The Canary Islands are one of Europe’s most unique and diverse travel destinations — a place where volcanic peaks meet golden beaches, ancient forests sit beside modern cities and spring-like weather lasts all year. Whether you're planning your first visit or building a detailed itinerary, these Fast Facts give you a complete overview of the archipelago in a clear, quick and useful format.
For an in-depth look at top attractions, beaches, food, and travel tips, explore:
- Top Destinations in the Canary Islands
- Beaches in the Canary Islands
- Things to Do in the Canary Islands
- Food & Drinks in the Canary Islands
Overview of the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. They are known for:
- Seven main islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro
- Year-round warm weather (18–28°C / 64–82°F)
- Volcanic landscapes and black-sand beaches
- Golden dunes shaped by Sahara winds
- Outdoor adventure: hiking, surfing, diving
- Unique biodiversity and protected natural parks
Although the islands belong to Spain, they operate under a special economic and tax system, making travel more affordable.
The Seven Main Islands at a Glance
Each island is distinct, offering its own landscapes, culture and experiences. Here is a quick comparison:
| Island | Known For | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Tenerife | Beaches, Teide volcano, nightlife, resorts | Families, couples, adventure seekers |
| Gran Canaria | Dunes, cities, hiking, beaches | Urban explorers, beach lovers |
| Lanzarote | Volcanic landscapes, art, wine | Nature enthusiasts, photographers |
| Fuerteventura | Golden sands, lagoons, windsurfing | Beach lovers, surfers |
| La Palma | Forests, volcanoes, stargazing | Hikers, astronomy fans |
| La Gomera | Garrajonay National Park, rural life | Nature seekers, slow travel |
| El Hierro | Natural pools, diving | Eco-tourists, divers |
Climate & Weather
The Canary Islands enjoy one of the best climates in the world — mild, sunny and stable throughout the year. This is why they’re called the “Islands of Eternal Spring.”
- Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
- Winter: 18–21°C (64–70°F)
- Summer: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
- Sea temperature: 20–24°C (68–75°F)
- Sunshine hours: 6–9 hours/day
For a detailed breakdown, visit: Weather in the Canary Islands.
Population & Language
- Total population: ~2.2 million
- Largest city: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (~380,000)
- Official language: Spanish
- Local dialect: Canarian Spanish (soft accent, influenced by Latin America)
- English widely spoken in tourist areas
Time Zone
- GMT+0 (same as Portugal & UK)
- One hour behind mainland Spain
Currency & Payments
The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted. ATMs are common across all major towns.
More information here: Travel Tips for the Canary Islands.
Nature & Geography
The Canary Islands are one of the world’s most dramatic volcanic archipelagos. The islands were created by ancient eruptions, leaving behind:
- black-sand beaches
- lava tubes
- volcanic craters
- rugged cliffs
- pine forests and cloud forests
Must-See Natural Highlights
- Mount Teide (Tenerife): Spain’s highest peak
- Maspalomas Dunes (Gran Canaria)
- Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote)
- Corralejo Dunes (Fuerteventura)
- La Palma’s volcanic ridge
- Garrajonay rainforest (La Gomera)
- El Hierro natural pools
For details and top places to visit: Attractions in the Canary Islands.
Beaches
The Canary Islands offer an incredible variety of beaches:
- Golden sand beaches (Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria)
- Black volcanic beaches (Tenerife, La Palma)
- Natural pools (El Hierro)
- Surf beaches (Lanzarote, Tenerife)
Explore them here: Beaches in the Canary Islands.
Food & Drinks
The Canary Islands have a strong food identity influenced by Spain, Africa and Latin America. Don’t miss:
- Papas arrugadas with mojo sauces
- Fresh seafood
- Gofio (toasted grain flour)
- Local cheeses
- Malvasía volcanic wines
For a full gastronomic guide: Food & Drinks in the Canary Islands.
Safety & Travel Tips
The Canary Islands are considered one of Europe’s safest travel regions. Basic precautions include:
- Follow beach flag warnings
- Use sunscreen year-round
- Book volcano hikes and boat tours in advance
- Carry water for outdoor activities
- Rent a car for the best island access
Local Transportation
- Buses: Reliable and affordable
- Car rental: Best flexibility
- Domestic ferries: Connect the islands
- Two airports in Tenerife: North & South
Quick Facts Summary
- Country: Spain
- Region: Macaronesia, Atlantic Ocean
- Capital cities: Santa Cruz de Tenerife + Las Palmas
- Number of islands: 7 main islands + smaller islets
- Climate: Subtropical, mild year-round
- Highest peak: Mount Teide (3,715 m)
- Popular activities: Surfing, hiking, diving, road trips
- Best time to visit: Anytime
Where to Go Next
With unique landscapes, excellent weather, vibrant culture and some of Europe’s most scenic coastlines, the Canary Islands offer unforgettable travel experiences year-round. These Fast Facts will help you navigate the islands confidently and make the most of your journey.
