Explore Lanzarote, Spain with our Travel Guide
Travel Gentlemen explored the stunning island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Spain. Over the course of a week, we experienced its striking volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage – confirming why it’s a must-visit destination. From uncovering the artistic legacy of César Manrique to exploring natural wonders and savouring local wines, Lanzarote offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation. Here are six of the best things to do to make the most of your trip.
Lanzarote’s 6 Top Things To Do
1. Explore Jameos del Agua, a Natural Wonder
Jameos del Agua is one of Lanzarote’s most impressive sights, designed by Spanish artist, sculptor and nature activist, César Manrique. Built inside a collapsed lava tunnel, this attraction is a seamless blend of natural geology and artistic vision.
- The underground lake is home to the blind albino crabs, a species found nowhere else on Earth.
- You can enjoy a cocktail at the cave bar, surrounded by lush tropical plants.
- It is possible to experience the stunning auditorium, a unique concert venue with amazing acoustics.
How to Get There & Ticket Info
Jameos del Agua is located in the north of Lanzarote, about a 30-minute drive from Arrecife. Entry costs €15 per adult and €7.50 per child. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. We visited during winter, and it can still be pretty busy, so make sure to get there early.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Don’t miss the Casa De Los Volcanes (House of Volcanoes) if you’re interested in learning about Lanzarote’s geology and its volcanic origin.
2. Visit the César Manrique Foundation
César Manrique’s former home is now a museum showcasing his art and vision for Lanzarote’s sustainable development. The house itself is built into five volcanic bubbles, making it an architectural masterpiece.
- See artworks by Picasso and Miró, as well as Manrique’s own paintings and sculptures.
- Walk through lava tunnels, used as stylish living spaces.
- Understand Manrique’s impact, preserving Lanzarote from mass tourism.
How to Get There & Ticket Info
Located in the quaint town of Tahiche, it’s a 15-minute drive from Arrecife. Tickets cost €10 per adult and €5 per child.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Visit in the afternoon when it’s less crowded, and you’ll enjoy the peace and quiet, plus you’ll get to take in the entire surroundings.
3. Wander Through Teguise, the Island’s Historic Capital
Teguise is Lanzarote’s former capital, full of charming colonial streets, boutique shops, and history.
- Visit the famous Sunday market, Lanzarote’s biggest, filled with handmade crafts, clothes, and delicious food.
- Explore Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a fortress offering panoramic views and a pirate museum.
- Enjoy live music in Plaza de San Miguel, a lovely square with great cafés.
How to Get There
Teguise is a 20-minute drive from Arrecife. The market is held every Sunday from 9 AM – 2 PM. Parking is available, but it fills up fast, so arriving early is best.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Bring cash for local market stalls, and explore a variety of concept stores in town for unique finds.
4. Discover Charco Verde & El Golfo, the Green Lagoon
Charco Verde, or El Lago Verde, is a bright green lagoon formed inside a volcanic crater right next to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Take in the stunning contrast of green water, black volcanic sand, and red cliffs.
- Walk along the coastline to enjoy breathtaking Atlantic views.
- Try fresh seafood in El Golfo, especially the famous grilled fish platters.
How to Get There
El Golfo is a 40-minute drive from Arrecife. Parking is free.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Try to get there for the sunset, as it is the best time to visit for the most stunning photos.
5. Experience Las Grietas, Lanzarote’s Hidden Canyon
Las Grietas is a dramatic volcanic fissure that offers a unique hiking experience.
- Walk through narrow rock formations created by cooling lava flows.
- Take stunning photos that make it look like you’re on another planet.
- Enjoy an off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for hikers and explorers.
How to Get There
A 15-minute drive from Arrecife, with free parking available.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain can be tricky. The sun can also be quite strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen.
6. Tour La Geria Wine Region, Volcanic Vineyards
Lanzarote’s wine scene is unlike anywhere else, with grapevines growing in volcanic soil, protected by circular stone walls.
- Taste Malvasía Volcánica, the island’s signature white wine, known for its mineral-rich flavour. It was so light and divine that we couldn’t resist buying a few bottles!
- Visit El Grifo, the oldest winery in the Canary Islands, with a fascinating museum.
- Drive through the region for stunning views of vineyards and volcanoes. Don’t forget to take photos to remember the beautiful landscape.
How to Get There
La Geria is a 25-minute drive from Arrecife. Many wineries offer tasting tours, with prices ranging from €8-€15 per person.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Book a tasting tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
About Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the easternmost of Spain’s Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean just off the northwest coast of Africa. It was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, and its dramatic landscapes are shaped by past eruptions, most notably those of Timanfaya in the 18th century. The island was inhabited by the indigenous Guanche people before Spanish conquest in the 15th century. Today, Lanzarote is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its efforts in sustainable tourism and conservation. Its unique mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and artistic influence, particularly from César Manrique, makes it a fascinating place to explore.
Best Time to Visit
Lanzarote enjoys a mild, dry climate year-round, making it one of the best destinations for winter sun. We visited in February, and it was pleasantly warm during the day. At night, it can get chilly but is still comfortable for wandering around in a jumper.
Winter (Dec–Feb): 16–22°C (61–72°F), perfect for exploring without the summer crowds.
Spring (Mar–May): 18–25°C (64–77°F), a great balance of warmth and fewer tourists.
Summer (Jun–Aug): 24–30°C (75–86°F), ideal for beach lovers but can be hot inland.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): 22–28°C (72–82°F), warm seas make this a great time for swimming.
How to Get to Lanzarote
Lanzarote is easily accessible from mainland Europe and the UK, with direct flights to César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport (ACE) from many major cities.
- From the UK: Flights take around 4 hours from London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
- From Europe: You can fly direct from cities like Madrid, Berlin, and Paris in 2–4 hours.
- From North America: There are no direct flights, but connections via Madrid or other European hubs are common.
Once you arrive, renting a car is the best way to explore the island. Public transport is limited, and having a car allows you to visit Lanzarote’s more remote and scenic spots at your own pace. We hired a car using the company AutoReisen, and it was the best decision we made for exploring Lanzarote.
Check out AutoReisin car hire
In Summary
Lanzarote is an island of contrasts, where volcanic landscapes meet golden beaches, and cultural heritage blends with natural wonders. Whether you’re exploring underground caves, hiking through dramatic canyons, or tasting unique volcanic wines, there’s something for every traveler. With its year-round mild climate and strong commitment to sustainable tourism, Lanzarote is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. We’ll definitely be back to explore more.
