Canary Islands Travelers Recommend

Thanks to its blend of Spanish, Latin American and island heritage, Tenerife’s cultural calendar is always packed. Whenever you visit, there’s sure to be something going on, from colorful parades to riotous street parties. Here are some of the best festivals in the largest Canary Island.

Tenerife Carnival

Every February, thousands of people descend on the coastal city of Santa Cruz, the capital of Tenerife, to participate in the world’s second-largest Carnival celebration—surpassed only by Brazil. With its enormous parade of elaborately costumed marchers, dancers, and musicians, elected Carnival Queens, and live music performances, the city center transforms into one big, colorful street party. The city of Puerto de la Cruz, on Tenerife’s western coast, although throws a good Carnival party.

Corpus Christi Festival

Another world-famous religious celebration, festival of Corpus Christi is held in June in Tacoronte, La Laguna, and La Orotava. The event features parades, fireworks, and ventorrillos (street cafes) serving up traditional Canarian foods. Among the most unique elements of this festival are the Corpus Christi carpets, which are hand-woven from flower petals and sand, then laid out in the streets to form a gigantic tapestry for the procession to pass over.

Semana Santa (Easter Week)

Holy Week on Tenerife kicks off with a solemn parade of Catholics wearing traditional cloaks with pointed hoods and carrying statues of Jesus on the cross and a mourning Virgin Mary. Each town has its own events; La Laguna, La Orotava, Los Realejos, Garachico, Puerto de la Cruz, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife host some of the island’s best.

Romería de San Roque

Throughout the year, Tenerife holds a number of Romerías, or historic festivals that combine folklore, religion, and culture. Often these include costumed parades, folk music, dancing, and displays of artistic traditions and handicrafts. Among the most famous is Romería de San Roque, which takes place in August. Locals in traditional dress, a procession of decorated carts, and herds of animals follow the image of the patron saint as it’s carried to a local church.

Fiestas de la Cruz

One of the most photo-worthy festivals in the Canary Islands, the Fiestas de la Cruz (Festivals of the Cross) takes place each May throughout the island. Each town does things a bit differently, but you’re sure to see crosses decorated with colorful, elaborate blossoms, plus costume parties, processions, and fireworks.

Three days in Tenerife give you ample time to explore volcanic landscapes, sample local culture and cuisine, and enjoy downtime at the beach. To make the most of your time, book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season. Here’s how to spend three days in Tenerife. 

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Spend your first day exploring the north of the island, starting in the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A hop-on hop-off bus tour comes with the flexibility to create your own itinerary and features onboard commentary that ensures you don’t miss anything. Look out for landmarks such as the Tenerife Auditorium and Plaza de España and learn about the island’s Carnival Celebrations at Casa Del Carnaval.

Discover more of Tenerife’s northern villages and beaches without having to worry about hiring a car on an afternoon trip to San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Tours typically combine a walking tour of La Laguna’s UNESCO-listed Old Town with a trip to the villages of Taganana and Las Teresitas, and provide insight into Canarian life and culture; some also visit the sacred Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria in Candelaria. If you’re a food lover, opt for a gastronomy tour that includes a typical Canarian lunch and wine tasting.  

Day 2: Natural Wonders of Tenerife

It’s worth devoting an entire day to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Teide National Park. Ride the cable car to the 12,198-foot (3,718-meter) summit of Mt. Teide, Spain’s highest peak, for an incredible view over the island—book your tickets in advance to save time waiting in line. 

The park is only accessible by 4WD, so taking a tour means you can explore further afield and get the best views of Roques de Garcia rock formations, the moon-like lava fields of Llano de Ucanca, and Pico Viejo volcano. Some tours include a hike in the Masca Valley, while others visit either the Millenary Dragon Tree at Icod de los Vinos, the historic town of La Orotava, or the Los Gigantes sea cliffs. At night, return to the park to enjoy moonlit views of Mt. Teide during a stargazing experience—the remote location is renowned for its clear skies and high visibility. 

Day 3: Beach Breaks and Island Escapes

You can’t come to Tenerife without adding some sun, sea, and sand to your itinerary. Kick off day three with a boat cruise along the south coast; tours typically give you time to swim and snorkel at beaches and bays, and increase your chances of spotting whales and dolphins. Alternatively, set sail for the neighboring island of La Gomera to explore the UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park.

Spend the rest of the afternoon at one of the beach resorts. Choose a beach that fits your preferences—Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas are two of the biggest and busiest, with plenty of options for drinking and dining. Nearby La Caleta is a more tranquil option, while El Médano is the top choice for windsurfing and kitesurfing. To satisfy an appetite for adventure, book a Jet Skiing safari, try scuba diving, venture inland on a buggy excursion, or visit Siam Park water park.  

With two days to explore Tenerife, you’ll have time to ride a cable car up a volcano, do some mountaintop stargazing, take an ocean cruise, learn about the island’s famous carnival celebrations, relax on the beach, and more. Here’s how to make the most of two days on the largest Canary Island.

Day 1: From City Sights to Stargazing

**Morning:**Start in the island capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where a city tour or hop-on-hop-off-bus tour will introduce you to the town’s lively neighborhoods, shopping streets, and historic plazas. Jump off to admire the landmark Tenerife Auditorium and learn about the city’s legendary carnival celebrations at the Casa del Carnaval, then ride the tram to neighboring San Cristobal de la Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture. 

**Afternoon:**Spend the afternoon taking in the views along Tenerife’s west coast. Stop to see the Millenary Dragon Tree at Icod de los Vinos, marvel at the Los Gigantes sea cliffs, and visit the picturesque town of La Orotava, then take a scenic drive through the Masca Valley.

**Night:**A visit to Teide National Park is a must for first-time visitors to Tenerife, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site is even more spectacular in the evening hours. Ride the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide in time to watch the sunset over the island, admire the park’s lava-sculpted landscapes during a moonlit tour, then take part in an unforgettable stargazing experience.

Day 2: Ocean Views and Beach Breaks

**Morning:**The south coast of Tenerife is renowned for its dramatic coastal cliffs, rocky coves, and black-sand beaches, and the most striking views are from the water. Many cruise options are available, from dolphin- and whale-watching cruises to private charter boats, but for the best value, opt for a catamaran cruise that includes lunch onboard and plenty of stops for swimming and snorkeling. 

**Afternoon:**The south coast resorts of Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje boast some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing, take a stroll along the palm-lined shores, or take part in water sports such as Jet Skiing or kitesurfing.

**Evening:**Playa de las Américas is renowned as Tenerife’s party capital, so it’s worth sticking around after dark to explore the huge choice of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Alternatively, celebrate your final night with a medieval dinner show at Castillo San Miguel, featuring costumed knights and horseback jousting. 

All of the Canary Islands are special, but Lanzarote holds its own thanks to its otherworldly volcanic landscape. Since it’s only a short boat ride away from Fuerteventura, you can see the best of Lanzarote on a quick day trip. Here’s what you need to know.

Lanzarote Highlights

• Explore the Cueva de los Verdes or dine inside a lava bubble at Jameos del Agua.

• Swim, surf, or catch some rays on Playa Famara or Playa Blanca.

• See the landscapes of Lanzarote through the eyes of native artist Cesar Manrique.

• Go wine tasting in the island’s La Geria region.

• Experience the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park.

• Snorkel, swim, or kayak in the clear waters of Papagayo Bay.

• Watch the waves crash into the cliffs at Los Hervideros.

• Shop in the Marina Rubicon outdoor craft market.

Things to Know

• Three ferry companies make the 25-minute ferry crossing between Corralejo in Fuerteventura and Playa Blanca in Lanzarote several times daily.

• Day trips from Fuerteventura can last upwards of 10 hours, depending on the option chosen

• Many tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Fuerteventura.

• Lanzarote is one of the warmest islands in the Canaries, so remember to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.

• The Canary Islands are an autonomous region of Spain and have the same visa requirements.

Whether you are visiting Tenerife as part of an island-hopping cruise or sailing in on a day trip from one of the neighboring islands, one day is just enough time to take in the island’s highlights. Here are some ideas for how to spend 24 hours in Tenerife. 

Morning: Views and Volcanoes

With just one day on the island, joining a tour is the most time-effective way to take in the must-see attractions, and Mount Teide National Park is at the top of the list. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is dominated by the 12,198-foot-high (3,718-meter-high) Mount Teide volcano, Spain’s highest peak, and a morning visit means cooler weather for hiking. You’ll need a 4WD to get around the park, so visiting as part of a tour is recommended—for the best value, choose a tour that includes hotel pickup and a ticket for the cable car ride up to the summit. Many tours also stop at the park’s other natural wonders, including the Roques de Garcia rock formations, the moon-like lava fields of Llano de Ucanca, and the Pico Viejo volcano.

Afternoon: Sightseeing in the Cities

Head north to the town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking colonial architecture and landmarks such as the Church of the Conception. A walking tour is a great way to explore the Old Town and learn more about Tenerife’s history, but leave yourself enough time to browse the shops and enjoy a leisurely restaurant lunch. Continue to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island capital, where popular attractions include the Tenerife Auditorium, the Museum of Man and Nature, and the Palmetum Botanical Garden. Alternatively, head to Playa de las Teresitas just outside of town, with golden sands and sheltered waters ideal for swimming and water sports. 

Night: Cruise the Coast

Set sail along the coast on a romantic sunset cruise, and soak up the scenery as you glide past Tenerife’s black-sand beaches and rocky coves, watching for dolphins and whales. Most evening cruises set out from Puerto Colon on the south coast, and some include cocktails. Alternatively, spend the evening at one of Tenerife’s dinner shows with live entertainment. The medieval dinner show at Castillo San Miguel is a popular choice, especially for families with kids in tow, featuring costumed knights and horseback jousting. 

Three days give you plenty of time to enjoy Lanzarote’s nature and culture, and to cruise the coast and discover sun-soaked beaches. Plan ahead to make the most of your time and be sure to book tours and activities in advance, especially in peak season. Here’s how to spend three days in Lanzarote.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the South

Kickstart your stay with a visit to Timanfaya National Park. Visiting the park is only possible with a guide, so join a 4WD safari that lets you access parts of the park that traditional tour vehicles can’t. Some tours give you the chance to ride a camel through lava fields or hike around the Fire Mountains but, for the best value, choose a tour that includes hotel pickup and visits other South Lanzarote highlights.

Nearby, the La Geria wine region is a great choice for lunch—the region is renowned for its Malvasia white wines, which are grown in volcanic soil. In order to skip the hassle of car hire, opt for a tour that transports you along the island’s southwest coast. Tours typically cover the sea cliffs of Los Hervideros, Salinas de Janubio salt flats, and the green lagoon of El Golfo.

Day 2: Discover the North

Dedicate your second day to discovering the rugged coastline and historic villages of north Lanzarote, where highlights include the hilltop village of Haría and the market town of Teguise.

Spend the afternoon at the Jameos Del Agua caves—a modern resort housed in a series of natural lava caves—where you can enjoy lunch at a cave restaurant before exploring the creation of local artist and architect César Manrique. Learn more about Manrique at the César Manrique Foundation and take a stroll around the Cactus Garden. All three attractions can get busy, especially in the summer months, so visit as part of a tour to benefit from skip-the-line admission tickets and prearranged logistics.

Enjoy an evening at a Wild West-themed dinner, which typically include live entertainment, a BBQ buffet dinner, free-flowing Sangria, and activities such as line dancing or lassoing.

Day 3: Cruise the Coast

The coastline of Lanzarote is even more impressive from the water so spend your final day at sea. Cruises typically sail to the small island of La Graciosa, where you can head ashore to explore the villages or relax by the beachside, and usually include an onboard lunch.

Alternatively, take a day trip to Fuerteventura. Tours typically include round-trip transport by ferry, a visit to the island capital of Puerto del Rosario, and the chance to admire the sand dunes of Fuerteventura National Park. Or, if you’re a thrill seeker, spend your final day surfing at Famara beach, going off-road on a buggy excursion, or scuba diving in Puerto Calero.

You might have heard the old chestnut about Gran Canaria being like a 'continent in miniature'. Well, it’s not far from the truth. The third-largest island of the Canaries, Gran Canaria’s startling range of terrain - fertile north, arid interior, desert south – and its multiple attractions combine to make this one diverse destination.

Get ready for sun-drenched beaches, a healthy dose of culture and nightlife, and endless outdoor activities. From its vibrant colonial capital Las Palmas to its rugged interior, Gran Canaria has a lot more going for it than package resorts.

Day 1: City Bustle and Beachside Bliss You’ll never be bored in busy, happening Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Historic Barrio Vegueta provides a glimpse into Spain’s illustrious past, as does Christopher Colombus’ House with its fascinating museum. Bars and restaurants abound here too. Shop til you drop, stroll Ciudad Jardin’s leafy streets, then wind down with sun, surf and golden sands at Playa de las Canteras.

Day 2: Inland Surprises Seemingly light-years from the hedonistic coastal resorts, Gran Canaria’s mountainous interior makes for a wonderful day trip. Ingenio is known for its ceramics and embroidery, while Agüimes boasts a delightful old center. Further north, Tafira’s botanical garden is a popular stop; nearby is Caldera de Bandama, a huge volcanic crater with spectacular views. The wild terrain around Cruz de Tejeda is dotted with jagged ravines, cute villages and snaking roads.

Day 3: Water and Westerns You’re on an island, surrounded by water…time to mingle with the local aquatic population! Why not take a dolphin-spotting cruise in a glass-bottomed boat off the coast of Puerto Rico, or an underwater tour leaving from the pretty resort town of Puerto de Mogán? You might even meet some finned friends while windsurfing off the southeast coast! Prefer your adventures on firm ground? Indulge your Spaghetti Western fantasies at the surreal Sioux City Theme Park, or go horseback riding through the lush countryside of Salobre.

Whether you’re visiting on a day trip from one of the neighboring islands or stopping over as part of an island-hopping cruise, one day in Lanzarote offers just enough time to take in the highlights. Here are some ideas.

Morning: Volcanoes and Vineyards

Start by visiting the island’s star attraction, Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The park is only accessible by guided tour, so for the best value, pick one that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, or visit as part of a day tour combined with other popular attractions. Spend the morning exploring the park’s otherworldly landscapes on a 4WD safari, take in incredible views of the Fire Mountains, and perhaps enjoy a camel ride through the lava fields. Close to Timanfaya, stop for lunch in the La Geria wine region, where you can sample Lanzarote’s acclaimed white wines and learn how malvasia grapes are cultivated in the island’s volcanic soils. 

Afternoon: Coastal Views and Caves

Head along the southwest coast, stopping along the way to admire the vibrant green lagoon of El Golfo, visit the Salinas de Janubio salt flats, and take in the views from the sea cliffs of Los Hervideros. Afterwards, zip up to the north coast to explore Jameos del Agua, a lavish resort built around a series of natural lava caves—the masterpiece of local artist and architect César Manrique. It’s a popular spot, so visiting as part of a tour or prebooking skip-the-line tickets is recommended. If you have time, nearby attractions such as the Cactus Garden and the César Manrique Foundation are also well worth a visit.  

Night: Sunset Cruise

Lanzarote’s rocky coastline is most impressive when viewed from the water, and a sunset cruise means that the beaches will be bathed in a golden glow. Set sail from Puerto del Carmen aboard a catamaran, and look out for dolphins and whales as you cruise along the coast. Some cruises include stops to swim and snorkel, as well as cocktails and canapes. 

Less frenetic than neighboring Tenerife or Gran Canaria, La Gomera—among the smallest islands in the Canary archipelago—benefits from its relative peace and quiet. If you plan carefully, you can experience its unspoiled wilderness, mountainous topography, and lovely beaches all in one day. Here’s how.

Morning: Explore by Sea

Because it has no airport of its own, the petite island of La Gomera is much less crowded than most of its Canarian brethren, though high-speed ferries make it easy to zip over from Tenerife for a day. Begin your island excursions with a morning boat tour. Whale- and dolphin-watching journeys will introduce you to the area’s wealth of wildlife, while self-led boat tours make it easy to snorkel, swim, and discover some of the most spectacular black-sand beaches along the island’s southern coast (some of which are only accessible by boat).

Afternoon: National Park Excursions

In the afternoon, after a restorative bite, trade the beaches for the forest and journey into La Gomera’s heart (happily, the island is just 14 miles—22 kilometers—in diameter, so this is less challenging than it sounds). Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, occupies the center of the island, and hiking tours make it easy to wander amidst lush laurel forests and semitropical vegetation, hike towards the Pico de Garajonay for panoramic island views, and admire La Gomera’s volcanic topography as you journey.

Evening: Dinner and Sightseeing in San Sebastián

Before retreating to your hotel (or returning by ferry to Tenerife), make your way to the island’s small, rainbow-hued capital city of San Sebastián. As the sun starts to set, go for a brief wander around town, where you can spy churches, stroll along the beach, and spot landmarks related to Christopher Columbus, who set sail for the New World from La Gomera. Venture to a local eatery to enjoy fresh seafood, and even try wine made from the local Forastera grape.

With two days to explore Lanzarote, it’s worth devoting a day each to the north and south of the island. After taking in the volcanic landscapes, vineyards, and beach resorts of the south, head north to immerse yourself in Canarian culture and enjoy a road trip along the coast. Here’s how to spend two days in Lanzarote.

Day 1: Volcanoes, Vineyards, and Ocean Views

**Morning:**Kick off your island explorations with a visit to Timanfaya National Park, known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The park can only be visited by guided tour, so consider joining one that includes hotel pickup, 4WD transport, and other activities, such as the chance to ride a camel through the lava fields. 

**Afternoon:**Take in the highlights of south Lanzarote, starting with a wine-tasting lunch in the La Geria wine region, famous for its white wines made from malvasia grapes. On the southwest coast, must-see sights include the sea cliffs of Los Hervideros, the Salinas de Janubio salt flats, and the green lagoon of El Golfo. With time to spare, the beach town of Playa Blanca has some excellent beaches and plenty of options for water sports. 

**Night:**Set sail along Lanzarote’s southwest coast on a sunset cruise, and admire the island’s natural wonders from the water as you sip cocktails from the onboard bar. Cruises typically leave from Puerto del Carmen, and many include stops to swim and snorkel around the island’s beaches and bays, as well as the chance to spot dolphins and whales along the coast. 

Day 2: Highlights of North Lanzarote

**Morning:**Teguise Market (Sundays only) is Lanzarote’s largest and most atmospheric market, and a walking tour offers the chance to immerse yourself in local culture, as well as purchase some unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Tours of north Lanzarote often include a visit to an aloe vera plantation, a stop at the hilltop village of Haría, and a drive along the north coast, with views of La Graciosa Island.

**Afternoon:**A modern resort designed by local artist César Manrique and housed in a series of natural lava caves, Jameos del Agua is one of the island’s most memorable attractions. Nearby, the Cactus Garden and the César Manrique Foundation are also popular sites, and it’s worth prebooking skip-the-line tickets to all three—ticket lines can be long, especially in high season. 

**Night:**On your final night in Lanzarote, enjoy a taste of the Wild West with a dinner and show at a countryside ranch. Tuck into a barbecue buffet dinner, sip sangria, enjoy live music and cowboy-themed entertainment, and participate in fun activities such as line dancing or lassoing. 

If there’s one thing that no visitor to Fuerteventura should miss, it’s the beaches. Whether you’re seeking a remote getaway or amenity-packed stretch of sand, this Canary Islands destination has you covered. Here are a few of our favorite Fuerteventura beaches.

Cofete Beach

Situated at the southern tip of Fuerteventura Island, Playa de Cofete is a completely undeveloped stretch of sand that’s popular among surfers. While it’s not recommended for swimming—the currents can be dangerously strong—it remains one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

Isla de Lobos

A popular sailing day trip from Fuerteventura, Lobo Island features a wide, golden-sand beach with crystal-clear water, making it ideal for both swimming and sunbathing. The entire island is a protected nature reserve, and the aquatic ecosystem teems with fish and marine life.

Sotavento Beach

Stretching for 17 miles (27 kilometers), Sotavento Beach, in southeastern Fuerteventura, appeals to beachgoers looking for room to stretch out and kite surfers looking to take advantage of the consistent trade winds. With white sand and turquoise water, it’s one of Spain’s best beaches.

Corralejo Beach

One of the most popular beaches on Fuerteventura, Corralejo stretches for six miles (10 kilometers) just south of the eponymous resort town. A nature park bordering the beach has kept development at a minimum. 

Caleta de Fuste

A wide crescent of sand and shallow water make the main beach in Caleta de Fuste popular among families. While it’s not the most attractive beach on the island—the dark sand is imported—it does offer ample space to spread out. It’s also a draw for novice windsurfers. 

La Concha Beach

This white-sand beach in the former fishing village of El Cotillo is known for its calm, clear waters and sense of tranquility. On-duty lifeguards, plus the small pools that form at low tide, make La Concha Beach a favorite among families with young children.

Hopefully you’ve come to Fuerteventura with an appetite to explore, because the island paradise offers a whole lot more than just a few basic beaches. From dune-filled shorelines, to historical towns, and even other reachable destinations just a boat ride away, here’s what you’ll want to do with three full days on the Canaries’ second-largest island.

Around the Island

Fuerteventura is speckled top to bottom with enticing day-trip destinations. If its culture and history you seek, then look no further than old island towns such as the original capital Betancuria, the village of Pajara with its 17th-century church, and Antigua, where you can visit its old-fashioned windmill, and Cheese Museum. If nature is more your thing, set your sights on Oasis Park, an unconventional zoo that will immerse you in the world of its animals. Or you can tour the island’s myriad landscapes by going on a grand adventure by quad or buggy.

Take to the Beach

There’s clearly more discovering to do, though: the beaches. Fuerteventura has a bountiful supply of sandy shores, especially known for their watersport potential. Those in search of the most popular beaches should head to southern Morro Jable (where you can lounge in the sand or partake in various watersports) or family-friendly Caleta de Fuste, located on the eastern coast.

Meanwhile, those keen to visit more remote shores should head to places such as Majanicho—a surf-worthy coast that, until now, anyway, remains nearly untouched by civilization -- or El Cotillo, a tiny fishing village flanked by long beaches. And you shouldn’t leave the island without getting lost amidst the Corralejo Dunes; though they’re one of the island’s most popular destinations, the sea of mountainous sands is so large that you’re bound to find a chunk of space to call your own.

Island Hop

There’s no need to limit your island excursions to just Fuerteventura, though, as more islands sit within reachable, day-trip distance. Most accessible is the tiny islet called Isla de Lobos, or Lobos Island. The uninhabited 1.8 square miles of land can be reached by ferry, and, once there, you can explore it via marked footpaths that lead to the top of its caldera, as well as the beach found at Playa de la Concha.

Or go big by visiting neighboring Canarian island, Lanzarote, arguably the most eclectic in the archipelago. You’ll want to grab your hiking shoes, flip flops and camera, as there’s loads to do an see there, from taking in its many natural wonders, such as Timanfaya National Park and green lake, Lago Verde, to hitting beaches, including Papagayo and Playa Blanca in the south, and Playa Famara in the north, among many more.