Deciding where to stay in Lanzarote can be a delightful challenge. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and diverse activities, this beautiful Canary Island offers an array of accommodation options to satisfy every traveller’s preferences and budget.
As we explore some of the top spots in Lanzarote, we will consider factors such as access to local attractions, dining options, and the natural beauty of the area. From bustling resorts and charming boutique hotels to serene villas with breathtaking views, we will help you find the ideal base for your unforgettable Lanzarote adventure.
Remember, location is key to making the most of your holiday. With this in mind, let’s delve into the best places to stay in Lanzarote, ensuring that you have an incredible experience on this captivating island.
Choosing the Best Area to Stay in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a stunning Canary Island with various areas offering unique experiences. In this section, we’ll discuss five popular areas to help you choose the perfect location for your stay: Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, and Arrecife.
Teguise
Teguise, the former capital of Lanzarote, is known for its rich history and beautifully preserved architecture. Staying in Teguise provides the opportunity to explore:
- Teguise Market: Held every Sunday, this is the island’s largest and most popular outdoor market.
- Castillo de San Gabriel: A historic fortress located on a small volcanic islet.
- Museo Palacio Spinola: An elegant mansion-turned-museum showcasing the Island’s history.
Overall, Teguise is ideal for visitors who appreciate history, culture and a laid-back atmosphere.
Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen is the most popular resort area on the island, boasting beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife. During your stay, you can enjoy:
- Playa Grande: The main beach, with golden sands, clear waters and various water sports.
- The Strip: A lively stretch with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
- Rancho Texas Park: An animal and water park suitable for families.
Puerto del Carmen is perfect for travellers who want a mix of relaxation and entertainment.
Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is another popular resort area featuring stunning beaches, family-friendly activities, and a bustling nightlife. Highlights include:
- Playa Las Cucharas: Known for its excellent windsurfing conditions.
- AquaPark Costa Teguise: The island’s largest water park, with rides suitable for all ages.
- Pueblo Marinero: A charming square housing weekly craft markets and entertainment.
Costa Teguise is a fantastic choice for families and watersports enthusiasts.
Playa Blanca
Located in the southern tip of Lanzarote, Playa Blanca features beautiful beaches, a charming marina, and a more tranquil atmosphere. Attractions include:
- Marina Rubicon: A picturesque spot with several shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Papagayo Beaches: A series of stunning, secluded beaches accessible by foot or boat.
- Timanfaya National Park: A nearby attraction offering guided tours through the island’s volcanic landscape.
Playa Blanca is well-suited for travellers who seek a quieter holiday with incredible natural surroundings.
Arrecife
As the island’s capital, Arrecife brings together culture, history, and an authentic Canarian feel. Here, you’ll find:
- Charco de San Ginés: A picturesque lagoon surrounded by traditional fisherman’s houses.
- Castillo de San José: A historic fortress turned contemporary art museum.
- El Reducto Beach: A central beach with calm waters and close proximity to shops and restaurants.
Arrecife is an excellent choice for visitors who desire a more local and authentic experience.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels
In Lanzarote, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels on the island offer top-notch amenities, stunning views, and excellent service.
Among our favourites are the Hesperia Lanzarote and the Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun. With their elegant décor and first-class facilities, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay.
Resorts
For those seeking an all-inclusive experience, we have a variety of resorts to choose from. Sandos Papagayo Beach Resort and Club La Santa are two prime examples, offering a wide range of activities and dining options for guests of all ages. You can relax by the pool, take part in fitness classes, or explore the beautiful Lanzarote landscape at your leisure.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Travelling with your family? Look no further; there are several fantastic hotels tailored for families in Lanzarote. Consider the Melia Salinas or the Los Zocos Club Resort, both offering activities and entertainment for the little ones, as well as spacious family rooms. These hotels provide an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Adults-Only Hotels
If you’re seeking a more relaxed and intimate setting, Lanzarote also offers a selection of adults-only hotels. The Hotel THe Volcan Lanzarote and the Barceló Teguise Beach are standout options in this category, each providing an atmosphere designed specifically for couples or groups of friends looking for a tranquil escape.
Budget Hotels
Those on a tighter budget need not fret, as there are a variety of affordable accommodation options available. Check out Lancelot Hotel or Hotel Diamar, both offering clean, comfortable rooms and essential amenities at wallet-friendly prices.
Airbnb Options
Of course, let’s not forget about the wide range of Airbnb options in Lanzarote. Whether you’re looking for a cosy studio apartment or a spacious villa, there’s something for everyone. Take the time to browse the listings to find the perfect home away from home to suit your individual needs and preferences.
We hope this guide proves helpful in your search for the ideal accommodation during your visit to Lanzarote. Enjoy your stay and don’t hesitate to explore the fascinating island at your own pace!
Activities and Attractions
Beaches
Lanzarote boasts some of the most stunning beaches, offering a mix of golden sands and turquoise waters. Among our top choices are:
Playa de Papagayo: A beautiful cove with crystal clear water; perfect for snorkelling.
Playa de Famara: A paradise for surfers with its impressive waves and dramatic cliffs.
Playa de las Cucharas: A popular spot for windsurfing, with sun loungers and cafes nearby.
Timanfaya National Park
We highly recommend a visit to the awe-inspiring Timanfaya National Park. The remarkable volcanic landscape allows you to witness fascinating geological formations, while guided tours provide insight into the region’s history and geology. Don’t miss the El Diablo restaurant, where food is cooked using the park’s natural geothermal heat.
Water and Outdoor Sports
Lanzarote offers a plethora of water and outdoor sports, ensuring a fun-filled holiday for everyone. Some of the most popular activities include:
Windsurfing: With consistent trade winds, the island’s east coast is ideal for both beginners and experienced windsurfers.
Scuba diving: The island’s crystal clear waters and diverse marine life make for spectacular diving experiences.
Hiking: Numerous hiking trails allow you to explore the breath-taking landscapes, from coastal paths to volcanic climbs.
Historical and Cultural Sites
The island is rich in history and culture. We recommend visiting the following sites:
César Manrique Foundation: Discover the work and life of Lanzarote’s most famous artist and architect, César Manrique.
Castillo de San José: This 18th-century fortress now houses an impressive modern art museum.
Arrecife’s historic centre: Stroll through the charming old town and visit the picturesque Charco de San Ginés lagoon.
Shopping and Nightlife
For shopping enthusiasts, the island offers a variety of markets, boutiques, and larger shopping centres. In particular, Teguise Market on Sundays is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of products.
When it comes to nightlife, Lanzarote caters to a range of preferences, from lively bars and clubs to more laid-back venues. The most popular areas for a night out are Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise. Be sure to explore the island’s varied options and find your ideal evening entertainment.
Dining and Drinking
Seafood Restaurants
When exploring Lanzarote, one must dive into the delicious world of seafood. Given its location, the island is home to an abundance of fresh fish and seafood dishes. Here are our top picks for seafood lovers:
Restaurante El Golfo: Situated in the picturesque village of El Golfo, this restaurant offers an array of seafood dishes such as grilled octopus and fresh lobster.
Cofradia de Pescadores: Located in the lively town of Playa Blanca, Cofradia de Pescadores serves a wide range of seafood dishes at reasonable price points.
Bars and Pubs
No stay in Lanzarote is complete without a visit to its lively bars and pubs. Here are some great options to quench your thirst and indulge in local flavours:
Irish Anvil Bar: A popular spot for both locals and tourists, the Irish Anvil Bar offers a fantastic selection of beers, spirits, and cocktails.
Stray Cat Pub: Located in the heart of Playa Blanca, the Stray Cat Pub is a cosy spot to enjoy a nice pint and live music.
Local Specialities
While dining in Lanzarote, it’s essential to taste some of the island’s traditional culinary delights. Here are some local specialities to try:
Papas arrugadas con mojo: These irresistible wrinkled potatoes are served with a spicy sauce and are a staple of Canarian cuisine.
Gofio: A versatile Canarian dish made from toasted grains, gofio can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as in soups, desserts, or even on its own.
By exploring the dining and drinking scene in Lanzarote, you’ll discover an array of mouthwatering seafood options, lively bars and pubs, and unique local specialities that are sure to impress.
Getting Around Lanzarote
Airports and Transfers
Lanzarote is well-connected by its main airport, Lanzarote Airport (ACE), which is located just 5 km southwest of the island’s capital, Arrecife. Numerous flights from various destinations across Europe and beyond operate at this airport.
There are several transport options to get you from the airport to your accommodation:
Taxis: Available just outside the arrivals hall. It’s best to confirm the rates to your destination with your driver first.
Airport Transfers: Pre-booked transfers offer a direct route to your accommodation.
Public Bus: The public bus service provides connections to Arrecife, Playa Honda, and Costa Teguise.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Lanzarote’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Several car rental companies have their offices at the airport and throughout the island. Some of them include:
- Avis
- Hertz
- Europcar
- Cicar
It’s always advisable to book your vehicle in advance, especially during peak season. Always carry your valid driving licence, credit card, and a map or navigation app to navigate the island comfortably.
Public Transportation
Lanzarote’s public transportation system, operated by Arrecife Bus, serves the majority of the island. Bus routes connect major towns, including Arrecife, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise. Public buses are an economical and reliable option for getting around Lanzarote. However, keep in mind that they might not reach some of the more secluded areas.
Some key routes and their numbers are:
Route 03: Arrecife — Costa Teguise
Route 06: Arrecife — Playa Blanca
Route 09: Arrecife — Órzola
Route 24: Arrecife — Teguise Market (Sundays only)
For more information on routes, schedules, and fares, visit the official Arrecife Bus website or download their app. Remember to always carry the exact change for your ticket purchase on board the bus.
By considering these transportation options, we hope you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your stay and explore the beautiful island of Lanzarote.
FAQs
Where to Stay in Lanzarote: Top Accommodation Picks for 2023 - Compare Travel Cash News? ›
The most popular areas to stay in Lanzarote are the 3 main resorts: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
Which area is the best to stay in Lanzarote? ›The most popular areas to stay in Lanzarote are the 3 main resorts: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
Where should I stay in Lanzarote for the first time? ›The best areas to stay in Lanzarote for first-timers are the neighborhood of Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, Playa Honda, and Haria.
What are the three main resorts in Lanzarote? ›Playa Blanca is the top resort in southern Lanzarote. Along the eastern coast are the resorts of Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
Is Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca nicer? ›If you're wanting a self-catering holiday then you'll find a better range of accommodation and restaurants in Puerto Del Carmen. However, if you're looking to stay in a hotel resort, or go half-board or all-inclusive then you'll find the prices and availability are better in Playa Blanca.
What is the best month to go to Lanzarote? ›Average monthly temperatures
For the highest temperatures the best time to visit Lanzarote is between June and September although the sub tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors.
Four days are not long, but they are enough to see the main attractions of Lanzarote. The easternmost island of the Canary archipelago has a lot to offer: unspoilt beaches, natural parks and places shaped by the genius of César Manrique. Despite its small size, it is important to plan your itinerary well.
Is cash or card better in Lanzarote? ›Believe it or not, this is one of the most frequently asked questions on social media. No shop or restaurant will ever turn down payment in cash (unless maybe you're paying a €500 bill in 1 cent coins!). Cash is fine and remains a legal way to pay for goods and services in Lanzarote.
Is Lanzarote good for older adults? ›Lanzarote is a perfect destination for travelers over the age of 60. No matter what you feel like. Because on the island you can either relax, enjoy the sun and the sea on the beach or be active and do a lot of things. Most of the hotels in Lanzarote offer excellent service for older couples and solo travelers.
How much money do I need for a week in Lanzarote? ›Past travelers have spent, on average, €42 ($47) on meals for one day and €40 ($44) on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in Lanzarote for a couple is €189 ($209). So, a trip to Lanzarote for two people for one week costs on average €2,256 ($2,491).
How do you get around Lanzarote without a car? ›
You can bike to nearby beaches, holiday resorts and attractions, and even join a guided bike tour around the island or hop on a mountain bike route! Some of the best cycling opportunities in Lanzarote are the volcanic routes in Timanfaya National Park, as well as the routes to Tabayesco Valley and Mirador del Rio.
Which part of Lanzarote has the best beaches? ›Located in the municipality of Puerto del Carmen, to the south of Lanzarote, Playa Grande is the most popular beach in the area, and it's true to its name (it means big beach): more than a kilometre of fine golden sand, perfect for sunbathing, strolling, or swimming in the calm sea.
How much is a 3 course meal in Lanzarote? ›How much does a restaurant meal cost in Lanzarote? A three course meal with fillet steaks and a decent bottle of wine for two in a Spanish seaside restaurant typically costs around €85 (main courses typically cost between €10 and €20). The same meal for two with fresh fish would cost about €75.
How much do you tip in Lanzarote? ›It's customary to leave a tip of around 5% to 15% of your bill's total at restaurants ashore in Lanzarote. Very few establishments will include a service charge in the final bill, but if this has been accounted for additional tipping is not expected.
What is the main town in Lanzarote? ›Puerto del Carmen (Pto. del Carmen) is the main tourist town on the island of Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain. It is part of the municipality of Tías.
Which part of Playa Blanca is best? ›Playa Dorada, one of the best beaches in Playa Blanca
While Playa Blanca is the most popular beach in town, I consider Playa Dorada to be the best beach in Playa Blanca. What is this? With its calm, turquoise water and pristine, white sand, Playa Dorada is an incredible place to visit in Playa Blanca.
Pack for the Weather
From November through December, January February and March it can be cool and wet so pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella. And the winter months can be cold in the evenings, so take a jacket or sweater to put round you.
Quietest Time
The least busy months for tourism in Lanzarote are February, May and November, when we'll generally expect around 230,000 visitors. Visit Lanzarote during these months if you prefer an off peak or low season holiday.
The cheapest month to fly to Lanzarote is usually June.
Can you walk around the whole of Lanzarote? ›Less than 100 miles from the coast of Morocco, walks in Lanzarote can be enjoyed throughout the year. One of Spain's Canary Islands, you'll find hiking trails criss-crossing from coast to volcano and back to coast, all in a single day.
When should I avoid sun in Lanzarote? ›
Wear a sun hat to protect the top of your head, the back of your neck and your face from the sun. Limit the number of hours you spend in full sun, particularly between 11am and 3pm. Drink lots of water. In climates such as ours it's recommended that you drink 2 litres of water a day.
How long before a flight should I be at Lanzarote airport? ›You should arrive at the airport with enough time to avoid unexpected problems. The normal rule is 2 hours before the flight is scheduled to depart. Most airlines allow passengers to check in online on their website prior to travelling to the airport.
Is it better to get a travel money card or cash? ›Why use a prepaid travel card? It's safer. A prepaid card is similar to having cash on you but it's safer than carrying around too much or leaving it in your hotel even if it's in the room safe. This is the main advantage of carrying one of these cards as your money is safe if the card is lost or stolen.
Is it better to take euros or use debit card? ›Key Takeaways. European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.
Is it better to use debit card or cash abroad? ›The main advantage of using a debit or credit card overseas is that you won't pay foreign transaction fees every time you spend. While many also won't charge fees for cash withdrawals, you will still usually be charged interest from the date of the transaction if you use a credit card.
Does it get cold in Lanzarote at night? ›The island officially has a “desert climate” with very little rainfall, and there is no natural water here. Based on all that, you would expect the Lanzarote Temperature to mirror that of the desert we are so close to – searing heat during the day, and very cold at night.
What should I wear to Lanzarote evening? ›You can wear beach wear, shorts and flip flops on most days but you will want a light cardigan, jacket or fleece for some days and you will need trousers and a couple of layers for the evenings. We would also recommend you bringing a waterproof.
What is high season in Lanzarote? ›Summer is considered peak season in Lanzarote, especially between the months of July and August.
What food is Lanzarote famous for? ›Canarian potatoes with mojo picón are perhaps the best known dish of the islands, along with escaldón, a dish made from gofio and fish broth. You can taste them in a wide range of restaurants specialized in Canarian cuisine, as well as other typical dishes: ropa vieja, cazuelas, sancocho, carajacas…
Do I need to take euros to Lanzarote? ›The currency in Lanzarote is the Euro.
You'll find plenty of foreign exchange bureaus dotted across the island, though you might want to shop around to make sure you're getting a good rate.
How long should I go to Lanzarote for? ›
Well, I'd say spend as much time here as you can but 4 days is the perfect amount of time to see all of Lanzarote's main sights and do a couple of fun activities. If you prefer your travel a little slower, want to soak up the atmosphere, find your favourite coffee shop, read a book on the beach…
Do you tip taxi drivers in Lanzarote? ›Taxi or cab drivers - Taxi drivers will not expect a tip, however, if they have been particularly helpful in for example giving you directions or helping to carry your luggage you may want to give them a little extra by rounding up the fare by a euro or two. Hotels - Housekeepers, maids, concierge, porters, etc.
Does Lanzarote have Uber? ›Reserve a ride with Uber in advance in Lanzarote
Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.
As in the rest of the islands, the best way to get around Lanzarote is to rent a car. If you don't want to drive, the island has an extensive transportation network that will allow you to move by bus through the main tourist attractions in Lanzarote.
Can you swim in the sea in Lanzarote? ›The beaches are the great attraction of Lanzarote
There are some parts that are dangerous for swimming through its underwater currents, but others that are an excellent option. In Lanzarote you will find some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands.
Besides, the quality of the sea water around the Canary Islands is excellent and their beaches are regarded as open air spas. This is why they have been awarded a large number of blue flags, the European eco-label which guarantees the water is clean and meets environmental criteria as well as certain other standards.
Is the water safe to drink in Lanzarote? ›We don't have any natural water in Lanzarote, so it all comes from desalinated ocean water. It's high in minerals and can be pretty heavy in chlorine. It's normally safe to drink, but doesn't taste great. We all use it to cook with and brush our teeth, but almost everyone here uses bottled water for drinking.
How much is a bottle of water in Lanzarote? ›The tap water in Lanzarote has a high mineral content and perhaps it will be best to buy bottled water from the supermarkets. The cost of a 5 litre bottle is around 1 Euro there are two types available, "agua con gas" is sparkling mineral water and the more common "agua sin gas" still water.
Is there an all inclusive drink limit in Lanzarote? ›These rules mean, if you stay at an all inclusive hotel in one of these resorts, you can have a maximum of 6 alcoholic drinks a day as part of your all inclusive package – 3 at lunch and 3 with evening meals. Soft drinks are unlimited at any time of day and you can buy additional alcoholic drinks if you wish.
How many is a full course meal? ›Full course meals are made up of three courses: an appetizer, main dish, and dessert. Also known as a three-course meal or a standard course meal, you will sometimes see restaurants offering a full menu with these three items. You can add more courses to a full course meal.
Do you leave a tip at a resort? ›
Tipping norms differ depending on the resort. While tipping may not be required at some all-inclusive resorts, many guests prefer to do so. In the event that you would like to tip staff during your all-inclusive vacation, it is important to find out in advance whether staff would even be allowed to accept those tips.
Can you use your bank card in Lanzarote? ›Of course, you can also use your cards to withdraw cash from ATM machines, with some banks charging a fee for this service. It is important to mention that you will need some sort of legal picture ID or your passport to pay with your debit or credit card in Spain. Banks can also be used to cash travellers' cheques.
Is it better to exchange money in Lanzarote? ›Will I get a better exchange rate in Lanzarote or at home? The short answer is no, probably not. As long as you shop around, you should be able to exchange your pounds for euros in the UK at a better rate than you'll find on the island.
What is the prettiest town in Lanzarote? ›Femés. If you are looking for the contrast between the beach and the mountains, in the picturesque village of Femés you can see with your own eyes the landscape contrasts that the island of Lanzarote offers. Being at the top of the mountain of the Ajaches, you can enjoy some unbeaten views from Femés.
Do they speak English in Lanzarote? ›Although English and most western European languages are spoken by some people in Lanzarote, especially in major resorts like Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise, it is always worth making the effort to speak the language when visiting another country. Perhaps you could take a phrase book with you.
What is the best area of Lanzarote? ›The most popular areas to stay in Lanzarote are the 3 main resorts: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
What is the main strip in Lanzarote? ›The main beach road in Puerto del Carmen known as the strip stretches from the old town harbour to the airport. The real name for the road is Avenida de las Playas which translated means Avenue of the beaches.
What is Playa Blanca known for? ›One of Lanzarote's main holiday resorts, Playa Blanca is known for its upmarket bars and hotels, and overlooks fantastic sandy beaches.
What is the main party area in Lanzarote? ›Most of Lanzarote nightlife is concentrated on the southern coast, where you can visit clubs and cocktail bars in Puerto del Carmen. This is where you'll find one of the Canary Islands' party hotspots, Avenida de las Playas, where you can dance the night away to everything from hardcore house to glam disco.
What is the main Centre of Lanzarote? ›Arrecife. Capital of Lanzarote since the 19th century, Arrecife is a nautical city known as the administrative and commercial heart of Lanzarote.
How long does it take to drive around Lanzarote? ›
Lanzarote isn't a very big island (although the locals might ask you if you're crazy, when you want to cross the whole island in one day). From one tip to the other it takes you about 1,5 hours of (comfortable) driving. We therefore recommend to rent a car (Price for one week: we paid around 200 Euros, excl.
What's Lanzarote famous for? ›Lanzarote is famous for its super clear water and golden sands. Discover the best of it for yourself with our round-up Lanzarote's loveliest beaches.
How much is a meal in Lanzarote? ›Average Daily Costs
While meal prices in Lanzarote can vary, the average cost of food in Lanzarote is €42 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Lanzarote should cost around €17 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner.
Situated in the north east of the island of Lanzarote, the town of Teguise was one of the first settlements established in the Canary Islands. Capital of Lanzarote until 1847, it maintains a significant number of buildings of great historical and artistic value.
Is English common in Lanzarote? ›Spanish is the official language in Lanzarote, you will find English and some German also used in the tourist resorts.
Is Lanzarote closer to Spain or Africa? ›Lanzarote is the northernmost Canary Island and the closest to Spain and the European continent.
Where is the most lively place in Lanzarote? ›The liveliest areas for nightlife in Lanzarote are the island's capital, Arrecife and the resort of Puerto del Carmen. Both Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise tend to be quieter although there are live music venues and bars in each resort as well.
What days are the markets on in Lanzarote? ›Arrecife Market
Every Saturday morning, the main street of Arrecife, capital city of Lanzarote, fills with people browsing fresh and natural food in the market.
The language of Lanzarote is Spanish, albeit a variant of the language spoken on the mainland known as Canarian Spanish.