Best Things To Do In Lanzarote-My Honest 2026 Guide

As winter in continental Europe can be long and people living there crave some sun, I decided to write a guide about the volcanic paradise close to Africa: The Best Things to do in Lanzarote.

During the last 5 years, I’ve visited this island 6 times and have spent there more than 3 months in total.

One thing I really don’t like about the Netherlands, that’s its dark, cold and grey winters.

So, Canary Islands are the ultimate to-go location for a winter getaway.

In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful, most unique, the most affordable, and yet not overcrowded winter sun destination in Europe.

The best part?

You can visit Lanzarote whole year around, as the summers are still not crazy warm thanks to the always present light wind. Let me show you why this all year round place is so amazing, and maybe get inspired too!

What is so special about Lanzarote? Quick Facts

Who didn’t hear about the Canaries yet?

Piece of paradise located east of Africa, but belonging to Spain offers ideal climate for sun filled life.

No wonder, that these Islands attract more and more sun seekers.

Written by its size starting from the biggest there are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote belongs to the four most visited Canary Islands.

There are less famous and smaller yet inhabited islands, worth visiting as well, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.

The Canary Islands are all of volcanic origin, Lanzarote is the most versatile.

You can visit lava, rocky and also sandy beaches.

Breath-taking views from the many miradors, (for instance, Mirador Del Rio overlooking La Graciosa) mixing with other -planet-looking like remote and secluded lava wineries of La Geria region.

Add the subtropical climate all year around and you know why Lanzarote is so special!

Even though, you’ll have always plenty of sunshine regardless of the month you choose to go to Lanzarote, is good to know that in the winter months, the evenings get chilly after 6 pm.

So bring a jacket with you to the beach.

Insider Tip: I have been in Lanzarote always in Europe’s winter, in December, January or in February and I never complained about the weather. Surely, there will be cloudy or rainy days here and there, but it is still a 90% improvement over the rest of Europe, which makes Lanzarote one of the best winter getaways.

Who is Lanzarote not For?

If you know if the certain place is for you or not, you safe yourself a big headache, money and dissatisfaction.

You shouldn’t come to Lanzarote if:

• You like vibrant cities, the biggest city is Arrecife, and it is everything but vibrant capital
• Your main source of holiday fun is mall shopping (there are some malls, but scarce and very local)
• You like to go clubbing
• You can t stand older tourists(even though I don’t think its that bad, compare to Fuerteventura for instance, here you will find more retired people
• You need sky scrappers, big cities, modern infrastructure, sense of modern country.
• You can’t stand sun.
• You need constant noise to feel alive.
• If you are annoyed by wind. Even though the wind is not that strong as in Fuerteventura, its presence is tangible, and not everyone likes it.

How to Get to Lanzarote?

Plane

Lanzarote has an airport with domestic, as well as international flights and it is located in Arrecife.

I almost always fly with Ryanair either from Brussels Charleroi, Belgium, or Cologne, Germany.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct Ryanair flight from the Netherlands.

If you are visiting other Canary Islands you can fly from the bigger islands for really affordable price.

Canaryfly and Binter are the companies that offer, super affordable and fast air connection with Gran Canaria, Tenerife North, or La Palma.

Boat

If you are combining the Lanzarote visit with Fuerteventura as we unexpectedly did in 2022 (due to my COVID-19 infection), then the boat is a great way to reach Lanzarote.

Within 30 minutes by ferry (departing from Corralejo), you will reach Playa Blanca port. If you are coming from Gran Canaria, you will arrive to port in Arrecife.

Earlier mentioned La Graciosa island can be reached from Orzola.

Insider Tip:Even though the ferry is fast, I found it quite expensive.

Especially compared to domestic flights.

So, if you’re not in hurry and want to visit other Canaries, I would recommend you to fly.

How to travel around Lanzarote?

Car

Cicar, is a company from the Canaries and you can rent the car with them in every island.

The roads are in great shape and thanks to a lot of roundabouts, it is generally safe to drive around Lanzarote. If you want to combine Playa Blanca with Costa Teguise (or take the car from and to airport) there is even a highway.

2026 Update:Although, Cicar is still great, I found Europcar has sometimes better price-quality deals. Just avoid Goldcar and AutoEurope by all means. Car rental mafia operates not only in Italy.

Public Transport

I took also buses on Lanzarote and they are reliable, clean, and affordable. However, they don’t go everywhere and of course not always.

That said, from the airport in Arrecife you can arrive at all major tourist destinations by bus. Find the desired connection here.

Top 7 Activities and Attractions in Lanzarote

Timanfaya National Park

This is a natural wonder you can’t miss. Imagine walking through a landscape that looks like Mars! Volcanic landscapes, geothermal demonstrations, and scenic drives make it a must-see.

You must arrive with the car, and then purchase a ticket at the counter. After that, you leave your car and will be picked up by the bus. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mirador del Rio

If you are not afraid of heights and you love some adventure, try this unique place just below the skies.

It is located high up on the Risco de Famara escarpment, at an altitude of 474 meters, in the northernmost part of the island.

From here you can gaze out at one of Lanzarote’s most spectacular panoramic views: the Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo (Chinijo Archipelago National Park) and the Risco de Famara escarpment, and obviously the amazing La Graciosa!

Outdoor Adventures Like Hiking, Surfing or Snorkelling

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Lanzarote’s your place! Try hiking at some of the many inactive volcanos widespread on Lanzarote. For instance, Volcano la Corona if you are in the northern part of the Island or Caldera de Los Cuervos if you are centrally located.

Surf enthusiast?

You can hit the surf at Famara Beach.

Snorkeling is another must-do activity, especially in the crystal-clear waters of Lanzarote. Regardless of your location, there are beaches full of amazing fish, so you can enjoy:

• Playa Chica at Playa del Carmen
• Playa Papagayo, or Playa Flamingo in Playa Blanca
• Playa Bastian and El Jabilo in Costa Tequise

Cultural Tastings

Culture vultures will love the island’s museums and galleries. Foundation in TAHÍCHE and The César Manrique House in HARÍA both offer a glimpse into the life and works of Lanzarote’s famous artist and architect.

In addition, you can visit Jameos del Aqua an attraction that a lot of tourists visit every year and it is also a piece of work from the same author.

This is a jaw-dropping underground cave that offers guided tours showcasing stunning rock formations and underground pools. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure and Instagram-worthy shots.

If you want to visit a museum showing the Island’s history, then visit Casa Museo del Campesino in San Bartolome.

Sunday Market in Teguise

If you love to get in touch with the local spirit of Lanzarote, You’ll also enjoy Teguise Market for local crafts and delicious street food.

It happens every Sunday and the market is huge.

We were there on Christmas Day in 2023 and it was a unique way to do Christmas Shopping.

If you love supporting local crafters, and local product owners, you should plan your visit.

I can guarantee you won’t regret it.

If nothing, you don’t have to search for any souvenirs elsewhere on the Island or buy last-minute cups at the airport.

Wine Tours in Lava Mountains

Wine lovers, rejoice!

Lanzarote’s wine region, La Geria, is famous for its unique volcanic vineyards. Take a wine tour on your own and sample some award-winning wines.

Trust me, it’s nothing else you’ve ever seen and ever will!

It’s not just about tasting; it’s about experiencing a unique way of life.

Although La Geria is my favorite one, literally on the same road, there are 7-8 more wineries.

So in one go, you can visit more.

Some of I would recommended are Stratvs, El Grifo, or the less famous Finca Testeina or La Florida.

They are all unique and if you are a wine lover, they are not gonna disappoint you.

I guarantee that.

Day or Weekend Trip to La Graciosa

Don’t forget to visit La Graciosa, a small, gracious (the name doesn’t lie) island just a ferry ride away from Lanzarote.

With no paved roads and pristine beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip that feels like stepping back in time.

In addition to its remoteness, there are some of the most beautiful beaches on the entire Canary Islands.

The two most amazing are Playa Francesa (picture blow left) and Playa de las Conchas (picture below right)

Apart from the stunning beaches, we had amazing local food at Casa Enriqueta.

We stayed there for 2 days and could bike around the entire island.

Even though the distances on the island are small and you can walk to the stunning beaches mentioned earlier, I would recommend renting a bike. At the port, there are several companies offering MTB for as low as 10 e per day.

Where to Eat as a Vegetarian or a Pescatarian in Lanzarote?

I wrote about the phenomenon of mozagas and bodegas in my other blog article.

In this blog post some practical recommendations.

Restaurants I have eaten in and I would recommend:

• Casa Enriqueta in La Graciosa
• La Taberna Del Mar, with delicious seafood and local cheeses in Costa Teguise
• La Familia in Costa Tequise
• La Bohemia in Costa Teguise
• Sebastyan’s Greek Gourmet, with tasty vegetarian Lassagne in Playa Blanca
• Restaurante Casale Franco, the best Pizza on the Island, in Playa Dorada

Restaurants I was recommended and visited, but I didn’t like:

• Restaurante Tipico Espanol in Playa Dorada, we were lured there by the waiter with the promise of getting the main dish for 7.5€, only to find out that was valid only for small pasta. The rest of the dishes were poor.
• Restaurante La Flamenca in Playa Blanca-poor food and poor service, after noting there was small plastic in the food of one of us, the chef didn’t even bother to apologize

Restaurants I haven’t visited, but got recommended:

La Cantina in Teguise is a top pick for vegetarians, with their veggie burgers and salad.

El Risco in Famara for their seafood- some of their menu choices are grilled octopus, seafood paella, and tuna tartare.

Biosfera Plaza in Puerto del Carmen where you can easily find vegetarian and pescatarian delights, including sushi, salads, and grilled vegetables.

Lastly, if you want to try local Canary Island dishes, don’t miss:

Papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, a traditional potato dish that’s both flavorful and vegetarian-friendly. You can find it in most local restaurants and tapas bars.

Gofio is something we discovered on La Graciosa. This is a flour made from toasted maize and can be used in many dishes. Balls of it can be flavoured and fried, it can be used as a thickener in stews and it’s often used to make soft biscuits as a dessert. We had it as a spread, and it was delicious.

Boquerones-these are small anchovy fillets that have been pickled in olive oil, vinegar, and garlic, delicious on their own or placed onto slices of fresh bread.

Bienmessabe-this is a deliciously sweet dessert dish. It’s made with ground almonds, honey, as and egg yolks and is very rich. It can come as a sponge cake soaked in it or used a sauce over ice cream.

Where to Stay in Lanzarote?

Booking.com and Airbnb are your best options.

Lanzarote is packed with fantastic places to stay, catering to every type of traveler.

From luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, there’s something for everyone.

With the most fancy stays in the Playa Blanca area.

When choosing the best location on Lanzarote, and when beach vicinity is a must for you, you can consider 3 main areas.

This area is often described as posh, but it doesn’t have to be.

The real Playa Blanca, meaning a small stretch of sand, where you can’t sunbathe is full of expensive shops, and restaurants with over-priced and tasteless food.

Fortunately, when considering the entire coastline, it has much more to offer.

From Faro de Punta Pechiguera on the west to Playa Papagayo on the East, the coastline of Playa Blanca is 12 km long and consists of a handful of beautiful beaches( Flamingo, Dorada, Mujeres), landmarks such as Montana Roja, and plenty of bike/car rentals.

Playa Dorada

Even the port with boats to Fuerteventura can be found here.

With direct access to roads to La Geria, and Timanfaya National Park, no wonder Playa Blanca is still the most popular area of Lanzarote.

My tip: Shangrilla Park, we rented an apartment in Playa Blanca Area during Christmas (high season) and paid 356€ for a 6-night stay.

Contrary to Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise is much more laid back. No expensive clothing stores, but hipster coffee bars.

The windier environment serves also as a perfect getaway for surfers.

Surrounded by rugged cliffs, Costa Teguise is the perfect getaway, for natural hiking along the coast.

With some of the best snorkeling beaches as El Jabilo or Playa Bastian, Costa Tequise is for people who love sport while traveling.

Insider Tip: When I am there, I always visit Beach Bar Luca (now part of the hotel next to it, so the name is different) at Playa Cocharas.

I haven’t visited this place on my own, but from what I’ve heard from other travelers, this is more of a party/entertainment place.

There is a strip with bars and restaurants, similar to Albufeira. In the high season, expect very loud music and young, drinking people.

If you would like the quieter side, there is Puerto Calero not far from there, and that’s much more family-oriented.

This place is not that popular yet and it is understandable. It’s in the north, with quite a wild environment and it feels remote. We’ve passed there when visiting La Graciosa.

So, if you fancy wilderness, this might be your cup of tea. Due to its location, be prepared for longer travel from the airport.

If you’re aiming for something unique, the eco-friendly Finca de Arrieta in Haria is ideal. This sustainable village offers everything from luxury yurts to eco cottages. It’s excellent for those wanting to experience Lanzarote more naturally.

Personally I prefer the Costa Tequise a bit more than Playa Blanca, mainly due to its laid back atmosphere and more local feeling. Also, accommodations are easier to be found, are cheaper and generally speaking closer to the sea. Lastly, the airport is only 5 minutes drive away.

Playa Del Carmen is a somehow small and has a lot of bars for its size. Can be considered as fun centre of the coast. Orzola wild and nice, but maybe too remote, in case you want to explore also the other parts of the island. If staying outside of the civilisation is your goal, you will be fine there.

Best Beaches in Lanzarote

I wrote a special, more comprehensive beach guide for the best beaches in Lanzarote, so read here about every beach in more detail. Hereby are the best picks for you:

Playa Blanca

The surrounding beaches Playa Flamingo and Playa Dorada offer crystal-clear waters and golden sand making them ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Papagayo Beach offers a more secluded experience. It’s a set of stunning coves within the natural reserve of Los Ajaches. The turquoise water and rugged cliffs make it perfect for snorkeling and exploring.

Puerto del Carmen

Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen is a hidden gem. This small, sheltered beach is excellent for snorkeling and diving due to its diverse marine life.

Costa Teguise

Las Cucharas is ideal for windsurfing.

Playa el Jabillo and Playa Bastian. Both are perfect spots for snorkeling with amazing fishes.

Orzola

For a more tranquil experience, Caletón Blanco offers beautiful, shallow lagoons surrounded by white sand and black volcanic rock. It’s an excellent spot for families with small children.

Insider Tip: Check the local guidelines and safety tips, as some beaches have strong currents. Always look out for the flag system to stay safe while enjoying the water.

Insider Tips for a Memorable Lanzarote Trip

Be aware of the 7% food tax, which isn’t always mentioned on the bill. Double-check it with the personnel or closely look at the menu if the price written includes or excludes the tax. So, you can avoid unpleasant surprises upon paying your bill.

When it comes to getting around, renting a car is a good idea. Lanzarote’s public transport is decent, but a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The island’s road signs are clear, and traffic is typically not a problem.

Money-wise, most places accept credit and debit cards, but carrying a bit of cash can be useful for smaller shops and markets. ATMs are plentiful, so withdrawing cash won’t be an issue.

However lately the majority of machines allow you withdrawn only with small fee, so come prepared.

Healthcare in Lanzarote is excellent. Pharmacies are widely available, and the local healthcare system is reliable for any emergencies.

Preparing for a trip can be essential, especially when coming to Lanzarote for the first time. Take into account wind, which is almost always present, and chilled evenings if you come in winter (December-February). So, always bring a light jacket with you. Some comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring rugged terrains.

Planning Your Itinerary for Lanzarote

For a weekend getaway, focus on the highlights. Spend a day at Timanfaya National Park exploring volcanic landscapes, followed by an afternoon at Cueva de los Verdes. The next day, relax at Papagayo Beach and wrap up with dinner in Playa Blanca.

A five-day trip offers more flexibility.

Kick-off with a trip to Timanfaya and Cueva de los Verdes.

On day two, enjoy Famara Beach and some surfing, or beaches on the south of the island for snorkelling and doing nothing. For the best beaches see text earlier.

Day three can be dedicated to cultural exploration—visit the César Manrique Foundation and Teguise Market.

For day four, if you feel like small volcano hike, stop at Caldera de Cuevos first and then take a wine tour in La Geria and finish the culinary experinece in one of the Teleclubs for typical dinner. Mozaga for instance will do.

Spend your last day making a trip to La Graciosa for some untouched natural beauty.

• Let someone drive, so I could enjoy the wine route fully, not only one winery per visit. On the other hand, it felt also special to have visited different winery per trip.
• If staying in La Graciosa, I would not search accommodation via booking.com or airbnb.com, but rather search for an accommodation with locals. Like Casa Enriqueta for instance. The price was only 40% of what we paid in a big house we didn’t even need and they offered sea view.
• Avoid flying in during autumn, spring school holidays in Netherlands. The flight ticket prices are double what they normally are. When I first travelled there I was working as soccer youth coach, so I was free only during school holidays. Another advantage of not being coach anymore.
• Don’t snorkel on my departure day. Ok, this one was on the 1st of January, so my stomach was influenced by drinking the night before, but still. From this experience, I strictly avoid snorkelling during the same day as my flight. I still wonder how I survived that flight without throwing up.

I hope you liked my Guide Best things to do in Lanzarote and till next time.