Top 20 Things to Do on Lanzarote with Practical Travel Tips | Lanzarote Blog

Visit the Mirador del Rio at sunrise for a spectacular panorama, then meet the island with a light stroll along lava fields and cliffs. All practical tips provided here come from local guides and seasoned travellers, giving you a grounded start for your Lanzarote plan.

Choose your transport smartly: rent a car with a deposit, or hop on regional buses to cover coastline towns and key sights. Knowing your transport options helps you move quickly between sites. Availability of routes varies by season, so build a list of priorities and check availability before you go. The Arrecife station links to ferries, and major sights are within easy reach from town centers where you can meet locals who share tips about hidden beaches.

In Timanfaya National Park you’ll see a spectacular lava panorama; after the ride, visit a nearby artist studio to see works inspired by lava flows and meet the creator. The island’s industry supports small galleries and ceramic workshops, so you can buy a delicious memory of the scenery as a keepsake.

In La Geria, vines grow in circular deposits in lava soil and produce wines with distinctive mineral notes; stop at a winery for a guided tasting and imagine the terraces unfurling above a field of sand. Tasting seats and availability vary by day, so booking a slot helps you avoid queues that often form on weekends.

Head to Papagayo for calm coves and delicious seafood, then rent snorkeling gear near the station kiosk and observe how the sand shifts with each breeze. If you miss a spot, you can build a new list of alternatives around Yaiza or Haria, or imagine a sunset from a mirador that overlooks the coast and the wines barrels at a nearby winery.

then, youve got a clean, name-by-name map for your Top 20 list and smooth transport between sites, with practical notes on deposits, times, and what to pack. The experience is shaped by local guides who provide real-world tips and a friendly, approachable tone, so you can miss nothing on your Lanzarote itinerary.

Top 20 Things to Do on Lanzarote with Practical Travel Tips

Visit Timanfaya National Park at sunrise to see the lava fields glow and beat the crowds.

From green vineyard valleys to dramatic coastlines, this compact guide covers sights, village stops, and many experiences suitable for European travelers. Each entry includes a practical tip to help you plan your time well and enjoy Lanzarote’s beautiful, volcanic scenery and artful design.

Car Rental Tips: Make the main driver’s first and last name match the credit card

Ensure the main driver’s first and last name on the rental agreement exactly match the name on the credit card you will use for the booking. Doing this for yourself avoids extra verification, holds, and delays at the counter and helps you start your Lanzarote trip smoothly. When you start the engine, practice gentle pressure on the pedals to keep your first drive calm.

Before you walk into the counter, assemble a simple kit: your driver’s license, the card used for payment, the booking reference, and a single document that confirms the cardholder’s name. Also print a copy of the confirmation to keep with you during pickup.

During booking, set the main driver as the cardholder and add any additional driver names as listed in the contract. If someone else would drive, they must be accompanied by the cardholder on the reservation page, and their license should be added to the same page. This prevents questions at the desk and makes the location checks faster.

At pickup in Lanzarote, locate the desk near the entrance of the terminal. The counter is often located by the park area near the arrivals hall. Present the card, your license, the booking reference, and the document you prepared. Confirm the names on the card and on the contract match their names exactly. If the location requires it, ask to update the main driver’s name in the system to avoid any confusion when you later move into the car or park at beaches with sand on the ground. If you plan to rent a kart later for a different outing, this policy still applies and you’ll have a clean, straightforward start.

Be aware of a potential surcharge for young drivers. The deposit will be reliable and accepted by most agencies and is returned after the car is inspected for cleanliness and damage. The agent may place a hold on funds until the vehicle is returned and validated as clean and undamaged. If you are a cadet driver, the same rules apply, and the cardholder must accompany you at signing.

During the rental, keep the car clean and report any issues immediately. Take pictures of the car’s exterior and interior before leaving the lot, and store the prints with your travel documents. A quick review on your phone or a printed page helps you resolve disputes quickly if charges appear after the return. A reliable map and location details will help you explore safely without surprises.

After returning the car, verify that the final charges reflect actual fuel, mileage, and any cleaning fees. The return process should be simple if you followed the steps above, and you’ll walk away feeling confident about the experience–an epic, surreal, and beautiful start to your Lanzarote adventure, especially when you plan routes into scenic spots located anywhere on the island. This location and process are accompanied by clear documentation, and the cardholder’s name will be accepted and the deposit returned promptly.

Best Beaches for Safe Swimming, Sunbathing, and Gentle Water Activities

Choose Papagayo Beach for safe swimming, sunbathing, and gentle water activities above all. This south‑west cluster of coves combines white sand, clear water, and volcanic cliffs to create an epic backdrop, with entry that stays shallow for the first meters and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families.

If you prefer a north‑east option with a longer shoreline, Las Cucharas Beach in Costa Teguise offers another dependable choice. It often stays still in the morning hours, has a marked swimming area, and a convenient promenade with cafes–great for a full day out with kids.

What to do and how to rent: stand‑up paddleboards, easy snorkel sets, and gentle kayak trips are common at both beaches. Whether you rent near the promenade or from a dedicated shop, expect a small deposit and to pay with debit. For motorized rentals, you’ll need a licence, so pick non‑motorized options to keep things simple. If you’re new to water sports, start in the calm zones and steadily increase activity as your needs become clear.

After the beach, consider a light family outing at a nearby market or short drive to a kid‑friendly karting venue. Renting karts, including cadet options for younger riders, is popular in the north and near Playa Blanca; most tracks accept debit cards and provide a clear safety briefing. Having a day plan makes it easy to balance sun, sand, and a bit of thrill without overspending.

The Manrique influence shows in the between‑town vibe: whitewashed buildings, green palm avenues, and artful terraces create a memorable atmosphere around the beaches. If you’re weighing between Papagayo and Las Cucharas, note that Papagayo’s coves offer calmer mornings and protected waters, while Las Cucharas provides a busier scene and longer sunbathing stretches–useful to match your needs, when you map out your day.

Timanfaya National Park: How to plan a visit and what to expect

Reserve a morning slot on the Ruta de los Volcanes to secure a seat on the park bus; the 40-minute loop offers epic views across lava fields and verdes pockets of resilience. The briefing at the visitor center is clear and cadet in cadence, helping you understand former eruptions, present heat signatures, and what you will see on the route.

• Plan and book: buy tickets online or at the gate; you’ll need an email to receive the ticket and a number that you should keep handy. The ticket is valid for the day of visit, and if you rent a rental car you still ride the park bus for the core route. Bring your licence or ID for verification if requested.
• Timeline and hours: check the posted opening hours and the bus departures; tours run at set hours during the day, so align your arrival with the first available option to avoid crowds. Allow extra time for the short walk from the car park to the bus stop and for the geothermal demonstration near Islote de Hilario.
• Getting there and getting around: the car park is spacious, with easy access to the visitor center. Inside the park, private vehicles don’t follow the Ruta de los Volcanes; you’ll ride the park bus for the main sights. If you want more flexibility, plan a separate rental after the park, but inside you’ll ride the established route.
• What to expect on the route: dense lava fields stretch over the horizon, with occasional verde accents where spring growth appears. Expect hot sections where ground heat is evident, and a calm, informative cadence during the stop points. The route passes over craters and cones, with dramatic viewlines and a sense of epic scale.
• Facilities and extras: there is a restroom area near the visitor center, and a small shop with souvenirs offers; lockers may require a small deposit, so bring change. The El Diablo restaurant nearby uses geothermal heat to grill meals, a quick way to sample local cooking without leaving the park area.
• Tips for planning: wear closed shoes, bring water, and dress in layers for gusts of wind or sun. If you travel with kids, prepare for a concise, cadet-style briefing and keep to the route’s timings; while you wait for the next departure, you can review the sights and plan a second visit for a different angle.
• Combining options: after Timanfaya, consider a coastal sail or a short drive to nearby sights like El Golfo for a broader sense of the country’s volcanic landscape. You can book a follow-up activity to extend the day’s experiences and keep momentum going, with flexible options and a clear plan in mind.

What you must know before you go: this area is a protected nature reserve with a unique former eruption history and a present-day hot core. Arrive early, stay on the marked paths, and use the official schedule to maximize your view and experience. If conditions change, amend your plans using the posted itineraries and keep your ticket number handy for any adjustments or rebooking. The visit is worth it for the epic scenery and the chance to see how nature reclaims and adapts in a stark, memorable landscape.

Caves and Art: Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, and César Manrique sites

One word guides this plan: book ahead. Before you go, please secure your ticket confirmation for a compact circuit that blends caves, art, and sea view. Start at Jameos del Agua, continue to Cueva de los Verdes, and finish with César Manrique sites to feel natural beauty and creative installations in a larger canvas. This list keeps you organized, reduces waits, and leaves countless photo moments. Vans from hotels simplify transfers, and keeping a small fuel reserve helps if you drive. Pack water, snacks, and a light jacket; the light in the caves shifts, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Jameos del Agua

• Natural lava tube with a crystal-clear underground lagoon; solidified lava shapes a dramatic chamber and houses a tiny concert hall and a unique pool used for performances; the space blends art with nature, and the view from the mirador overlooks the coast.
• Music sessions and performances add a living dimension to a self-guided tour; expect a short program and a chance to hear local sounds.
• Practical notes: arrive early, wear comfy shoes, and bring a drink. Tickets can be secured in advance and the ticket confirmation is needed for entry; there are snacks and a cafe at the site.
• Logistics: walk the accessible paths, watch the steps near the lagoon, and enjoy countless photo opportunities; there is a friendly welcome at the box office, and a small gift shop with written notes about the site.
• Travel tip: if you drive, you may top up the tank in nearby towns on the way; consider this as part of your plan.

Cueva de los Verdes & César Manrique sites

• Cueva de los Verdes runs through a 6 km lava tube; a guided tour lasts about 50-60 minutes and explores the central corridor filled with dramatic light effects that highlight natural textures of solidified lava.
• Manrique’s influence shows in the integration of form with landscape: the César Manrique Foundation, his architectural footprint, and several miradores around the island offer dramatic view points; include the latest installations and exhibitions for a broader sense of his approach.
• Practical tips: book in advance, join a small group, and prepare for cooler cave air; bring water, snacks, and a positive attitude; there are multiple entrance points and a number of smaller stops along the way.
• Excursions: pair this with other experiences on Lanzarote, such as a coastal cycle or a hillside hike; different routes can extend your day and reveal additional angles of the lava terrain and the artist’s solutions for living with lava.
• For a different pace, finish with a short clicos ride along the coast, or a casual stroll through nearby villages; these options complement the caves and add variety to your day.
• Other notes: the mirador viewpoints at the Manrique sites provide a solid view across the landscape; written guides and audio options help you absorb the context; and if you travel with others, you can split into small groups for a richer experience.

Wine, Villages, and Markets: La Geria wineries and local food experiences

Book a morning tasting at a La Geria winery and pair it with a short walk through crater-style vineyards–this plan suits travellers who want a compact, focused day. These days travellers seek practical solutions to balance wine, villages, and food. These listed wineries were set along a ring of volcanic soil around the slopes formed by volcanoes, and each level of production reveals a different character. Vines grow in cone-shaped pits surrounded by stone walls to trap moisture, and that volcanic terrain shapes the flavor in the glass. Malvasía Volcánica and Listán Negro define the style you’ll taste. Open tasting rooms welcome customers all day; whether you prefer a guided tour or a self-paced visit, you’ll find a format that fits. Credit cards are widely accepted, and the terms of visits cover a minimal period that ensures you get the most from each flight. An 8-minute transfer from central Yaiza or Teguise makes it easy to combine with a village stroll. To meet winemakers, ask at the desk; many enjoy sharing harvest stories that add flavor to the tasting. Afterward you can spend a few hours in the villages, staying in a compact inn or boutique hotel. Those travellers who want more can turn the day into a longer loop, adding a Friday market as a colorful close. Further tips: hire a driver, or use a local taxi to keep the day flexible–adjustable timing helps when light changes. Music from nearby streets often accompanies a relaxed vibe, especially in the evenings. There, this experience starts with a warm welcome and ends with a memory to share with friends back home.

La Geria wineries: what to expect

The options here are practical for every pace: some bodegas offer short tastings in open courtyards, others host longer tours in compact cellars. These visits were designed to show how Malvasía and Listán Negro are crafted, with an emphasis on the relationship between soil, sun, and water. Prices are listed clearly, and there are different flight levels to meet budgets. Expect friendly staff who speak English and Spanish; many winemakers enjoy answering questions and explaining terms in simple terms. If you stay for more than one day, these breaks become a reliable way to spend half a day across two or three places. For those who want a flexible schedule, the adjustable tasting flights pair well with locally produced cheeses or gofio-based snacks. Friday visits can be especially busy–plan ahead if you prefer a calmer pace. If you’re travelling with a group, booking in advance guarantees a seat and avoids delays.

Markets and local foods: what to taste

Markets run at different days but Friday gatherings in towns like Yaiza, Teguise, and Haria glow with street music and aroma. Here you’ll find fresh goat cheese, olives, almonds, gofio, mojo sauces, and papas arrugadas with brackish salt. The open stalls let you compare textures and salt levels, so take notes and ask vendors what to pair with a young white or a more ripe Malvasía. These markets are compact but vibrant, and you’ll meet locals who speak about seasonal produce and family recipes. Credit or cash is usually accepted, and you can credit your bag with small purchases to bring home a taste of Lanzarote. In just a few hours you can walk away with products that suit your palate and your budget, while those who love spice find excellent blends to spice up simple dishes back home.

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, cycling routes, and water sports by area

Begin with a sunrise ride along the Arrecife to Costa Teguise coast, then climb the Famara cliffs for a dramatic view, keeping your pedals steady.

North Lanzarote offers hikes suitable for different levels, for each traveler: coastal trails near Famara and hillside paths above Órzola. A local guide helps you read lava tubes and cave-like formations, boosting safety and enjoyment.

Southwest Los Ajaches offers rugged trails with lava formations and hidden coves; the views are beautiful and the paths popular, so go early to avoid crowded sections.

Water sports by area: Famara Beach hosts sessions for beginners and intermediate surfers; Costa Teguise’s Las Cucharas is famous for windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding; La Graciosa delivers calmer bays for snorkeling and kayaking. Operators serve customers with gear rental and guided trips.

Cave experiences: Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes pair well with coastal hikes; these famous sites offer guided tours.

Practical tips: book prepaid options to reduce costs; check the latest page of the tourism board for available routes; pack water, sunscreen, and a light layer; look for green transport options where possible; some hotels offer sea-view rooms for after-adventure rest. The tourism industry supports operators with safety standards. Make it easy for yourself with a shared plan.

Your own itinerary: mix a hike, a bike ride, and a water-sports session to create an adventure that matches your interests; adjust to conditions, and respect national park guidelines.

Town Highlights and Nightlife: Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and practical itineraries

Kick off your night in Arrecife with a harbor stroll around Charco de San Ginés, then grab snacks from a market stall and plan a ride to Puerto del Carmen for after-dark options. If you rent cars, park near the Old Town to keep walks short and use a taxi for access to the Strip; the transfer often takes about 15–20 minutes, and in a minute you could switch venues if a spot looks appealing. Taxis are allowed to drop you near the Strip after hours.

Arrecife highlights: located on the isla, the Castillo de San Gabriel overlooks the inlet, while La Marina offers printed souvenirs and café terraces. The weekly market near the harbor is a good spot to pick up fresh snacks from local vendors. Check the latest opening hours before you go, and keep valuables safe as you stroll; hotel cleaning staff keep spaces tidy for guests. They cannot resist the view of sunset over the water.

Nightlife in Arrecife centers on intimate bars and live music near the harbor; many venues accept card payments, and some offer free tapas with drinks. A license is often checked for certain venues, so have your ID handy. The service and atmosphere draw different customers, with locals and visitors mixing it up; if you want a more energetic night, you can hop to a bigger scene in Puerto del Carmen later.

Puerto del Carmen offers a dense strip from the Old Town to Avenida de Playa Grande, with sunset terraces, tapas bars, and clubs that stay lively after midnight. The area is located along a wide promenade, and you can reach several venues within minutes by foot. The quarter near the port often hosts street musicians and late snacks at kiosks, with black lava walls providing a dramatic backdrop. There is much variety in this zone, including family-friendly spots and more upscale bars.

Itineraries you can follow: Itinerary A (short): start Arrecife with Charco de San Ginés, then head to La Marina for a couple of drinks, finish in Puerto del Carmen Old Town for late bites; this keeps the pace tight and minimizes travel. Itinerary B (extended): add a late-night club on the Strip, then a final snack at a terrace with isla views, plus an added evening extension. For a daytime extension, add a visit to Janubio salt flats; the scene is very different and worth the short drive. If you rent a car, ensure your license is valid, access is straightforward, and you have a minimum amount of fuel. The plan has solidified into two routes you can follow, and printed maps or offline data help you navigate; customers often appreciate the clarity and smooth pacing.