As one of the most important and visited of the Canary Islands, there are plenty of things to do in Lanzarote, Spain. This stunning volcanic rock island has some of the most beautiful and acclaimed natural sites in Spain, as well as being a favourite destination for surfers.
Also famous for being full of works by the famous artist César Manrique, in Lanzarote you can visit many different monuments and natural parks, as well as taking different routes to discover the island’s most important volcanoes. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet as you travel through film-like landscapes, black sand beaches and magical hidden spots. Come and discover Lanzarote Spain!
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Things to do in Lanzarote
Visita Arrecife
Arrecife is the capital of the island and one of the most beautiful places to see in Lanzarote. As well as being the administrative and commercial centre of the island, in this 19th century city you can learn more about the history and culture of the island.
Enjoy this small but beautiful city while walking through its white streets, as well as its marvellous seafront promenade. One of the main monuments you can’t miss is the characteristic Iglesia Matriz de San Ginés Obispo, or the beautiful and iconic fishing quarter of San Ginés. Besides being one of the most lovely areas to stroll around in Arrecife, you’ll find some of the best restaurants and bars to have a drink. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Castillo de San Gabriel, built in 1572 and later burnt down during an invasion. It is truly fascinating.
See Famara Beach in Lanzarote
Lanzarote has an infinite number of dreamy beaches, but one that you can’t miss is the incredible Famara Beach. Thanks to its incredible size, it a favourite amongst lovers of the coast and surfing enthusiasts alike.
With an incredible 5 kilometre long stretch of sand, this rocky beach is the perfect place to practice some of the most fun water sports and activities, from surfing to bodyboarding and windsurfing. It’s ideal for families, although it is important to take into account the swell at all times. Otherwise, it is a completely safe beach with a unique tranquillity.
Hiking around El Cuervo
The Caldera de los Cuervos, also known as the Cuervo Volcano, is an impressive spot located in the Volcanoes Natural Park. If you are a nature lover and you want to get to know the wildest part of the island, you cannot miss a hike through this area.
You can do a circular route of up to 3 kilometres on flat terrain, making it accessible to all ages. You’ll walk through an extensive volcanic landscape, also known as malpaÃs, while going around the impressive Volcán del Cuervo. It’s the ideal plan if you’re travelling with children, and you’ll have a great time!
Coastline from the Gulf
Among all the impressive routes that you can do on your trip to Lanzarote Spain, one that you can’t miss is the Litoral route from El Golfo. Despite being simpler and shorter, you’ll be able to enjoy a totally unique landscape.
If you want to enjoy the authentic wilderness of Lanzarote, this place won’t disappoint. You can take a tour from the town of El Golfo and walk to the beach of El Paso while skirting some of the most impressive cliffs on the island. And all whilst on a volcanic terrain that looks like something out of a movie – you’ll love it!
Los Hervideros
Los Hervideros is one of the greatest visual spectacles in Lanzarote. These imposing rock formations are the result of a rapid cooling of the lava that once fell from the Timanfaya Volcano, as well as the consequent erosion caused by the force of the sea.
We recommend visiting this place, especially when the weather is not good, as the sea will be rougher and you will be able to enjoy the incredible experience of seeing the water crashing hard against these huge rocks.
See the César Manrique Monuments in Lanzarote
One of the most symbolic things in Lanzarote is the collection of works by the famous local artist César Manrique. Take a tour to see them all over the island, either on your own or on a guided excursion.
Among all the works you can visit, we recommend starting with the Mirador del RÃo, one of the most important. It’s a spectacular building located on a cliff and built with volcanic rock to blend in with the natural space. Another of his most interesting works is the Casa de TahÃche, also known as the César Manrique Foundation. It is a beautiful house that pays homage to both the artist and the island of Lanzarote. Don’t hesitate to take a look at all the works by this fantastic Lanzarote artist!
La Graciosa Island in Lanzarote
The island of La Graciosa is a small, little-known place not far from Lanzarote, but with a unique personality and atmosphere. It is the ideal place to escape from civilisation, as this island doesn’t even have roads; its little houses stand on sandy streets. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Once there, you can take a pleasant stroll through the streets, even barefoot, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the white houses on the sand. In addition, on this island you can enjoy some of the most beautiful and least crowded beaches in the area. First of all, we recommend La Francesa beach; despite its small size, this beach is not very crowded, so it provides true peace. Another of the best beaches in La Graciosa is La Cocina, located at the foot of an old volcano, offering a visual spectacle by the sea.
Create your travel itinerary by selecting and adding the places you want to see in Lanzarote Spain.
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What to see in Lanzarote with children?
Cactus Garden
One of the must-see places in Lanzarote if you are travelling with children is the impressive Cactus Garden. Another of César Manrique’s works, in this wonderful 5000 square metre park you can see more than 1000 different cacti.
Located in the area of Teguise, you can enjoy some incredible nature while discovering all the different cactus families from five continents. You can also stop to rest in its bar and enjoy the famous tapas made from local produce.
Timanfaya National Park
Timanfaya National Park is one of the first places you must see in Lanzarote. It will without a doubt leave you speechless. As well as being considered one of the most beautiful natural parks in Spain, this secluded spot will make you feel like you’re walking on another planet.
The origin of these impressive geological formations dates back to the 18th century, due to a series of volcanic eruptions that took place at short intervals. You can visit this protected park in three different ways: through guided hiking routes, a bus route or walking along one of the free trails, which are restricted to the outer perimeter of the park.
You’ll be fascinated by the number of colours and craters here, as well as its vast size and unquestionable majesty. Enjoy a 14 kilometre journey until you reach the heart of the crater – don’t forget to bring your camera!
Jameos del Agua
Los Jameos del Agua is one of the most magical places to see in Lanzarote Spain. It is an impressive volcanic tunnel formed by the La Corona volcano. Later it was used by the artist César Manrique to turn the natural elements into a true work of art.
The formation of this magical tunnel was made possible by water seepage, creating the beautiful underground lake it is today. The cave’s name comes from the only species that lives inside the lake: the albino crab, better known as “jameito”. As well as being able to stroll along the shores of the lake and admire the visual spectacle of the surroundings, you can visit its museum while learning about the formation of the volcanic tube, or enjoy lunch or dinner in its incredible restaurant. What more could you ask for?
Charco de los Clicos
Also known as the Charco Verde, the Charco de los Clicos is a curious volcanic crater located within the impressive Parque Natural de los Volcanes, in Yaiza. This crater is open on one side, creating an even more otherworldly landscape.
However, the most characteristic feature of this place is the intense green colour of the water. This is due to the filtered sea water mixing with the sulphur released by the volcano, as well as a type of algae that produces chlorophyll, which is why you can’t swim in it. Its name comes from the shellfish called clico, which was once abundant here and is now extinct. Since it has been declared a Nature Reserve, it is forbidden to enter, but you will still be able to see this beautiful spot from a small lookout point at high altitude. You will love it!
Where to eat in Lanzarote?
In Lanzarote you can find great restaurants with a wide variety of dishes with different culinary origins. Here are some of our favourites:
- Located in the south of Lanzarote, La Cascada Steak House is a a must. This place was awarded the Best Steak House in the Canary Islands in 2019, so it is the ideal place if you want to enjoy a good plate of meat.
- If you are in the area of El Golfo, we recommend the Costa Azul Restaurant, where you will be able to enjoy the highest quality fish and seafood dishes.
- You can’t miss the Dunas de Famara Restaurant If you’re in the Famara or Teguise area, where as well as enjoying incredible dishes, you’ll get unbeatable views. Another place worth visiting El Bocadito Restaurant, where they serve excellent matured meat and impressive hamburgers.
Frequently asked questions about a trip to Lanzarote
Entry to Los Hervideros is completely free! However, we recommend avoiding peak visiting hours from 11:00 to 13:00, as this is when most travellers visit the site.
To reach Charco Verde or Charco de los Clicos, first you have to head towards El Golfo. Once you reach the village, follow the LZ-703 road for three minutes until you reach the signpost that marks the beginning of the walking route to the Charco.
– La Cascada Steak House
– Restaurante Costa Azul
– Restaurante Dunas de Famara
– Restaurante El Bocadito
The best time to travel to Lanzarote and enjoy the good weather without enduring the heavy crowds are the months of October and November, and also from February to June. Lanzarote enjoys a warm and stable climate throughout the year.
How to prepare your itinerary of the things to do in Lanzarote?
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