The Canary Islands are a dream destination for travelers seeking year-round sunshine, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant island culture. Whether you’re hiking volcanic trails, relaxing on golden beaches, or exploring charming old towns, a few smart tips will make your trip smoother, safer, and even more enjoyable. Here’s your complete guide to traveling smart across the Canaries.
1. When to Visit
The Canary Islands enjoy a mild, spring-like climate all year, earning them the nickname “Islands of Eternal Spring.” However, your experience will differ slightly by season:
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Ideal for sunshine escapes; warm days and cool nights. Expect crowds in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
- Spring (Mar–May): Perfect balance of good weather and fewer tourists — great for hiking and photography.
- Summer (Jun–Sep): Hottest period; ideal for beaches and water sports, especially in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): Quiet and budget-friendly; still excellent for swimming and island-hopping.
2. What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothes for the day; a jacket for cooler evenings in the mountains.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring volcanic trails.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle — UV rays are strong even on cloudy days.
- Swimsuit, snorkel gear, and flip-flops for beach days.
- A small first aid kit with motion-sickness tablets if you plan to take ferries between islands.
3. Getting Around
Each island has reliable transport options, but car rentals provide the most freedom. Public buses (called guaguas) connect towns and beaches efficiently, while ferries and short flights link all major islands. If you’re staying for more than a week, consider exploring at least two islands — for example, Tenerife and La Gomera or Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
4. Local Customs & Etiquette
- Locals are friendly and laid-back — a simple “Hola” or “Buenos días” goes a long way.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common.
- Shops and banks may close midday for siesta between 1–4 pm, especially in smaller towns.
- Sunday is a quiet day — expect limited public services.
5. Currency, Costs & Payments
The currency is the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, though carrying small cash helps for taxis, markets, or rural cafés. Compared with mainland Spain, prices are slightly lower — making the Canaries one of Europe’s best-value destinations.
- Coffee: €1.50–€2
- Restaurant meal: €10–€18
- Car rental (per day): €25–€45
- Inter-island flight: €40–€80
6. Food & Drink Tips
Island cuisine combines Spanish, African, and Latin flavors. Try traditional dishes like papas arrugadas (salted wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce), grilled fish, and local goat cheese. Tap water is safe in most areas, but bottled or filtered water tastes better. Don’t miss the island wines from Lanzarote’s La Geria vineyards.
7. Health & Safety
The Canary Islands are one of Europe’s safest destinations. Hospitals and pharmacies are modern and efficient, and no vaccinations are required for entry. Use sunscreen generously, avoid hiking alone on volcanic trails after dark, and always check ocean conditions before swimming.
8. Language Tips
Spanish is the official language, but English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases adds warmth to your interactions:
- Gracias – Thank you
- Por favor – Please
- ¿Dónde está la playa? – Where is the beach?
9. Sustainable Travel
The Canaries are leaders in sustainable tourism. Help preserve the islands by:
- Respecting protected areas like Teide and Timanfaya — stay on marked trails.
- Choosing eco-certified hotels or locally owned guesthouses.
- Using refillable bottles and avoiding single-use plastics.
- Buying handmade souvenirs from artisans instead of imported trinkets.
10. Photography & Nature Tips
Each island offers breathtaking landscapes for photographers — volcanic craters, black-sand beaches, and lush forests. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting. For stargazers, Tenerife and La Palma boast some of the clearest night skies in the world.
11. Connectivity & Communication
Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafés. European travelers can use their mobile data plans without roaming charges. For longer stays, local SIM cards from Vodafone, Orange, or Movistar offer good coverage and affordable rates.
12. Final Travel Advice
- Book accommodation early in peak months (December–February, July–August).
- Carry a light rain jacket — northern islands get occasional showers.
- Download offline maps if driving through mountainous areas.
- Always check ferry and flight schedules — they can change due to weather or sea conditions.
Where to Go Next
- Top Destinations in the Canary Islands
- Canary Islands Attractions
- Transportation Guide for the Canary Islands
With these practical travel tips, your trip to the Canary Islands will be effortless and full of discovery — a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and island charm.
