Canary Islands Tourism: Your Quick Start Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of golden beaches, volcanic landscapes and year‑round sunshine, the Canary Islands are calling. This guide gives you the basics you need right now – no fluff, just real advice on where to go, what to see and how to travel smart.

Where to Land First

Most visitors start on Tenerife or Gran Gran Canaria because the airports are big and the flight options are cheap. Tenerife’s south coast, especially Playa de Los Amos, offers endless resorts and nightlife, while the north gives you lush forests and the iconic Teide volcano. Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas dunes are a must‑see natural wonder, and the historic town of Vegueta feels like stepping back in time.

If you prefer a quieter vibe, consider Lanzarote or Fuerteventura. Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park showcases dramatic lava fields that look otherworldly, and its wine region (La Geria) serves up volcanic‑grown vines. Fuerteventura is the windsurfer’s playground with endless sand dunes and crystal‑clear waters.

What to Do Without Wasting Time

Start your day with a sunrise hike on Mount Teide – the cable car gets you close, then a short walk tops the experience. The view from 3,718 m feels like you’re on another planet.

Plan a half‑day boat trip from Puerto de Las Canteras (Tenerife) to see dolphins and whales. The tours are cheap, the sightings are frequent, and you’ll get a different angle on the coastline.

Food lovers should head to a local guachinche in Tenerife’s north. These rustic eateries serve homemade cheese, wine and grilled meat straight from the island’s farms. It’s cheap, authentic and a great way to meet locals.

Don’t miss the night markets in Las Palmas (Gran Canaria). Fresh fruit, street music and hand‑crafted souvenirs turn an ordinary evening into a lively cultural splash.

When you need a break from the sun, explore the caves of Cueva de Los Verdes on Lanzarote. The guided walk explains the volcanic origins while the cool, dim corridors give instant relief from the heat.

Transportation is straightforward: the islands are linked by frequent ferries, and each has a reliable bus network (known as “guagua”). Renting a car for a day or two gives you freedom to chase hidden coves, but keep an eye on parking signs – some towns charge extra.

Finally, pack light, bring sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. The islands’ climate is mild, but the sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes. A hat, sunglasses and a light jacket for evening breezes round out the perfect packing list.

With these tips, your Canary Islands tourism adventure will feel smooth, exciting and full of unforgettable moments. Ready to book that flight? The islands are waiting, and the best experiences are just a click away.

British Tourists Turn Away from Overtoured Spain to Lesser‑Known Hotspots

British Tourists Turn Away from Overtoured Spain to Lesser‑Known Hotspots

A 9% drop in UK visits to Spain this August signals that rising costs and anti‑tourism protests are pushing British holidaymakers to explore quieter corners of the country. The Canary Islands, once a safe bet, now face its own overtourism backlash. While Spain still welcomes over 64 million tourists, the UK remains its biggest source. Travelers are seeking affordable, less crowded alternatives that still deliver sun, sea and culture.

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