Tourists guide to the Canary Islands

There are eight official Canary islands including Lanzarote, and no matter how much you love this lovely volcanic island, you’ll find it rewarding to visit the others. Only then will you get an idea of sheer variety and appeal of the Canary Islands, from big cities and bustling resorts to wild beaches and fairy-tale forests.

If you’re a resident, you’re in luck, as generous discounts apply on inter-island flights operated by Binter and CanaryFly, as well as the ferry services that connect all the islands. It’s also worth considering island-hopping during quieter times, as that’s when you can dodge the crowds and really enjoy the local atmosphere.

So, this Canary Day, why not make a booking and celebrate this Atlantic paradise in your own way?

1.) Fuerteventura

Just 40 minutes away from Lanzarote on a ferry, Fuerteventura instantly feels like freedom. There’s a relaxed, spacious vibe about the place that appeals instantly, and the pretty resort of Corralejo is the perfect point of entry.

No other island has as many beaches as Fuerteventura – glorious, strands of white sand stretching for miles. The interior of the island has its own charm and a spectacular mountain route from Betancuria to Pajara. Meanwhile, Puerto del Rosario is a pleasant capital, and the resorts of Caleta de Fuste, Jandia and Costa Calma all offer plenty of tourist fun.

Read more about Fuerteventura.

2.) Gran Canaria

The capital island of the eastern Canaries, Gran Canaria has everything from forests to mountains, beautiful rural towns and villages, and a popular resort area in the south close to impressive sand dunes.

But the capital of Las Palmas is a must-visit – home to the best city beach in Europe, a fascinating old colonial neighbourhood with an important cathedral, and two of the best shopping streets on the Canaries. It’s also the only place on the Canaries where you’ll see top flight Spanish football – “The Canaries” of UD Las Palmas are currently holding their own in La Liga.

Read more about Gran Canaria.

3.) Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, dominated by the mighty, mystical volcano of Teide – the highest peak in the Atlantic. It’s also where Canarian tourism was born, in the hillside spa town of Puerto de la Cruz, while the resorts of Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje in the south dwarf any of Lanzarote’s main resorts.

Santa Cruz is a bustling capital with plenty of shopping and business opportunities, but if you seek a little more charm, head to the nearby university town of La Laguna.

4.) La Palma

“La Isla Bonita” is a delight, still largely unspoiled. The well-laid out capital, Santa Cruz, is one of the prettiest in the Canaries.

Fans of natural spectacle mustn’t miss the stunning scenery in the Caldera de Taburiente at the heart of the island, while a drive up to the weird telescopes at the Roque de los Muchachos offers the clearest views on the Canaries.

There’s also a chance to see the youngest volcano in Europe and the banana plantation that sweep down to the sea are impressive in their own way.

5.) El Hierro

The last stop before America, El Hierro still has an enchanting “world’s end” atmosphere. It’s a beautiful but often desolate place, with few beaches and little in the way of modern tourist facilities. However, there’s a reason why so many film-makers head to the island – it’s a place that inspires with peace and solitude.

6.) La Gomera

An ancient, slowly crumbling volcano, La Gomera is one of the prettiest of all of the Canaries, with lovely coastal towns dotted at the foot of its many valleys, and soaring crags and a unique, moss-covered fairy-tale forest at its heart in in the Garajonay National Park.

Capital San Sebastian is a hilly but charming place, with plenty of historical interest and a black beach, but you really need to get out on those steep and winding roads to experience the majesty of this island.

Read more about La Gomera.

7.) La Graciosa

The little island north of Lanzarote was officially named “the eighth Canary Island” a few years ago, although it is still governed by Lanzarote. Take the ferry there for hearty meals in the capital Caleta de Sebo and walks or cycle-rides to some of the most beautiful and isolated beaches on the islands.

Read more about La Graciosa.

8.) Lanzarote

We all know about this one, of course.