The Canary Islands are a true tropical paradise located in the eastern Atlantic off the northwestern coast of Africa. This volcanic archipelago, composed of seven main islands and numerous smaller islets, offers a wide variety of landscapes, activities, and attractions that attract visitors from around the world. In this guide, we will explore together which islands to visit, what to see, and how to get there, to help you plan an unforgettable journey to discover these wonderful islands.
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Canary Islands: Where to Go?
The Canary Islands Archipelago comprises a set of unique and fascinating islands, each with its own distinctive character. Among these, stand out seven main islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Fuerteventura. Deciding which to visit among these is a real challenge for tourists, as each of them offers a unique experience.
If you must choose only a few, don't miss Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and La Palma, but the choice depends on your personal preferences and the travel experience you wish to have.
Here's a guide to help you choose which to visit:
- Tenerife: The largest and most populous island in the Canaries is famous for its active volcano, Teide, which offers spectacular mountain landscapes and a unique trekking experience.
- Gran Canaria: Known as a "miniature continent," Gran Canaria offers a variety of landscapes ranging from the sandy dunes of the Maspalomas desert to the green mountains of its interior.
- Lanzarote: Characterized by lunar landscapes and volcanic beaches, Lanzarote is a paradise for architecture and design enthusiasts thanks to the influence of local artist César Manrique.
- La Palma: Known as "the green island," La Palma is famous for its laurel forests, deep valleys, and starry night sky, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts.
- Fuerteventura: With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Fuerteventura is a popular destination for surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers.
- La Gomera: Characterized by pristine nature and ancient hiking trails, La Gomera offers an authentic and tranquil experience in the heart of the Canaries.
- El Hierro: The smallest and most remote island in the Canaries is a paradise for nature lovers and ecotourism, with breathtaking volcanic landscapes and rich marine biodiversity.
Each island offers different attractions and activities, ranging from mountain hikes to relaxing days on the beach. Choosing which to visit depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you're seeking.
So, which islands to visit? If you dream of a beach vacation, immersing yourself in tropical charm, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura will be your ideal destinations. If you're looking for luxury and entertainment, you can't miss Lanzarote, with its luxurious resorts and vibrant nightlife.
If you prefer a tranquil and authentic vacation, immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of La Palma, with its picturesque villages, laurel forests, and enchanting hiking trails. Whether you're a nature lover, a water sports enthusiast, or a culture connoisseur, you'll find something to satisfy your desires!
Canary Islands Map
Canary Islands Tourist Guide: What to See?
If you're planning a trip to the Canary Islands, you're in the right place. This comprehensive tourist guide will take you through the best attractions, the most charming beaches, and transport options to ensure an unforgettable journey on the volcanic island.
1. Tenerife: The Island of Eternal Spring
Tenerife, also known as the Island of Eternal Spring, enchants visitors with its subtropical climate, breathtaking landscapes, and a wide range of recreational activities. Here's what to visit, the beaches not to be missed, and how to get there by ferry from Spain or the surrounding islands.
What to See in Tenerife
Start your exploration with a visit to Teide National Park, dominated by the majestic Teide volcano, the highest point in Spain. Climbing to the top of Teide is an unforgettable experience, offering spectacular views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. For a taste of local culture, head to the city of La Laguna, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved historic center and fascinating colonial architectures.
Best Beaches in Tenerife
Tenerife's beaches are famous worldwide for their beauty and variety. Among the most popular are Playa de las Américas, with its warm and crystalline waters, and Playa de las Teresitas, characterized by golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert.
How to Get to Tenerife by Ferry
If you wish to reach Tenerife by ferry, you can choose from several routes. You can depart from Cadiz, Huelva, or Gran Canaria (Agaete) and arrive in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the lively capital of the island. Find the best available price on Ferriesonline.com, the online price comparison platform to compare offers from the best maritime companies and travel at the most affordable price.
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2. Gran Canaria: The Island of a Thousand Faces
Gran Canaria is often called the Island of a Thousand Faces, thanks to its variety of landscapes and activities. With its golden beaches, spectacular mountains, and breathtaking landscapes, it's one of those destinations to visit at least once in a lifetime. From the mountain views of its interior to the sandy beaches of the coast, there's something for everyone on this enchanting island.
What to See in Gran Canaria
For a taste of the island's culture and history, visit the historic center of Vegueta in Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria. Here you'll find the imposing Santa Ana Cathedral, the Casa de Colón, and many other historical attractions. For an outdoor adventure, head to the island's interior and explore the picturesque mountain landscape of Roque Nublo and the picturesque towns of Teror and Arucas.
Best Beaches in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is renowned for its spectacular beaches. Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas are among the most popular, with their long stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports.
How to Get to Gran Canaria by Ferry
If you wish to reach Gran Canaria by ferry, there are several routes available from various cities in Spain. You can depart from Cadiz or Huelva and arrive in Las Palmas, the island's capital. Additionally, you can travel by ferry from Tenerife (Santa Cruz) to Gran Canaria (Agaete), offering a convenient way to explore both islands during your trip.
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3. La Palma: The Beautiful Island
La Palma, nicknamed "La Isla Bonita," is the jewel of the Canaries, famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and starry sky. It's a true paradise for nature lovers, with a variety of landscapes ranging from rainforests to volcanic beaches.
What to See in La Palma
One of the main attractions of the island is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, a huge volcanic caldera surrounded by mountains that offers some of the best hikes and panoramic views of the island. For a cultural break, visit the city of Santa Cruz de La Palma, the island's capital, where you can stroll along its charming cobbled streets and admire Spanish colonial architecture.
Best Beaches in La Palma
La Palma's beaches are characterized by their volcanic black sand and crystal-clear waters. Among the most popular beaches are Puerto Naos and Charco Verde, both ideal for swimming and relaxing under the sun.
How to Get to La Palma by Ferry
If you wish to reach La Palma by ferry, you can depart from Cadiz and arrive in Santa Cruz de La Palma, the island's capital. Alternatively, you can travel from Tenerife (Los Cristianos) to La Palma (Santa Cruz), offering another option to explore the wonders of the Canary Islands.
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4. Lanzarote: The Island of Volcanoes
Lanzarote, known as "The Island of Volcanoes," is a unique destination that enchants visitors with its lunar landscapes, golden sandy beaches, and artworks created by nature and man. The island is famous for its unique geology, shaped by volcanic eruptions and the creative genius of local artist César Manrique.
What to See in Lanzarote
One of Lanzarote's most iconic places is Timanfaya National Park, where you can admire breathtaking landscapes and experience the volcanic energy of the island. Don't miss the "Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park," an amusement park and zoo that offers entertainment for the whole family. For a unique cultural experience, visit the César Manrique Foundation and discover the artist's unique artworks that have integrated art with nature.
Best Beaches in Lanzarote
Lanzarote boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in the Canaries. Playa de Papagayo is one of the most renowned, with its turquoise waters and volcanic cliffs surrounding it. Famara Beach is perfect for surfing and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
How to Get to Lanzarote by Ferry
The main ferry route to Lanzarote departs from Cadiz and arrives in Arrecife, the island's capital. Plan your trip with Ferriesonline.com to find the best rates and ferry options available.
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5. Fuerteventura: The Paradise of the Sea
Fuerteventura, with its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination for sea and sun lovers. This wonderful tourist destination is often renowned for its breathtaking beaches and mild climate, making it an ideal place for year-round holidays. With over 150 kilometers of coastline, you'll surely find your perfect beach on the island.
What to See in Fuerteventura
One of Fuerteventura's main attractions is Corralejo Natural Park, with its white sand dunes stretching for kilometers along the island's north coast. Here you can practice water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, or simply relax in the sun. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the island of Lobos, located off the coast of Corralejo. This small island offers charming landscapes and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
Best Beaches in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in the Canaries. Playa de Cofete, located on the southwest coast of the island, is one of the wildest and most fascinating, with its imposing waves and spectacular cliffs. Playa de Sotavento, on the eastern coast, is renowned for its shallow waters and constant wind, making it ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
How to Get to Fuerteventura by Ferry
You can reach Fuerteventura by ferry from Cadiz and Gran Canaria. Routes from Cadiz arrive at Puerto del Rosario, the island's capital, while routes from Gran Canaria lead to Morro Jable on the southern coast.
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How to Get to the Canary Islands?
If you're wondering how to get to the Canary Islands, the most convenient way to reach the Canaries is by sea, using ferries that connect Spain to the Canaries and, once there, connect the islands of the archipelago with each other. Maritime routes to reach the Canary Islands by ferry are operated by safe and reliable companies like Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen, offering an efficient and comfortable service for passengers. Once you arrive in the Canaries by sea, you can continue to explore the various islands using local ferries.
Unlike flying, traveling by ferry allows you not only to bring everything you need, including bulky luggage and sports equipment but also offers you the possibility to board your vehicle on board, giving you the freedom to explore the islands of the archipelago thoroughly with maximum freedom.
Arriving from Spain, the ports of Cadiz and Huelva allow you to reach the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and Lanzarote by ferry. Once you've arrived at your destination, you can explore all the islands by ferry in total freedom, fully enjoying their natural beauties and unique attractions they offer.
Plan your trip with Ferriesonline.com to find the best rates and ferry options available. Our online price comparison platform allows you to compare ferry fares in real-time and book your low-cost tickets at the best available price. With our always-available customer service, you can have all the information and assistance you need to plan your journey to the Canary Islands in total serenity.
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