Canary Islands

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, a captivating Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, are a dream destination for sunseekers, adventure enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike. Consisting of seven main islands—Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro—this diverse region offers something for every kind of traveller. Tenerife, the largest island, is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, and boasts a perfect blend of volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and golden beaches. Gran Canaria, often referred to as a “continent in miniature,” stuns with its varied terrain—from bustling beach resorts in the south to lush pine forests in the north. Lanzarote’s lunar-like scenery, shaped by centuries-old volcanic activity, offers a surreal experience, while Fuerteventura’s wind-swept shores and turquoise waters attract water sports enthusiasts from across the globe. The Canary Islands are a year-round paradise thanks to their subtropical climate, often dubbed “the land of eternal spring.” Winters are mild and summers are pleasantly warm, making it a perfect escape regardless of the season. Culturally rich and historically layered, the Canaries blend Spanish influence with ancient Guanche traditions. Visitors can explore vibrant local markets, taste authentic Canarian cuisine—like papas arrugadas and mojo sauce—and immerse themselves in local fiestas filled with colour, music, and dance. From relaxing beach holidays to action-packed adventures including hiking, surfing, diving, and cycling, the Canary Islands are a playground for all ages and interests. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, the Canaries welcome you with open arms and endless sunshine.  

Travila Canary Islands Travel Guide

What to know before Travelleing

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Language: Spanish
Peak Season: December to April, and July to September
Time Zone: UTC+0 (WET)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Travila

4.5 to 5 Hours

Average Flight Time

€2.00 – €3.00

Price Of Pint
Transport
Best time to visit

Top Destinations in Canary Islands

Best Beaches in the Canaries

The Canary Islands are home to some of the most diverse and stunning beaches in Europe, attracting millions of sun lovers every year. Each island offers a distinct beach vibe, ranging from family-friendly coves to wild, windswept shores perfect for surfers. On Tenerife, Playa de las Teresitas stands out with its imported golden sand and calm waters, making it ideal for families and swimmers. Meanwhile, El Médano is a mecca for windsurfing thanks to its steady breeze and laid-back charm. Fuerteventura, often dubbed “the beach island,” boasts over 150 km of coastline. Playa de Sotavento is a must-visit for water sports enthusiasts, while Corralejo’s dunes offer a dramatic desert-like setting perfect for photos and peaceful sunbathing. In Gran Canaria, Amadores Beach offers gentle waves, sun loungers, and bars — perfect for a relaxing day, while Maspalomas pairs beach fun with scenic sand dunes and a famous lighthouse. Lanzarote adds a volcanic twist to the beach scene with black-sand beaches like Playa Quemada and picturesque white-sand stretches like Papagayo. For something quieter, head to La Palma or La Gomera, where beaches are wilder, unspoiled, and framed by lush cliffs and forests. Whether you're after luxury beach clubs, secluded nature spots, or adrenaline-pumping waves, the Canaries deliver beach perfection.

Outdoor Adventures

The Canary Islands are an outdoor lover’s playground, offering incredible adventures across sea, sky, and land. With landscapes shaped by volcanic eruptions and rich biodiversity, these islands present unlimited opportunities for hikers, divers, bikers, and thrill-seekers. Start with Mount Teide in Tenerife — Spain’s highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking the volcanic trails, or taking the cable car for panoramic views, is an unforgettable experience. Lanzarote's Timanfaya National Park offers a surreal, moon-like landscape where geothermal activity still bubbles beneath your feet. For trekkers, La Palma’s Caldera de Taburiente and La Gomera’s Garajonay National Park provide verdant forest trails and dramatic ridge walks. Love the ocean? The clear Atlantic waters surrounding the islands are perfect for scuba diving, with spots like El Hierro offering visibility up to 30 meters and rich marine life including rays, turtles, and volcanic rock formations. Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are big in Fuerteventura, especially around Corralejo and Sotavento. You can also kayak along Lanzarote’s volcanic coastlines, take a whale-watching tour from Tenerife or Gran Canaria, or ride horses along desert trails. With year-round sunshine and endless activity options, every Canary Island can turn a holiday into an adventure.

Exploring Local Culture

While the Canary Islands are famous for their sun and sea, their cultural depth is equally enchanting. The islands blend traditional Spanish customs with the unique legacy of the Guanche people, the original Berber inhabitants, whose traces remain in art, language, and archaeological sites. In cities like La Laguna (Tenerife), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, colonial architecture and cobbled streets tell the story of 15th-century Spanish settlers. Museums, like the Museo Canario in Las Palmas, delve into the islands’ indigenous history, while small towns regularly host local festivals with parades, folk dancing, and traditional costumes. Every island has its own fiestas, with Tenerife’s Carnival of Santa Cruz being one of the biggest in the world. Expect dazzling costumes, samba-style music, and street parties that last for weeks. Lanzarote offers the quieter charm of traditional villages like Teguise, where Sunday markets come alive with local crafts, cheeses, wines, and live music. Religious heritage is also strong here. Pilgrimages, sacred caves, and ornate churches reflect the islands’ spiritual roots. And don’t miss trying local delicacies like gofio (roasted maize flour), fresh seafood, and mojo sauces — each tied to the cultural fabric of the Canaries.

Where to Stay

The Canary Islands offer an impressive range of accommodation options to suit every type of traveller, from luxury seekers to nature lovers. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, family vacation, or solo retreat, each island provides a unique blend of comfort, scenery, and value. In Tenerife, you'll find 5-star resorts like the Ritz-Carlton and Bahia del Duque offering beachfront luxury, world-class spas, and fine dining. Families often choose all-inclusive resorts near Costa Adeje, while budget-conscious travellers can enjoy excellent hostels and guesthouses in Santa Cruz. Gran Canaria features stylish boutique hotels in Las Palmas, as well as beachfront resorts in Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. Many properties here cater to adults-only crowds looking for a relaxing, child-free environment. Meanwhile, Lanzarote offers eco-resorts and stylish villas built in harmony with the island's volcanic landscape, inspired by artist César Manrique. If you’re after tranquility, La Palma, El Hierro, and La Gomera offer rural accommodations set in natural surroundings—ideal for hikers and those seeking serenity. No matter where you stay in the Canaries, expect warm hospitality, modern amenities, and easy access to the islands’ most beloved attractions.

Destination

The Canary Islands are a top choice for families seeking a mix of fun, relaxation, and discovery. With short flight times from the UK, a sunny climate, and loads of child-friendly activities, it's easy to see why families return year after year. In Tenerife, kids adore Siam Park, one of the world’s best waterparks, and Loro Parque, home to dolphins, penguins, and exotic birds. Resorts in Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos cater to families with kids’ clubs, entertainment programs, and splash pools. Gran Canaria also delights with Palmitos Park, a mix of botanical garden and zoo, plus camel rides through the dunes of Maspalomas. In Fuerteventura, older kids can try windsurfing, while younger ones play on vast sandy beaches like those at Caleta de Fuste. Dining out is stress-free thanks to child-friendly menus, early opening hours, and relaxed service. You’ll also find self-catering apartments and spacious suites across all islands, giving families the flexibility they need. From safe, shallow beaches to exciting excursions, the Canaries tick all the boxes for an unforgettable family holiday.

Family Holidays

Discover world-famous destinations that continue to captivate travelers with their iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant cultures. These popular spots offer well-developed tourism infrastructure, diverse accommodation options, and countless activities for every type of traveler. While these destinations attract millions of visitors annually, they maintain their unique charm and continue to offer new experiences even for repeat visitors seeking to uncover hidden layers beyond the main attractions.

Hotel

Indulge in premium accommodation options that offer exceptional service, world-class amenities, and exquisite dining experiences. Luxury hotels provide personalized attention, sophisticated design, and exclusive facilities that transform your stay into a memorable journey. From five-star city hotels to boutique resorts in exotic locations, these properties prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction while offering unique local experiences and impeccable hospitality standards.

Hotel

Find comfortable and affordable lodging options that don't compromise on quality or experience. Budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses offer excellent value for money while providing clean, safe accommodations in convenient locations. Many budget options feature communal spaces that encourage social interaction, local recommendations from knowledgeable staff, and authentic experiences that allow travelers to stretch their budget further while exploring new destinations.

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