Looking for the best things to do in Lanzarote for your next getaway? With so many activities available across the island, planning your Lanzarote holiday itinerary can be challenging. To make things easy, we’ve put together this ultimate guide featuring the 25 best things to do in Lanzarote.
Discover secret volcanic caves, an underwater museum, pristine beaches, and authentic local experiences. Ready to find out which unique attractions should be on your must-do list?
- Timanfaya National Park
- Museo Atlántico
- Papagayo Beaches
- César Manrique Foundation
- Mirador del Río Viewpoint
- Teguise Sunday Market
- Jameos del Agua
- Wine Tasting in La Geria
- Famara Beach
- Cueva de los Verdes
- Marina Rubicón
- Day Trip to La Graciosa
- Charco de San Ginés
- Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park
- Jardín de Cactus
- Catamaran Cruise from Puerto Calero
- Tour Castillo de San José
- Los Hervideros Cliffs
- Local Cuisine at El Golfo
- Relax at Playa Blanca
- Castillo de Santa Bárbara
- Parque Natural de los Volcanes
- Lagomar Museum
- Playa Chica
- Cycle from Puerto del Carmen to Arrecife
Timanfaya National Park
Nothing quite prepares you for Lanzarote’s otherworldly volcanic landscapes like Timanfaya National Park. Imagine stepping into a lunar-like world, sculpted by eruptions and steaming geysers. There are guided bus tours that will give you exclusive access to stunning viewpoints and demonstrations showcasing geothermal activity.
For a truly unique experience, consider the El Diablo restaurant, where chefs cook your meal using volcanic heat. Can you imagine enjoying a barbecue grilled directly by the Earth’s inner heat? It’s uniquely Lanzarote.
Museo Atlántico
Museo Atlántico is Europe’s first underwater museum located near Playa Blanca. Created by renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor, this eerie yet stunning installation features life-sized sculptures submerged beneath crystal-clear waters, offering a surreal experience for both divers and snorkellers.
More than art, it’s also good for the environment, promoting marine biodiversity and coral regeneration. How often do you get to explore an underwater museum teeming with marine life?
Papagayo Beaches
If your idea of paradise involves soft golden sands, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty, the Papagayo Beaches in southern Lanzarote will surpass your expectations. Consisting of multiple sheltered coves like Playa Mujeres and Playa de Papagayo, these beaches offer tranquillity and breathtaking scenery far removed from crowded tourist hotspot.
There’s also a secret path to a hidden viewpoint that offers panoramic views rarely seen by tourists.
César Manrique Foundation
Artist César Manrique significantly influenced Lanzarote’s unique architectural and artistic style. The César Manrique Foundation is housed in his former home, built into volcanic bubbles near Tahiche. Visitors can explore rooms that are integrated with the volcanic landscape and filled with his original artworks.
The foundation is focused on sustainable design with the goal of promoting harmony between nature and architecture. Ever wondered what it’s like to live inside a volcanic bubble?
Mirador del Río Viewpoint
Mirador del Río offers one of the finest views in Lanzarote. Designed by César Manrique, this viewpoint is perched 475 metres above sea level on a steep cliff edge. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the neighbouring island La Graciosa and the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon.
There is a small café there that serves refreshments, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. There’s also a hiking trail nearby offering even more spectacular views.
Teguise Sunday Market
Teguise hosts the largest street market in Lanzarote every Sunday morning. Streets fill with stalls selling local crafts, souvenirs, clothes, and fresh produce. Musicians and street performers create a lively atmosphere as you explore. Traditional cafés offer local snacks such as churros or papas arrugadas (salted potatoes).
If you’re planning to visit make sure to arrive early to avoid crowds and find the best bargains.
Jameos del Agua
Jameos del Agua is one of César Manrique’s most famous works in Lanzarote. Built within a volcanic tunnel created by eruptions, it’s part art installation and part natural wonder. You can walk through the caves, spot the rare blind albino crabs unique to Lanzarote, and admire the beautiful underground lake. There’s also an auditorium within the cave system, where concerts and performances regularly take place. Ever experienced music played inside a volcanic cave?
Wine Tasting in La Geria
La Geria is Lanzarote’s famous wine-producing region, known for its unique vineyards grown directly in volcanic ash. Visiting local wineries is one of the top things to do in Lanzarote if you enjoy wine. Popular wineries such as Bodegas El Grifo and Bodegas Rubicón offer guided tours and tastings.
You’ll learn about traditional methods used by local winemakers and get to taste distinctive local wines like Malvasía which is grown in volcanic soil.
Famara Beach
Famara Beach, located on Lanzarote’s north-west coast, is known for its dramatic cliffs and vast sandy shoreline. It’s particularly popular with surfers and kite surfers due to its consistent waves and steady winds. Even if you don’t surf, the beach offers spectacular scenery and long walks along the coastline.
Nearby, the laid-back village of Caleta de Famara provides charming cafés and seafood restaurants.
Cueva de los Verdes
One of the most fascinating things to do in Lanzarote is visiting the Cueva de los Verdes. This volcanic cave, formed thousands of years ago, offers visitors a guided journey deep underground. Inside, you’ll walk through tunnels lit up to showcase stunning rock formations and natural chambers.
The cave even has a surprising secret attraction that’s only revealed at the end of the tour.
Marina Rubicón
Marina Rubicón, located near Playa Blanca, is a stylish marina filled with upscale restaurants, boutiques, and cafés. A stroll along its picturesque promenade is ideal if you enjoy shopping, dining, or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
The marina also hosts a lively market twice weekly, featuring handmade crafts, jewellery, and local produce.
Day Trip to La Graciosa
Just off Lanzarote’s northern coast is La Graciosa, a small island that offers a peaceful escape from the main island’s busier spots. Taking the ferry from Órzola to La Graciosa gives visitors the chance to explore pristine beaches, quiet trails, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling or swimming.
With no paved roads and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind.
Charco de San Ginés
One of the best things to do in Lanzarote’s capital city, Arrecife, is exploring the picturesque lagoon known as Charco de San Ginés. Lined with quaint cafés, local tapas bars, and small fishing boats, the lagoon is perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk. The area often hosts vibrant cultural events and markets, offering a taste of local life with locals calling it the heart of Arrecife.
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park, located near Puerto del Carmen, is a family-friendly attraction that combines a zoo, waterpark, and live entertainment. Visitors can see animals such as sea lions, white tigers, and exotic birds, or cool off in the park’s pools, waterslides, and splash zones.
There are also daily shows featuring sea lions, birds of prey and cowboy lasso displays!
Jardín de Cactus
Jardín de Cactus, another creation of César Manrique, is home to over 1,000 different cactus species from around the globe. Located in a former quarry near Guatiza, this beautifully landscaped garden provides a fascinating walk through diverse cacti arranged in terraces.
There’s also an on-site café overlooking the garden, offering drinks and snacks.
Catamaran Cruise from Puerto Calero
Setting sail on a catamaran from Puerto Calero is among one of the most relaxing things to do in Lanzarote. Cruises typically include visits to secluded coves and swimming spots accessible only by boat. Onboard, you’ll enjoy lunch and drinks while taking in lovely Lanzarote’s coastline views. Some cruises even offer dolphin-spotting opportunities!
Tour Castillo de San José
Built in the 18th century, Castillo de San José in Arrecife now houses Lanzarote’s Museum of Contemporary Art. You can explore its collection of modern artworks, ranging from paintings to sculptures by international and local artists.
The castle also features a stylish restaurant with panoramic harbour views where you can dine surrounded by centuries of history.
Los Hervideros Cliffs
Los Hervideros is where the the Atlantic Ocean meets Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. Visitors can follow specially constructed paths along the rugged cliffs and caves, and witness powerful waves crashing against volcanic rock formations.
If you visit at sunset you’ll be in for some impressive views and photo opportunities, getting to experience nature’s raw power first-hand.
Local Cuisine at El Golfo
El Golfo is a small coastal village famous for fresh seafood restaurants serving Lanzarote’s traditional dishes. You can enjoy local specialities such as grilled octopus, fresh fish platters, and papas arrugadas served with mojo sauce.
The village also features a remarkable green lagoon formed within a volcanic crater, which is perfect for a post-meal stroll.
Relax at Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is Lanzarote’s southernmost resort town. It combines relaxing beaches with a lively promenade where you can spend your day lounging on the sandy shores or exploring stylish boutiques and cafés along the waterfront.
Nearby, you’ll also find water sports, boat excursions, and ferries connecting to neighbouring islands giving you the perfect blend of relaxation and activity.
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Perched atop Guanapay volcano near Teguise, Castillo de Santa Bárbara will give you fantastic panoramic views of the island. It also houses the Pirate Museum where you can explore fascinating exhibits on Lanzarote’s pirate history, from artefacts to interactive displays.
Afterwards, you can stroll around the castle walls for breathtaking vistas and experience what it was like defending Lanzarote against pirates.
Parque Natural de los Volcanes
Parque Natural de los Volcanes is a lesser-known area ideal for exploring Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape on foot. There are trails that lead past lava fields, volcanic cones, and incredible geological formations.
You can get guided hikes that provide insights into the island’s volcanic history and ecosystem without the crowds.
Lagomar Museum
Lagomar Museum in Nazaret is a fascinating home carved directly into volcanic rock, once owned by actor Omar Sharif. Wander through labyrinth-like passages, hidden caves, and terraces filled with tropical plants and artworks. It also has a chic bar and restaurant serving cocktails which feels like a movie set.
Playa Chica
Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen is renowned for snorkelling, thanks to calm, clear waters teeming with marine life. Divers and snorkellers regularly spot colourful fish, octopuses, and even seahorses near the rocky coves. Snorkelling equipment rentals are conveniently available nearby.
Cycle from Puerto del Carmen to Arrecife
If you’re a cycling enthusiast you shouldn’t miss the scenic coastal cycle path linking Puerto del Carmen to Arrecife. The flat and easy route offers impressive ocean views, passing beaches, cafés, and local landmarks. Bikes can be rented easily at either end of the path.
