Planning a trip to Lanzarote and wondering what are the best places to visit in Lanzarote?

Lanzarote is the 4th largest of the Canary Islands. It’s a very popular beach destination for Europeans, as it is located relatively close to Europe, and plane tickets are often affordable, if not very cheap.

Lanzarote is almost totally devoid of vegetation, but the unique volcanic landscape of the island makes up for it. The island is known for its volcanoes, lava fields, and unique rock formations. Thanks to the gorgeous landscape, the island is considered one of the most picturesque and intriguing in the archipelago.

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Lanzarote, so check out the list of our favourite ones! 

7 best places to visit in Lanzarote

Parque Nacional de Timanfaya

Timanfaya National Park is one of the most beautiful places on the island, and one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote and the Canary Islands. 

In the 1730s, the Montanas del Fuego, a mountain within the park, erupted, burying surrounding villages, and covering Lanzarote’s fertile lowlands with volcanic rock, lava and volcanic sand. Today, the lava remains are the island’s top attraction for tourists. 

What to see in the national park?

• Femes offer awe-inspiring views of Montanas del Fuego.
• Ruta de Los Volcanes is among the most interesting parts of the park. It’s a magical trail through the majestic Montanas del Fuego.
• El Golfo, a sleepy village not far from the park, is home to a small crater lagoon, Lago Verde, which was created by an underwater volcano. Its emerald green colour is due to the sea algae that live in it.
• Caldera Blanca is another interesting sight in the area. The Caldera Blanca hiking route starts at Our Lady of Sorrows Church (La Iglesia de Los Dolores) and is suitable for everyone. 

Cueva de Los Verdes

Cueva de Los Verdes is a lava tube and an impressive volcanic cave system.

Located in the north of Lanzarote, this cave system is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote. Cueva de los Verdes was formed by Volcán de La Corona around 3000 years ago. The cave system extends for 6 km above sea level, and also has an additional part below the sea that stretches for 1.5 km. However, only a part of the cave system is open for tourists. A guided walk through Cueva de Los Verdes is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote.

The cave system is also popular for its concert hall.

Monte Corona

Monte Corona (or Volcán de La Corona) is a 309 m-high extinct volcano.

It offers magnificent views of the island. It is possible to hike to the top of the volcano. The hike starts in the village of Yé. There’s a crater at the top of Monte Corona. The whole route is some 7 km long.

Jardín de Cactus

Jardín de Cactus is a cactus garden in the northeastern part of the island.

Created in 1991, the vast cactus garden is home to 450 species of cacti and other succulents from the Americas, Madagascar and other desert areas. The garden is beautifully designed with stone pathways and pools.

It features spectacular views of the nearby volcanic hills.

Playa del Papagayo

Playa del Papagayo is one of the most popular beaches in Lanzarote.

Located in the south of Lanzarote, Papagayo is situated in a cove and features white sand. It is secluded and sheltered from the wind by the surrounding cliffs. The beach has calm waters and no dangerous currents, making it great for families with children.

Playa de Famara

Playa de Famara is a beautiful, wild beach in the north of Lanzarote.

It is known for strong wind and waves, and scenic views. It is very popular among surfers.

With a backdrop of impressive cliffs, Playa de Famara is one of the most attractive beaches in Lanzarote. The beach is 6 km long and is made up of sand and volcanic pebbles. 

La Graciosa

La Graciosa is a small volcanic island located 2 km north of Lanzarote.

It takes just 30 minutes to get there by boat from Lanzarote. La Graciosa is known for its volcanic landscapes, virgin golden sand beaches and turquoise waters. There are no asphalt roads on the island, only paths that can be navigated on foot or by bike. By the way, the island is one of the few places in Europe that doesn’t have asphalt roads.

There are no big hotels on the island, only guesthouses. So, if you want to stay on the island, book accommodation well in advance.

Lanzarote travel tips

1. As Lanzarote (which is one of the Canary Islands) is Spanish territory, EU nationals do not need a visa to travel to Lanzarote. But, if you already have a Schengen visa or come from one of the visa-exempt countries, you don’t need a visa to Lanzarote either.
2. The best way to travel around Lanzarote is by rental car. The rental car offers flexibility and comfort.
3. There are public buses operating on the island. But still, the best way to travel around the island is to rent a car, as buses do not go everywhere.
4. The best time to visit Lanzarote is in spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and prices — lower. The warmest weather, however, is during the summer (June-August). It’s also the peak season.
5. One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is to attend the carnival. The carnival usually takes place in February and March. Each island has its own carnival schedule. Check it before booking your holiday. 
6. Also, diving and snorkelling are very popular attractions for tourists visiting Lanzarote and the other Canary Islands. Thanks to the clear blue water and rich sea life, the Canary Islands provide attractive diving and snorkelling grounds for beginners and experts alike.
7. Lanzarote is located close to Fuerteventura, and ferries operate between the two islands. We would recommend you to visit both of these islands. So, combine a trip to Lanzarote with a trip to Fuerteventura.