Things to Do in Lanzarote: 22 Must-See Highlights

All 22 Lanzarote Highlights on One Map

Before we walk you through our favorite 22 things to do in Lanzarote, here’s a map with all the highlights so you can get your bearings right away.

Natural Highlights on Lanzarote

Timanfaya Nature Park

Ever been to Mars? You won’t get much closer to that experience than at Timanfaya Nature Park. The barren landscape takes a little getting used to at first, but on second look it’s simply fascinating.

The park covers roughly a quarter of the entire island and is one of the top day-trip destinations on Lanzarote.

The highlight of the park is the volcanic craters scattered throughout the landscape — formed just about 300 years ago through a series of volcanic eruptions.

Even though there’s no longer any activity, temperatures still reach 600 degrees just ten meters underground. The park staff demonstrate just how hot that is near Islote de Hilario: steam shoots up like a geyser when a bucket of water is poured into a hole in the ground.

Our tip: At Restaurant Diabolo you can not only enjoy a great meal — it was designed by the famous architect César Manrique, and the food is cooked on a grill set over a hot volcanic vent.

Guided tour through Timanfaya Nature Park

Los Hervideros

Since we’re on the subject of Timanfaya Park, here’s another one of Lanzarote’s standout spots within the park: Los Hervideros.

Los Hervideros is a true natural spectacle of underwater caves and rock formations right along the coast. These rocks were formed during the Timanfaya eruption, when hot lava met the ocean and cooled in a matter of seconds.

The name roughly translates to “boiling” — which perfectly describes the way the water crashes against the rocks and produces enormous amounts of foam along the coast.

Cueva de los Verdes

The Cueva de los Verdes is another classic Lanzarote attraction born from a volcanic eruption — specifically, a 7-kilometer-long underground lava cave that stretches all the way to the sea.

Inside the cave, architects Jesús Soto and César Manrique installed striking light installations that make the atmosphere even more unique.

On top of that, concerts are sometimes held inside the caves — the acoustics down here are phenomenal.

Mirador del Rio

The Mirador del Rio is the most beautiful viewpoint on Lanzarote — an observation platform designed by César Manrique, perched right on the cliff edge.

From 475 meters up, you’re treated to an incredible panoramic view of the La Corona volcano, the Famara Massif, and the island of Graciosa.

The viewpoint takes its name from the stretch of water between Lanzarote and Graciosa, which is called El Rio.

The combination of architecture and nature is quintessentially Manrique, and here he truly outdid himself: the viewpoint blends completely into its surroundings.

The Mirador del Rio consists of two observation platforms and a café with floor-to-ceiling glass walls right above the cliff edge — perfect for soaking up the vista over coffee and cake.

Stratified City

Stratified City is a genuine under-the-radar pick among Lanzarote’s points of interest, even though you can reach it quite easily via the LZ-404.

It’s a collection of massive rock formations that seem somehow out of this world — they remind us a little of Antelope Canyon in the USA.

Wind, sun, and tides have sculpted and colored the rocks in a variety of hues. That’s exactly the magic of this place — it’s like a work of art that keeps on changing.

The rock formations also make for a seriously unique photo opportunity. And kids will love it here too, since the rocks are perfect for a game of hide-and-seek.

Jameos del Agua

Have you ever heard of an underground concert hall inside a lava bubble? It sounds absolutely wild, but on Lanzarote that’s pretty much par for the course.

Jameos del Agua is a large lava bubble that, in addition to the concert hall, also contains a lake. That lake is special for two reasons: first, you can observe the tides here even though there’s no direct connection to the sea. Second, it’s the only place where you’ll find completely white albino crabs — they normally live only in the deep sea.

At the far end of the cave, Manrique designed a stunning pool with gardens, and there’s an open-air restaurant where live music is often played.

Combo ticket for Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, and Timanfaya

Jardín de Cactus

The Jardín de Cactus is the last of César Manrique’s masterpieces: out of an ugly old quarry, he created a beautiful cactus garden with more than 4,500 cacti from 450 different species across five continents.

In the center of the garden stands an old gofio mill. Gofio is the flour that is quintessential to the Canary Islands.

You can not only tour the mill from the inside — it’s actually still in operation, and with a little luck you can watch it grinding grain live.

It’s no coincidence that the garden is located in Guatiza. In the past, there were many cactus plantations here where the coveted cochineal beetles were raised. Their red dye was used in products like Campari and lipstick, for example.

Bodega La Geria

Lanzarote is certainly one of the most barren landscapes in Europe — but the volcanic soil is particularly fertile and ideal for wine growing.

In La Geria, there is a special system for cultivating wine where a stone circle is dug for each individual vine and enclosed with a stone wall to protect the plant from the strong winds.

The deep green of the vines against the pitch-black lava rock creates an impressive landscape, especially between May and July.

There are quite a few bodegas as a result. We recommend Bodega La Geria — we’ve tasted their wine ourselves. Delicious!

You can also join a guided tour to learn even more about wine growing on Lanzarote.

Guided hike through the La Geria wine-growing region

The Most Beautiful Beaches on Lanzarote

Playa del Papagayo

Playa del Papagayo is definitely well known, but as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island it’s absolutely worth your time.

In fact, it’s really several coves right next to each other, all grouped together under the name Playa del Papagayo. Even though these beaches are very popular, tourists spread out nicely and it never gets truly crowded.

The sea here is very calm, making it wonderful to relax in the shallow water — and it’s also a great spot for snorkeling.

At one of the coves there’s also a small snack bar. To get to the beaches you have to pass through a small barrier and pay 3 euros.

You can also reach the beaches by water, for example by catamaran.

Catamaran trip to the Papagayo beaches with hotel pickup

Playa de Famara

At two kilometers long, Playa de Famara is the longest beach on Lanzarote and a must for a beach vacation.

From here you enjoy a stunning panorama, with views of the island of La Graciosa, the Famara mountain massif, and the fishing village of the same name all at once.

Playa de Famara is rarely suitable for swimming. Strong winds and waves make it a true paradise for surfers, kite surfers, and windsurfers instead.

You’ll also frequently spot paragliders here. No wonder — the coastline must look even more spectacular from the air!

Ticket for a tandem paragliding flight

Charco del Palo

Charco del Palo is a small resort that developed on the northeastern coast of Lanzarote in the 1970s. It’s best known for having the only official nudist beach on the island.

The village is really tiny — there are just two restaurants and a café. The real draw at Charco del Palo, though, is the natural swimming pools found along the rugged rocky coastline, similar to the Costa de Bañaderos on Gran Canaria.

Here you can swim sheltered from the surf while watching the crashing waves of the open ocean at the same time.

Playa de Caletón Blanco

Just five minutes by car from the small town of Órzola in the far north of Lanzarote lies Playa de Caletón Blanco.

Caletón Blanco is a beautiful turquoise-blue lagoon. The rocks shelter the bay from waves and wind, and you can wade through the shallow water for a long stretch — making it great for a family outing with kids.

Besides families, the lagoon is especially popular with those looking for some peace and quiet. Apart from the road there’s absolutely no infrastructure here, so tourists rarely wander this way.

Cities and Villages Worth Visiting on Lanzarote

Arrecife

Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote and for most tourists just a stopover, since both the airport and the ferry port are located here.

But Arrecife has grown from a small fishing village into today’s economic hub of the island, which means you’ll find plenty of great shops, restaurants, and bars here. It’s particularly interesting for younger visitors.

The must-see in Arrecife is Castello San Gabriel, a former fortress built to defend against pirate attacks, located on a small island just off the city.

You should also pay a visit to the old fishing harbor of Charco de San Ginés and soak up the authentic atmosphere of Arrecife. Just nearby at the Parroquia de San Ginés, a market is held on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Teguise

Arrecife is the economic center and Teguise is undoubtedly the cultural heart of Lanzarote. Teguise refers both to an entire municipality in the north of Lanzarote and to the town itself — also known as Villa de Teguise to distinguish it from the municipality.

Teguise was actually the capital of Lanzarote for a long time, and along with Betancuria on the neighboring island of Fuerteventura, it is one of the oldest settlements in all of the Canary Islands.

The entire historic center is a protected area, lined with colonial-era palaces and beautiful churches.

You’ll also find a great slice of history at Castillo Santa Barbara, perched on the volcanic peak of Guanapay. Teguise was repeatedly attacked by pirates over the centuries, and from the fortress high above, lookouts could spot them coming. Today it’s simply a wonderful vantage point.

El Golfo and Lago Verde

El Golfo is a small fishing village on the western coast of Lanzarote and simply picturesque. As you drive toward the village, you can already see from afar the white houses standing out against the black lava rock and the blue ocean.

The attraction that makes El Golfo so famous is Lago Verde, also known as Charco del Golfo: a vivid green lagoon set inside a volcanic crater right at the sea’s edge. The high salt content of the water gives the algae their distinctive color. You can reach the overlook in about five minutes from the village.

Right next to the lagoon there is also a black sand beach where colorful fishing boats are moored.

Our tip: Definitely eat fish in El Golfo. The village probably has the highest concentration of seafood restaurants on the entire island, and the fish is served super fresh.

Art and Culture on Lanzarote

Fundación César Manrique

If there’s one name on Lanzarote you simply can’t avoid, it’s that of César Manrique.

César Manrique was a true local — sculptor, painter, architect, environmentalist — a genuine multi-talent. He’s so well known because he truly shaped the architecture of the entire island in a way that no architect has probably done anywhere else. His signature style is the blending of architecture and nature.

The Fundación César Manrique is not only the museum dedicated to the artist — it was also actually Manrique’s own home. You can imagine that he brought all his wonderful design ideas to life here. If you’re into interior design inspiration, it’s an absolute must — but honestly, it’s worth the visit regardless!

Combo tour to four César Manrique sights

Museo Atlantico

This museum is probably one of the most extraordinary things to do in Lanzarote. It’s the only underwater museum in Europe, created by artist Jason deCaire Taylor.

He has submerged around 300 life-size sculptures near Coloradas, all modeled after real people from Lanzarote. The installations would be incredibly impressive on land — but underwater they’re simply mind-blowing.

You can only visit the museum on a dive. But whether you dive regularly, have never dived before, or haven’t been in a while, the Museo has a package suited to every level so you can safely explore the underwater landscape.

Diving course with a visit to the underwater museum

Lagomar Museum

The Lagomar Museum is another architectural gem on Lanzarote. It was also partly designed by César Manrique and incorporates elements of the lava rock into its design.

Compared to the Fundación César Manrique, the Lagomar is still a genuine local favorite that most tourists overlook. So if you’d rather explore the less-visited side of Lanzarote, we’d highly recommend it.

By the way, the house briefly belonged to the famous actor Omar Sharif, who reportedly lost it in a game of bridge.

Salinas de Janubio

Just a short distance from El Golfo, you’re greeted by a strangely captivating landscape: massive basins and many small mounds that look like oversized sugarloaves.

That sugar comparison isn’t far off — this is a very old salt works. In its heyday, a staggering 10,000 tons of salt were produced here every year.

These days the output is much lower, as drinking water production in Lanzarote has taken priority.

Nonetheless, a visit to the facility is really interesting. The shop sells products to take home — a great souvenir, as the salt from Janubio is considered particularly pure.

Tour through Salinas de Janubio

Cool Day Trips on Lanzarote

La Graciosa

La Graciosa is sometimes referred to as the eighth Canary Island, although administratively it actually belongs to Lanzarote.

The island is part of a marine protected area, the Chinijo Archipelago, and is one of the last places in Europe where there is literally just one single paved road.

On Graciosa there’s above all one thing: plenty of peace and quiet, white sand beaches, and stunning nature. You can relax, snorkel, and swim to your heart’s content.

Many day trips are offered from Lanzarote, but you can also spend a few nights in accommodation on Graciosa.

Island tour to Graciosa with lunch included

Submarine Ride

Lanzarote boasts a seriously impressive underwater world. If you don’t want to or can’t go diving, we have a much more comfortable way for you to experience it — by submarine.

The submarine takes you down to depths of up to 30 meters, where you can explore colorful fish, reefs, and shipwrecks.

And don’t worry — the submarines are super safe and you won’t notice any difference from the water’s surface. You can even take this tour if you suffer from heart or ear problems.

Submarine tour departing from Puerto Calero

Volcano Buggy Tour

When you’re deciding what to do in Lanzarote, a volcano tour is an absolute must. Want something a little more exciting? Then we can recommend an off-road buggy tour.

You’ll cruise past quarries, cactus fields, the Janubio salt flats, and the dam in Mala. The literal high point of the tour is Penas del Cache, the highest point on all of Lanzarote.

The perfect combination of adrenaline-fueled adventure and sightseeing.

Volcano buggy tour

General Tips for Your Vacation on Lanzarote

To wrap things up, here are a few practical travel tips for Lanzarote that will hopefully make planning easier and help you find your way around the island quickly.

Our Hotel Recommendations for Lanzarote

Lanzarote is architecturally the most beautiful Canary Island, thanks to César Manrique. So get ready for a fantastic selection of hotels.

Here are our hotel recommendations for Lanzarote:

Tours and Guided Experiences to Lanzarote's Highlights

Exploring Lanzarote without a car? No problem — there are several tours you can join that will take you to many of the best things to see on the island and give you a great overview:

Day tour to Timanfaya Park, Los Hervideros, Las Salinas, and Lago Verde

Tour of César Manrique’s art centers

Full-day tour of volcanoes and caves with a camel ride

The Best Way to Reach All Lanzarote Highlights

Our recommendation is clearly a rental car — it gives you maximum flexibility, speed, and access to every corner of the island.

Since COVID, rental car prices have unfortunately risen significantly. In summer you can find one from around 30 euros per day, in winter from around 20 euros. Book as early as possible, as prices tend to be lower that way.

There are many car rental providers, so we recommend comparing prices in advance on Discovercars.

Compare rental car deals on Discovercars
Heads up: Since COVID, many providers have had to reduce their fleets, which can lead to shortages. We therefore recommend taking care of your rental car booking well in advance.

Lanzarote also has a fairly well-developed bus network: buses within the city are called Guaguas, and between towns the intercity buses operate. You simply pay your fare directly to the driver. The catch is that while the classic Lanzarote attractions are easy to reach, the more remote spots are not.

Lanzarote’s towns are not that large, so you can easily get around on foot or by bike.

Island-Hopping from Lanzarote

From Lanzarote you can reach many islands without a stopover by ferry, including Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and La Graciosa. The ferry from Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura takes only about 25 minutes and drops you right at the port of Corralejo. You can read about everything there is to experience there in our Corralejo guide.

If you’re still deciding which island might be right for you as a next destination, our article Which Canary Island is right for you? is sure to help.

You can find ferry connections on the websites of Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas.

Flying is faster, though, and flights also run more frequently throughout the day. Small aircraft operate the inter-island routes and check-in is usually much quicker too. You can compare prices for inter-island flights on Skyscanner, for example.

Find flights on Skyscanner

Our Recommendations for Lanzarote Travel Guides

Want even more information, or do you always like having a travel guide on hand just in case? Totally understandable — so here are two recommendations for Lanzarote travel guides.

We love the travel guides from the 111 Places series, as they cover both the classic tourist attractions and lesser-known spots. The books are written in a very relaxed and entertaining style — perfect if you’re looking for something other than your standard run-of-the-mill travel guide.

111 Places on Lanzarote That You Must Not Miss
Running low on luggage space? Then we recommend the Marco Polo travel guide. In just 132 pages you’ll find everything about the top sights on Lanzarote, plus tips on the local culture and people — short, compact, and packed with great photos that will have you itching to travel.

Marco Polo Travel Guide Lanzarote