This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)
Just a few kilometres from Lanzarote Airport lies the municipality of San Bartolomé – a fascinating destination offering museums, beaches, wineries and historic landmarks. It’s the perfect place to soak up the island’s culture and one you shouldn’t miss on your next holiday to Lanzarote.
Where It Is and How to Get There
San Bartolomé is located in the geographical centre of Lanzarote, just minutes from Arrecife, the island’s capital.
You can reach San Bartolomé from the airport via private transfer, hire car, or taxi. There’s also a bus route – the Arrecife to Airport line – but it’s not ideal if you’re carrying lots of luggage.
If you’re travelling from other parts of the island, here’s how to get there by car:
- From Puerto del Carmen: Take the LZ-2 road towards Arrecife.
- From Costa Teguise: Take the LZ-1, then the LZ-20 or LZ-3 to reach San Bartolomé.
- From Playa Blanca: Follow the LZ-2 road heading north, passing Puerto del Carmen.
For public transport, several bus lines stop in San Bartolomé, including numbers 16, 26 and 52.
Top Things to See in One Day in San Bartolomé
Casa-Museo del Campesino and Monumento a la Fecundidad (César Manrique)
The Casa-Museo del Campesino is a cultural space designed by César Manrique to showcase Lanzarote’s rural life. It includes the Monumento a la Fecundidad, an ethnographic museum, artisan workshops, and restaurants serving traditional local cuisine.
Entry is free and the museum is open from 10:00 to 18:00.
Monumento al Campesino
One of the island’s most iconic sculptures, the Monumento al Campesino was built using water tanks from old boats and sailing vessels, forming a farmer riding a pack animal.
It’s located near Mozaga, at the crossroads of the LZ-20 and LZ-30 roads.
Tanit Ethnographic Museum
Housed in an old winery named “Las Vegas,” this museum holds an impressive collection reflecting Lanzarote’s cultural heritage – including clothing, utensils, furniture and more.
Opening hours: 10:00 to 14:00. Entry costs €7 for visitors over 12, and is free for children.
Historic Centre: Casa del Mayor Guerra and Casa Ajei
In the historic centre you’ll find several key landmarks, including the Casa-Museo del Campesino, Casa del Mayor Guerra, Casa Ajei, and the Church of San Bartolomé.
The 18th-century Casa del Mayor Guerra is a stately mansion that preserves the architecture and furniture of its time. It is now recognised as a historical monument, as is the Casa Ajei.
Nearby Wine Route: La Geria and Local Wineries
Not far from San Bartolomé is La Geria, Lanzarote’s unique wine-growing region. Here you can enjoy guided tours, eat at fantastic restaurants, and admire the stunning volcanic landscape.
El Grifo
Founded in 1775, El Grifo is the oldest winery in the Canary Islands. It offers wine tasting experiences and guided tours of its museum, which showcases the history of winemaking on the island through historic machinery.
Other Wineries and Volcanic Landscapes
Other nearby wineries worth visiting include Stratvs (one of the most modern), Rubicón, Los Bermejos, and Vega de Yuco – all offering delicious local wines and spectacular volcanic views.
Playa Honda: Seafront Promenade, Family Fun & Cycling
Beaches and Family Activities
One of the must-see spots in the San Bartolomé municipality is Playa Honda. With golden sands, a sandy seabed, and a stretch of about 2 kilometres, it’s perfect for swimming, watersports, or a relaxed family stroll. The beach is well-equipped with restaurants, showers, and parking.
The promenade is long and scenic – ideal for cycling, walking or running. In summer, it also hosts cultural events and festivals, making it a lively spot for visitors.
Nearby, you’ll also find Playa Guacimeta, one of Lanzarote’s most beautiful beaches, located close to the airport.
Local Cuisine and Handicrafts
Workshops and Shopping at Casa-Museo del Campesino
Inside the Casa-Museo del Campesino, you’ll find the “Plaza de los Artesanos” where local artisans showcase their craft live. There are also shops where you can buy unique handmade items created by local artists.
Typical Dishes and Where to Try Them
The area is home to excellent local restaurants where you can sample typical dishes such as caldo de illo, goat meat, octopus with green mojo, and many of Lanzarote’s must-try local dishes. And of course, locally made wines.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit and Combining It with Other Attractions
San Bartolomé is a destination you can visit all year round. The best time depends on your preferences.
- Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) offer great weather, fewer crowds and lower prices – perfect for a peaceful holiday.
- Winter (December–February) is warmer here than in many other parts of Spain, but more tourists visit and accommodation prices tend to rise.
- Summer (June–September) is high season. Expect more tourists, but it’s a fantastic time to enjoy the beaches and Lanzarote’s sunshine.
Parking, Accessibility, and Visiting Times
Parking is not a problem in San Bartolomé. Most attractions have their own car parks, and in some cases you can even park in the town centre and walk to nearby sights.
Plan your visits by checking opening hours, tourist traffic and locations. Museums such as the Ethnographic Museum and El Grifo take about an hour to explore, and walking around the historic centre takes roughly 1.5 hours – making it possible to see several attractions in just one day.
Booking Tickets in Advance
If you’re travelling during high season, popular attractions can get crowded. We recommend booking guided tours in advance, as these groups often get priority access.
Note that individual tickets are usually only available at the ticket office on the day of your visit.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore San Bartolomé when visiting Lanzarote – it’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)