This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)
Although Lanzarote is a small island, it has a lot to offer its visitors. Its unique landscapes and cultural heritage will keep you busy during your stay. We help you organize your time so you know what to do in Lanzarote in 5 days to make the most of your trip.
What you need to know before travelling to Lanzarote
Lanzarote is part of the Canary Islands and is the second oldest in the archipelago. The landscapes offered by this volcanic island are unique: lava fields, white or black sand beaches, cliffs, volcanic tunnels, unique grape growing fields.
Every corner of the island is special, and you will want to spend enough time getting to know it. Whether you’re travelling to Lanzarote as a couple, with children, or alone, you’ll always find activities to do.
You can fly in from other cities in Spain and Europe, or take a ferry from another island in the archipelago. In Lanzarote, you’ll find many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to flats and holiday homes. The best part is that they are spread throughout the island, so you can choose the base camp for your trip according to your budget and preferences.
Once on the island, you can hire private tours, rent a car, or use public transportation to get around. Evaluate the options according to what suits you best, but consider which one gives you more freedom and security to move around Lanzarote.
Plan your routes in advance to make the most of your time, but it’s always good to have a flexible itinerary. You can explore Lanzarote in five days and discover the best of the island. Here’s a proposal to start organizing your trip.
Also, book transfer from Lanzarote airport to Puerto del Carmen in advance.
Day 1 in Lanzarote: explore Arrecife and La Geria
Places of interest in Arrecife
Start your journey in the capital of Lanzarote, Arrecife. You can’t miss a walk around the Charco de San Ginés, which is the protagonist of the city. You will also find the Church of San Ginés, another interesting stop.
The Puente de las Bolas, the Castle of San Gabriel, and the International Museum of Contemporary Art are also places of interest in the capital of Lanzarote.
Wine route in La Geria
After touring Arrecife, head to La Geria to visit the wineries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the vineyards and admire the creativity of the people of Lanzarote to cultivate and protect the vines.
Make the most of your visit to La Geria to taste artisanal wines and cheeses, in addition to enjoying a meal surrounded by that special landscape.
Day 2 in Lanzarote: Timanfaya National Park
The Fire Mountains
The volcanoes of Timanfaya National Park are a must-see. Our recommendation is to go on one of the excursions in Lanzarote that take you around the lava fields. This way, you avoid having to wait to enter.
Walking around the park is safe, and you’ll also see phenomena like geysers and the lunar landscape left by the eruptions.
Restaurants and food in Timanfaya
Inside the park is the restaurant El Diablo. A construction that blends in with the landscape, designed by the artist and architect César Manrique.
The restaurant has the peculiarity that the food is cooked with the heat of the earth. This is undoubtedly an unusual experience in Lanzarote that you must enjoy.
Day 3 in Lanzarote: beaches and landscapes of the south
Papagayo Beach
On the third day, you can dedicate to exploring the beaches of the south. The sandy beaches in this area are protected from the wind, so their waters are calmer than in the north, ideal for the whole family.
Papagayo Beach, with its golden sand and crystal-clear water, is the most popular in the area. But there are others like Playa Mujeres and Playa Flamingo that you can also enjoy.
El Golfo and the Green Lagoon
Continue your journey to El Golfo, where you’ll find a viewpoint from which you can appreciate the Green Lagoon or the Charco de Los Clicos. This is a saltwater lagoon that takes on its particular colour due to the high concentration of algae and sulphur.
Day 4 in Lanzarote: art and nature
Jameos del Agua
It’s time to explore the north of Lanzarote, where you’ll enjoy the blend of art and nature. An essential stop is Jameos del Agua, a volcanic tunnel intervened by Manrique where there is an underground lake inhabited by jameitos, albino crabs endemic to Lanzarote. There is also an auditorium, restaurants, and a swimming pool.
Cueva de los Verdes
A few minutes from Jameos is the Cueva de los Verdes, which formed in the same volcanic tunnel. It has an extension of six kilometres, where you’ll see different galleries and geological formations.
Inside the cave, you’ll also see the artistic footprint of Manrique and Jesús Soto.
Day 5 in Lanzarote: villages and viewpoints
Haría and the Valley of a Thousand Palms
The municipality of Haría is also known as the Valley of a Thousand Palms. It’s a quiet place to walk through its streets and admire the traditional architecture. Additionally, here you can visit the César Manrique House-Museum and the craft market.
Mirador del Río
In Lanzarote, there are several viewpoints from which you can appreciate the beauty of the island. You shouldn’t miss the Mirador del Río. From here, you can see the strait that separates Lanzarote from La Graciosa, an island that you’ll see in all its extension.
Final recommendations: How to make the most of 5 days in Lanzarote
This itinerary leaves you space to include other activities. Here are some final tips for travelling to Lanzarote:
- Try the typical dishes of Lanzarote, such as wrinkled potatoes, mojo picón, and gofio.
- Include a hiking trail in the itinerary. There are routes around the island that you can even enjoy with your family.
- If you’re travelling with children, visit the water parks.
- You can also take classes in windsurfing, kite-surfing, and surfing.
You’ll definitely find plenty to do in Lanzarote in 5 days. Plan your trip to make the most of every minute on the island. Remember to contact us if you want to take guided tours to the main attractions or if you need Lanzarote transfers to Costa Teguise.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)