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Best things to do in Lanzarote

Heading to Lanzarote? Plan your wish-list of things to do before you go, and maximise your time when you get there.
Lanzarote is synonymous with beach breaks. This sun-baked Canary Island lines up Blue Flag stretches at places like Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca, to name just three. And for every big-name beach there’s a hidden cove to match, not to mention some incredible snorkelling spots.

Away from the coast, meanwhile, Lanzarote’s landscape takes centre stage. From mountain peaks to volcanic craters, it’s so unique it’s been granted UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve status. If you’re looking for things to do in Lanzarote, the list is pretty equally split between the coastline and the interior. Take a look and take your pick…

Find a secret beach in El Papagayo

Lanzarote has no shortage of popular beaches that line up all the watersports, sand-side restaurants and beachfront bars you could possibly want. But when you fancy something at the opposite end of the spectrum, the beaches at El Papagayo are just what the doctor ordered. The sandy spots on Lanzarote’s most southern tip are totally unspoilt thanks to their national park status, so you can sunbathe in serene silence. Take a water taxi from the harbour in Playa Blanca to get there – it’s well worth the trip.
A surfer on a sandy beach at sunset.

Shop your way around Teguise Sunday Market

Lanzarote’s known for its market scene, and the biggest one happens in Teguise – a 10-minute drive from Costa Teguise – every Sunday. Get there early if you want to bag the best bargains, as things start at 9AM and wrap up at around 2PM. Haggle for jewellery made from the island’s volcanic rocks plus more handmade trinkets and plenty of foodie souvenirs. There are usually more than 300 stalls to work your way around, with a supporting cast of bars and cafés to keep you fuelled.
A clock tower and palm trees in Teguise, Lanzarote.

Take a tour of Timanfaya National Park

The best way to describe Timanfaya National Park is otherworldly, and the best way to experience the vastness of the place is on a guided tour. That way you can follow the Lunar Route through lava fields, volcanos and steaming geysers with an expert guide by your side, telling you what’s what. Plus, some tours team a trip with a local winery visit, so you see the day out sipping wines from grapes grown in Lanzarote’s volcanic soil.
A view over Timanfaya National Park.

Book a guided dive or snorkelling tour

Lanzarote is famous for some epic scuba diving locations, including Europe’s first underwater art museum. You can book a tour to explore the Museo Atlántico Lanzarote and get a close-up look at the sculptures beneath the surface of the Atlantic. Don’t dive or just want to stay dry? Take a submarine safari to explore below the surface instead. Or, check out the scene above-water on a catamaran cruise. You can do both from Puerto del Carmen and there are several other pick-up points on the island, too.

Book things to do in Lanzarote.
A catamaran cruise out to sea.
Inspired to go? Take a look at all our Lanzarote holidays.

Or for more inspo, take a look at the best hotels in the Canary Islands, check out the top things to do in Spain or pick from the best beaches in the Canary Islands.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Katie Gregory

Last updated: 18.07.2024

Holiday Type

Destination

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