Here’s where to get out and explore in some of the Canaries' most popular port cities.
The Canary Islands are an archipelago off the northwest seashore of Africa , roughly 100 to 150 kilometers ( 62 to 93 Roman mile ) off the sea-coast ofMorocco . This chain of eight islands belongs toSpainand was formed by volcanic body process millions of class ago . Today it attracts traveller seeking yr - round warm atmospheric condition for a mix of nature , escapade , relaxation , and cultural activities .
While the island certainly have more popular areas than others , each has its own identity , tang , and allurement , drawing in traveller from all walk of sprightliness .
Whether you ’re in lookup of an out - all - dark rave scene , next - level surfing and fishing spots , historical gem , or simply a peaceful respite from the day-after-day grind , the Canaries bid something for practically any vacation vibration .
Westend61/Getty Images
If you ’re look for a goodish dose of unique and interesting thing to experience in the Canaries beyond the most well - known hotspots , let this usher be your start point .
Don’t leave the Canary Islands until you…
See : Mount Teide , a torpid volcano situate in the centre of Tenerife , which isSpain ’s in high spirits peakat 3,718 meters ( 12,198 feet ) . The park is home to dramatic volcanic rock formations and craters , as well as various flora and brute . Its notoriously clear sky make the area an outside hub for stargazing , and during the day visitor can take a cable’s length car through the stunning scenery .
Touch : The Baroness Dudevant at the beach scattered along the coastline of every island . Exploring these beach and their respective communities declare oneself visitors an eclectic mouthful of the islands , with some area gas natural springs for those who desire to take a dip ( atmospheric condition permitting ) .
Smell : Barraquito , a layered coffee cordial that can often only be found in the Canary Islands . The drink is made of coffee , Licor 43 , effervesce milk , contract milk , cinnamon , and a gamboge peel . Do not forget the islands without know the barraquito ; ask for it “ sin alcohol”(without alcoholic drink ) should you wish to skitter the booze .
Charco de San Ginés at city of Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands|Pol Albarrán/Moment/Getty Images
Hear : Any schedule event atTenerife Auditorium , a beautiful locale designed by designer Santiago Calatrava that is consider to be one of the finest present-day building in the Canary Islands . It is home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and its many performances .
Taste : Canarian foodis unique due to its blend of Spanish , African , and Latin American influence , mould by the islands ' isolated geography . Traditional dishes often feature simple , locally sourced element like fresh fish , potatoes , and a variety of vegetable . Mojo sauces — green ( herbaceous plant - free-base ) and red ( Madagascar pepper - based)—are signature accompaniments , tot bluff flavors . Gofio , a toasted grain flour , is a staple fibre , while volcanic grease gives Canarian wine a trenchant lineament .
Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
During the 20th century , everybody who was anybody visit the Canary Islands . Ernest Hemingway , David Attenborough , Richard Branson , Agatha Christie , Winston Churchill , Frida Kahlo , George Orwell , and even Charles Darwin all had positive things to say about their experiences during trip to the Canaries . The Port of Tenerife ’s marina features a row of small plaques with shine reviews from the island ’ most celebrated visitors over the years .
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is locate on the northwestern part of Tenerife , and is a quieter , more peaceful area of the island than any of its western neighbourhood during the summer months . The area offers great shopping , casual strolling arena , and put - back eating house .
There ’s enough to see and do here in a solar day or two , but travelers must remember that siesta is take aim seriously here , with many shops and eatery close between the minute of 2 and 5 pm . The Port of Tenerife also offers access to shuttle liners that admit rental car , minibike , or those but on foot to easy get to the other island in the Canaries .
Charco de San Ginés at city of Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands|Pol Albarrán/Moment/Getty Images
good morning : VisitPlaza de España , the largest square in the Canary Islands . It hosts an hokey lake fountain which provides plenteous photo opportunities and travelers can see out the underground sand trap , a free public attraction .
Late Morning : Go to theMercado Municipal Nuestra Señora de Africa(African Market ) , where many locals buy fresh food , vegetables , cheeses , oil color , and other delights from marketer . Afterwards , get the grill octopus and potatoes , a common Canarian dish , at any one of the cafés behind the African Market . get cash .
Siesta ( 2 pm):Go to the rooftop cake on the top ofUrban Anaga Hotel Tenerife . A well selection of beers , wines , cocktails , and sangria is available . The views are salient and offer a bird’s - centre look at the unusual Bauhaus architecture that influence the city in the 1930s .
Castle of San Cristóbal|ruben jose santana perez/shutterstock
Evening : Stroll downCalle Del Castillofor patronize and end a perfect sundown saunter with a Canarian dinner atBodeguita Canaria . If there ’s a long line , you may be able to lose it an outside seat atLa Cuadra Del Palmeroacross the street .
Things to do in Puerto del Rosario
Puerto del Rosario is the vibrant Washington of Fuerteventura , the secondly largest of Spain ’s Canary Islands , and offer a entrance blending of civilisation , account , and stunning landscape . With its picturesque harbor and charming beaches , this destination beckon travelers seek sun - soaked easiness and full-bodied local experiences . The metropolis ’s transformation from a humble sportfishing village to a bustling urban center is patent in its computer architecture , art induction , and racy markets .
Famed natural scientist and biologist David Attenborough has long see Puerto del Rosario as a gateway to the island ’s stunning natural looker — from the pristine dunes of Corralejo to the tranquil shores of Sotavento . It also beckon adventure seekers with a litany of urine sports like windsurfing , kitesurfing , and hiking in the nearby volcanic landscapes .
Morning : Start your 24-hour interval with a saucily brewed coffee berry atCafé del Marand then research the metropolis ’s many sculptures scatter throughout Puerto del Rosario . Each piece tells a story , showcasing the creative thinking and talent of local artists . The open - melodic phrase art verandah atmosphere provides a perfect backcloth for easy strolls .
African Market|MErdinc/shutterstock. hanohiki/iStock/Getty Images.
twelve noon : taste a delicious lunch atRestaurante La Jaira de Demian , known for its exquisite local specialties such as grilled fish and the famous papas arrugadas ( wrinkly potatoes ) with mojo sauce ( garlic , olive oil color , spiciness ) , all cook with wise , topically - sourced ingredient .
Siesta : After lunch , take a walk of life along the picturesque seafront saunter . Here , you may feel the sea breeze while taking in sensational coastal survey before reachingCasa Museo Miguel de Unamuno , the former residence of the far-famed Spanish author and philosopher . research the museum ’s exhibit , which allow for perceptivity into his life and piece of work , along with the story of the Canary Islands .
even : Head over toPlaya Blancafor stargazing . As night falls , the light sky of Fuerteventura reveal a dazzling display of adept , unobscured by city lights . It would be prudent to impart a cover , lie back on the lenient sand , turn off your speech sound , and marvel at the constellations in the Milky Way .
Rambla de Santa Cruz|Salvador Aznar/shutterstock
Things to do in Arrecife de Lanzarote
Arrecife , the capital of Lanzarote , is the third orotund island of the Canaries , and the third most inspect . Originally a small-scale sportfishing village , Arrecife has develop into a bustling town characterized by its picturesque waterfront , wizardly streets , and striking computer architecture . Today it is best known for its volcanic landscapes , beautiful beach , and the artistry of César Manrique , a Spanish creative person , sculptor , and nature activist from Lanzarote whose architectural task dot the island . As a result , the city is renowned for its unique compounding of traditional Canarian and contemporary design , unmistakable in landmarks like the iconicCastillo de San Gabrieland the modernistCentro Insular de Cultura .
Arrecife ’s natural beaut postulate middle stagecoach on its captivating beach , such asPlaya del Reducto , where aureate sands meet crystal - clear urine . The town serves as a gateway to Lanzarote ’s unequaled volcanic scene , including the stunningTimanfaya National Park , making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and risky venture seekers alike .
Morning : catch a quick barraquito and croissant before lead to one of the private vineyard nestled in the beautiful Lanzarote countryside . Several guided tour help cultivate and immerse visitor in the winemaking cognitive operation , the region ’s unique volcanic soil , and the autochthonal grape vine varieties cultivated throughout the Canaries . One of the best cognise local tour companies isWine Tours Lanzarote , though you’re able to often also rule book tours directly through the vineyards themselves , either online or by headphone . Some of the good I you wo n’t want to miss includeBodega StratvsandBodega La Geria .
Statue in Puerto del Rosario|Geography Photos/Universal Images Group/Getty Images
Noon : Head to theCastle of San Gabriel , a historic fortress from the sixteenth century work up to protect Arrecife from pirate attacks . The rook provides challenging exhibits that detail the island ’s maritime chronicle and ethnical heritage . Here visitant can catch a glimpse of the coastline from the advantage compass point of the castle .
Siesta : There are several small-scale vessel cruises , private charter , and sauceboat ride offered from the slide of Lanzarote . Beyond the harbour , the vast Atlantic stretches out , proffer the occasional glimpse of marine life such as dolphins , sea turtles , and even whale during certain time of the year . At sundown , the horizon provide breathless views with the sky plant alight in hue of orangish , pink , and purple — it ’s no marvel why some of the world ’s greatest artists find such aspiration here .
even : Treat yourself to a culinary experience atLilium , the only eating house in Arrecife recognized by the Michelin Guide , although it does not confine an official star . Lilium boasts a originative menu that celebrate local ingredient and traditional Canarian flavors with a advanced twist . Be trusted to try on the cochinillo negro canario ( their take on Canarian disgraceful pork)—something you may only find in this part of the world .
Playa Blanca|nderworld111/iStock/Getty Images. Philippe TURPIN/Photononstop/Getty Images.
What to know before you go
The currency
The Canaries are a part of Spain , so they use the Euro . credit entry card machine are everywhere , and there are plenty of ATMs that can charge hefty international fees if you need cash money for whatever reason . garish currency exchange terminals subsist in the airport or with some banks in the larger towns , specially in Gran Canaria or Tenerife .
International adapters you’ll need
Because these island belong to Spain , wall socket are plug Type C. The stock voltage is 230V with a relative frequency of 50 Hz .
When to plan your visit
The weather is static yr - round , with temperature ranging between 64 ° F and 75 ° F ( 18 – 24 ° C ) . Spring falls between March and May when there are fewer tourists and slightly cheaper prices . Do not expect any rainfall .
Do’s and don’ts when visiting the Canaries
Do not brush aside the beach flags on any part of the islands ’ coastline . flagstone are placed out to signal the safety of the water beyond them : double red flag mean the beach is closed for public use , a single red fleur-de-lis point high fortune , yellow means medium hazards , green is low risk , and royal means there are marine pests in the neighbourhood .
Do design how to get around . The islands have public fare in the configuration of inner - metropolis trams , intra - city buses , and ferries that can hold rental cars to ride between islands . hire a car will be the truehearted way to get around , but the rental agency do shoot more for an automatic transmission system vehicle ( sometimes double the monetary value of what you ’d pay for a manual transmittance ) .
Your fun Canaries dinner party fact
Canarian blood blimp contains dry yield . It ’s really hard to find that anywhere else in the world . Enjoy it !
Scale Spain’s Highest Peak at This Volcanic Canary Islands National Park
Steep elevations, cinematic hikes, and starry nights converge inside Tenerife’s Teide National Park.
This Otherworldly Island Is One of Spain’s Coolest Spots
It’s like entering a genius' mind mid-acid trip.
The World’s 17 Most Incredible Black-Sand Beaches
Seek out these photogenic masterpieces of nature.
Bodega La Geria|EunikaSopotnicka/iStock/Getty Images
Castle of San Gabriel|Meinzahn/iStock/Getty Images. Giulio Andreini//Universal Images Group/Getty Images.
Lilium|Photos courtesy of Lilium
