Join us on the ultimate Lanzarote Road Trip
Lanzarote is the fourth largest, and most easterly, of the Canary Islands. A group of Spanish islands 70km off the North West coast of Africa. Its year round warm climate makes it the perfect destination for holiday makers from around Europe, and further afield, to visit 12 months of the year.
Lanzarote is popular with holiday-makers of all ages, from young couples to more mature adults, the island certainly has something to offer everyone.
Whilst many people visit the island to relax and soak up the sun, others will be keen on finding out about things to do in Lanzarote, what attractions to visit and what trips and excursions are available.
To help answer these questions, we’re going to take you on a Lanzarote road trip around the different resorts and attractions.
Let’s start in the largest and most popular resort of Puerto del Carmen.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Things to do in Puerto del Carmen
Just a short ride from the airport is Puerto del Carmen. A vibrant resort with plenty of things to do for any age group. The main ‘strip’ formally known as the Avenida de las Playas stretches for 7km along the southern coast and is home to a huge selection of bars and restaurants serving up cuisine from all over the world.
Puerto del Carmen Beaches
The long stretch of golden sandy beaches is perfect for those who want to relax in the sun or take a swim in the crystal clear waters that surround the island.
Nightlife in Puerto del Carmen
At night, Puerto del Carmen comes alive with busy restaurants serving up delicious food, live music and karaoke and night clubs where you can party until the sun comes up.
Puerto del Carmen Water-sports
Of course the resort is so much more than just sun and partying. If you’re keen on water-sports there is a huge selection of things to do in Puerto del Carmen. If you’re into Jet Skis and Scuba Diving then Playa Chica is the place to be. And whilst we’re over that part of town, there a some fantastic Lanzarote boat trips and excursions that depart from Puerto del Carmen so why not consider a few hours on the ocean enjoying freshly made food and a few drinks. Sounds great, no?
Puerto del Carmen Nightlife and Shows
Whilst we’re still in Puerto del Carmen, there are two shows in particular that are ‘not to be missed’. If Comedy drag is your thing then Music Hall Tavern (also known as MHT) needs to be top of your to do list. And this isn’t just any old comedy drag show. You’ll be guaranteed some of the biggest laughs of your holiday in Puerto del Carmen at this family friendly venue, and take away memories that will last a life time.
If its the ‘big show’ that you’re into then the Ocean Royale dinner and show is just for you. This spectacular performance of fire shows, vegas show girls, circus acts and magical illusions will blow you away. There is nothing quite like this anywhere in the Canary Islands.
Open air Cinema in Puerto del Carmen
If you're a film buff, or even if you’re not, then the rooftop cinema at the Biosfera shopping centre might interest you. Watch a selection of classic films (in English) under the open Lanzarote skies whilst enjoying a few cinema snacks. What’s not to love about that?
Now, let's head around the coast on our Lanzarote road trip, to the islands capital city, Arrecife.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Things to do in Arrecife
Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote, and if you’ve ever visited you will have noticed it’s probably the least tourist orientated. It’s home to many government and other official buildings but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited.
There are still so many things to do in Arrecife, and things that you must do whilst on your Lanzarote road trip.
The Gran Hotel, Arrecife
First stop would have to be the Gran Hotel. With 17 floors, this hotel is the only high rise building in Lanzarote, and it certainly stands out in the skyline. On the top floor there is a cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy coffee and cake and look out of the city and the beautiful El Reducto Beach. This beach is often alive with locals sunbathing or taking part in beach sports such as volleyball, acrobatics and beach tennis. The sunsets from the 17th floor are more often than not, simply spectacular.
Shopping in Arrecife
If you like shopping then Marina Lanzarote has it all. This city waterfront plaza offers shoppers the chance to browse and purchase designer labels, a great range of restaurants and bars, all within the tranquil surroundings of the waters edge. Arrecife also has a number of shops in the city itself, where you can find regular high street brands such as Zara. There are some great shopping opportunities in Lanzarote to suit all budgets.
UD Lanzarote Football Team
For all you football fans, UD Lanzarote play their home games in Arrecife. Their games are usually scheduled for a Sunday lunch time. The cost of watching the team is very reasonable compared to UK football and take it from someone who has watched a lot of games, they can be VERY entertaining.
Cruise ships and Excursions in Arrecife
Before we leave Arrecife and continue with our Lanzarote Road Trip, the capital is the main port where cruise ships dock when visiting the island. Cruise guests often disembark and take advantage of Lanzarote excursions that take them all over the island to attractions such as The Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua. This tours are available to anyone visiting Lanzarote and are highly recommended.
As we move around the coast on our Lanzarote Road Trip, we find ourselves in Costa Teguise.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Things to do in Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is a purpose built resort on the East coast of the island of Lanzarote. It’s very popular with families and has a number of large hotels offering all inclusive and half board stays.
Whilst we’re visiting Costa Teguise on our Lanzarote Road Trip we have to mention the Aquarium.
Costa Teguise Aquarium
The Costa Teguise Aquarium (one of the largest in the Canary Islands!) is home to many different species of fish and larger ocean predators that reside in over 1 million litres of water! It’s a fantastic experience for all the family and certainly on top our of list of things to do in Costa Teguise.
Costa Teguise Waterpark
Costa Teguise is home to the original, and the largest, water park in Lanzarote. With a selection of great attractions for kids of all ages, an onsite cafe and restaurant and sun-beds and relaxing pools for the adults, it’s another great thing to do in Costa Teguise for all the family. Don’t worry if you’re staying in Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca, because there are regular buses that run from other resorts to the waterpark.
Water-sports in Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise, based on the east coast of Lanzarote, is a popular destination for water-sports enthusiasts. As it’s open to the elements it’s an ideal location for windsurfing.
Visit Teguise Market
Although not to be confused with Costa Teguise, Teguise is a village in its own right and was once the capital of the island. Every Sunday the sleepy, Canarian village comes alive as market stalls line the streets. Here you can find hand made goods, art, crafts, locally produced food and more, and it’s easy to book a Teguise market tour when staying in Costa Teguise.
Nightlife in Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is no stranger to nightlife. As the sun sets on another day, holiday-makers leave their spots on the beaches and head for the bars and restaurants. Most of the nightlife happens around the centre of the town, but as Costa Teguise is split into sections you will be able to find something close to where you are staying. For dining, you’ll have the option to choose from some fantastic restaurants and snack bars. Try some freshly caught fish, some local Canarian cuisine or opt for something a little further afield. Then wash your food down with a nice cold pint at any number of highly rated bars. If you’ve still got the energy, head on over to one of the many nightclubs that Costa Teguise has to offer and party your way through to the early hours of the morning.
On the next stage of our Lanzarote Road trip, we head north, up the coast. It’s a little less populated here but there are some important attractions that we highly recommending visiting.
Lanzarote Road Trip - The Cactus Gardens (Jardin de Cactus)
Where man-made art integrates with nature. Located in the village of Guatiza, The Cactus gardens, is a creation of the late Cesar Manrique. Since 1990 the Cactus gardens has been attracting tourists with over 7,200 cacti from over 1,100 species from the Canary Islands, America and Africa.
The Cactus Gardens have been constructed in a walled garden, a bit like a bowl, and visitors can weave their way around the Cacti on paths that wind their way around the attraction. It’s a tranquil experience that we highly recommended. You can visit by car, or book an excursion to the Cactus Gardens.
As we leave the Cactus Gardens on our Lanzarote Road trip we’ll head just a few KM North to Los Jameos del Agua and The Green Caves.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Los Jameos Del Agua
Los Jameos del Agua is located in a volcanic tunnel, part of the same system as the Green Caves, that was created by the lava flow from the nearby Corona Volcano. It’s easy to get to by car, or you can visit by booking an organised Jameos del Agua Excursion.
The attraction itself, again designed by César Manrique, is designed around two caves.
The first, a tunnel, has been partially filled by sea water, creating a small lake that is inhabited by blind albino crabs (Munidopsis polymorpha for the more educated amongst you). This species is endemic to Lanzarote.
The second cave has been converted to an auditorium or concert hall, if you like, and is the stage for regular dinner and music events. The igneous rock, formed from the call lava, creates amazing acoustics that have to be experienced to be believed.
Lanzarote Road Trip - The Green Caves (Cueva de los Verdes)
The Green Caves attraction (Cueva de los Verdes) is part of the same lava tunnel as Jameos del Agua. The tunnel, 6km in length, was formed 3000 to 4000 years ago by the nearby Corona Volcano as Lava flows made their way to the sea.
Today, The Green Caves is a popular attraction and can be visited by car or organised Green Caves excursion. The awe inspiring volcanic caves have been further enhanced for visitors with atmospheric lighting and music. Only a small section of the 6km tunnel is open to the public, and visitors are led through the attraction by a tour guide who provides some very useful information along the way.
As we leave the caves, our Lanzarote road trip takes us up the coast to the village of Orzola, but first, lets take a stop off at a small beach lagoon known as Caletón Blanco.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Caletón Blanco
Caletón Blanco is a small natural cove in the North of Lanzarote just outside the village of Orzola. With perfect, white sand, the tide fills up the lagoon area forming shallow, crystal clear waters which are perfect for safe swimming, snorkelling and bathing. The turquoise colour of the clear water here on a clear day is simply breathtaking.
If it’s tranquility your looking for, then make Caletón Blanco a part of YOUR Lanzarote Road trip.
Next stop, Orzola!
Lanzarote Road Trip - Orzola
Orzola is a typical Canarian village at the very North point of the island of Lanzarote. It has few streets, but does offer some fantastic sea food restaurants where you can find some very agreeable food for an afternoon meal. It’s in Orzola where you’ll find the Lineas Romero ferry that connects the islands of Lanzarote and La Graciosa. If you want to head over to the neighbouring island you can buy your ferry ticket on the day, or secure your place by booking a La Gracisoa Ferry Excursion in advance before you visit.
In fact, as we’re in Orzola, let’s jump on the ferry and take the short trip over the waters to La Graciosa. Although now an island in its own right, it should definitely be a part of any Lanzarote Road Trip itinerary.
Lanzarote Road Trip - La Graciosa
If it’s back-to-basics you’re looking for then we’ve certainly found the right place. La Graciosa was recently declared the 8th Canary Island, although it’s very different to what you might find elsewhere. With only around 660 inhabitants, and no real roads it’s like stepping back in time.
To the south of the island you’ll find amazing sandy beaches known as Lo Cocina and Los Franceses. It’s around these beaches that the La Graciosa Catamaran Excursion drops it’s anchors in the clear, warm waters.
It’s no surprise that La Graciosa is volcanic in origin, with its highest peak, Las Agujas, standing tall on the small island at 266m.
La Graciosa is part of a protected nature reserve known as The National Park of the Archipelago Chinijo.
The only way you can get to, and from, La Graciosa is by the La Graciosa ferry service. We’re going to board that right now and head back to Orzola to resume our Lanzarote Road Trip, heading up to the top of the cliffs and Mirador del Rio
Lanzarote Road Trip - Mirador del Rio
If you’ve got a head for heights you’re in for a real treat. Located 474m up on the Risco de Famara, this man made lookup has spectacular views of the The National Park of the Archipelago Chinijo and neighbouring island of La Graciosa.
This César Manrique creation is cleverly concealed by rock from the road, but you’ll notice it by the trademark sculpture that you’ll find at many of the CACT attractions. As you enter Mirador del Rio you walk into a cafe / restaurant area and your eyes are instantly drawn to the large glass window where you can take in the breathtaking views across the Mirador Strait, to La Graciosa and beyond.
You can leave the restaurant and experience the altitude and magnificent views outside on the terrace.
Now we’ve taken in the spectacular views, we’ll get back on the road and continue our Lanzarote Road Trip down into Haria, and the valley of 1000 Palms.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Haria and the valley of 1000 palms
Haria is a picturesque authentic Canarian village that sits in the North of Lanzarote. The climate in the north of the island can differ to the south and this can lead to a vibrant green landscape, contrasting to the dry rocky landscape of the south.
As we drive down the side of the valley towards Haria, you’ll not only get a fantastic panoramic view of the village but you’ll see a large number of palm trees that stretch up the other side. Many years ago, residents of the village had a tradition to plant a new palm tree every time a new baby was born.
Haria is a very typical Canarian village, with small streets, so drive with care. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a coffee and tapas and let time pass you by.
But right now we’re keen to move on and take you to the next stop on our Lanzarote Road Trip. It’s the village of Teguise
Lanzarote Road Trip - Teguise Village and Teguise Market.
Teguise, once the capital of Lanzarote, is now a sleepy village. At the centre of the village is the most beautiful church and you’ll also find some exquisite restaurants here that are worth travelling for.
On a Sunday, this place is very different. The small quiet streets become a hive of activity and tourists flock to search for bargains at the largest open air market in the Canary Islands. Local artists, food producers and artisans all come together to show off, and sell, their work to the interested holiday-makers looking for souvenirs to remind them of their time in Lanzarote.
Teguise is easily accessible by car, but on market day you might find it easier to book a Teguise Market excursion. The excursions collect and drop you off at your hotels and go directly to the market, where you don’t have to worry about parking.
The next stop on our Lanzarote road trip is quite the place. It’s the surfers paradise of Famara.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Famara, the surfers paradise.
As we drive down from Teguise and towards the coast, the small village of Famara comes into view along with the large rolling waves. Famara has been described as a Windy, Surfing, Hippy town and once you’ve spent a few minutes there you’ll see why.
The streets, which are few and far between, are lined with surf shops offering surfing equipment hire and lessons and small cafes and restaurants.
The backdrop to Famara is a real sight to behold. The Risco de Famara cliffs tower above the long beach, at a height of over 400m. It is possible to walk the cliffs via series of inconspicuous paths although we’d only recommend this if you’re an experienced hiker, or with a guide.
After a quick sandwich and a drink, we’re back on the road and heading to wine district of La Geria.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Lanzarote Wines and the district of La Geria
Lanzarote produces, in my opinion, some of the best wines in Europe. Maybe even the world. Not only does it taste amazing, it’s quite formidable how the farms manage to cultivate the volcanic land for growing huge volumes of grapes in such a hot dry climate.
As we drive through La Geria we notice strange patterns in the landscape. These patterns are actually man-made walls. The grape vines are actually planted in hollows, or pits, to protect them from the winds and the walls are built to prevent the picon (Volcanic Lapilli or Black Gravel) falling back into the pit.
You can find out more about the Lanzarote wine growing process by taking a Lanzarote Wine Tour Excursion where you can not only find out about how it is made but sample the finished products as well!
As we’re on a road trip, there will be no wine sampling this time, and we’ll make our way to the next location. The Timanfaya National Park.
Lanzarote Road Trip - The Timanfaya National Park
The Timanfaya National Park is the jewel in the crown of things to see in Lanzarote.
Created by unimaginable volcanic activity in the 1700’s and 1800’s the lava fields cover 51km2 of the South East coast of the island stretching over the municipalities Tinajo and Yaiza.
When you visit the Timanfaya National Park you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’re on the moon. The landscape is especially Luna like. In fact NASA have even sent astronauts to Lanzarote to train here!
The Fire Mountains (Montañas del Fuego) are the highlight for tourists visiting The Timanfaya National Park. Although the volcano is classed as dormant, the heat from the magma chambers under the surface is immense. Enough to set fire to straw and shoot water into the air as steam. Something that has to be seen to be believed and you can witness it with your own eyes when you visit the Timanfaya National Park.
Another feature of the Timanfaya National Park is the bus tour around the Luna route. This is the only way you can get to experience the lava fields and volcanoes inside the park. The bus tour is 14km in total and has several stops for photo opportunities along the way.
The Timanfaya National Park can get very busy at peak times and demand can create large queues of traffic waiting to get into the attraction. One way to get around this is to book a Timanfaya National Park tour which means you can be conveniently collected from your hotel and you’ll simply pass the queues on the way in.
We’re nearing the end of our Lanzarote road trip now, just a few more places to visit. The next stop is the coastal village of El Golfo.
Lanzarote Road Trip - El Golfo and the emerald green lake
El Golfo is a small village on the coast and a haven for people who love fresh fish. There is only one way in and out of the village and as you enter you’ll notice a small parking area on your left. Park up here and take the short walk over the hill and you’ll witness a spectacular emerald green lake. This lake is known as Charco de los Clicos. The lake sits in the basin of a half of a collapsed volcano and gets its unique colouring from the minerals in the lava rock. Set off against a black beach, the colour is really quite striking and makes for a great photo opportunity.
El Golfo itself is very small, but if you want to sit out in the afternoon or early evening and enjoy some very fine food whilst watching the rolling waves, then we recommend a visit.
No time for food now though, we’re heading down to Playa Blanca on our Lanzarote Road trip.
Lanzarote Road Trip - Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is a popular tourist resort on the southern tip of Lanzarote.
What was once a small fishing village has now turned into a large town spread across the south easterly coastline.
Beaches in Playa Blanca
There are plenty of things to do in Playa Blanca. It has three lovely beaches in Dorada, Flamingo and the town beach and is just a short drive from the fabulous beaches of Papagayo. If you fancy a jet ski or banana boat ride then Playa Dorada is the beach for you. It has great facilities close by, a bar / restaurant overlooking the beach itself and of course there is the Centro Commercial Papagayo where you’ll find some wonderful restaurants and nightlife after sundown.
Playa Blanca Nightlife
Playa Blanca has a great night scene, although some may find it a little more refined compared to Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise. Along the promenade you’ll find the widest choice of restaurants and bars, and then you have Marina Rubicon with a further offering of high quality eateries.
There is a busy live music scene in Playa Blanca with some very popular bars renowned for their musicians, and you won’t have to go far to find a bit of Karaoke. The two main night-clubs can be found in the Centro Commercial Papagayo where you can dance away until the early hours of the morning.
Restaurants in Playa Blanca
No matter what type of food you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Playa Blanca. From authentic Spanish Cuisine and Tapas, to Indian and Mexican food, there is literally something for everyone. This makes it a great holiday destination where you can try a different cuisine every night.
The Marina Rubicon, Playa Blanca
If you fancy a Catamaran trip, chill out cruise or just want to sit with a drink and watch the boats, the Marina Rubicon is the perfect place. On a Saturday and Wednesday morning the Marina comes alive with a local market, where you’ll find a selection of locally hand-made goods, food and art. Perfect if you’re looking for a souvenir of your stay in Lanzarote.
If you’re looking for a Lanzarote Catamaran Excursion you can reserve your place by booking online. This avoids any disappointment of trips being fully booked when you arrive in Playa Blanca.
Walking up a Volcano in Playa Blanca
If you fancy a trek up a Volcano, you can do that right here in Playa Blanca. Montaña Roja stands out above the town and provides a number of access paths to get up to the top, where you can also venture into the crater. The views from up here are simply spectacular. If you decide to do this we recommend wearing the correct walking shoes. Please don’t attempt this in flip-flops!
Lanzarote to Fuerteventura Ferry from Playa Blanca
If you look over the water to the south, you’ll see the neighbouring Canary Island of Fuerteventura. The only real way to get to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote is via the Lanzarote to Fuerteventura ferry service. This departs from the Playa Blanca harbour.
What is there to see in Fuerteventura? It’s a large island and to see it all you’d need more than a day, but you can book an organised excursion to see the Fuerteventura sand dunes which includes hotel collection and drop off, the ferry and the bus to the dunes on the other side.
From Playa Blanca, we’re going to move onto the last place on our Lanzarote Road Trip itinerary. And we’re going to do this by driving up into the mountains and via Femes. The road up can be a little scary for nervous drivers, but the views at the top are extremely rewarding. From Femes we’ll drive across the top and down into Puerto Calero.
Lanzarote Road Trip - The Millionaires Marina. Puerto Calero
Puerto Calero, otherwise known as the Millionaires Marina, is a purpose built Marina.
There are two major hotels here and some holiday lets, but it’s also residential. The Marina area itself has a large selection of boutiques, restaurants and bars that are generally open all day and into the evening.
Catamaran Excursions and Submarine trips in Puerto Calero
From Puerto Calero you can catch the CatLanza Lanzarote Catamaran Excursion. This amazing Catamaran trip sails over to the waters of Papagayo where it sets anchor and lets you relax in the sun, swim in the sea, ride a jet Ski, eat freshly prepared food and enjoy a drink at the bar.
You can also take a ride on Lanzarote’s only Submarine experience. Submarine Safaris is a real submarine that dives to a depth of 30m where you can see the Lanzarote marine life and eerie shipwrecks! It’s great fun for all the family and comes highly recommended.
Buggy Tours in Puerto Calero
We can’t finish our Lanzarote Road Trip without mentioning the Buggy Tours. The buggies are a great way to experience the island ‘off road’. Discover parts of the island you can’t reach by car and feel the wind in your hand (and sand in your face) as you power through the dry Lanzarote terrain. Absolutely great fun if you’re a solo driver or with your partner.
And so ends our Lanzarote Road Trip
And from Puerto Calero, we’re back where we started the Lanzarote Road Trip, Puerto del Carmen.
There is so much to see and do on this small island, and even our road trip has only just covered the main areas. So if you’re worried about things to do in Lanzarote, you can rest assured you won’t be short of finding something for you and the family.
One of the best ways to get around and see the see sights of Lanzarote is by organised excursions. Most excursions will collect and drop off at your accommodation and you won’t need to worry about hiring a car, getting lost or sitting in queues. We do advise booking in advance as excursions are selling out very quickly and you don’t want to be left disappointed on the day.