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Discover Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of volcanic origin anchored in the Atlantic, a subtropical paradise that offers a world of diversity on each of its islands. Tenerife, crowned by the majestic Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, combines ancient forests with vibrant resorts. Gran Canaria, a 'miniature continent', goes from the desert dunes of Maspalomas to leafy valleys in its interior. Lanzarote, the island of fire, is a canvas of art and nature sculpted by César Manrique on lunar volcanic landscapes. Fuerteventura is the paradise of wind and endless white sand beaches. La Palma, 'the Beautiful Island', is an orchard of laurel forest and starry skies. La Gomera is a labyrinth of ravines with an ancestral culture such as the Gomero whistle. And El Hierro, the smallest, is a world example of sustainability and a paradise for diving. Traveling to the Canary Islands is jumping from one universe to another in a short trip by boat or plane.

Teide National Park (Tenerife)
Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote)
Dunes of Maspalomas (Gran Canaria)
Fuerteventura beaches
Laurisilva Forests (La Gomera, La Palma)
Stargazing
Carnivals
Diving and water sports

Languages

Spanish (with a characteristic accent and lexicon)

General Information

Basic Data

Capital:
Santa Cruz de Tenerife & Las Palmas
Area:
7,447 km²
Population:
2,202,048

Climate

Type:
Subtropical
Summer Temp:
26°C
Winter Temp:
20°C
Best months:
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

regionalMetricsTitle
analysisSystemTitle
analysisSystemDescription

indicesInfo.travel_cost_index.name

60%
indicesInfo.travel_cost_index.name: 60/100
indicesInfo.travel_cost_index.description

indicesInfo.safety_index.name

85%
indicesInfo.safety_index.name: 85/100
indicesInfo.safety_index.description

indicesInfo.tourism_index.name

97%
indicesInfo.tourism_index.name: 97/100
indicesInfo.tourism_index.description

indicesInfo.internet_index.name

79%
indicesInfo.internet_index.name: 79/100
indicesInfo.internet_index.description

indicesInfo.environment_index.name

90%
indicesInfo.environment_index.name: 90/100
indicesInfo.environment_index.description

indicesInfo.kindness_index.name

88%
indicesInfo.kindness_index.name: 88/100
indicesInfo.kindness_index.description

indicesInfo.transport_index.name

68%
indicesInfo.transport_index.name: 68/100
indicesInfo.transport_index.description

indicesInfo.climate_index.name

100%
indicesInfo.climate_index.name: 100/100
indicesInfo.climate_index.description

indicesInfo.natural_beauty_index.name

98%
indicesInfo.natural_beauty_index.name: 98/100
indicesInfo.natural_beauty_index.description

indicesInfo.gastronomy_index.name

78%
indicesInfo.gastronomy_index.name: 78/100
indicesInfo.gastronomy_index.description

indicesInfo.nightlife_index.name

85%
indicesInfo.nightlife_index.name: 85/100
indicesInfo.nightlife_index.description

indicesInfo.family_friendly_index.name

95%
indicesInfo.family_friendly_index.name: 95/100
indicesInfo.family_friendly_index.description

qualityScale

excellent
80-100
good
60-79
regular
40-59
poor
0-39

Major Cities

Descubre las ciudades más fascinantes de Canary Islands

Las Palmas
⏳ Próximamente

Las Palmas

Canary Islands

Las Palmas estará disponible próximamente con información completa y detallada.

Información básica
⏳ Próximamente

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Canary Islands

Santa Cruz de Tenerife estará disponible próximamente con información completa y detallada.

Información básica
⏳ Próximamente

La Laguna

Canary Islands

La Laguna estará disponible próximamente con información completa y detallada.

Información básica
Arrecife
⏳ Próximamente

Arrecife

Canary Islands

Arrecife estará disponible próximamente con información completa y detallada.

Información básica
Adeje
⏳ Próximamente

Adeje

Canary Islands

Adeje estará disponible próximamente con información completa y detallada.

Información básica

What to Do

Culture & Architecture

La Laguna (Tenerife): Walk through the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a World Heritage Site, a colonial city without walls with straight streets and brightly colored stately homes that served as a model for many cities in Latin America.Vegueta (Gran Canaria): Explore the founding neighborhood of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, with its cobbled streets, the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the House of Columbus and an atmosphere that evokes the era of discovery.The Route of César Manrique (Lanzarote): Discover how an artist can transform an island. Visit the Jameos del Agua, the Cueva de los Verdes, the Mirador del Río and the Cactus Garden, works of art masterfully integrated into volcanic nature.Charming Towns: Discover traditional Canarian architecture in towns like Teror (Gran Canaria) with its wooden balconies, Betancuria (Fuerteventura), the first capital of the islands, or Garachico (Tenerife), a town that resurfaced from a volcanic eruption.

Nature & Adventure

Ascent to Teide (Tenerife): Ride the cable car above the clouds to almost the top of the Teide volcano. To access the peak, you need a special permit that is requested online. The views and landscape of the National Park are from another planet.Volcano Route in Timanfaya (Lanzarote): A trip to the bowels of the earth. Travel by bus through the lunar landscape of the National Park, where the underground heat is still active, and attend geothermal demonstrations.Hiking in La Caldera de Taburiente (La Palma): Delve into this enormous volcanic crater covered in Canarian pine forests, with streams and waterfalls. One of the most spectacular hiking routes in Spain.Laurisilva Forests in Garajonay (La Gomera): Walk through a fossil forest, a relic of the Tertiary Era that has disappeared in almost the entire planet. The constant fog and twisted trees create a magical atmosphere.

Family & Parks

Siam Park (Tenerife): Consistently voted the best water park in the world. A spectacular Thai-themed park with amazing slides, a beach with giant waves and attractions for the whole family.Loro Parque (Tenerife): Considered one of the best zoos in the world, it is famous for its incredible collection of parrots, its penguinarium, its orca and dolphin shows, and its commitment to conservation.Poema del Mar (Gran Canaria): A state-of-the-art aquarium in Las Palmas that immerses you in three different ecosystems: jungle, reef and deep ocean, with the largest curved window in the world.Oasis Wildlife (Fuerteventura): The largest wildlife rescue center in the Canary Islands. It offers a safari experience with giraffes and camels, as well as a botanical garden and educational shows.

Day Trips

Whale Watching (Tenerife and La Gomera): Embark on a boat excursion from the southwest coast of Tenerife to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat all year round.Excursion to Lobos Island (from Fuerteventura): Take a small ferry from Corralejo and spend the day on this virgin, uninhabited islet. Climb its small volcano, swim at La Concha beach and enjoy the absolute tranquility.Natural Pools of El Hierro: Discover places like Charco Azul or La Maceta, spectacular natural pools formed by lava and protected from the waves of the Atlantic.

Festivals and Events

The festivals in the Canary Islands are colour, rhythm and massive participation. Its carnivals are world famous and its traditions are a reflection of its history as a bridge between cultures.

Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

February/March.

Two of the most important carnivals in the world. For weeks, the streets are filled with 'murgas' (musical satire), 'comparsas' (rhythm and dance) and spectacular parades. The culmination is the Queen's Election Galas and the 'Coso' (grand parade).

Descent of the Branch (Agaete, Gran Canaria)

August 4.

One of the oldest and most unique festivals. Thousands of people dance through the streets of the town waving pine branches to the sound of music, descending from the mountains to the sea in a rite of pre-Hispanic origin to ask for rain.

Corpus Christi of La Orotava (Tenerife)

June.

The streets of the historic center of La Orotava are covered with spectacular carpets made with flowers and colored sand from the Teide National Park, creating authentic ephemeral works of art.

Los Indianos (Santa Cruz de La Palma)

Carnival Monday.

A pitched battle of talcum powder. The city dresses in white to parody the return of the Canarians who made their fortune in 'the Indies' (America). A unique, elegant and very fun party.

Local Gastronomy

Canarian cuisine is simple, tasty and unique, the result of its isolation and the influences of Latin America and Africa. Gofio, potatoes and mojos are the holy trinity of its gastronomy.

Regional Specialties

Wrinkled Potatoes with Mojo Picón and Mojo Verde

The most iconic dish. Small local potatoes cooked with a lot of salt until their skin wrinkles. They are served with two sauces: mojo picón (red, spicy, pepper and chilli) and mojo verde (coriander or parsley and garlic).

Gofio

The Canarian superfood. Toasted cereal flour (millo or wheat) that is consumed in a thousand ways: kneaded with fish broth ('gofio escaldado'), mixed with milk for breakfast or in desserts.

Canario Sancocho

A traditional Easter dish. Salted fish (generally cherne) that is desalted and stewed, served with potatoes, sweet potato and a gofio pellet.

Old Clothes

A dish of use. Remains of shredded meat (stew or cooked) that are stewed with chickpeas, peppers and onion until a tasty and filling dish is obtained.

Majorero Cheese

Fuerteventura cheese, with Designation of Origin. Made with Majorera goat milk, it is one of the most awarded goat cheeses in the world. It can be eaten fresh, semi-cured or cured (sometimes spread with paprika or gofio).

Canary stew

The local version of stew, very complete and tasty. It has pork and beef, chickpeas, and a wide variety of local vegetables such as piña de millo (corn on the cob), pumpkin or sweet potato.

Goat Meat

A very popular stew on islands like Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria. The meat is slowly braised for hours until tender and with a thick, flavorful sauce.

Typical Drinks

Ronmiel

A Canarian specialty with Designation of Origin. It is a sweet and smooth liquor made from cane rum and honey, with an alcohol content of around 20-30%. It is served very cold.

Malvasía Volcánica Wine

Mainly from Lanzarote, it is a unique wine grown in holes dug in volcanic ash. It produces aromatic wines, both dry and sweet, with a very distinctive mineral character.

Strawberry Clipper

The most iconic and beloved soft drink on the islands. A strawberry soft drink with an unmistakable flavor that is part of the childhood and daily life of all Canarians.

Gomeron

A powerful and traditional drink from the island of La Gomera. It is made with brandy or vine and palm honey, creating a sweet liquor with character.

Golden and Tropical

The two local beer brands par excellence, one from Tenerife and the other from Gran Canaria. Ordering a 'pilsen' or a 'botellín' of any of them is part of the daily routine in any Canarian bar.

Barraquito

An elaborate and sweet coffee specialty, especially from Tenerife. It has condensed milk, liquor (Tía María or Licor 43), coffee, milk, cinnamon and lemon. It is served in a glass glass to see the layers.

Sweet Treats

Goodmesabe

A dense and sweet dessert of Arabic origin, typical of La Palma. It is made with ground almonds, egg, sugar and lemon. It is often served with ice cream.

Frangollo

A rustic dessert similar to a flan or pudding, made with millet (corn) flour, milk, lemon, cinnamon and sometimes raisins and almonds.

Sweet Potato or Angel Hair Trout

The quintessential Christmas sweet. Sweet dumplings filled with sweet potato or angel hair, fried and sprinkled with sugar.

Prince Albert

A strong and delicious dessert from La Palma. A chocolate mousse with almonds, hazelnuts and cookies. A dessert for those with a sweet tooth.

Practical Information

UNESCO Sites

Teide National Park (Tenerife)

A geological monument of overwhelming beauty, with the third highest volcano in the world from its base.

Garajonay National Park (La Gomera)

An exceptional example of a laurel forest, an ecosystem from the Tertiary Era.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Tenerife)

The first unfortified colonial city, whose layout served as a model for many cities in the Americas.

Cultural Landscape of Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains (Gran Canaria)

A set of archaeological sites from the Canarian aboriginal culture in a spectacular landscape of ravines.

The Gomero Whistle (La Gomera)

Intangible Cultural Heritage. A whistled language to communicate through the deep ravines of the island, adapted to Spanish.

Biosphere Reserves

All the islands are Biosphere Reserves (or part of them): La Palma, Lanzarote, El Hierro, Fuerteventura, La Gomera and the masses of Anaga (Tenerife) and Gran Canaria.

Best Time to Visit

Any time of year is good thanks to its mild climate, which is why they are known as 'the islands of eternal spring'. Winter is high season for Europeans seeking sun. Spring and autumn offer very pleasant temperatures. Summer is ideal to enjoy the beaches, although without the extreme heat of the peninsula. The trade winds soften temperatures throughout the year.

Travel Warnings

Although the climate is mild, the sun can be very strong even in winter; always use sun protection. The Atlantic currents can be strong on some beaches, always respect the flags. To visit popular places such as the Teide National Park (to climb the peak) or the Cueva de los Verdes (Lanzarote), it is highly recommended to book online in advance. The microclimate is a reality: you can have sun on the coast and it may be raining in the mountains of the same island, so bring a variety of clothing.

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Before you explore the region

Cities, day trips, and practical tips for the area

4 days usually cover the essentials. Add one more for nearby coasts or towns.
Start with the main cities on this guide, then add towns or nearby coasts at your pace.
Prioritize highlights, local food, and an outdoor experience if the weather cooperates.
Yes — many regions work as hubs. Check nearby cities and sibling coasts on this page.
Mix regional trains/buses and a car if towns are spread out. See practical tips below.
It depends on city vs coast. Compare cost indices on this guide.

Why this destination

  • Canary Islands is a strong pick for families (score 95/100).
  • Safe destination: score 85/100.
  • 95Family-friendly
  • 78Food scene
  • 85Safety
  • 60Affordable

Festivals & events

  • Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
    February/March.

    Two of the most important carnivals in the world. For weeks, the streets are filled with 'murgas' (musical satire), 'com

  • Descent of the Branch (Agaete, Gran Canaria)
    August 4.

    One of the oldest and most unique festivals. Thousands of people dance through the streets of the town waving pine branc

  • Corpus Christi of La Orotava (Tenerife)
    June.

    The streets of the historic center of La Orotava are covered with spectacular carpets made with flowers and colored sand

  • Los Indianos (Santa Cruz de La Palma)
    Carnival Monday.

    A pitched battle of talcum powder. The city dresses in white to parody the return of the Canarians who made their fortun

Heritage & UNESCO

  • Teide National Park (Tenerife)
    UNESCO
  • Garajonay National Park (La Gomera)
    UNESCO
  • San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Tenerife)
    UNESCO
  • Cultural Landscape of Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains (Gran Canaria)
    UNESCO
  • The Gomero Whistle (La Gomera)
    UNESCO
  • Biosphere Reserves
    UNESCO

Travel styles

  • 95
    Family travel
  • 78
    Gastronomy travel

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  • 85
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  • 78
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Key stops for your route through the area

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About this guide

Updated: July 2026

We refresh this guide with geographic and community data so you can discover with confidence.

Sources

  • Official tourism
  • OpenStreetMap
  • TripMatches geographic data

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