Canaries Travel Guide
If you’re after year-round sunshine, golden beaches and a bit of volcanic drama, the Canary Islands are hard to beat. I’ve spent time wandering through Lanzarote’s otherworldly landscapes and dipping into Tenerife’s buzzing towns, and there’s still so much more to explore across the islands.
Whether it’s lazy days by the sea, hikes through craters or just slowing down to enjoy that island life, I’ve pulled together my tips, stories and favourite spots to help you plan your own Canary adventure.
And if you’re wondering where to stay, from beachfront resorts to cosy villas, I’ve got plenty of ideas to help you find the perfect base.
Canaries at a Glance
Capital: Valletta
Language: Maltese and English
Population: Around 520,000
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1 (Daylight Saving UTC +2)
Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Flag: Two vertical bands, white and red, with a George Cross in the top left corner
Famous Festivals: Carnival, Festa season (village feasts), Isle of MTV
Major Landmarks: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Mdina, the Blue Lagoon, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
What To Know Before You Go
WEATHER
MONEY
TRANSPORT
HEALTH & SAFETY
TOP TIPS
WEATHER
Spring (Mar–May)
Pleasant and sunny, with temperatures between 20°C and 24°C (68°F to 75°F). Great for hiking volcanic landscapes and exploring before peak crowds.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Hot and dry, 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Best for beaches and water sports, but this is the busiest time with more tourists.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Warm, around 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), and less crowded than summer. Ideal for swimming, sightseeing, and island hopping.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Mild, 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). A popular choice for winter sun with plenty of bright days and cooler evenings.
MONEY
Accommodation
The Canaries offer something for all budgets. Budget hotels and apartments start around £40–£70 per night, mid-range hotels £80–£150, and luxury resorts from £180+. Private villas in Lanzarote and Tenerife are especially popular.
Food
Eating out is affordable. Local meals or tapas cost €10–€20, mid-range restaurants €20–€40 per person, and fine dining from €50+. Local wine is good value, and beer is around €2.50–€4.
Currency
The Euro (€) is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is handy in small towns and markets.
Highlight Experiences
Some of the top experiences have entrance fees: explore the volcanic Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote, wander Roque Nublo in Gran Canaria or make a splash at Siam Park in Tenerife. Prices for these attractions typically range €10–€50.
Tipping
Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants. Small tips are fine for drivers, porters, and guides.
TRANSPORT
Car Rental
The best way to explore beaches, mountains, and small villages. Rentals start from €25–€40 per day, and driving is on the right-hand side.
Public Transport
Buses are reliable and cheap within islands, though they don’t always reach remote spots.
Ferries & Flights
Regular ferries connect the islands. Flights are also available if you prefer a faster option. Motion sickness tablets may help if you’re prone to seasickness.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are a great way to experience top highlights such as Timanfaya’s volcanic landscapes, Teide National Park, Maspalomas Dunes in Gran Canaria or boat trips to spot dolphins and whales.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Travel Documents & ID
A valid passport or ID is required. Carry it for inter-island flights and ferries. Keep your bookings and documents such as Travel Insurance handy.
Travel First Aid
Pack basics like painkillers, plasters, and motion sickness tablets if taking ferries.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water is safe for washing and brushing teeth, but bottled water is usually preferred for drinking.
Sun Protection
The Canarian sun is strong year-round. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Prescription Medications
Bring enough of your supply with a copy of your prescription. Pharmacies are well-stocked and easy to find.
Emergency Numbers
The general emergency number is 112.
TOP TIPS
Pack for the Weather
Light clothes for summer, layers for spring and autumn, and a jacket for cooler winter evenings. Comfortable shoes are useful for hikes and cobbled streets.
Stay Connected
Get an eSIM or use an international data plan for easy access to maps, bookings, and navigation.
Island Hop
Don’t just stay on one island — Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura each have their own character.
Try Local Food
Taste papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh fish, and Canarian wine.
Travel Insurance
Make sure your insurance covers health, cancellations and activities like hiking or water sports.
Cash & Cards
Cards are common in towns, but smaller villages and markets often prefer cash.
