How to get to and around Lanzarote
To get to Lanzarote, you only have two options: a plane and/or a boat. If you come from the peninsula or any other country, the most effective, fast, and cheapest way is to fly directly to Lanzarote or do it via Tenerife or Gran Canaria. There are many airlines that fly there and offer, depending on the season, important offers. You can find the best prices on Skyscanner.
In case you are in the islands doing another route or because you live there, you can opt for an internal flight with the airline Binter or a boat between islands (it takes longer, but you can take a car).
Getting around the island
Once on the island, I always recommend renting a car. The biggest attraction of any island is its extension and the wonderful territory it has to explore, so a car will give you the maximum freedom of movement possible. You won’t be dependent on bus schedules, and your budget won’t be affected too much by cabs.
In the Canary Islands, my favorite choice is always AutoReisen, which has great deals and a new fleet of vehicles. You can also opt for Cicar or any of the big rental brands. If you do not find a vehicle that fits your needs on these platforms, you can also check Auto Europe or Discover Cars.
From here, everything will be very easy. The roads in Lanzarote are easy, and you will not get lost trying to get to each of the places to see in Lanzarote, even more with Google Maps.
Where to stay in Lanzarote
Lanzarote has a wide range of hotel choices to suit every taste and type of traveler. No matter what you end up choosing, I am positive that you will find something amazing.
I couldn’t finish this piece without endorsing the Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort, which served as my year-round residence. Although it is a five-star hotel and may be a bit pricey, there are some amazing bargains during the off-season. If you can afford it, you should definitely stay there because it is a wonderful family-friendly hotel.
Furthermore, I would suggest additional locations, such as:
- Conylanza Golf y Mar Suites (Costa Teguise).
- Hotel THB Flora (Puerto del Carmen).
- Canaryislandshost I Famara Surfer (Famara).
Whatever you choose, make sure it is suitable for your way of traveling and, above all, to enjoy. If you need more help with this topic, you can read about where to stay in Lanzarote or this selection of boutique hotels in Lanzarote.
5 days Lanzarote itinerary
The island has a unique energy that I invite you to discover, and if you can, please connect with it. It is a volcanic space, and you may notice it during the night (for example, when I lived there, it took me some time to get used to it and to sleep well). The energy is brutal and connects you to the earth in a different way—pure magic!
I hope I can guide you in the best possible way through this trip to discover what to see in Lanzarote in 5 days. This is just one of the many routes you can take on your trip. Enjoy it to the fullest.
Day 1 in Lanzarote: visit to Arrecife, Teguise and Famara
As I always say, the route, or at least the start of it, will depend on the time of arrival at the destination (in this case, Lanzarote) and where our accommodation is located. On the Canary Island of Lanzarote, the airport is in Arrecife, which is the capital, so I thought it was a good starting point for our 5-day trip.
You can choose (as mentioned before) to rent a car, take a cab, or use public transportation to get to your accommodation. Arrecife offers a variety of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to charming apartments, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. On Arrecife’s seafront, you have the Diamar Hotel with a view or the Lancelot Hotel.
Summary of the first day:
- Arrecife.
- Teguise.
- Famara Beach.
Arrecife, capital of Lanzarote
Once settled in, you can begin exploring the old town of Arrecife. Immerse yourself in the history of the city as you stroll through its streets and contemplate the colonial architecture (very representative of the island).
Visit San Gabriel Castle, a 16th-century fortress on a small island connected by a pedestrian bridge. From there, head to San Jose Castle, built in the 18th century to defend the island from pirate attacks. Both castles offer breathtaking views of the ocean and bear witness to Lanzarote’s rich history. They are considered an asset of cultural interest.
After exploring the castles, head to Mercado de Abastos de Arrecife, an emblematic market where you can immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of the local gastronomy. Here, you will find a wide variety of fresh produce, from freshly caught fish and seafood to fruits and vegetables grown on the island.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some Canarian specialties, such as mojo picón (beware; once you try it, you won’t be able to stop) or goat cheese. If you haven’t eaten yet, this market is a good place to have a snack.
Walk along the promenade, lined with palm trees and with panoramic views of the sea. If the weather permits (which is usually the case), take some time to relax on one of the nearby beaches, such as Playa del Reducto or Playa del Cable, where you can enjoy the sun and the sea breeze. This way, you can also take a break from the trip and get in touch with the Atlantic Ocean.
You can also eat at one of the restaurants by the sea. Taste delicious dishes of the local cuisine, which stand out for their freshness and flavor. From fresh fish to traditional dishes such as ropa vieja, you will find a wide variety of options perfect for this moment.
Accompany your meal with a local wine or a Canarian beer while you contemplate the ocean views and enjoy the breeze. Naia Lanzarote and Charco Vivo have very good reviews and are very common among locals.
Teguise
How I love this little town! A recommendation is that if you can, visit this town on a Sunday because there is a flea market that is wonderful with crafts, clothes, and delicious local food. The hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 14:00 p.m., and it is the largest on the island. For me, it was one of my getaway spots when I worked there.
Whatever day it is, explore the charming town of Teguise, once the capital of Lanzarote. Stroll through its narrow streets and admire the traditional Canarian architecture. Visit the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, a historic 15th-century church that is an important landmark in the town.
Famara Beach
After visiting Teguise, head to the coastal village of Famara. This picturesque town is known for its stunning beach, which is a paradise for surfers and windsurfers due to its strong winds and consistent waves. Undoubtedly, Famara Beach is one of the most incredible places to see in Lanzarote in 5 days.
There, you will see almost everyone in flip-flops or even barefoot (I love to leave my sneakers in the car and walk around). The places to have a beer or a chocolate croissant are great. The surf stores will transport you to another place, and you will want to stay there to live.
At the end of the village, you will find the most impressive spot on the island: Famara Beach. It is a fairytale and connects you with your essence in a unique way. Stroll, breathe, leave the stress behind, and dream.
On this beach, I had my first contact with surfing when I was 17 years old. It was my first trip totally alone, and I opted for a surf camp there. I didn’t leave this area for 6 days, and it was an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy a walk along the beach, admire the views of the imposing cliff of Famara, and if you dare, try your hand at surfing, or just relax and enjoy the quiet but cool atmosphere.
To end the day, return to Arrecife or the area where you are staying and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. You can also stay in Famara for a more casual dinner and surf energy (I would do this personally). I love the Beach Bar Surfer Food and always repeat it, or if not, the Sol Restaurant is another good option.
Day 2 of this Lanzarote itinerary: the work of Cesar Manrique
Now let’s go on to the second day of our Lanzarote journey. We’re going to go to one of the most unique locations on the island today, the Jameos del Agua, a fantastic masterpiece of César Manrique that you simply must see.
Summary of the second day:
- Cactus Garden.
- Jameos del Agua.
- Cave of the Greens.
- Haría.
- Viewpoint of the Risco de Famara.
Jardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden)
On the way to the north of the island, the first stop I suggest is the Cactus Garden, the work of César Manrique. Here, you can contemplate the beauty that arises from the combination of art and nature (there are a total of 4,500 specimens of cacti). Its interior houses an old millet mill, one of the last of the island still standing.
General admission is $8, and it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last entrance at 16:30h).
Jameos del Agua
Continue the day exploring the Jameos del Agua, one of the most impressive creations of Lanzarote artist César Manrique. These jameos are unique volcanic caves that have been transformed into a tourist complex that includes lush gardens, subway lakes, and a natural auditorium.
Immerse yourself, but well and with total emotional openness, in natural beauty and human creativity as you tour this fascinating place.
General admission is $15, and it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:15 p.m.).
Cueva de los Verdes (cave)
After enjoying this place to the fullest, continue your subway adventure with a visit to the Cueva de los Verdes, another geological wonder formed by volcanic activity. This cave offers a fascinating journey through dark passages, illuminated chambers, and impressive rock formations.
Discover the history and geology of Lanzarote as you delve into the depths of the earth. Lanzarote is magical thanks to its connection with the land and nature that have been building it over time.
The general entrance fee is $15, and the visiting hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 17:00 a.m. (last entrance at 16:00 a.m.).
💡 Between the Cueva de los Verdes and Haría, you can add to your itinerary of Lanzarote in 5 days a stop at the Mirador del Río (general admission: 8€), from which you can see La Graciosa, although later I propose another free viewpoint with spectacular views.
Haria
Haría is one of the most beautiful villages in Lanzarote and cannot be left out of your Lanzarote itinerary. Thanks to its microclimate, it is the greenest area of the area and therefore houses much of the native flora of Lanzarote. Also known as the Valley of the Thousand Palm Trees (you can imagine why), this municipality exudes a charming atmosphere, and you can feel it walking through its streets.
Risco de Famara viewpoint
After your visit to Haría, we recommend going up to one of the most amazing viewpoints on the island. If on the first day you were lucky enough to see the wonderful Famara Beach, today it’s time to contemplate this scenery, but from high ground, from the top of Risco de Famara. To do this, you just have to go to the Mirador del Risco de Famara and let yourself be carried away by the landscape.
Day 3 in Lanzarote: visit volcanoes and vineyards
The third day on the island is spent in a volcanic terrain that will make you dream and then relax tasting some of the best wines of the place.
Summary of the third day:
- Timanfaya National Park.
- Black Mountain.
- Red Mountain.
- Los Bermejos Winery.
Timanfaya National Park
When I lived there for a year, I was working so much that I did not have the opportunity to visit one of the jewels of the island. However, on my last visit last year, I did visit Timanfaya. And I will never regret the incredible experience.
Start the day early with a visit to Timanfaya National Park, a fascinating lunar landscape created by volcanic eruptions. Take a bus tour through the park to admire the craters, lava fields, and other unique geological formations up close. Feel the energy of the earth as you immerse yourself in this surreal environment.
You have to get a ticket to do this tour, but I recommend you take a pack of 3 or 4 places together to make it more economical. We took Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, and Cactus Garden.
On the tour (by bus; impossible to do otherwise), there are several stops, for example, at the Mirador de los Volcanes to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. From here, you will have a privileged view of the volcanoes that make up the park, as well as the vast Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The scenery is breathtaking and very surreal.
To finish the excursion, you can choose to eat at the Lookout restaurant, where they prepare grilled chicken cooked with the residual heat of the volcano that is still emitting scorching heat. Delicious!
Black Mountain and Red Mountain, best places to add to your Lanzarote itinerary
In the surrounding area of Timanfaya National Park, you can climb different volcanoes and enjoy unique landscapes for free. One of the most interesting activities is to climb the Montaña Negra, from which you have beautiful views of the El Cuervo Volcano, which you can also visit.
Then, next to the Montaña Negra, is the Montaña Colorada, which you can visit by going on a circular hike around the volcano. You can also climb Caldera Blanca.
Winery Bermejos
After the adventure between volcanoes in the morning, comes one of those activities that I like to include in all trips. In this case, we decided to visit a wine cellar, and Lanzarote has a formula to maintain its vines in volcanic soil that is unique in the world and well worth knowing.
Go to Bodega Los Bermejos, one of the most prestigious wineries in Lanzarote, to discover the secrets of viticulture in this volcanic land. Take a tour of the vineyards and winery facilities, learning about the unique cultivation methods used on the island.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of their award-winning wines, such as the dry Malvasia or the Listan Negro, while enjoying breathtaking views of the volcanic fields.
The visit is very affordable, and the experience is great. I took the opportunity to paint in my notebook.
Day 4 of this Lanzarote itinerary: landscapes from another planet
We continue to discover some of the most amazing landscapes on the island.
Summary of the day 4:
- Puerto del Carmen.
- Yaiza.
- El Golfo and Charco Verde.
- Montaña Bermeja Beach and Los Hervideros.
- Janubio salt mines.
Puerto del Carmen
You can start the morning with a stroll through Puerto del Carmen, one of Lanzarote’s most popular tourist destinations. Stroll along the promenade lined with palm trees and stores, and enjoy the sea views and the lively streets full of restaurants, bars, and stores.
If you wish, you can take the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping or just relax on a terrace overlooking the ocean.
Yaiza
After a stroll through Puerto del Carmen and before visiting a piece of coast that will surely surprise you, you can stop in the beautiful village of Yaiza. It is one of the best-preserved villages in the Canary Islands. During your walk, you can appreciate the beauty of its streets and its houses, which are well cared for and decorated with different plants. Among its buildings, the parish of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands out.
El Golfo and Charco Verde
Continue your adventure to the south coast of the island to visit El Golfo Beach and Lago Verde, an emerald lagoon located near the coast. I am convinced that you will be amazed by the intense contrast between the deep green of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a stroll along the beach and take some time to admire this unique natural phenomenon.
Don’t miss a stroll through the village of El Golfo, and if your visit coincides with lunchtime, there are many waterfront restaurants where you can delight your palate with fresh fish and Canarian specialties.
Bermeja Mountain Beach and Los Hervideros
On the way to the next location, take the opportunity to visit the Montaña Bermeja beach, as this place looks like something out of another planet. Then it’s time to discover the spectacle of Los Hervideros, a piece of coastline where the Atlantic waves crash hard against the rocky walls. There is a small, marked trail where you can walk while enjoying the place and its magic.
Salinas de Janubio
Then head to the Salinas de Janubio to immerse yourself in the history and tradition of Lanzarote’s salt industry. Learn about the salt extraction process. It is impressive to see the saltwater pools that form a mosaic of bright colors.
This place offers a unique insight into the relationship between man and the environment on the island. You can buy salt there directly for your most exquisite recipes.
Day 5 of the Lanzarote itinerary: relaxing at Papagayo Beaches
The trip comes to an end, and on the fifth day, we propose a relaxing day on some of the best beaches in Lanzarote.
Papagayo Beaches
Let’s start the last day in Lanzarote with a visit to the impressive Papagayo Beaches, located at the southern tip of the island. They are the most popular, and therefore, currently, you have to pay an entrance fee for the day (which costs $3).
You can get there by car, cab, or even on organized excursions. Be well prepared to enjoy a relaxing day in one of the most beautiful and paradisiacal places in Lanzarote. Take a picnic, a drink, and something to cover the sun (umbrella) because the morning is to be enjoyed.
Once you arrive at Papagayo Beaches, choose your perfect spot on the sand and start enjoying the sun and the sea. These beaches are characterized by crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the warm Canarian sun.
In addition to the famous Papagayo Beach, Playa Mujeres is also highly recommended, as it is more extensive and you can enjoy a little more tranquility. Other beaches in the area are Playa de la Cera and Playa del Pozo.
💡 Another very good idea to visit this area in the south of Lanzarote is to book this kayaking and snorkeling tour in Papagayo or this sailing tour. You will surely have a great time.
Playa Blanca (White Beach)
To conclude the day, of which you are sure to be tired, head to Playa Blanca, a small coastal town on the island. Find a restaurant overlooking the sea where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner. There are quite a few on the seafront offering fish menus and very good arroz caldoso. Try the fresh seafood from the region, such as prawns, limpets, or octopus. The breeze from that beach is great (I lived there for a year, and I recognize that it is a great and quiet place).
In this area of the island, at the end of Playa Blanca, is the only visitable lighthouse in Lanzarote. It was great for me to be able to draw it and include it in my lighthouse diary. It is the Pechiguera lighthouse.
Once you’ve explored Playa Blanca and enjoyed your last few hours in Lanzarote, it’s time to head back to your accommodation or the airport to prepare for the trip home. Take a moment to say goodbye to Lanzarote and say thank you for all the wonderful experiences you have had on the island. You know, I always do it in writing in my notebook, and if I can, I add a drawing.
Take with you unforgettable memories in experience format (don’t take stones and other things from nature; better to leave them in their place) and the promise to come back someday to continue exploring this paradise in the middle of the Atlantic.
💡 If you still have time left in Lanzarote or you have already visited the island and want to make a change, you can spend a day visiting La Graciosa. Even, by ferry from Playa Blanca, you can cross to Fuerteventura and enjoy a different day (if you have a rental car, you can take it).
Map of this 5 days in Lanzarote itinerary
Before finishing and to make the trip as easy as possible, we have generated this map with all the places we have highlighted in this content. With this, open mobile and GPS… And enjoy.
This concludes the 5-day Lanzarote itinerary. I hope you live it intensely and that you leave unforgettable memories. If you have more questions about your visit to the island, I encourage you to take a look at our Lanzarote travel guide.
If it is your first time in the country or you are going to visit other areas, these Spain travel guide will help you plan your trip. In the meantime, I will be happy to read your comments.
