Canary Islands holidays

Tenerife
Fuerteventura Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote Gran Canaria Gran Canaria Tenerife

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Fuerteventura

Holidays to the Canary Islands have it all – tropical beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, vibrant culture and cuisine, and with the islands’ year-round sunshine, they’re also a winning winter sun destination.

Which island is right for you?

Tenerife is the biggest of the bunch, and couples lively beach resorts and attractions like Siam Park with breathtaking volcanic scenery in the Teide National Park. Lanzarote is defined not only by its striking volcanic landscape but also by Cesar Manrique’s captivating organic architecture. With its hidden coves, vineyards, and lava fields, Lanzarote is a top choice for those who like to explore on holiday. Fuerteventura’s chalk white sands and turquoise waters make it the best island for beach holidays, with perfect conditions for surfing and windsurfing. Gran Canaria feels like a mini continent, where sweeping sand dunes meet dense pine forests, while La Palma, known as ‘the green island’, is lush and mountainous, boasting quiet, black volcanic sand beaches and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Winter sun specialist

Thanks to trade winds, the Canary Islands have a warm and dry subtropical climate, known as the ‘eternal spring’. Whether you’re spending your summer holiday or Christmas in the Canary Islands, temperatures will average between 18-25℃. July to September are the warmest Canary Island months, and temperatures generally dip to their lowest in January and February.

Volcanic landscapes and nature

Thousands of years of volcanic activity have left their aesthetic legacy on the Canary Islands. Walking holidays in the Canary Islands will lead you deep into this cinematic landscape, from the soaring Mount Teide National Park in Tenerife to Lanzarote’s crater-strewn Timanfaya National Park. The rippling Maspalomas dunes in Gran Canaria feel like the Sahara Desert, and are best explored at sunset on camelback. La Palma, with its limited light pollution and legally protected dark skies, is an unparalleled spot for stargazing, boasting spectacular views once the sun sets.

Family adventures and theme parks

A family holiday in the Canaries means a stress-free short flight, a big variety of beaches, and, for much of the year, comfortably warm temperatures for swimming, hiking, and daytrips. There’s plenty to keep the family entertained, from invigorating water parks, including Tenerife’s award-winning Siam Park, to submarine safaris and boat trips to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Popular hotels in Canary Islands

Facts about Canary Islands

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Language

Spanish

Time zone

GMT +0

Flight duration

4 hours 30 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What should I pack for Canary Islands?

For the Canary Islands, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring swimwear, beach essentials like sunscreen and a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Include a light jacket for cooler evenings and smart-casual outfits for dining out. Don't forget a day bag for excursions.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Canary Islands?

When visiting the Canary Islands, greet locals with a friendly "hola", meaning hello, and dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees when visiting churches or when away from beach areas. Note that some shops may close during siesta hours, typically between 2pm and 5pm, and speaking quietly in public is appreciated.

What travel adapter do I need for Canary Islands?

When visiting the Canary Islands, you'll need European-style two-pin plug adapters for Type C, Type E and Type F sockets. Most hotels use these standard European sockets, so bring an adapter if your devices have UK plugs. We recommend bringing a multi-plug adapter if you have devices with different plug types.

Should I tip in Canary Islands?

Tipping in the Canary Islands is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, it's common to leave 5-10% of the bill if you're satisfied with the service. For other services like taxis or hotel staff, rounding up or leaving a small amount is generally welcomed.

Where are the best places to shop in Canary Islands?

Shopping in the Canary Islands offers duty free prices, local crafts and fashion brands. You’ll find modern shopping centres such as Centro Comercial Yumbo in Gran Canaria and Safari Shopping Centre in Fuerteventura. For local products, we recommend visiting traditional markets such as Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África in Tenerife or Mercado de Vegueta in Las Palmas.

What's the nightlife like in Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands offer lively nightlife options. You'll find lively bars and clubs in areas like Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria and Playa de las Américas in Tenerife. Many resorts host evening entertainment, while cities like Santa Cruz and Las Palmas offer a mix of local bars, live music venues, and cultural events.

What are the best beaches in Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands feature Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife with golden sand, Maspalomas Dunes in Gran Canaria for desert landscapes and Playa de Papagayo in Lanzarote for clear waters and sheltered coves.

Where can I try local food in Canary Islands?

To experience authentic Canarian cuisine, we recommend trying local restaurants known as 'guachinches' in Tenerife or visiting traditional taverns in old towns. Popular dishes include papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh fish, and gofio (toasted grain flour). Many resorts also offer Canarian nights featuring local specialties.

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