The ancients called the Canary Islands the "Fortunate Isles." And there must be something to it, because it's one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe.
Regardless of the day or time of year, there's always time for fun in the Canary Islands. With family, friends, your partner or as solo traveller.
You'll find leisure activities for people of all ages and tastes. It's simply impossible to get bored. The islands offer many opportunities to discover them in different ways. You can explore the most authentic aspects of Canarian identity, such as the Mundo Aborigen park or the Casa Santa María craft house, observe wildlife in zoos and aquariums, enjoy unique attractions in theme parks, or even slide down incredibly steep slides in the numerous water parks.
But where should you stay? With eight islands in total, each offering fantastic places to stay, the choice can be overwhelming.
Don't worry, we're here to help you pick the perfect spot for your Canary Islands trip.
10 best places to stay in the Canary Islands
Check also:
🇮🇨 8 things to do in Tenerife beyond the beach.
🇮🇨 10 things to do in Gran Canaria to have amazing vacations.
Sensible car rental in the Canary Islands
Getting around by public transport is possible, but it's far from convenient if you plan to leave the coast and head into the mountainous interior or venture away from the islands' main roads. Many of the islands' gems will be inaccessible by public transport. Others can be reached, but it won't be easy, as buses rarely run to less popular destinations.
Additionally, renting a car in the Canary Islands is quite affordable and the rental process is usually quick and simple.
We always use Discover Cars during our travels and are happy with them. The rental process was always fast and easy. The cars were clean and in very good condition.
Lanzarote
The easternmost Canary Island known for its unique volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
The island offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing, and exploring César Manrique's architectural masterpieces.
Playa Blanca
Recommended by Anna from At Lifestyle Crossroads
Best for: beach vacations with breathtaking views.
Lanzarote is an island that has it all for a stunning vacation - from otherworldly beautiful volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches to top-rated hotels and delicious local food.
The island is home to one of Spain's top national parks, Timanfaya, and is known as the warmest of the Canary Islands.
In Lanzarote, you can't miss the architectural landmarks created by the Spanish artist César Manrique, all of which seamlessly integrate with the volcanic landscapes of the island.
If you plan to explore the dramatic lava fields of Timanfaya National Park, it’s recommended to book your tour in advance (since it is the most popular activity on the island). In addition, don’t miss a day trip to the tiny island of La Graciosa. It is located just 2 km north of Lanzarote and is famous for its paradise beaches and unpaved streets.
One of the coolest areas to stay in Lanzarote is Playa Blanca. It is the best place on the island for fans of charming whitewashed villages. Playa Blanca is also known for its stunning beaches and calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The most beautiful beaches include Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo, and the famous Playa de Papagayo is located close as well.
The surrounding volcanic landscapes offer opportunities for hiking and exploring. Hike up Montaña Roja for panoramic views of the area or discover the hidden coves and natural pools along the coast.
Travelers shouldn’t miss the bustling Marina Rubicón port area, full of amazing waterfront restaurants and cafes. Some of the most popular places for foodies are Izaro Taberna and Restaurant Casa Carlos.
Playa Blanca's location makes it a convenient base for day trips to other parts of Lanzarote and even the neighboring island of Fuerteventura. Visit the Timanfaya National Park, explore the César Manrique Foundation, or take a ferry to Corralejo.
Oh, and don't forget to visit Aqualava Waterpark - a fun place for visitors of all ages!
For your stay in Playa Blanca choose the MYND Yaiza Hotel located close to Playa Dorada. Guests are delighted with delicious breakfasts, attentive staff and comfortable rooms. The hotel is divided into adults only and family spaces.
Playa de Famara
Recommended by Sophia of The Always Wanderer
Best for: surfing.
Playa de Famara, located on Lanzarote's northern coast, might just be the Canary Islands' best-kept secret. This vast, golden sand beach, framed by sand dunes and a towering cliff, offers a stunning natural setting - without the crowds.
The village next to the beach, Caleta de Famara, maintains its charm as a sleepy fishing village with white houses. Interestingly, it is one of the few villages where the streets are unpaved, so you can walk, drive, and park on sand, making you feel like you've stepped back in time.Playa de Famara is a surfer’s paradise, with shops offering board rentals and lessons. If surfing feels too challenging, opt for bodyboarding, which is an equally great alternative.
Thanks to the strong winds, paragliding is also popular, and it's fascinating to watch paragliders soaring against the stunning scenery.
Make sure to take a walk along the vast coastline. Just next to the beach, you can jump around the sand dunes and feel like a kid again - it's great fun.
Places to eat: start your day at Croissantería Tertulia, a beloved local café known for its simple yet delicious breakfast options, including coffee and sandwiches. For dinner, head to El Chiringuito, a bustling restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood and fish in a cozy, laid-back setting.
Insider tip: in the evening, the cliffs of Famara Beach glow with warm, golden light (the so called "golden hour"), creating a stunning backdrop perfect for photography. This dramatic scenery before sunset is not to be missed.
For your stay in Famara choose El Refugio apartment. Guests appreciate scenic views, comfortable beds and well-equipped kitchen.
Gran Canaria
The third-largest Canary Island. Also known as the "miniature continent," Gran Canaria is famous for its deep contrasts.
To learn more about this stunning island check our travel guide.
Tejeda
Best for: fans of local experiences and sensational views.
Tejeda, a mountain village located 1,046 meters above sea level, is a great spot for outdoor activities in Gran Canaria. It's cooler than the coast and a good starting point for exploring the island's central area.
The village is known for its traditional Canarian architecture, whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs, and narrow cobbled streets. Its central plaza, surrounded by cafes and shops, is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
The village is in a Biosphere Reserve, known for its almond trees and volcanic landscapes. It's a good starting point for hikes to Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga, two iconic rock formations offering breathtaking panoramic views.
The village itself boasts several attractions, including the Church of Nuestra Señora del Socorro, a 16th-century church with a beautiful wooden altarpiece. The Abraham Cardenes Sculpture Park showcases the works of this renowned Canarian artist, while the Ethnographic Museum offers insights into the island's traditional way of life.
Even if you prefer beaches, Tejeda is worth seeing for its scenery and culture.
For your stay consider the Parador Cruz de Tejeda. This beautiful hotel offers stunning mountain views, abundant meals, comfortable rooms, and a relaxing spa area.
Maspalomas
Best for: lively resort enthusiasts.
Maspalomas, located in the south of Gran Canaria, is a popular tourist resort known for its vast sand dunes and iconic lighthouse. It offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments. There are lots of fun things to do as Maspalomas is famous for its vibrant nightlife, family-friendly activities, and natural beauty.
The area has several beaches, including the popular Playa del Inglés, and offers opportunities for water sports, sunbathing, and exploring the unique dune ecosystem.
It's not the best place if you prefer peaceful getaways.
For a beachfront stay at a comfortable hotel, consider the Riu Palace Oasis. This highly-rated hotel boasts spa facilities, a swimming pool, and receives rave reviews for its convenient location, spacious rooms, and excellent cuisine.
Another great option is Bungalows Cordial Green Golf. These lovely apartments are located very close to the Maspalomas Golf Course and sand dunes. Guests are delighted with the well-maintained surroundings, tasty breakfasts and cleanliness.
Fuerteventura
It's the second largest island in the Canary Islands archipelago, located just 100km from the African coast. It's perfect if you're looking for winter sun in Europe.
Known as the "Beach of the Canary Islands", it offers over 150 sandy, golden beaches. Fuerteventura is a paradise for anyone craving sun and sea bathing. The most famous and considered one of the most beautiful in the world is Playa de Sotavento.
Thanks to favorable winds, the beach attracts not only sunbathers but also sailors and surfers from around the world. Every year, it hosts competitions that are part of the Windsurfing World Cup.
Corralejo
Recommended by Milene of Surf & Unwind
Best for: a perfect mix of rest and thrill.
Situated in the northern part of Fuerteventura, Corralejo is a popular destination for travellers in search of a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. Its prime location ensures great weather all-year-round and makes it the perfect base for exploring the island and beyond.
When staying there, you won’t be far from surf spots like Rocky Point or from the picture-perfect Corralejo Natural Park, a protected area with miles of stunning sand dunes and the dramatic Montaña Roja volcano towering in the background.
And because of Corralejo’s origins as a fishing port, there’s still a traditional harbour used by local fishermen that offers boat trips to the rest of Fuerteventura or the nearby islands like Los Lobos and Lanzarote.
In terms of food and drinks, there’s a variety of seafood restaurants, juice bars and tapas plus some of the usual fast food chains you know and (might) love. If you want to try fresh, delicious vegan-friendly food, Baobab Juice Bar is the place to go. This is a cute Italian-owned café that serves healthy options in tableware decorated with unique, handmade touches that will make you smile. Another nice place for eating out is Citrus Café. Despite being located on the main strip, it has a laid-back atmosphere, free Wi-Fi and dishes that cater to various dietary requirements.
For your stay in Corralejo choose Hotel Boutique TAO Caleta Mar. This cozy hotel is located right next to the beach. Besides the peaceful location, guests are happy with scenic views, tasy breakfasts and friendly staff.
Costa Calma
Best for: peaceful vacations and windsurfing.
Costa Calma is the ideal place for two groups of tourists - those seeking tranquility and those looking for perfect conditions for water sports. There are many centers here where you can start, develop or improve your kite and windsurfing skills.
If sport and adrenaline on vacation aren't your thing, you'll definitely appreciate the fact that some of the most beautiful beaches on the island are located here.
Over two kilometers of light sandy beach, a few shops, bars, and a pharmacy in the town center. Costa Calma may seem a bit sleepy, but it offers peace and quiet, which is why it's often chosen by seniors, families with children, and anyone who wants to spend their vacation away from noisy pubs, discos, and crowded beaches.
Costa Calma is essentially the queen of wide and empty beaches. South of the town begins a multi-kilometer stretch of coastline called Sotavento. About three kilometers from the resort, a lagoon forms during high tides, where kite and windsurfing enthusiasts practice.
There's not a huge selection of restaurants with local cuisine here. You can look for Canarian flavors, for example, in the San Borondon restaurant, Asador Las Tapas de Abuela, and El Bar de Marko. Seafood lovers should be satisfied with the menu at Terrazza del Gato. For Italian meals I recommend L’Italiano Ristorante pizzeria.
Evening life outside the hotels is modest in Costa Calma, but you can have a drink and dance (on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) at the Divino club.
Lovers of beautiful beaches will face a difficult choice between Costa Calma and Morro Jable. Both resorts have their fans who debate which beaches are more beautiful. I'll try to reconcile them by saying that both places are simply fantastic in this regard. Morro Jable is the southernmost resort, and one of its attractions is the lighthouse, which majestically dominates the landscape.
For your stay in Costa Calma choose H10 Tindaya. It's a modern beachfront hotel with highly rated on Booking.com. Guests appreciate beautiful decor, wide choice of food for the meals and ocean views from the windows.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the biggest Canary Island. With its year-round sunshine, tropical vegetation, and rocky mountains, is one of the best travel destinations in Europe. It's often called a "continent in miniature" because it features several climate zones, diverse landscapes with varied flora and fauna, and a volcanic massif towering over the island.
Tenerife is also home to one of the best spots for observing the sky - the Teide volcano. It's the third-largest island volcano in the world and the highest peak in Spain. From its summit, you can easily see 83 out of all 88 recognized constellations!
To learn more about this amazing island check our travel guide.
Puerto de Santiago
Best for: peaceful holidays close to nature.
Puerto de Santiago is a resort town on Tenerife's southwestern coast known for its tranquil atmosphere. Its cliffside location provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the area has black sand beaches, including the popular Playa de la Arena.
Puerto de Santiago is also close to the famous cliffs of Los Gigantes, which are a significant natural attraction in Tenerife. These cliffs rise dramatically from the sea, reaching heights of up to 800 meters, and are popular for boat trips and water sports.
Historically, Puerto de Santiago was a fishing village, and although it has developed into a tourist destination, it retains much of its original charm. The town is quieter and less commercialized than some of the larger resorts on the island, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. The town's harbor is still active, with fishing boats coming and going.
Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, boat trips to Los Gigantes, and exploring nearby towns. The town's location also provides easy access to the nearby Teide National Park. There are numerous restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisine.
The calmer atmosphere and family-friendly facilities make it suitable for all ages. It's also easily accessible by road and public transport.
For your stay in Puerto de Santiago choose Landmar Playa La Arena beachfront hotel. Guests are content with the lovely interior, spacious rooms, great views and well-maintained swimming pools.
Los Cristianos
Best for: sunny resort vacations with lots of nightlife options.
Los Cristianos is one of the oldest resorts in Tenerife. This destination located in the south of Tenerife is perfect for beachgoers and travellers looking for lively atmosphere and lots of tourist attractions.
There's a beautiful, wide beach, quaint streets, a charming old town, an attractive promenade, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
Beachgoers should head to the artificial beach of Las Vistas or relax on Playa Los Cristianos. On the latter, you can plan your time to the minute, as this is where you'll find the most bars, pubs, and companies offering various water sports.
While in Los Cristianos, it's worth heading to the eastern part of the town, where there is also a unique beach - Playa Los Collados, which will enchant tourists with its impressive cliffs and rocks. Here you can admire nature and incredible landscapes, and enjoy peace and quiet, as there are significantly fewer tourists in this area.
In Los Cristianos there's a port from which you can easily take a trip to the nearby islands - La Gomera or El Hierro.
Shopping enthusiasts should definitely visit the market in Los Cristianos, located in the south of the town. You'll find there literally everything, from clothes to fancy gadgets and souvenirs.
Another attraction worth visiting is the Jungle Park near Los Cristianos. It houses a vast tropical jungle where you can admire eagles, crocodiles, lions, tigers, and over 300 other animal species. The park is primarily famous for its impressive wild bird shows. There are also rope bridges, dark tunnels and narrow passages if you're up for a bit of thrill.
La Palma
It's one of the most peaceful islands in the Canary Islands archipelago. La Palma is a place you can fall in love with. It's the perfect island if you're looking for a place where you can stop time and admire idyllic landscapes.
La Palma, also called "La Isla Bonita," is the greenest island in the Canary Islands. Filled with lush forests and rocky coasts with black sand beaches, it's a place of captivating ecological beauty. The entire island is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, offering many protected natural areas. The Caldera de Taburiente National Park, situated in the island's center, is a prime example. Here, volcanic lava flows have reached the sea, creating a low, rocky coastline with small coves tucked between cliffs.
Because it's high in elevation compared to its size, La Palma is considered one of the world's highest islands (it's relatively small but has tall peaks like Roque de los Muchachos).
The island is home to a modern observatory with cutting-edge telescopes, making it an internationally recognized center for astrophysics.
Santa Cruz de la Palma
Best for: getaway vacation, hiking and stargazing.
Santa Cruz de la Palma is a small town with a colonial feel. There are numerous palaces, colonial-style buildings, and houses exhibiting traditional Canarian architecture.
The city's highlights include:
- Calle Real, the main street, home to the most important shops, squares, villas, and other notable structures.
- Plaza de España, where the island's most significant buildings are located, including the town hall, the Salvador church, and a unique fountain on the wall of a nearby townhouse.
- Placeta del Borrero, a small square surrounded by Canarian-style buildings.
- Plaza de la Alameda, another square at the edge of the city, housing the Naval Museum and the famous dwarf statue.
- La Virgen Castle, across from Plaza de la Alameda, provides views of the entire city from its walls.
I recommend a walk along Avenida Martima, one of the main streets along the coast. Here you will see the walls of Santa Catalina Castle, a military fortification that protected the city from pirate and corsair attacks in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Further along the street, you'll encounter the Balcones, typical Canarian houses painted in vibrant colors with wooden balconies adorned with colorful flower arrangements.
Finally, a visit to the Viorgen de La Luz chapel is worthwhile for its beautiful view of the city's seaport.
The beach in Santa Cruz de la Palma is volcanic - it has fine black sand. Gentle waves make it a good place for families with children.
For your stay in the capital of La Palma island choose Banana Garden La Palma. Guests rate highly this hotel as they appreciate the comfortable beds, abundant breakfasts and ocean views from the windows.
Los Llanos de Aridane
Best for: off-the-beaten-path vacation and sacral tourism
The town has numerous attractions to offer visitors. Among the most popular are the Church of Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios and the 16th-century Sanctuary of Las Angustias. Other notable sites include the Town Hall, Plaza de España, Plaza de Los Cuatro Caminos, and Llano de Argual, one of the oldest preserved residences in the area. The town also offers a Museum of Sacred Art, which showcases sacred art and related objects.
Furthermore, the island of La Palma hosts the Transvulcania race, a trekking and mountain ultramarathon that has been held annually for several years. It's route crosses los Llanos de Aridane. Spanning 83 kilometers, the marathon is divided into segments of 42 kilometers, 26.8 kilometers, and 6 kilometers, allowing participants of varying abilities to take part or simply observe the event.
Lastly, situated on the city's outskirts at the mouth of the Las Angustias ravine is the Sanctuary of Las Angustias, another noteworthy temple. Constructed in the 16th century, this sanctuary houses a Flemish sculpture of the Virgin Mary within its walls.
For your stay in Los Llanos de Aridane choose Hotel Benahoare. Guests are happy with the convenient location, rooftop terrace with mountain views and spacious rooms.
The best attractions in the Canary Islands
Take a look at the below most popular attractions in the Canary Islands. Most of them are available to explore on a guided tour:
📌 Lanzarote: Guided Off-Road Volcano Buggy Tour. Check the details.
📌 Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling. Check the details.
📌 La Palma: Stargazing Tour with Wine and Hotel Transfer. Check the details.
📌 Los Cristianos, Tenerife: Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim. Check the details.
📌 Tenerife: Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing Experience. Check the details.
Weather in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a year-round destination (also a fantastic option for winter sun in Europe), but it's worth noting that there are differences in weather between seasons.
Sunbathers and beach lovers should opt for late spring, summer, and early autumn. In the winter season, from November to the end of March, the climate is definitely warmer and more pleasant than in continental Europe.
However, you need to be prepared for the fact that amidst pleasant, sunny days, there will also be those with clouds, strong, cool winds, and rain. Winter is definitely a time when the weather likes to surprise - it often happens that after cooler days, truly summery weather with high temperatures arrives.
When traveling to the Canary Islands, remember that the winds which blow here, significantly lower the perceived temperature and attract crowds of water sports enthusiasts.
Another things worth mentioning is the calima. This phenomenon occurs when winds from the Sahara, laden with suspended desert dust and sand, reach the island. During the calima, the air temperature rises and an orange haze hangs over the land, significantly reducing visibility. Even if it seems like the sun "isn't shining" during the calima, be careful and use sunscreen. The sun's rays can be very strong despite limited visibility to the human eye.
Other beautiful places in Europe
Europe is full of wonders - from towering mountains to calm lakes, rugged coastlines, and old forests. With so much to see, it's easy to get overwhelmed when planning your trip.
To help you get started, check out these amazing destinations that highlight the best of Europe's travel destinations:
✅ 17 hidden gems in Europe you just can't miss
✅ 14 spa towns in Europe to visit if you need relax and rejuvenation
✅ 18 underrated cities in Europe picked by travel experts
✅ 13 most beautiful mountain resorts in Europe
✅ 17 most beautiful lakes in Europe
✅ Adventure honeymoon - 16 best places in Europe
I wish you a wonderful time exploring the Canary Islands! 🧡
