If I were to pick one place for an exotic and yet relaxing vacation – I´d go with Lanzarote! Let’s discuss the best things to do in Lanzarote.
The volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote feel like traveling on the Moon. Countless lava fields and craters, a full palette of red-brown-golden-grey colors – it feels out of this world, for sure. Nevertheless, the emerald blue waters of the Atlantic remind you that you´re literally “in the middle of the ocean”: approx. 1000 km from the Spanish Peninsula and only 150 km from the African continent…
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands is a great choice for both summer and winter holidays: the weather is amazing all year round. Local food is Spanish (in its most true and authentic sense) which for me is already worth a visit [lol]. And yet the volcanic landscapes significantly differ from those of the Iberian Peninsula. You often feel like you´re traveling to the Moon. Besides, technically you´re closer to Africa than you´re to Spain. Nevertheless, hospitals, roads, infrastructure – you have all the best European features in a completely exotic setting.
Also read: A Photographic Journey to the Canary Islands
Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are the most famous European islands near the African continent. And while Tenerife, in my opinion, is the best choice for hiking and sightseeing, and Fuerteventura definitely rocks with its sand dunes and chilly beaches, Lanzarote has a bit of both.
For some reason, it ended up being one of my most comfortable and relaxing trips ever. Lanzarote is definitely one of the best Spanish islands – so, I´ll be back for more!
Tenerife had some mountainous roads (that Masca drive…omg) and parking was a problem in the North of the Island. Fuerteventura, despite being a natural paradise, had less infrastructure and things to do in general. However, with Lanzarote, I really can´t find anything to complain about.
Your Perfect Vacation: Lanzarote
Lanzarote was the first island, colonized by the Europeans and yet it´s significantly less touristic than Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Long story short: Lanzarote is a perfect combination of safety, relax, and adventure. Driving was great: the roads were new, almost empty and I´ve never had a problem with parking – and it was August, the peak season.
Also read: Best beaches in Spain Off The Beaten Path
All the touristic sites on Lanzarote are relatively close. Therefore, this was one of a few trips in my life when I had enough time to visit all the places I´d planned and still relax on the beach.
– Yes! It was definitely a perfect vacation!
Must-See Places on Lanzarote
Quick sum up: Timanfaya National Park – Jameos del Agua – Fundacion Cesar Manrique – Jardin de Cactus – Cueva de los Verdes – Los Hervideros and Charco de los Clicos – Mirador del Rio – Museo de la Pirateria – Playa Blanca /Marina Rubicon /Puerto Calero – Playa de Papagayo – Costa Teguise and SUP class – Local Wineries – Day trip to Fuerteventura
To the moon and back: Timanfaya National Park
- Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, one of the top landmarks in Spain ( book online in advance and go earlier in the morning)
Cave or art gallery? – Jameos del Agua
- Jameos del Agua / one of the architectural masterpieces, designed by Cesar Manrique: natural cave, art gallery, and museum, all in one
Design goals: A house in the Volcanic Rock
- Fundacion Cesar Manrique (house of a famous artist made with volcanic rocks: a true mix of architecture and nature)
Cactus, Cactus, and Cactus again…
- Jardin de Cactus (one of the coolest gardens in Spain, full of rare and exotic plants, mainly cactuses)
A Mysterious Cave
- Cueva de Los Verdes (excursion to this cave has a surprising revelation at the end and they ask you not to share it – I´m keeping the secret, you´ll have to visit it yourself )
What a view
- Mirador del Rio ( offers great panoramic views to the Graciosa Island: a boat trip to this quiet island is also one of the popular activities in Lanzarote)
More out of this world places
- Los Hervideros and Charco de los Clicos
Pirates?! Where?
- Museo de la Pirateria (an interesting museum dedicated to Piracy: especially cool for kids – but I, honestly, loved it as well)
Some beach vibes…
- Playa Blanca /Marina Rubicon /Puerto Calero – we had our hotel in this area, but it´s a great place to stop by anyway. Most of the best-rated restaurants and bars in Lanzarote could be found here. From those I remember, we loved Blue Note and La Chalanita. These were not very budget options, but worth visiting if you don´t mind spending more on fine dining.
Also read: My Most Beautiful Sunsets Around The World
- Playa de Papagayo / the most famous beach with crystal blue waters, but as we visited in the peak season it was packed: you can always head to the nearby Playa del Pozo or Playa de Mujeres
- Costa Teguise and SUP (stand up paddle) class / another great experience, after which I´ve bought my own board
- La Graciosa Island / If you really crave for an epic Canarian beach experience – head to La Graciosa Island. You only have to get on a ferry that departs from Orzola, in the Northeast of Lanzarote. 20 min and you’re in a peaceful heaven.
- Playa Famara / popular for surfers
What to buy?
- To eat: wine, cheese, Mojo sauces (also in dry version), smoked fish, olive oil, saffron
- Natural cosmetics, aloe products
- Olivine Jewelry / Olivine is the typical volcanic mineral you could find only in the Canary Islands. It´s quite budget-friendly and looks pretty.
- Lava jewelry and handmade decor
- Pottery and art
Day trips: Fuerteventura
Besides the previously mentioned Isla Graciosa, another great day trip from Lanzarote is Fuerteventura. A ferry departs from the little port of Playa Blanca. You can take an organized tour or go just on your own.
Tip: if you decide to take this trip on your own – rent a car/moto/quad in advance. You´ll need to move around Fuerteventura in order to see the most interesting places and there might not be cars available last moment (happened to my friends).
Those beaches of Fuerteventura still chase me on cold winter days. Playa de Aguila definitely looks like a surfer´s paradise – one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, for sure!
However, Fuerteventura is the second largest one in the Canary Islands with over 150 beaches. You can find smth for every taste with this number. How about Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, Sotavento, Cofete, Aljibe de la Cueva or La Concha?!
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This post is linked up with Feet Do Travel
Your pictures are out of this world! The Canary Islands look truly magical. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank you, Scarlett!
Wow – this looks and sounds amazing! We have been to Tenerife, La Gomera and La Palma and Lanzarote is next on our list. You have definitely inspired us to hurry up and book that trip!
Thank you! My story is the opposite – still have Tenerife on my bucket list 😉
I didn’t realise just how varied the Canary Islands are and Lanzarote looks beautiful. I would love to explore the national park and marvel at the natural beauty of the island. You’ve certainly covered a lot and look like you’ve had an amazing time! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Lexx!
Lanzarote of the Canary Islands looks amazing. I have never been there but it looks so relaxing. You photos are Stunning! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for stopping by, Stephanie!
I’ve visited Lanzarote a couple of times – in recent years. I agree -it’s a great place to go in the summer or winter, especially for us Scots – not too far away and very reasonable for accommodation and food. We went, once in June, and once in November – the weather was great both times. There’s been a few movies made in Lanzarote over the years: ‘One Million Years B.C’ (1966), Enemy Mine’ (1985), and ‘Krull'(1983). Good post. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks a lot for the list of movies, Raymond! Haven´t heard of them, love seeing familiar landscapes on screen – a great way to refresh the travel memories!
We visited Tenerife in October and loved it. We went to Lanzarote many years ago, great post and photos. #feetdotravel
Thanks Paul and Carole!
Thanks, Paul and Carole!
Your pictures are amazing, I didn’t knew Lanzarote is so nice. We went for one week to Tenerife in November and it was a really relaxing holiday, the water was clear and not too cold. Would love to visit this place one day.
Thanks for stopping by, Oana!
What dramatic and diverse landscapes! The house and gallery in the rocks and cave are amazing. Great shots!
Thanks, Rob and Ann!
Lanzarote looks wonderful. I love that you managed to get to everything on your list. I’m particularly intrigued by the artist’s house. Lanzarote is on the list.
I´m such an art lover myself- so loved this unique place!
I visited Lanzarote a while back and really loved it. It’s been a while, but I do remember the white sand and the sun beating down. I had to put lots of sunscreen on, but my friend wanted a tan and didn’t. He had the worse sunburn I’ve ever seen in my life!
Yes, the sun is pretty intense there! 😉
Such beautiful pictures. Canary Islands are on our bucket list. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for stopping by, Siddharth and Shruti!
How cool is this place and what stunning landscapes. I would love to visit and go explore in the National Park. It really looks beautiful and very unique. You took great pictures too! Will pin this for later.
Thank you, Lisa! 😉
Thanks, it’s very informative