Things to do & places to visit in Canary Islands, Spain

The sun-drenched Canary Islands lie close to North Africa and have an exotic flavor of their own. Hundreds of volcanoes, rolling sand dunes, rich forests and rugged cliffs dapple these seven Atlantic gems. Catch a ferry to Lanzarote. Ride a camel through volcanic Timanfaya National Park. Take on Tenerife, home of Mount Teide, Spain's tallest peak. Romp Grand Canary's beaches or hike La Gomera's Garajonay National Park. More adventures await on tiny El Hierro, verdant La Palma and peaceful Fuerteventura.

Canary Islands #4 destination in Spain 2023. The average rating score is 4.42 based on 386.1k traveler reviews, of 230 attractions. Timezone: Atlantic/Canary, current date and time: Monday, April 29, 2024, 10:47.

Top things to do (27)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Cueva del Viento (2.768 reviews)
- Experience
Monday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Caverns & Caves

The longest lavatunnel i all of Europe, with more than 18 km now explored. A vulcanic tunnel that now has caused scientific interest, because of the cocroach born without eyes. An absoultely amazing experience to get a guided tour into this underground vulcanic world. Highly recommended for those who want to experience something different in this beautiful island. See more..
4.5 Siam Park (34.5k reviews)
- Great day for those who love fast slides but be prepared for crowds of people
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks

Siam Park, Tenerife’s water kingdom is already established as the best water park in the world. Set against a backdrop of spectacular Thai architecture, with everything from meandering rivers to free-fall slides, this is the setting for your own epic adventure. Blissful relaxation or adrenaline-pumping thrills? It’s your choice – just dive in! See more..
4.5 Loro Parque (31.0k reviews)
- Extremely well kept zoo
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos • Aquariums

Loro Parque is the world-famous and adored by all animal adventure park in the Canaries. Get ready for excitement and fun at this "must see" attraction.. See more..
4.5 Timanfaya National Park (19.2k reviews)
- Overall worthwhile
Monday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours National Parks • Geologic Formations

An awe-inspiring stretch of volcanic wasteland: a desolate and bleak monument to the power of Mother Nature. See more..
4.5 Volcan El Teide (13.6k reviews)
- Highest peak in Spain
Volcanos

If you want to go with the cable car on Teide volcano, the ticket is around 38 euros for a return trip. The cable car reaches 3500m. You can also reach the peak, if the weather is good and have a special authorization. From the cable car viewpoint you can enjoy some nice views over the park, seeing the old vocano (there is information about the development of the volcano) The temperatures are low on Teide, so I would recommend to dress acordingly. See more..
4.5 Parque Natural de Corralejo (10.7k reviews)
- Try to Go in the Morning!
Nature & Wildlife Areas

The morning light is amazing and great for photos, plus there is generally less wind (certainly not always) I was there alone with no other people! The dunes can have a lot of wind packed sand so it’s not too difficult to walk in barefoot- I recommend keeping sandals on for the first 50 feet as there is some fresh glass it seems closer to the roads. When climbing up the dunes it is a bit softer, but such fun in bare feet. If you go later in the day be prepared for wind gusts and consider taking a scarf or face guard. Easy to drive to and park and do on your own. If you are taking the public bus it is at least 1.5 km to walk south from the hotel Rui bus stop area along the highway. Road has a great shoulder so it’s safe to walk on. Note the bus schedule is on the half hourish for pick ups to Corralejo and about 20 past and 10 to the hour going to Puerto del Rosario. On Sundays there is 1/2 as many buses (so pick ups at 1/2 past and 20 past only) See more..
4.5 Marina Rubicon (9.529 reviews)
- Eating , drinking , ice creams , shopping , market day , strolling along
Spent More than 3 hours Marinas

Spent two weeks staying close to the Marina Rubicon. Wouldn’t stay anywhere else in Playa Blanca. It’s beautiful. So many restaurants to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. Recommend La Cubierta, Arabella’s at the Marina , Trattoria Il Commendatore & Cafe Berrugo. Great entertainment/ live music at night in various locations , recommend The flagship bar , Cafe Berrugo & Oasis Marina bay. Lots of shops to browse , huge market twice a week & many places to just sit and chill with an ice cream , coffee or smoothie & take in the gorgeous views. See more..
4.5 Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park (9.465 reviews)
- Great time but slightly overpriced
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

Our Country and Western Night is a Wild Western themed night that lasts 4 hours and is held every Tuesday and Friday.The show starts at 7:30 pm and ends at 11:00 pm. Throughout the night you will be able to enjoy all of our different presentations, then we will take a break for dinner and later continue the night dancing to the rhythm of “The Texas Bandits” until 23:00h approximately. See more..
4.5 Playa de Maspalomas (8.619 reviews)
- Lack of Kiosks and Toilets
Beaches

With the nice new kiosks placed during lockdown it was a real disappointment to not have them open. Also a huge missed opportunity to have toilets installed in the middle of the beach as it's such a long walk to get back to either end to use facilities if you're spending the day there. For visitors please note that only card payments can be taken for sun loungers and parasols, they are no longer accepting cash and a lot of people were caught out by it. Again forcing customers to take their cards and phones down the beach it would be nice if there were some kind of locker facility by each kiosk for a small fee. Aside from this still a gorgeous clean beach and the attendants were lovely friendly people so heartily recommend a visit See more..
4.5 Playa de Las Canteras (8.011 reviews)
- Amazing
Beaches

I loved everything I’ve lived here for a year and it is only crowded a few weeks of the year, it’s all about coming at the right time. There are many things to do and so much beautiful sea life (I recommend coming in June if you are a tourist) the best time of year to come is may in my opinion. I have come millions of times (trip advisor forces you to say a specific month so I’m just choosing this month) See more..
4.5 Palmitos Park (7.753 reviews)
- Worth it for the shows
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos

Palmitos Park is a botanical zoo-themed park located 10 km from the Faro de Maspalomas. A subtropical oasis nestled in a wonderful natural environment of the island. His collection includes species of animals and plants from 5 continents. Best of nature concentrated in one place. Visit the new dolphinarium, with its spectacular show, aquarium, butterfly house, the incredible show of birds of prey, the show of parrots, meerkats, crocodiles and much more ....Discover the best of nature in Palmitos Park!! See more..
4.5 Reserva Natural Especial de Las Dunas de Maspalomas (7.697 reviews)
- Beauty spot - but don't go after dark
Geologic Formations

The sand dunes are one of my favorite places in Gran Canaria, I will never get tired of wandering around and enjoying the most stunning views. We watched the sunset at the mirador and got the idea that there was still enough time to quickly cross through the dunes over to the Meloneras side before dark, but totally underestimated the distance and ended up walking in total darkness and were literally eaten alive by some very nasty mosquitos. We managed to stay on the path but at the end of it, on the Meloneras site, we found a locked gate, shock. Luckily, we did manged to exit through a dry canal. I would not recommend a night trip through the dunes as it was a bit spooky and the insect bites only went away after 2 weeks. See more..
4.5 Cueva de los Verdes (6.747 reviews)
- Have to see.
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

There aren’t many places that gather as many areas of interest for the cultural and natural heritage of Lanzarote as Cueva de los Verdes, a unique mythological-looking cave, full of legends and extraordinary landscape and beauty. It came about after the eruption of the Volcán de la Corona, and it’s one of the most impressive hidden wonders in the depths of Lanzarote. It was used as a hideout by the locals who needed shelter to protect themselves from invasions and attacks of pirates coming from the north of Africa during the 16th and 17th Centuries. In the 19th Century, it became a must for travellers, experts and European scientists due to the uniqueness of this volcanic territory, named after a family that kept their cattle in the area, the story goes See more..
4.5 Lago Martiánez (6.451 reviews)
- Perfect place when waves are high
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Water Parks

The Costa Martianez Tourist Complex, also known as Lago Martianez, is a leisure and entertainment zone comprising seven artificial seawater swimming pools and a large lake, as well as gardens, terraces, islands, viewpoints, solaria, cultural spaces, bars and restaurants. It currently constitutes the symbol and main tourist attraction of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, the most traditional and prestigious tourist city on the Canary Islands. The Costa Martianez Complex is the pride of Puerto de la Cruz and all of Tenerife. The quality and beauty of its facilities provide the visitor with the most suitable environment for bathing and relaxing and, thanks to the Canary Islands’ privileged climate, can be enjoyed at any time of the year. See more..
4.5 Oasis Park Fuerteventura (6.417 reviews)
- Brilliant Zoo
Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

If you visit Fuerteventura and don’t discover its Oasis you will miss out on a major part of its charm. Located on the south east coast of the island, is a beautiful must-visit nature reserve. It is an 800,000m2 area sheltering and protecting its flora and fauna, home to over 3000 animals of 250 different species, containing a unique Botanic Garden with the largest cactus garden in Europe. Here you will be able to enjoy live educational sessions with parrots, sea lions, birds of prey and reptiles, with valuable information from their keepers. Entertainment guaranteed! Furthermore, you can have the unique experience of direct contact with lemurs in the Madagascar area, sea lions under the water and even a spectacular trip along the coast on a camel. Open every day of the year, it includes 3 restaurants, a children’s play area and a farm with domestic animals. A free return bus service collects visitors from different points of the island. See more..
4.5 Teide National Park (5.847 reviews)
- A must visit
Spent 1-2 hours Mountains • National Parks • Geologic Formations • Volcanos

Strange volcanic rock formations and spectacular scenery distinguish this park, which surrounds Mount Teide, an active volcano and the highest peak in Spain. See more..
4.5 Playa del Duque (5.707 reviews)
- Prettiest beach in Costa Adeje
Beaches

Beautiful Beach Great beach with lots of cafes and a shopping centre near by. There were lots of people seeking tho he’s on the beach, but we didn’t mind. We bought a big towel off someone and others were selling mojitos, massages, sun glasses. They weren’t particularly pushy, just calling out what they were selling. There was even someone selling doughnuts and someone else selling fruit. The water was lovely and clear and there was plenty of places to just lay down with towels rather than rent Sun beds. See more..
4.5 Fundación César Manrique (5.469 reviews)
- Quirky and life affirming trip out
Speciality Museums

Home of a famous Spanish artist See more..
4.5 Mirador Del Rio (5.316 reviews)
- Great Sunset place
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:45 PM Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

Located 400 metres high, on the Risco de Famara, the Mirador del Río is one of César Manrique's most representative architectural creations as it shows a series of artistic and architectural details and his eagerness to combine art and nature. It is located near the remains of an ancient military base that dates back to the end of the 19th Century. It is camouflaged on the rock in a way in which only a genius of Manrique's magnitude could conceive. See more..
4.5 Playa de Papagayo (5.142 reviews)
- Worth a visit.
Spent 2-3 hours Beaches

Nice beaches split into two with a cafe on the top of the cliffs in the middle. Can get a little busy and beware if it’s been raining as it makes for a very interesting muddy drive as it along at the end of an unmade road. The cost to enter the unmade road was very reasonable. There are a few steps to go down to reach the beach but not really a problem. Overall, an enjoyable visit. See more..
4.5 Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanico) (4.872 reviews)
- Great garden, well labelled, needs some refreshments
Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

We always visit Botanic Gardens at the places we visit. Some disappoint, some delight. This one was in the delightful category. It is set out as a formal garden with rectangular beds around a central pond and fountain. The plants are well cared for and each is labelled. Some of them were planted in the 18th century and are by now huge. Others are up to date modern cultivars, for example some very big variegated Monsteras. I was particularly impressed with the tree ferns, varied selection and very large. The entrance fee of three euros and reductions for kids, students and pensioners is super value. I only wish there had been a small kiosk selling drinks and ice cream etc. See more..
4.5 Jardin de Cactus (4.488 reviews)
- Enjoyable visit
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Jardín de Cactus was the last intervention work César Manrique performed in Lanzarote. The artist from Lanzarote could see beyond how run down the ancient rofera was. Roferas were the quarries that raids are taken from to create a very particular home for cactaceae flowers from all over he world. Surrounded by the largest cactus plantation of the island, dedicated to crops of cochineal insect, a product of great financial relevance in Lanzarote in the 19th Century. Jardín de Cactus has around 4,500 specimens of 450 different species, of 13 different families of cactus from the five continents. The green shade of the plants stands out against the blue sky and the dark volcano creating a harmonious explosion of colour that impresses visitors. The only sounds that break the peace and quiet that prevails, are singing birds and boozing insects, enjoying their very own oasis. See more..
4.5 Playa de Mogan (4.359 reviews)
- Lovely small town easy to get around and plenty of amenities
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Beaches

Definitely deserves its "little venice" name. The town is small and easy to get around. The beach is small but well serviced, and well protected by the jetty. Plenty of beach restaurants and bars for a great range of foods. The shops are mainly independent tourist gift shops (cheap plastic chinese stuff definitely NOT from the island), but some more discerning retailers with local produce and arts (and a few designer fashion shops such as Lacoste, Esprit, DesIgual etc), as well as a number of 'duty free' style outlets. The holiday apartments around the marina are really lovely, covered in borgonvilliae, geraniums etc with a very 'Mediterranean' feel. We were staying at the Radisson Blu Mogan, which is only a short walk from the town via a fully pedestrianised wide walkway. THere's a street market there on Fridays, but again, not really local produce or crafts, mainly cheap imports. See more..
4.5 Monkey Park (4.231 reviews)
- Day trip to monkey park
Monday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Zoos

Visited here for few hours with older kids found it really enjoyable kids loved interacting with animals . We had great pics taken with parrots 13 Euros for two photos thought was reasonable . We really enjoyed it for few hours would say it’s good for all ages would highly recommend. See more..
4.5 Playa de Amadores (3.808 reviews)
- White sand and cristal blue sea
Beaches

Omg! This beach is amazing We had luck cause we come earlyer in morning to take place close to water, and it was not to many people there in January Beautifull ocean,cristal blue,and sand is white. If you do not want to be full of sand I recommend that you rent a deck chair. There is some of restaurants and bars if you like to have lunch or some drinks,but my opinion that they are too expensive price for what you get See more..
4.5 Playa de Cofete (3.479 reviews)
- Beautiful hidden beach
Beaches

This beach is absolutely beautiful and worth a visit. However to get here it can be dangerous. Once you get onto the dirt road count about 45 min/ 1 hour to get to the beach if you’re not used to driving on these kind off roads. Take plenty of water and some food. There is only one restaurant that is about 5 minutes in car from the beach on the dirt road. The dirt road is used often so it is in pretty good shape but lots of twists and turns. On the way up or down stop at the mirrador for a beautiful view. This beach can be very windy. See more..
4.5 Playa de las Vistas (3.141 reviews)
- Brilliant
Beaches

Fantastic apartment .we had a sea view was beautiful everything you need to hand is minuites away brilliant location. Staff were lovley and helpful we will definitely be returning Book a sea view room with own sunbeds well worth it See more..
4.5 Masca Valley (2.795 reviews)
- Must see location
Valleys

Have been before a few times and have settled on using buses which this year was problematical. We travelled from Los Cristianos via Adeje and Santiago de Teidi. Late buses and an a large crowd for the return trip from the valley meant no room on the smaller mini bus but we eventually escaped. No taxis available. I suspect this was a post covid one off problem. If you want hassle free then take a booked trip or hire a taxi at a price. The Valley itself is well worth the trip. Stunning views and plenty of walks. The area is very scenic. See more..
4.5 El Cotillo Beach & Lagoons (2.724 reviews)
- You could be in the Caribbean
Beaches

Amazing place to sunbathe and swim in sheltered lagoons. Either head for the couple of beach areas or into the quieter rock shelters in the sand dunes if the wind is blowing excessively. Spectacular waves breaking onto the rocks are just mesmerising. Further out there are naturists scattered about the rocky areas. This place is one of the most relaxed and favourite beaches to visit in the world. Take your own picnic if you're staying for any length of time although there is a food and drink shack, but we didn't try it. The town is just a short stroll away with many restaurants and views. See more..
4.5 Vegueta (2.638 reviews)
- Most Beautiful Part of Las Palmas
Historic Sites • Neighborhoods

Vergueta is the most beautiful district of Las Palmas. Easy to get to from Las Palmas Centre (no 1 bus 1.40euros) What to visit - start at the Tourist Information Office where the lovely Patricia will give you all the information that you need. We recommend wandering round the streets and Plaza de Santa Ana, the cathedral, the Casas Consistoriales, the market, the Plaza del Espiritu Santo for its fountain, the Casa Colon, the Ermita de San Telmo, lunch ar Foodismo (a great little cafe by the market), then wander to Triana, the next district ten minutes walk away. Easily two days entertainment here. See more..