Lanzarote is a visual feast of contrasts. Clear blue water clashes against dramatic rocky volcanic landscapes, green succulents and cacti pop against a backdrop of whitewashed houses. From the otherworldly Timanfaya National Park, to volcanic vineyards, and art from the island´s most famous resident, César Manrique, Lanzarote is a surprising and sunny escape.
Are you planning your first trip to the island? This beginner’s guide to Lanzarote covers everything you need to know about what to see, where to stay and how to make the most of your time on the island.
Things to See and Do in Lanzarote
Explore Timanfaya National Park
A tour through the extraordinary protected volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park is a must for any first time visitor’s island itinerary. Accessible only via guided tour, discover endless lava fields, deep craters and experience geothermal demonstrations highlighting the impressive heat just below the surface you stand on.
Visit the Vineyards of La Geria
The dry and volcanic landscape of La Geria is the last place you would expect anything to grow. And yet, locals have adapted to the harsh conditions and managed to produce successful vineyards in this challenging environment. The unique wine-growing technique of planting vines in individual pits of volcanic pebbles is labor intensive and time consuming, but effective. Here you can take a tour, sample wine and learn about traditional winemaking techniques adapted to the surreal environment.
Tour the César Manrique Foundation
César Manrique, Lanzarote´s most famous resident, dedicated his life to sustainable architectural projects throughout the Canary Islands. HIs former home, now open as the Fundación César Manrique, provides an opportunity to view his art and architecture projects and wander around gardens built in a series of natural volcanic bubbles. For those interested in the island´s cultural heritage, this is an essential stop.
Discover Jameos del Agua
Jameos del Agua is one of César Manrique’s most famous creations and a stunning example of his ability to blend art and nature. Here, rocky volcanic caverns are intentionally married with lush green gardens and an underground lagoon. The striking contrast of sparkling blue water and leafy foliage against the black rock makes this one of the most photogenic places in Lanzarote.
Take a Day Trip to La Graciosa
A short 30-minute ferry ride separates La Graciosa, the archipelago´s smallest inhabited island, from the north of Lanzarote. With fewer than 800 permanent residents and no paved roads, life moves at an entirely different pace. Options for what to do are limited, and that´s precisely the point. Rent a bicycle to explore secluded beaches, swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the harborside restaurants.
Where to Stay in Lanzarote
The island may seem small, but travel distances can be surprising. Where you base yourself will shape your entire trip. Below is a quick overview of the island´s main resort areas and tourist hubs.
Costa Tequise
Costa Teguise´s central location is great for new visitors who want a convenient base from which to explore both the north and the south of the island. It´s relaxed, beachy and a short 15 minute ride from the airport.
Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen is Lanzarote’s largest mainstream tourist resort area with sandy beaches, restaurants, nightlife and accommodation for every budget. If your priorities include bars and entertainment filled evenings, this is the place for you.
Playa Blanca
Located on the southern tip of the island, Playa Blanca is great for families or those looking for a quieter atmosphere for a laidback holiday. From here you can easily take the ferry to Fuerteventura for a day trip.
This is a less central location for those who want to actively explore both north and south of the island.
Puerto Calero
If you are craving luxury, Puerto Calero is the place to be. Expect boutiques, upscale dining options and a marina where you can try out watersports and depart on boat trips. The small resort area is quieter and more peaceful than neighboring Puerto del Carmen.
Arrecife
Lanzarote´s capital provides a glimpse into local daily life away from the main tourist resorts. What it lacks in glamour, it makes up for in pragmatic amenities. Arrecife is the island’s public transport hub and a convenient base for visitors who don´t plan on renting a car, but would still like to explore the island.
How to Get Around Lanzarote
Car Rental: For most visitors, renting a car is the best way to explore Lanzarote to explore at their own pace.
Public Transport: The public bus system is reliable, safe and affordable. It connects major towns and tourist hubs seamlessly, but services are less frequent to remote attractions and scenic viewpoints.
Taxi: Ideal for shorter journeys or airport transfers but expensive to use for exploring the island.
Best time to Visit Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a year round destination thanks to stable weather and copious sunny days.
Spring (March – May): Great for general sightseeing, visiting Timanfaya National Park and hiking the island´s volcanic landscapes without the intense summer heat.
Summer (June-August): Expect the hottest temperatures in July and August. This period is busy as it is Ideal for beaches and beginner watersports.
Autumn (September – November): Fewer tourists and lasting warm water temperatures make this a great time for general sightseeing. This marks the start of more consistent and powerful waves for intermediate and advanced surf, kitesurf and windsurf fans.
Winter (December – February): Prices jump up during peak high season as Northern Europeans escape winter and look for sunshine.
Average Daytime Temperatures
| Season | Coast | Inland |
| Spring (Mar–May) | 21–24°C (70–75°F) | 18–23°C (64–73°F) |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 26–29°C (79–84°F) | 28–33°C (82–91°F) |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 24–28°C (75–82°F) | 23–30°C (73–86°F) |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 20–22°C (68–72°F) | 16–20°C (61–68°F) |
Travel Tips
- Lanzarote appears small, but don´t forget to budget travel time. The main attractions are spread out across the island.
- Rent a car if possible. The island´s main attractions are spread across the north and south. With a car it is easier to visit independently and see some off the beaten track places in between.
- Pack layers. Evenings can feel cooler than the temperature suggests due to the sea breeze.
- Reserve your tickets for popular attractions such as Timanfaya National Park early to avoid long lines during peak seasons of December – February and July – August.