Canary Islands

Canary Islands travel tips

The Canary Islands are an ideal destination for a year-round sun vacation. Thanks to its location in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Morocco, you have mild winters and warm summers here. Popular islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria are therefore ideal for winter travel. But the Canary Islands offer more than just sun, sea and all-inclusive resorts. You will find impressive nature, charming villages and special attractions. For example, hike to the top of the volcano El Teide on Tenerife and discover the dunes of Maspalomas on Gran Canaria. Get inspired by our travel tips for the Canary Islands! 

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is perhaps one of the most famous islands of the archipelago. Would you like to go on vacation to Gran Canaria? Discover our personal tips for sights, activities, restaurants, hotels and the most beautiful villages on the beautiful island. 

Tenerife

Beautiful beaches with clear blue water and the authentic Spanish atmosphere: that's a vacation to Tenerife. Read our personal recommendations for the most beautiful villages, beaches, sights, activities and hotspots in Tenerife. 

The best trips to the Canary Islands

On vacation to one of the Canary Islands? With the providers below you can book the best trips to the sunny Spanish islands. 

Tailor-made vacations

Want to experience the authentic charm of the Canary Islands, away from mass tourism? Consider the rugged interior of Gran Canaria, hidden villages on Tenerife, the surreal lava fields of Lanzarote or the expansive beaches of Fuerteventura. Each island has its own character and unique places you won't find in standard travel guides. We would love to put together a tailor-made trip for you, with cozy boutique hotels and B&Bs, local tips and an itinerary that completely suits your needs and travel style. Get inspired and request your personalized Canary Islands travel proposal today!

what to do Tenerife sights
Gran Canaria Highlights

Frequently asked questions about the Canary Islands

Are you planning a vacation to the Canary Islands for the first time? Then you might run into some questions. To help you on your way, we have answered some frequently asked questions about traveling to the Canary Islands below.

The Canary Islands consists of a group of 7 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, belonging to Spain. The islands are located off the coast of Africa, off Morocco. These are the 7 Canary Islands:

  1. Gran Canaria
  2. Tenerife
  3. Lanzarote
  4. Fuerteventura
  5. La Palma
  6. La Gomera
  7. El Hierro

To travel to any of the above islands, it is common to catch a plane from the Netherlands. There are (almost) daily connections between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the airports on Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Want to get from one Canary Island to another? Then you can use a ferry or a domestic flight. 

The Canary Islands have a pleasant climate suitable for vacations all year round. The climate is subtropical with mild temperatures and little precipitation.

Generally, during the summer months, from June to September, it is warmest and sunniest. The average temperature then often exceeds 30 degrees Celsius. This is also the high season and one of the busiest times to travel to the Canary Islands. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, travel in spring (March - May) or autumn (October - November). The weather is still pleasant, with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.

Even in the winter months (December - February) it is pleasant to visit the islands. The temperature is usually between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. You have a chance of many sunny days, but there is also a greater chance of rain showers.

The Canary Islands each have their own unique charm, so what we really want to say is that they are all worth discovering. Below we explain what makes the islands different from each other and therefore unique:

  • Gran Canaria - the island has a particularly diverse landscape, from sand dunes to mountainous areas and lush forests.
  • Tenerife - the largest island naturally known for its beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes (Teide) and an atmospheric nightlife.
  • Lanzarote - unique for its man-like landscape and black beaches.
  • Fuerteventura - popular among water sports enthusiasts, especially windsurfers and kitesurfers.
  • La Palma - you will find lush vegetation, volcanic craters and can see a beautiful starry sky. The island for hikers and nature lovers.
  • La Gomera - here too you will get your fill as a nature lover. Especially in the Garajonay National Park, which is also on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
  • El Hierro - the smallest and most remote island you visit for its rugged coastline, crystal clear waters and cool dive sites.

It is definitely recommended to rent a car, especially if you want to explore nature and less touristy places. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, a rental car easily gets you to beautiful viewpoints, secluded beaches and charming inland villages. We usually book our rental cars through Sunnycars, because then you will be fully insured immediately and not have any surprises.

More inspiration for Spain

The Canary Islands are the place for sun, nature and variety. And especially in spring and autumn, they are wonderful islands, as you have the greatest chance of pleasant temperatures and sunshine here. Do you prefer another Spanish destination? Then get inspired by our tips for other Spanish pearls, such as the versatile Mallorca, the cozy Málaga and the charming coastal town of Cadaqués in Catalonia. Spain is full of surprises!