus and fig trees appear to watch over the undulating white swimming pool. The green of the plants, the pure white of the pool, the blueness of the water, and the blackness of the volcanic rock all contribute to a scene of great beauty. Anyone who has attended a concert in the Jameos del Agua auditorium, set within a volcanic cave, will know that this is a wonderful experience, thanks to the cave’s geological characteristics and its acoustic features.

Cueva de los Verdes , phenomena created by lava

The tunnel created by the eruption of the Volcán de la Corona, also contains the  Cueva de los Verdes , located in the  Haría district . This space has an illusory quality. It is a kind of labyrinth consisting of three vertically connected and interlinked galleries.In places, they reach a height of 50 metres.

Interior de la Cueva de los Verdes

The quirky shapes formed by the lava come as a surprise to visitors to this remarkable corner of Lanzarote. The Cave is a pleasant place to visit, thanks to its stable temperature (around 19º C) and to the anecdotes told by the guides. They point out the most curious-looking stony structures, formations such as lava stalactites, and marks that show the levels reached by the river of fire. Among the highlights are the Auditorio [Auditorium], the Sala de las Estetas [Hall of the Aesthetes], Garganta de la Muerte [Throat of Death], and the Puerta Mora [Moorish Doorway].

In the past, the place provided a shelter for flocks belonging to the the Los Verdes family, who owned the land. This explains the name: La Cueva de los Verdes. And before that, in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, it was used as a hiding place during attacks by pirates from north Africa. It was only a century later that their geological importance was realised, and European scientists and intellectuals began to visit them, fascinated by such an extraordinary volcanic formation.

It started to become a tourist attraction for visitors to Lanzarote in 1964, when two kilometres of it were made accessible. From then onwards, it became part of the network of Lanzarote Island Council’s Centres of Art, Culture and Tourism. The present-day appearance of the Cueva de los Verdes is the work of the artist Jesús Soto who frequently collaborated with César Manrique. Visitors are struck by the use of light and shade to make the stone stand out, and to highlight the weird shapes left by the lava after the eruption and their various colours: shades of red, grey, black and ochre.

La Graciosa, the eighth Canary island

Anyone who has visited  the island of La Graciosa  will never forget the impact of the scene as the boat approaches the port. Ferries depart every thirty minutes from the  port of Órzola  in Lanzarote. The short crossing is a voyage in search of a dream. Because La Graciosa, the eighth populated island of the Canary archipelago, is a tiny piece of paradise. There is no asphalt anywhere on the island.Its streets of sand come as a surprise on arrival at Caleta de Sebo . That is when the clocks stop. Here, you can forget rushing around. Time stands still, and the visitor is transported away from the noisy city environment.

La Graciosa, located at the eastern end of the Canary archipelago, is a haven of peace with a population of under 1,000 inhabitants. Caleta del Sebo is the largest centre of population, followed by Pedro Barba , a hamlet with a mere handful of white cottages for people in search of privacy and tranquility.

Vistas de la isla de la Graciosa

The landscape is dominated by the volcanoes of Las Agujas, El Mojón, Montaña Amarilla and Montaña Bermeja . And out at sea can be glimpsed the islets of Montaña Clara, Alegranza, Roque del Este, and Roque del Oeste . Everything in this setting with its hues of red, yellow and ochre seems designed to make us stand and stare. The island covers an area of 27 square kilometres, and makes a striking impression with its deserted beaches and fascinating volcanic landscapes. Whether on foot or by bicycle, the island offers scores of paths where you can wander amid the silence and beauty of its wild natural scenery.

Notable attractions include the diving centre, which is below sea level. The island is part of the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve , the largest such reserve in Europe, which covers over 70,700 hectares and boasts the highest level of marine biodiversity in the Canary Islands. The Reserve also includes the uninhabited islands of Alegranza and Montaña Clara, which have magnificent beaches. These islands can be visited on one of the catamaran or boat excursions available in the area.

No stay on La Graciosa should omit a visit to the Montaña Amarilla [Yellow Mountain] . It can be reached either on foot or in a private vehicle. The volcano’s striking yellow colour contrasts with the blue of the sky and the turquoise of the sea, and is well worth a visit. Afterwards, you could go for a swim at Playa de la Francesa , a large stretch of white sand. At the end of the beach, a narrow path leads to Playa de la Cocina , an exquisite cove wedged into the very foot of Montaña Amarilla.

Equally spectacular is desolate Playa de Baja del Ganado on the northern coast. From this shore, where the sand mingles with the volcanic rock, we can enjoy a breathtaking view of the nearby island of Montaña Clara. Even further north lies Playa de las Conchas . This large, deserted beach is subject to strong ocean currents. Here it is easy to believe you’ve been shipwrecked on a desert island. Skirting the coast, we come face to face with one of the island of La Graciosa’s iconic sights: The Arcos de los Caletones — natural basalt arches formed by erosion from the sea that flows beneath. Nearby is Playa del Ámbar,  hemmed in by sand dunes.

Mirador del Río [River Viewing Point] — looking out to the Chinijo Archipelago

The Mirador del Río , a creation by César Manrique, is one of the most special places on the island of Lanzarote. Its location on the summit of the Risco de Famara — a 22-kilometre-long mountain range — provides unique, panoramic views of the natural park of the Chinijo Archipelago. Manrique’s construction is on the Salinas del Río [salt flats] , a remarkable sight because of the reddish hue they impart to the landscape.

As is usual with Manrique’s creations, the structure is integrated into its setting in a way that makes it almost invisible from the outside. Entry to the viewing point is via a passage flanked by niches housing traditional ceramics by the local craftsman, Juan Brito . The passage emerges in the heart of the building, the great central hall. The viewing point has a pleasant snack bar with spectacular windows that function as the ‘eyes of the viewing point’.

El Mirador del Río

Through them, one can glimpse the collection of islets that make up the natural park of the Chinijo Archipelago, among which the island of La Graciosa stands out. In the foreground can be seen the stretch of sea that separates this small island from Lanzarote. This stretch is what the locals refer to as the ‘river’, the geographical feature that lends its name to the viewing point.

Jardín de Cactus [Cactus Garden] , a place of great beauty

The Cactus Garden , Manrique’s last artistic installation on the island, is now one of Lanzarote’s most popular attractions. The garden houses a collection of around 4,500 specimens of cactus, made up of a total of 450 different species. However, the collection is still increasing, as new plants are gradually being added from across all the five continents. These include specimens originating from Madagascar, Peru and Tanzania, as well as cactus plants native to the Canary Islands themselves.

The remarkable diversity of the collection and, of course, César Manrique’s accomplished design have resulted in the attraction becoming an Asset of Cultural Interest in the Historic Gardens category. Like all this Canary Island artist’s pieces, the Cactus Garden is a complete work of art. It combines disciplines such as landscaping, architecture, painting and sculpture. Visitors to the garden find themselves in a place of remarkable beauty and tranquility.

The Cactus Garden’s structure was designed for dramatic effect, as it sets out to deliberately surprise the visitor. Entry to the attraction is via a curved opening which skirts around a sculpture in the centre. Having negotiated this bend, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the garden, and then make their way down the steps to see the vast cactus collection.

El Jardín de Cactus

On the horizon beyond the Garden there looms the silhouette of a millet mill (maize is known as millet throughout the Canary Islands), of interest because it is one of the last remaining buildings of this type to be conserved on the island. The windmill dates from the early years of the nineteenth century, and was used in the production of gofio [toasted maize flour], a staple ingredient in the region’s cooking. The windmill commands one of the finest panoramic views of the area. Within the amphitheatre, two domed structures command the attention: these house the cafeteria and the Arts, Culture and Tourism Centre shop.

Los Hervideros, an astounding spectacle

Los  Hervideros [The Cauldrons, in English] , on Lanzarote’s  south-western coast , is a group of extraordinary caves. Their appearance is the result of the lava spewed out by the volcanoes in the Timanfaya National Park between 1730 and 1736 coming into contact with the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The strange shapes of the rocks here were caused by accelerated solidification and by constant erosion by the sea.

The location of Los Hervideros, halfway between the Salinas de Janubio [Janubio Salt Flats] and the coastal village of El Golfo , gives us an opportunity to admire the unrelenting onslaught of the waves, and to see how, as the water rebounds off the rocks, it creates a cloud that remains suspended in the air for a few moments. The seawater appears as if it is boiling, hence the descriptive name of the place — Los Hervideros, or The Cauldrons, in English. Water pours into the cavities opened up by the unstoppable advance of the lava, and provided that the force of the waves is strong enough, it gushes out through the overflow vents, i.e. through the openings scattered over the surface of the cliff.

The spectacle is even more astonishing when the Atlantic is rough. But on a visit to the area, you need to follow the signs very carefully, keep to the paths marked out with stones, and climb up and down using the steps designed for that purpose. A series of artificial balconies has been created to enable visitors to feel the force of the ocean while they are inside. Although you will often see local fishermen who know the place well moving freely around areas that have not been adapted for visitors, you need to be extremely cautious, as the ground is uneven, and the furious power of the Atlantic is uncontrollable.

Fundación César Manrique, nature and culture

Everywhere on the island of Lanzarote, one finds reminders of  César Manrique . Nature and culture, hand in hand. Creative risk-taking in harmony with the conservation of nature. Architecture and the volcanic spirit joining forces to produce a remarkable spectacle. A good part of the island is an open-air museum. Manrique had a vision, and he saw it through. His character, his work, and his activism in defence of the environment and against urban speculation have all become benchmarks for environmentalism throughout the world.

After a lengthy sojourn in the city of New York , the artist returned to his island, and began to turn his dream into reality. Inside a volcanic bubble in Tahíche, he built his first house, Taro , in the style of Lanzarote’s ancient stone buildings. The space continued to grow, and eventually became the Fundación César Manrique [César Manrique Foundation]. It opened in March 1992 — six months before the death of Manrique — and comprises the former residence, staff quarters and garages.

The building possesses some truly amazing features, including windows through which lava enters, thereby creating a connection between the building and the volcano — making it difficult to tell where one ends and the other starts. Similarly, the contrast between the blackness of the volcanic rock and the luminous white of the walls is present throughout the entire structure.

Fundación Cesar Manrique

In areas such as the pool, we can see how the Canary Island architect adapted the volcanic lava to create a bridge. Outside, it is worth pausing to admire the mural designed between 1991 and 1992 by Manrique first tracing its design with volcanic rock, and then filling the spaces in between with tiles. The garden contains numerous varieties of palm trees and cacti.

The Foundation, an essential visit for anyone interested in the artist himself and his works, houses his collection of contemporary art. It includes works by Cuixart, Chirino, and the Equipo Crónica . The museum also houses a small collection of Canary Island art, as well as three further rooms of works by Manrique.

Visit Lanzarote’s most picturesque towns and villages

Teguise, a coastline that evokes memories of the Lanzarote of the past

Teguise is Lanzarote’s largest municipality. It stretches from the east to the west coast. The  town of Teguise , protected in the past from pirates by  Santa Bárbara Castle , lost its status as capital to a town with a port,  Arrecife . This town, with its air of austere elegance, has an attractive historic quarter with white houses and charming squares.

The area’s outstanding attraction is its coast, which includes the Costa Teguise giant tourist complex . The Canary Island artist César Manrique was involved in the design of the complex. His concern for the sustainability of the tourism boom led him to strive to preserve the identity of the old Lanzarote in the project. Around what is known as the Pueblo Marinero — Manrique’s tribute to traditional Canary Island architecture — lie a multitude of open spaces, deluxe hotels and residential developments which recall seventies-style luxury. A golf course, a water park and an immense aquarium, along with the four natural beaches spread along the coastline, complete the area’s extensive range of leisure facilities.

Another, only slightly younger vestige is to be found at the Residencia Real de La Mareta , located on the sea shore on the outskirts of Costa Teguise. Its history dates back to the end of the 1970s. This is a luxurious building which originally belonged to King Hussein I of Jordan , who later gave it as a gift to King Juan Carlos I . For years, figures as diverse as the ex-head of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev , and the ex-heads of the Spanish Government, José María Aznar and José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, spent their summer holidays here. Today it forms part of the Canary Islands’ heritage.

The area’s most outstanding beaches are Las Cucharas , Los Charcos  and El  Jablillo . Las Cucharas is the largest, and the only beach with fine, golden sands. It has several windsurfing schools, thanks to its ideal location for this sport. Los Charcos has white sands, while El Jabillo is the smallest and quietest of Costa Teguise’s beaches. It has breakwaters which, at low tide, form a kind of natural swimming pool on the beach. The area’s fourth beach is Playa Bastián , speckled with black by the presence of volcanic charcoal in the sand.

Costa Teguise offers a huge range of leisure and sports activities. Among the many places to visit is  Aquapark Costa Teguise , Lanzarote’s largest water park. And the Lanzarote Aquarium , which is home to hundreds of different species.

Venturing further inland in this beautiful corner of the island, there are also the five amazing volcanic peaks of the Tahiche, Tinaguache, Corona, and Tejida mountains . Corona and Tinaguache are the nearest, and their moderate altitude (no greater than 230 metres) makes them accessible to every visitor. They have beautiful viewing points offering views of the Atlantic Ocean .

Haría, a bucolic setting

Haría is a picturesque little town in the centre of the Mil Palmeras valley . Lying in the shadow of the La Corona volcano, the town was the place chosen by César Manrique for his first workshop, in a refurbished farmhouse. In this remote, lost town in the north of the island, the artist and architect spent the last years of his life. He died in an accident in 1992. Nowadays, his home has been converted into a house-cum-museum, and is open to the public. After visiting here, it is worth taking a quiet stroll through the town.

Attractions to be found in Haría’s bucolic setting include lovely squares such as León y Castillo , where visitors can rest in the shade of the laurel and eucalyptus trees; the church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación , and the Ermita de San Juan Bautista [Hermitage of St. John the Baptist] . There is also a craft market which is very popular with locals and tourists alike. Another of the area’s highlights, on the narrow, winding road leading down to the town, is the viewing point, the Mirador de Haría . Manrique had a hand in its creation too, and even designed a little house for hikers.

The viewing point, also known as the Mirador de Malpaso, is set among palm and dragon trees, in an area rich in farmland, beautiful landscapes, and geological features. From here, travellers can admire incomparable panoramic views of the municipality of Haría, with its groves of palm trees, its terraces and the coast in the distance.

La Geria, Lanzarote’s fine wines

The Valle de La Geria , a vast expanse of volcanic ash located in the south-west of the island, includes five of the seven municipalities that make up Lanzarote. This area, very close to the Timanfaya National Parkis, is well known for its wineries. The place highlights the astounding capacity of the conejeros [the inhabitants of Lanzarote] to adapt to their environment, as they came up with an ingenious cultivation method based on gerias — hollows in the ground — which has enabled the area to be a prolific producer of wine.

Row upon row, these perfect hollows, tinged with green, ochre and black, eventually traced a unique pattern over the land. With the passage of time, only the wineries and a few farm buildings now remain in La Geria, existing in perfect harmony in this landscape scattered with volcanic cones, lava fields, and mysterious caves. Lots of people are drawn to La Geria to visit one of the enormous number of wineries to be found along the LZ-30 — the unremarkable road that divides the valley.

The vine plantations, in true Canary Island style, lend the area a dreamlike air. A real treat is enjoying a glass of malvasía, the island’s speciality, as you admire the scenery. Recognised in 1987 as a Protected Area, and in 1994 as a Protected Natural Space, the Valle de la Geria has also hosted since 2011 the Festival Sonidos Líquidos [Festival of Liquid Sounds]: a local initiative focused on promoting the local wine through alternative music concerts performed in the open air.

El Golfo and the Charco de los Clicos [Green Lagoon]

Also known as the Green Lagoon , the Charco de los Clicos is another unforgettable corner of Lanzarote. It is to be found in the   little fishing village of El Golfo , at the south-western end of the Timanfaya National Park. The little bay, barely two minutes from the town, is like a scene from a dream, a vision of remote planets yet to be explored. In fact, this is the crater of a volcano which has been partly drowned by the ocean. The crescent-shaped bay on the opposite shore, with its beach of black sand and a lake of emerald-green waters (due to a high concentration of algae) is a beautiful but desolate sight, and has featured in both Spanish and international films.

El Charco de los Clicos

This mesmerising setting held a powerful appeal for Pedro Almodóvar . It was here that the director shot a series of romantic scenes starring Penélope Cruz and Lluís Homar , for his film Los abrazos rotos [Broken Embraces]  (2009). Lovers of classic cinema will also remember  Raquel Welch  emerging from the green-coloured waters of a lake in a ‘prehistoric’ bikini. This scene, from the British film One Million Years B.C. (1966), set in the Paleolithic Age, was shot in this mysterious corner of Lanzarote.

Lanzarote’s beaches

Papagayo beach, the jewel of the South

Papagayo is the most popular beach in  Punta del Papagayo , a secluded area in the far south of Lanzarote, within the  Los Ajaches Natural Park . This is a protected area, and to access it there is a charge of three euros. A small price to pay in view of all the treasures held in this untamed area, full of unspoilt beaches. Here, the only signs of civilisation are a car park, a campsite and a couple of beach bars.

Papagayo beach has the typical perfect crescent shape, and is fully protected from the wind by cliffs. A small bay, its waters are particularly suitable for snorkelling. There are plenty of other idyllic bathing spots around the area: Playa Mujeres, Caleta del Congrio, Caletón de San Marcial, Playa de la Cera, Playa del Pozo, and Playa Puerto Muelas . Golden sands, limpid waters and gentle waves are a common denominator in all the beaches of this remote part of Lanzarote, so you can always find a quiet spot where you can be alone.

Punta Papagayo

Playa de Famara

A typical beach with a beauty that words can scarcely do justice to. This is a wild space with fine, golden sands stretching for over five kilometres in the north-west of Lanzarote. The beach lies within the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, between the fishing village of La Caleta de Famara and the cliffs of the Risco de Famara. The winds and strong waves make this a perfect place for water sports such as surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. A wonder of nature.

This beach, located near the coastal village of Órzola in the north of Lanzarote, is actually formed by a series of small coves. The place owes its rugged terrain to the remains of the famous Corona volcano, which lend it a unique and exotic appearance. The beach lies very close to Roque del Este and the islets of the Chinijo Archipelago. The beach can be accessed by car, and you can park nearby.

Playa Quemada is a fantastic spot, an incredibly beautiful sight in this part of south-eastern Lanzarote. Playa del Pozo is a small beach, barely 300 metres long, with pebbles and black sand. It is astoundingly beautiful and is normally deserted. The beach, which is difficult to access, lies near the Los Ajaches Natural Monument.

This beach, with its golden sands and calm waters, belongs to the village of the same name, and lies close to the town of San Bartolomé. It is 1,300 metres long, and its semi-urban location tends to attract the crowds. It has a delightful path linking the area with Puerto del Carmen and Arrecife. It is not far from César Manrique Lanzarote Airport.

This awe-inspiring, wild beach with black sands lies close to the town of Yaiza, and is a haven of peace and calm. It is around 800 metres long, but the currents are strong, making it unsuitable for swimming. It is very near the extraordinary Salinas de Janubio, Los Hervideros, Timanfaya, and Charco de los Clicos.

Situated at the entrance to Costa Teguise from Arrecife, this small beach surrounded by rocks offers safe conditions for bathing and snorkelling. However, its small size (it stretches for barely 150 metres) means that it tends to get very crowded. It has golden sands and clear waters. The beach’s nickname — Playa del Rey [the King’s Beach] — results from its proximity to Las Maretas, a residence that once belonged to King Hussein of Jordan, and which he gave as a gift to ex-King Juan Carlos I.

Hoteles de Lanzarote

The best options for excellent accommodation on the island of Lanzarote are the Occidental Lanzarote Mar, Barceló Teguise Beach and Occidental Lanzarote Playa hotels.

The Occidental Lanzarote Mar Hotel . The  Occidental Lanzarote Mar  is a four-star hotel in Costa Teguise, one of Lanzarote’s most famous tourist resorts, about 6 kilometres from Arrecife. The hotel has 442 comfortable guest rooms designed so that guests can enjoy a pleasant holiday. In addition, the hotel has 3 adult swimming pools and 2 children’s pools, and offers a range of food and drink to suit all tastes. Sports enthusiasts will be delighted with the facilities available here: an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a professional cycling centre, a professional gymnasium, and a varied range of sports activities.

Barceló Teguise Beach-Adults Only Hotel . Designed exclusively for adults, the  Barceló Teguise Beach-Adults Only Hotel  stands on the beachfront at Costa Teguise, just 150 metres from Playa de Las Cucharas. It has 305 comfortable guest rooms with a décor inspired by local architecture. In addition to a great selection of bars and restaurants, the hotel has a superb wellness centre, two swimming pools and a gymnasium.

The Occidental Lanzarote Hotel . Situated close to El Ancla beach, in Costa Teguise, the  Occidental Lanzarote Playa Hotel  is the perfect place for a peaceful, enjoyable holiday. The hotel’s All-Inclusive package allows guests to benefit from the very best services: food and drink, sun loungers and towels for the swimming pool, direct access to the beach, etc. There is also an entertainment programme with evening shows, as well as fitness activities and team games.

Barceló Teguise Beach

• Adults-only hotel, ideal for relaxing
• On the seafront at Las Cucharas beach
• Wellness and Fitness
• 1 buffet restaurant, 2 à la carte restaurants and a cocktail bar

Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort

Frequently asked questions.

What are the not-to-be-missed visits on Lanzarote?

Some of the places you really shouldn’t miss on your trip to Lanzarote are the Timanfaya National Park, the Jameos del Agua, the Cueva de los Verdes, the beaches at Papagayo, and the nearby island of La Graciosa. Discover them all in our guide.

What are Lanzarote’s most picturesque towns and villages?

Lanzarote has towns and villages that definitely deserve a place on your itinerary. Teguise, La Geria, Haría and El Golfo are some of the most captivating places.

What is the best time of year to visit Lanzarote?

The spring and autumn months are undoubtedly the best times to visit the island, as the weather then is very pleasant, there are many hours of daylight, and it’s outside the main tourist season, so it’s also cheaper and quieter.

Related plans

Los charcones and punta mujeres: the best natural swimming pools on lanzarote, the best restaurants in lanzarote, los hervideros de lanzarote, a landscape carved out by lava and waves, scuba diving in lanzarote invites you to discover the ocean’s wonders.

Velvet Escape

go explore. experience. and be inspired.

Self-drive day trips in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is an extraordinary island off the coast of Morocco. One of the Canary Islands archipelago that is part of Spain , Lanzarote covers approximately 850 square kilometers and lies less than 200 kilometers off the coast of Morocco. Formed by fiery volcanic activity, Lanzarote, with its countless volcanic cones, barren landscapes and ancient lava flows, is a wondrous place to visit. Aside from the otherworldly volcanic landscapes, you’ll find picturesque whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, vineyards and numerous miradors with breathtaking views. The best way to visit these places in Lanzarote is to hire a car and embark on a road trip to explore the island. I’ve created this guide to give you an idea of where to go and what to see in Lanzarote on easy road trips around the island.

Road trips in Lanzarote

This Lanzarote road trips guide contains links to three services I often use myself and can recommend: Booking.com (for hotel bookings), Rentalcars.com (for car hire) and GetYourGuide (for easy-to-book tours). If you make a booking via one of these services, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). These commissions help me to maintain my blog and share more travel experiences with you.

I’ve created three driving routes that cover the northern, central and southern areas of Lanzarote. For the purposes of this guide, each route starts and ends in Arrecife. On the map above, I’ve also marked my favourite beaches (yellow pins), the best places to visit in Lanzarote (purple pins) such as towns, viewpoints (miradors) and other attractions, and some of the Lanzarote wineries I’ve visited (blue pins). Each of these Lanzarote road trips can easily be done in a day.

Driving in Lanzarote is easy – the roads are good and there’s little traffic – so you can literally explore the island at a relaxed pace. In addition, it makes economic sense to hire a car instead of paying separately for transportation to/from the airport and tours. Pay attention to the road signs, make sure you drive in the right lane, don’t drink and drive and you should be good.

Northern Lanzarote route: cacti, lave tubes and incredible views

Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote. From its harbour, ferries connect Lanzarote with other Canary Islands as well as the European and African mainland. The old town, with its narrow streets, is a delight to explore. Another attraction is the 18th century Castillo de San Miguel (now an art museum).

Jardin de Cactus

From Arrecife, follow the LZ-18 road to Costa Teguise . There’s a variety of beaches (including the sandy Playa de las Cucharas), hotels, restaurants and shops. Search for hotels in Costa Teguise.

Continue to the Jardin de Cactus (Cactus Garden). Built in an old quarry, the Jardin de Cactus is a Cesar Manrique creation (more on him later). The garden, designed in the shape of an amphitheatre, houses more than 10,000 cacti from around the world as well as beautiful volcanic stone sculptures. 

Jameos del Agua

From here, follow the LZ-1 road northwards to one of the coolest places in Lanzarote: Jameos del Agua . Along the way, make a stop at the natural rock pools in laidback Punta Mujeres . While you’re there, enjoy a drink and authentic tapas at the Pool Bar Pichon.

The Jameos del Agua , is for me, one of the island’s most fascinating attractions and a must see in Lanzarote. The Jameos is a striking combination of geology, architecture and design. The island’s most famous artist/architect, Cesar Manrique , built a visitor centre complete with a restaurant, bar, one of the most amazing auditoriums I’ve ever seen and a museum inside what used to be a gigantic lava tube. Visiting the Jameos del Agua is definitely one of the best things to do in Lanzarote !

Get acquainted with the works of Cesar Manrique – as you explore Lanzarote, look out for more examples of his amazing creations.

Across the LZ-1 road, you’ll find the wondrous Cueva de los Verdes , a 3,000-year-old lava tube. The tube extends for 6 kilometers above sea level and for another 1.5 kilometers below the sea (the world’s longest submarine lava tube). Join a tour to explore the cave and learn about the island’s geology.

Mirador del Rio

You can continue northwards along the coast on the LZ-1 or take the shortcut to the LZ-201 and continue to the next attraction: the Mirador del Rio . Another Cesar Manrique creation, this viewpoint, neatly blended into the cliff-face, offers breathtaking views of the imposing cliffs and of La Graciosa island across the strait.

From the mirador, return to the LZ-201 road and follow it southwards to Haria . Located in the Haria Valley or ‘Valley of a Thousand Palms’ (find out about the origins of this name in the town), this stunning whitewashed town contrasts sharply with the barren volcanic landscape. Stop for a stroll around this lovely town, have a drink at the main square (Plaza Leon y Castillo) and visit the quaint church at the plaza.

This is also popular area for hikers and there are various viewpoints in the surrounding mountains for spectacular views. The viewpoints accessible by car are Rincon de Haria and Valle de Malpaso .

The last stop on this northern route is Teguise . The former capital of Lanzarote, Teguise is a quiet town that bursts to life on Sundays (9am – 2pm) when it hosts the largest market on the island. There’s lots of fresh produce, wines, arts and crafts. The wonderful atmosphere makes the market a great place to visit on Sunday mornings.

Central Lanzarote: the wild coast, Martian landscapes and unique vineyards

Caleta de famara.

From Arrecife, take the LZ-20 – LZ-30 and LZ-402 roads to Caleta de Famara . This windy beach, with its long arc of golden sand, is a popular destination for surfers and kitesurfers. Backed by imposing cliffs, it’s one of the most scenic beaches (in a wild sense) on Lanzarote.

Timanfaya National Park

Continue along the wild, windswept coast towards La Santa (another surf spot) before heading to the Timanfaya National Park . One of the most popular places to visit in Lanzarote, Timanfaya consists of 25(!) volcanoes and expansive lava fields. Drive up to the visitor centre and leave your car there to join a bus tour of the park (the entrance ticket to the park includes parking and the bus tour).

It’s a surreal experience touring the park. As you pass volcanic cones in a multitude of colours, old lava flows and intriguing rock formations, you might think you’d just landed on Mars! Back at the visitor centre, watch the guide ‘create’ a geyser and other cool stunts. You can also opt to go on a 4-hour guided hike through the park (advance bookings required).

From the national park, continue to Uga and further to La Geria (on the LZ-30 road). Located on the edges of the Timanfaya National Park, La Geria is the premier wine-producing region in Lanzarote. What makes it especially intriguing is its black, ashy landscape and horseshoe-shaped walls which protect the vines.

There are various bodegas (wineries) worth stopping at for a tour and/or wine-tasting. I can recommend Bodega La Geria and Bodega Rubicón . I also enjoyed the wine-tasting/tapas experience at La Bodeguita del Tablero . Don’t miss the local favourite, Malvasia, or the Moscatel varieties. If you’d like to learn more about the history of wine-making in Lanzarote, continue along the LZ-30 to El Grifo , a bodega with an interesting museum.

Southern Lanzarote: a green lagoon, salt flats and beaches

From Arrecife, follow the LZ-2 road to Charco de los Clicos . Also known as El Golfo, this green lagoon is a fascinating place to visit. The unusual colour of the lagoon is created by a type of algae found in the water. Backed by the eroded walls of a crater and contrasting sharply with the black beach, El Golfo is certainly an incredible sight.

Los Hervideros

From here, continue to Los Hervideros , further down the coast. This viewpoint is a popular place to visit due to its breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Spend some time here to enjoy the sights and sounds of huge waves crashing into the volcanic cliffs and caves. There’s a trail here which leads to other viewpoints and a lava field.

Salinas de Janubio

Head further south towards Salinas de Janubio , a patchwork of colourful salt flats. It’s a great photo stop and there’s also a shop which sells different types of salt.

The beaches

After all that driving, it’s time for the beach! Some of Lanzarote’s best beaches are found in this area. From Salinas de Janubio, follow the LZ-2 to Playa Blanca . This bustling beach community offers many accommodation options and a plethora of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. Search for hotels in Playa Blanca.

For something more secluded, head for the beaches of the nearby Costa de Papagayo . It costs a few euros to enter the park but once inside, you have a choice of five beautiful beaches! Playa Papagayo is the most famous (and crowded) of the lot. My favourite is Playa Mujeres.

I hope you find this Lanzarote guide helpful. Hire a car and explore this amazing island. These three driving routes will take you to all the best places in Lanzarote!

Read about a winter getaway to Gran Canaria , another gem in the Canary Islands, and a spectacular Gran Canaria day trip by car.

Note: this post is brought to you in collaboration with iambassador and the Spain Tourist Office. As always, all views mentioned above are mine, and mine only.

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8 Responses

Hi Freddie & Penelope, Wow, thanks so much for coming back to my blog to leave this wonderful comment! It’s always great to hear when a reader follows my tips/advice and has a terrific time. Your comment sure made my day! 🙂 I’m sorry to hear about that lousy restaurant experience though. I looked it up on Google Maps and it seems like you weren’t the only ones who had a less-than-satisfactory experience there. 🙁 Once again, a big thank you for your comment and I hope you’ll refer to my blog again for future holidays.

Cheers, Keith

Hello there, My husband and I came to Lanzarote for a weeks holiday. We booked a villa and a car for our stay so found your self-drive guide to Lanzarote amazing, all your recommendations were spot on. However, everyone else obviously also saw your post as when we went to the pool bar at Punta de Mujeres today (Thursday) we were told that they are fully booked till Monday!!! We were very disappointed, but we were also hungry so we looked on Google maps and found Restaurante Sol y Luna just a 5minute walk away, OMG please DO NOT go there no matter how hungry you are, it was terrible from start to finish! The waiters were grumpy, the fish soup was look warm and chewy, the fish of the day was dry and tasteless, the longoustines were very over cooked and dry and they didn’t bring our drinks. Thank you so much for your fantastically laid out three day drive around Lanzarote we have thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated all your effort laying this out for others to benefit from! 😊 Freddie and Penelope from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

You’ll need to purchase a ticket to enter the Timanfaya park at Taro de Entrada on the LZ-67 road. This ticket includes entrance fees, parking and the bus tour. The bus tours leave every hour I believe. More info here .

Great guide – is it necessary to reserve the bus tour in Timanfaya and if yes, where can we do that ? thanks !!

Fantastic images! Lanzarote’s wide open spaces, natural places, and breathtaking ocean vistas are among my favorites. We can’t wait to start planning our trip.

Great photographs! I simly love the the wide open space, natural areas, and the stunning ocean views that Lanzarote offers. We can’t wait to plan a trip.

[…] enchanting! Check out my post on things to do in Lanzarote for more tips and my guide to the best places to visit in Lanzarote on a road […]

[…] Check out my guide for self-drive day trips in Lanzarote. […]

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7 of the best beaches in Lanzarote

W inter sun, emerald shallows and winds that are perfect for watersports – the call of the Canaries beckons from its shorelines, and Lanzarote’s balmy blonde beaches lead the way for a seafront holiday .

Nature’s colour palette of black, red and gold grains form volcanic and man-made stretches of sand, fringing buzzing coastal resorts from north to south.

With over 100 beaches to bathe, the Brit holiday hotspot promises plenty of spots to pop a parasol or paddle in the temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Some of Spain’s best sands wrap the southernmost tip of the laid-back Los Ajaches Natural Park, world-class waves batter Famara with surf in the north and the island capital Arrecife is blessed with a Blue Flag quality coastline.

Whether staying all-in by the white swathes of Playa Blanca or finding paradise on the island’s little sister, La Graciosa, here are the best  playas  to lay your towel in Lanzarote.

Read more on Canary Islands travel :

• Best hotels in Lanzarote for a luxury or budget holiday
• The ultimate guide to holidays in the Canary Islands
• The best things to do in Gran Canaria

Playas de Papagayo, Los Ajaches Natural Park

Applauded as the star of Lanzarote’s swathes, the golden beaches of Papagayo take prime position on the southernmost tip of the Los Ajaches Natural Park – follow the dirt track and pay the €3 entry fee for paradise found. The popular crescent cove sheltered by cliffs makes for a relaxing reading spot, ideal for topping up a tan, treading turquoise waters and snorkelling reefs teeming with marine life. And you can forget sand-crusted sandwiches; clifftop Be Papagayo offers a menu plentiful with seafood paella and tapas platters.

Playa de Famara, Teguise

Surfs up on the north coast and there’s 6km of untamed shore to explore on Playa de Famara. Powerful winds produce consistent swells, breaks and rolling waves in this slice of the Natural Park of the Chinijo Archipelago so Famara’s fine sands are a surfer's haven whatever your style of board. The local fishing village of La Caleta de Famara offers fresh fish refuels after rides on the water and there’s a wealth of surf shacks and schools ready to take you from novice to expert.

Charco de Los Clicos, El Golfo

The black sands of El Golfo meet an algae-green lagoon and rust-toned cliffs on Lanzarote’s west coast. A landscape of contrasts, protected Charco de Los Clicos sits on the crater of an extinct volcano and though swimming is prohibited at the nature reserve, a lookout point allows visitors to watch the dark tombolo between waters green and blue bear the brunt of wild Atlantic waves.

Playa Dorada, Playa Blanca

With clear, warm waters and clean, fine sand, Playa Dorada sparkles afront the family-centric all-inclusives and sprawling holiday resorts of Playa Blanca. Peppered with plenty of blue parasols, pedalos and kayaks to hire, the 300m artificial bay is best enjoyed during Lanzarote’s mild shoulder seasons to avoid the buzz of the summer holidays.

Playa Mujeres, Los Ajaches Natural Park

Atop the Papagayo  playas , the secluded stretch of Mujeres is a dirt track away from the hustle of commercialised Playa Blanca. Backdropped by Lanzarote’s barren desertscapes an inviting palette of blues laps the wide shore and a float on the surface is a popular pastime with snorkellers seeking a glimpse of octopi and angel sharks.

Playa del Reducto, Arrecife

In the heart of laid laid-back island capital, Arrecife, Playa del Reducto’s golden sands and turquoise waters have earned their Blue Flag status. A lofty palm-fringed promenade of beach boutiques and contemporary art museums frame the urban crescent, and the calm shallows – ideal for children to have a paddle – are well-suited for a sunning session with a mojito or mocktail in hand.

Playa de las Conchas, La Graciosa

Though an island in its own right, La Graciosa’s rugged northern coast is littered with empty bleached white beaches that put the swathes of mainland Spain to shame. For a day trip to the dunes of Las Conchas, an expansive shore studded only with rocks and tidewrack, it is a short ferry ride from the tip of Orzola in Lanzarote to the  playa  paradise – well worth the endeavour for an uninterrupted stretch out on the sand.

Read more of our best Lanzarote hotel reviews

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Where to Stay in Lanzarote: 10 Best Areas

Where to stay in Lanzarote ? This splendid Canary Island has proven to be the ideal holiday getaway for couples, families, and outdoors enthusiasts for numerous years. You can be sure of balmy weather and unfailing sunshine throughout all months, both making for a wonderful excuse to visit Lanzarote. In this post we will review the best places to stay in Lanzarote.

Lanzarote turns out to be the nearest of the (Spanish owned) Canary Islands to the continent of Africa. It is a mere about 65 miles (slightly over 100 kilometers) away and also lies over 650 miles distance (over 1,000 kilometers) from the mainland of Spain.

Lanzarote possesses fantastic beaches and otherworldly volcanic vistas . The isle’s yearly average temperature equates to 72 degrees (or 22 degrees Celsius), earning the island its nickname of “the Island of Eternal Spring.”

With such an interesting and unusual natural variety and a perfect climate, it should not come as a surprise that there are plenty of places for where to stay in Lanzarote.

Lanzarote has bustling tourist areas such as Costa Tequise and the Playa del Carmen, but it also offers you an arid and wild landscape just waiting for you to explore it.

This volcanic island provides you with towns filled with palms, stunning beaches , whitewashed houses, cacti aplenty, and fresh seafood.

The magical influence of renowned artist Cesar Manrique abounds. He designed most of the island outside of the capital, leaving a legacy of no new buildings being constructed more than two stories in height.

You can see several Manrique attractions and also houses of his while on Lanzarote. Meanwhile, the island’s interior and north presents you with a bohemian atmosphere .

Visitors to Lanzarote will not want to miss the Timanfaya National Park. Comprised of volcanoes, these are all dormant today (since 1824).

Thanks to the enormous eruptions of 100 of these volcanoes in the years from 1730 to 1736, an enormous basalt form of landscape makes up about 25 percent of this Canary Island. Nearly the entire area is part of the national park today.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Lanzarote: 10 Best Areas

Despite the fact that more than a quarter of this island is covered by lava rock, there is no shortage of best areas to stay in Lanzarote. We look at the ten best places on the island next.

1. Costa Teguise, where to stay in Lanzarote for first time visitors

Near the island’s capital on the east side of the island lies the Costa Teguise . It is also a mere 10 to 15 minutes car ride from the island’s one airport.

You will find every kind of holiday accommodation, including some of the best hotels and resorts in Lanzarote , and numerous activities in this tourist resort.

Among its most popular appeals are the numerous recreational opportunities and facilities on offer in the Costa Teguise. These range from a water park and golf course on to a plethora of water sports activities.

A few different windsurfing schools are based on Jablillo Avenue and on Cucharas Beach.

This has all caused the numbers of cultural and sporting events here to multiply over past years as well. In June you will see the PWA Windsurfing World Championship qualifiers on Cucharas Beach. September brings you the Coast Music Festival , while June offers the Brazilian Music Festival.

Without a doubt the beaches found in Costa Teguise are the biggest attraction. Bastian Beach caters to families with little children thanks to its protection from the wind and its easy access. Cucharas Beach is beloved by windsurfers . Jablillo is another worthwhile white sandy beach here.

Those who base in the Costa Teguise will want to take in the fishing village (Pueblo Marinero) characterized by Cesar Manrique-designed traditional Canarian buildings. There is a market every Friday night and plenty of shops, pubs, and restaurants.

The area of Teguise also boasts a house that King Hussein from Jordan gave to long-time Spanish King Juan Carlos.

Families find the Costa Teguise to be the preferable place to stay in Lanzarote . It offers family friendly resorts and a wide variety of accommodations, services, and beaches alongside a tangible tranquility.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LANZAROTE IN COSTA TEGUISE

• ($$$)   Meliá Salinas – Adults Recommended
• ($$)   Barceló Teguise Beach – Adults Only
• ($)   Apartamentos Galeon Playa

2. Puerto del Carmen, where to stay in Lanzarote for nightlife

One of the most tourist crowded places on Lanzarote is Puerto del Carmen. It lies along the south east of the island and boasts over three miles (more than six kilometers) of protected beaches . The largest of these are Los Pocillos, Grande Beach, and Matagorda .

For anyone interested in the island’s best partying , this is the resort to choose to stay in Lanzarote. There are more concentrated pubs, bars, and discos in Puerto del Carmen than anywhere else in the island.

Fronting the Las Playas Avenue and surrounding Varadero there are night hot spots for every interest. Along the beach there are also bars and lounges featuring shows and live music .

The resort offers more than just the best night out on the town. You will also be able to partake of all types of sporting activities here. These include marine excursions, windsurfing, scuba diving, and deep sea fishing, to name a few.

The resort also features many different important events including the Carnival Parade (end of February), Ironman Competition (May), the Triathlon Qualifier for the Spanish Championship (June), Our Lady of Carmen Festival (end of July), and tennis championships at Match Point Club and Fariones Sports Club.

If you are looking for where to stay in Lanzarote around Puerto del Carmen, you will be able to choose from a large selection of hotels ranging from more budget friendly to higher end.

The city also provides many entertainment venues and tourist services on its wide Las Playas Avenue . This includes shopping centers, stores, bars, restaurants, pubs, recreational centers, and discos.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PUERTO DEL CARMEN

• ($$$)   La Isla y el Mar, Hotel Boutique
• ($$)   Hipotels La Geria
• ($)   Club del Carmen By Diamond Resorts

Read also: Best things to do in Lanzarote

3. Playa Blanca, great area in Lanzarote for families

Located along the south of Lanzarote, Playa Blanca has grown into the third biggest tourist resort on this Canary Island. It has received several awards for its outstanding beauty, making this peaceful oasis an ideal locale for families to enjoy and relax.

Playa Blanca boasts numerous shops, bars, and restaurants along its boardwalk and parallel streets. There is also an old town just beyond these streets. Visitors here should not miss the recreational port that contains high quality facilities for all. A newer shopping center also complements the area.

Two of the beaches are outstanding. Flamingo and Dorada alike contain beautiful white sand and are found close to the resort’s main hotels. An even better but somewhat remote beach is Papagayo , one of the best beaches in Lanzarote .

This beach network is part of a nature preserve and involves a small entrance fee. You will also find a car helpful to explore it as the Papagayo is a long walk from town.

Lying only minutes from this resort town are among the best loved sites on Lanzarote . These include La Geria, Timanfaya National Park, the Janubio salt flats, the Green Lagoon El Golfo, the charm-filled Yaiza village, and Los Hervideros.

It is also possible to take a 25 to 35 minute ferry to neighboring Canary Island Fuerteventura from Playa Blanca. Worth taking the trip over are the beaches in Corralejo famous for crystal clear waters and white sandy dunes.

The Playa Blanca boasts a large variety of hotels from budget to high end . Thanks to the many businesses, recreational ports, restaurants, bars, and hotels, this is an excellent place to stay in Lanzarote.

BEST HOTELS TO STAY IN LANZAROTE IN PLAYA BLANCA

• ($$$)   Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park
• ($$)   Jardines del Sol By Diamond Resorts
• ($)   TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach

4. Arrecife, where to stay in Lanzarote for history

The port city of Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote . It lies along the eastern coast of this island within the Canary Islands. Arrecife today remains a lively city overflowing with history and culture just east of the island’s center. 

The city’s name comes from the Spanish word meaning reef. The beautiful harbor is protected by interesting volcanic formations found nearby in the sea.

Though Arrecife began life as a tiny fishing village in the 1400’s, it expanded dramatically until it became the capital seat of the island by 1852. The city’s rich history still abounds. You can find the 1600s built San Gines Church in the old quarter, with its Mudejar style of ceiling and bell tower.

One of the mansions known as the Agustin De La Hoz now hosts a center for culture. There is also the International Museum of Contemporary Art housed in the 1700s era fortress of San Jose Castle .

Visitors will enjoy the abstract works of art found here. The city also claims the calm waters and golden sand of Playa del Reducto beach.

Because Arrecife developed before the time of influential native architect and artist Cesar Manrique (who personally designed and landscaped the vast majority of the island), this is the one place on Lanzarote to find buildings taller than the highest palm tree.

With 50,000 inhabitants, Arrecife is today famous for being a shopper’s paradise . It contains streets fronted by countless boutiques as well as more expensive retail outlets that feature designer labels.

There are bargains to be had in the right shops, drawing in crowds of visitors to the city for the myriad shopping opportunities. The pedestrianized street Calle Leon y Castillo with its enormous shopping center is not one to miss for those who love shopping.

For a break in the shopping, you can also investigate the Centro Insular de Cultura El Almacen to see what cultural exhibitions are on while you are in the capital.

The city has more than its share of four and five star rated hotels . Thanks to the Playa del Reducto beach in the city, there are a number of high quality resorts to choose from here.

Be sure to walk along the beautiful promenade from this beach to the second beach of Arrecife called Playa del Cable about a mile and a quarter (around two kilometers) to the west.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ARRECIFE

• ($$$)   Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa
• ($)   Hotel Miramar
• ($)   Hotel Lancelot

5. Famara, best place to stay in Lanzarote for surfers

Famara is a seaside town where you can retrace the footsteps of legendary local architect and artist Cesar Manrique.

The man responsible for the present day development of Lanzarote spent part of his happy years as a teenager living in the charming fishing community of La Caleta de Famara on the island’s north coast.

This lovely spot is both peaceful and picturesque . You can travel up for a relaxing meal in a seafood restaurant or find a place to stay (though hotels here are more limited).

This village of La Caleta is the beginning of the long white sandy beach Playa de Famara . According to many individuals, this is the most stunning beach in Lanzarote with its backdrop of the Risco de Famara cliffs.

Hang gliders love to fly off of these as high as 1970 feet (or 600 meters) cliffs. The waves are powerful enough on this beach to bring in experienced kite surfers and traditional surfers , but are not ideal for swimmers because of the currents and waves.

Famara itself is a minor settlement colored by green and white bungalows, some of which you may be able to rent. The beautiful beaches stretch on for literally miles to the north.

Because the breakers off of this beach make for such strong waves, international surfing championships have taken place on the beach Playa de San Juan . Beware going too far north on the extreme end of the beach unless you want to share it with the clothing optional naturist crowd.

To the south of La Caleta there are another three miles (or five kilometers) of white sandy beaches. These are also optimal for surfing enthusiasts. Playa Ensenada is a beach found on the shore of the village itself. Waters are calmer here and attract many sunbathers.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN FAMARA

• ( €€)  Red Star Surf & Yoga Camp Lanzarote
• ($$)   Surf & Beach Apartment in Lanzarote

6. Puerto Calero, exclusive and modern port

If you are looking for both peace and quiet as well as incredible nature you should consider Puerto Calero. The recreational port is renowned for its unique natural appearance because of the volcanic origins of this part of Lanzarote.

The town is also admirable because of its emphasis on a clean appearance and security.

This was Lanzarote’s first such recreational port started back in 1986. By the year 2000, Puerto Calero had secured a spot as one of the most exclusive and modern ports in the whole of Spain.

Today it prides itself on possessing the full amenities you would expect in a leading modern destination. The internet connections are state of the art, all luxuries abound, and it even has its own meteorological service.

The world class port also features fully stocked nautical shops and boating and sailing charters you can enjoy. The marina here offers 420 berths for boats up to more than 250 feet long (75 meters) and the accompanying floating jetties.

Hotels based here are higher end and accordingly are more expensive as you would expect in such a luxury destination.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PUERTO CALERO

• ($$$)   Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa – Adults Only
• ($$)   Costa Calero
• ($)  Apartamento Calero

7. San Bartolomé, where to stay in Lanzarote for ecotourism

San Bartolome owes its primary industry of agriculture to its ideal location in the midst of a fertile valley in the center of Lanzarote. The farming center for this Canary Island features numerous crops, especially watermelons, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins.

The town also boasts a wonderful bakery and a pastry shop that has the reputation of being the best on Lanzarote.

The country town features the beautiful style employed by Cesar Manrique with an abundance of white, green, and black colors. It is worth visiting to take in the excellent examples of traditional Canary Islands architecture .

You can see the beautiful 1700s era Casa Perdomo building . Today it houses the Museo Etnografico Tanit that focuses on the unique folk culture of the island. It also offers a lovely garden and courtyard and a little chapel.

Inside the museum you will see a worthwhile collection of household utensils, agricultural tools, paintings, musical instruments, equipment for producing wine, photos, clothing, furniture, religious artifacts, and many other items of interest. With its free admission, this is a museum not to miss.

The town also offers a big stylish central square. Here you can take in the late 1700s era San Bartolome parish church, along with the town hall and the beautifully restored municipal theater sitting next to it.

Accommodations here are more limited and boutique-oriented than in the larger resort towns of the island.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SAN BARTOLOME

• ($$)   Caserio de Mozaga
• ($)   Hotel Rural Finca de La Florida
• ($)   HOTEL-FINCA Rural José Manuel

Read also: Best places to stay in Tenerife , best places to stay in Gran Canaria , best places to stay in Fuerteventura , best places to stay in La Palma

8. Arrieta, charming fishing village

Another charming village along the northern coast of Lanzarote is Arrieta. It lies about 19 miles (or 30 kilometers) away from Arrecife the capital. Arrieta is a hidden gem that you should explore if you have the time.

The town is centered on a beautiful traditional Canarian fishing harbor . Every morning you will see the fishermen headed out to sea then returning to unload their day’s catch. These fish go to stock the area eateries. The village is an excellent place to enjoy fresh seafood and fish in the restaurants .

The town also boasts a golden sand beach called Playa de la Garita . This pristine beach has received the coveted European Blue Flag designation for its crystal clear waters, clean appearance, and wonderful facilities. Currents are stronger here and draw in surfers , so swimmers take care.

As the village is a longer distance from the capital and resort areas, you would probably want to rent a car to enjoy this community and its surrounding areas. There are limited accommodation choices around and near the beach.

For a mostly untouched fishing village, you can continue north of Arrieta to see Punta Mujeres. In this area you can see the Monte de la Corona , a 2,000 feet high (609 meters) imposing volcano that made the area when it erupted around 5,000 years ago.

One of the biggest lava tubes in the world is found here, stretching to the volcano’s southeast for around five miles (or 7.5 kilometers). Its last mile is under the sea, and the lava tube meets the water about 165 feet (50 meters deep) below sea level.

Two of the most beloved tourist attractions on the island are a result of this lava tube dilating. You can go see Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua to take in these fantastic and unusual lava formations.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ARRIETA

• ($$)   Eco Village Finca De Arrieta
• ($)   Modern home with Ocean View
• ($)   Apartamentos El Charcon

9. Orzola, quiet and great for windsurfing

The farthest north village of Lanzarote is a tranquil fishing community called Orzola. It is renowned for its fabulous seafood restaurants. Visitors come here just to enjoy a fantastic meal while taking in the lovely harbor.

Just to the west of this village is a postcard perfect white sandy beach called Playa de la Canteria . The beach is optimal for windsurfing and sun bathing. Swimmers should be careful as the waves can be rough and high, making it ideal for surfing.

This town is mostly a day trip destination . It offers little in the way of accommodation. You should rent a car to fully enjoy the area.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LANZAROTE IN ORZOLA

• ($)   Apartamentos Orzola
• ($)   Mirador del muelle house
• ($)  Casa Salinas Playa

10. Playa Honda, convenient area to stay in Lanzarote

Playa Honda is the commercial center of Lanzarote . It is closely situated to the island’s airport and contains numerous warehouses. The town is the second biggest settlement by population.

It is a popular place for growing families to move, and the high real estate prices reflect this. La Concha is an exclusive residential area that offers a fantastic beach and beautiful, impressive houses.

The town is also a convenient place to stay in Lanzarote . Its beautiful, long promenade fronts the town and connects Puerto del Carmen with Arrecife the capital. This promenade is always full of individuals cycling or walking.

You can sit along the promenade for a meal or a drink and enjoy people watching. Several excellent tapas bars and fine restaurants front the promenade.

For a central location on the island, it is hard to beat Playa Honda as a place to stay in Lanzarote. It offers many shops and restaurants, a fantastic beach, and connections to all of the regular local transportation.

The small factories and warehouses do not much detract from the area’s appeal, which is based on convenience, amenities, and its proximity to the seaport and airport.

The town offers two great beaches . Playa Honda fronts the beloved promenade while Guacimeta Beach interestingly extends around the airport’s runway.

On this beach you stand or sit and experience the airplanes coming in to land right overhead. This beach is not labeled a naturist beach but it does attract the clothing optional crowd.

Shopping is also convenient here, thanks to the indoor Deiland Shopping Center. You also have the big Hiper Dino Supermarket and the Garden Center that lies across from the runway’s end.

There are many places to stay in Playa Honda , including more affordable hotels and accommodations.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PLAYA HONDA

• ($)   MAGMA Rooms Playa Honda
• ($)   Luxury Beach Apartments
• ($)   Apartamentos Boya Beach

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6 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Lanzarote: 10 Best Areas”

Great article, really insightful. Thank you! If heading out in mid October, is there a particular side of the island which is more protected from wind and weather systems?

Hi Chris. Maybe Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen and Papagayo Beaches are good options

Hi, thank you so much for this article which is super useful! I would like to ask if Playa Blanca is well connected with public transportation because I’m not planning on renting a car during my trip Thanks in advance!

Hi Sophie. It is well connected but you will be limited in your movements as getting around the island by bus takes much more time and planning. If you plan just to enjoy the area and visit a few spots in the island, or take some organised tours is perfectly fine not to hire a car.

This is probably the best and honest insight to each area of lanzarote on the internet thank you!

I was originally going to stay in Teguise but now I’ve changed my mind. I was torn between Arrieta and playa Blanca as I just want a peaceful solo adventure/relaxation. My father suggested have playa blanca as a base as more to do there and weather is always a bit warmer and less cloudy in the south of these islands. I will definitely try to explore other areas for the day though.

Hi Katie. I agree with your father. Playa Blanca is an excellent place to stay in Lanzarote for what you are looking for. Besides, nearby beaches are great.

Many people look first in Costa Teguise or Puerto del Carmen, both are also excellent choices but personally I also prefer to stay in Playa Blanca.

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Which Azores island is perfect for you?

Apr 15, 2024 • 8 min read

The islands that make up the Azores each have a unique draw, from impossibly picturesque hiking trails to lively festivals © Westend61 / Getty Images

Sandra has recently returned from her native Azores, where she was researching the upcoming Pocket Azores guidebook, out in October 2024. Here she shares her local knowledge of the archipelago to help you choose the best island for your trip.

Famous for hiking trails and lagoons, inactive volcanoes and whale watching, the Azores  naturally appeal to the outdoorsy. But these islands are also rich with a unique cuisine, exceptional wines, vibrant cultural events and traditional celebrations.

The Azores keep growing in popularity as a tourist destination, but some islands remain off most travelers’ radar. Sure, a lot of this archipelago’s appeal comes from its beautiful landscapes, where nature is practically untouched yet not entirely out of reach. But the landscapes change from island to island, sometimes within the same one, which is why “seen one, seen them all” doesn’t apply here. Read on to find the perfect islands for your Azores adventure.

1. Santa Maria

Best island for summer festivals  

Dubbed “the sunny island” by Azoreans, summers here see plenty of glorious days of beach weather – an oddity by Azores standards. But the promise of morning-to-evening days spent soaking up the sun and the salt of the ocean isn’t the only reason why travellers flock here during the summer months. On my early morning and practically empty flight to Santa Maria, on a late-January weekday, most of my fellow passengers were locals returning home or going on a business trip.

In mid-July, the village of Anjos welcomes blues fans to the three-day festival Santa Maria Blues . Then, at the end of August, Praia Formosa becomes the epicenter and main stage of Maré de Agosto , Portugal’s oldest music festival, turning 40 in 2024.  Marienses (Santa Maria residents) certainly know how to put on a memorable show. 

Read more:  All you need to know for your first trip to the Azores

2. São Miguel

Best island for things to do 

The largest island, São Miguel gets the most tourists and has frequent flights from various destinations two to five hours away. For many visitors it's a good compromise between spending time on a remote island but without feeling like you’re too far away from home.

Here, you can spend the morning discovering lagoons in Sete Cidades , then while away the afternoon soaking in a thermal bath heated by an underground volcano in Furnas. In the evening you can sample international cuisine and discover local artists at O Quarteirão, a neighborhood in the historic center of the island’s capital, Ponta Delgada. 

And on one of those pesky rainy days, when sightseeing goes out the window, stroll around the shopping center or catch a movie. 

Read more:  How to get the most out of the Azores without renting a car

3. Terceira

Best island for culture 

Terceira has a certain majestic quality – perhaps a trace of its former life as the heart of the Portuguese Kingdom. The celebration of local heritage is strong here, from the dozens of carefully kept, colorful​​​  impérios (small temples built to display symbols of the Cult of the Holy Spirit) that dot every village and town on the island, to the cobblestoned streets of Angra do Heroísmo’ s historic center, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal . 

The island has birthed notable intellectuals, artists and writers. But there is room for less highbrow cultural manifestations, including the sarcasm-riddled song and dance shows called Bailinhos during Carnaval, and the live music and street parades during Sanjoaninas  in June.

4. Graciosa

Best island to visit with family  

Graciosa is one of the least touristy islands. On the surface, the second smallest island in the archipelago seems to have little to do – by comparison with the rest, of course. But this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve doesn’t need to flaunt deep lagoons and waterfalls to get your attention. 

In half a day, you can drive around the island and hit all the must-see spots, and locals will state this fact to you. But it’s perfect if you’re traveling with younger kids who get fussy on long drives. The road trip includes spotting a whale-shaped rock off the coast, entirely molded by nature. You can even take them on an adventure, walking down a stone spiral staircase into the heart of Graciosa’s inactive volcano, Caldeira (or Furna do Enxofre). 

The island is also home to burro da Graciosa , an endangered species of donkey that has been rescued, protected and bred by a local nonprofit organization. Anyone can visit the farm to see the donkeys from afar, or pet them if they come closer to the fence. 

Local tip: Graciosa is famous for its red-roofed, Dutch-style windmills. Most of them are no longer operational and have been turned into short-term rental houses by their owners. 

5. São Jorge

Best island for hiking 

Whether you arrive on the island by sea or by air, São Jorge resembles the scaly back of an enormous dragon fast asleep in the middle of the ocean. On this long and narrow island, most towns and villages are wedged between the sea and steep cliffs on volcanic ground that slid down the coast and formed fajãs (coastal plateaus). 

Even though some of these fajãs can be reached by car, being able to get to them as locals did in the old days, via official trekking trails, makes São Jorge the best island for hiking.

Local tip: Given the island’s rough terrain, all official trails on São Jorge range from moderate to hard, which require some hiking experience. Trekking boots and poles are recommended for a safe and comfortable hike.   

Read more: Discover the 7 best hikes in the Azores

Best island for local heritage 

Called “the mountain island” for being home to Portugal’s highest peak, Pico is also historically a land of whale hunters and winemakers. 

Watching whales took over from hunting them in the mid-1980s, with plenty of former hunters teaching whale-watching companies all they knew about the mammals and how to track them. You’ll see the former industry presented at museums and old processing factories. Today, whale-watching tours have become one of the most popular activities on Pico. 

Producing wine from vines that grow on volcanic soils, sheltered from the wind and the ocean by basalt rock walls, proves that picoenses  (Pico residents) are ingenious. The winemaking industry is currently reaping the fruits of a renaissance on the island, with the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture becoming recognized by UNESCO in 2004. 

Local tip: Regular, year-round ferry rides connecting Faial, Pico, and São Jorge – also known as the “Triangle Islands” – mean that island-hopping between the three is easy. While the tendency is to stay on Faial (partly because of flight frequency), Pico is a better island to use as a base – Madalena on Pico is a 30-minute ferry ride from Horta on Faial; São Roque on São Miguel is 50 minutes from Velas on São Jorge. 

Island with the best beaches 

On most islands in the Azores, natural swimming pools outnumber sandy beaches, and Faial is no exception, with five beaches to its seven natural pools. The cool Atlantic waters (sometimes even in the summer) also don’t exactly pinpoint the islands on the map of best beach destinations. Nevertheless, Faial’s stretches of sand are worth visiting.

Praia do Almoxarife is hands down the beach with the best view. Imagine lounging on the black sand or taking a dip while looking across the water at Portugal’s highest peak, Mt Pico. 

Praia de Porto Pim is a local favorite within walking distance of Horta city center. The proximity to an urban area doesn’t taint the beach-going experience at all, and the bay is like a shelter. 

Best island for untouched nature 

Most people who visit Flores believe that this is the most beautiful island in the Azores, comparing it to such destinations as Hawaii, Switzerland, and Ireland.  

The evergreen island has dozens of waterfalls cascading down vertiginous cliffs into the ocean or into ponds of fresh water, seven lagoons nestled in the pits of collapsed volcano craters and a rugged coast hiding caves and tales of pirates – and only a handful of these delights are within human reach.   

Local tip: When the weather turns unexpectedly on Flores, locals have a fun saying: “Here today, tomorrow in Flores.” Granted, stressed travellers may miss the irony in this tidbit of local wisdom when they begin to foresee the domino effect of cancelled flights. If you’re staying three days on Flores, give yourself some leeway and plan for two extra days of traveling time – don't book connecting flights for the same day you plan to arrive on or leave Flores.

Best island to relax 

With no noise, no traffic (well, hardly any cars, for that matter), no pollution, and no fuss, Corvo, the smallest of the nine islands, is perfect for unplugging and recharging.   

Walking the maze of narrow cobblestoned streets that cut through impossibly close houses and patios that once protected corvinos (Corvo residents)   from harsh winds and pirate invasions does make you believe that if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. And these islanders have been making a life here for four centuries. 

Local tip: Most people hop here on a boat from Flores, do a quick tour around town and visit the volcano Caldeirão. But to fully experience life on the most remote island in the Azores, plan your trip to account for a one-night stay (at least) on Corvo.

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