What to do in the Canaries: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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Le Teide, island of Tenerife

At the heart of the island of Tenerife stands the majestic Teide, an iconic volcano that dominates the Canary Islands landscape. Rising to an altitude of 3,718 metres, Teide is Spain’s highest peak and one of the largest volcanoes in the world.

When you visit Teide National Park, you’re transported to a lunar landscape unlike any other. Lava flows frozen in time, strange rock formations and craters offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past volcanic activity.

Climbing Teide is an unforgettable experience for hikers. You can climb its slopes and reach the summit to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to apply for a permit to access the summit, as it is restricted to preserve the environment.

Pyramids of Güímar

In the peaceful town of Güímar, on the island of Tenerife, lies a fascinating mystery: the Pyramids of Güímar. This enigmatic site is made up of six pyramid-shaped terraced structures built of volcanic stone, and has been puzzling archaeologists and history buffs for decades.

The pyramids are surrounded by a magnificent botanical garden, where you can discover a variety of exotic and indigenous plants. The entire site offers a unique experience, blending history, culture and nature.

The origin of the Güímar Pyramids remains a matter of debate. Some theories suggest that they were built by the indigenous Guanche peoples for astronomical or ceremonial reasons. Others speculate that they could be linked to distant cultures, such as the Egyptians or the Mayans.

La Laguna

Located on the island of Tenerife, La Laguna, also known as San Cristóbal de La Laguna, is a city with a rich and varied heritage that transports you back to Spain’s colonial past. Founded in the 15th century, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historical role.

As you stroll along La Laguna’s cobbled streets, you’ll discover historic buildings with colorful facades, majestic churches and charming squares. The University of La Laguna, founded in 1792, is one of the oldest in Spain and an integral part of the city’s heritage.

The Plaza del Adelantado is the heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings and quaint cafés where you can enjoy a local coffee. La Laguna Cathedral, with its Gothic and Baroque details, is a must-see for architecture fans.

Cueva del Viento

Located on the island of Tenerife, the Cueva del Viento is one of the world’s largest volcanic caves and a geological wonder to be explored. This spectacular cavern was formed thousands of years ago by lava flows from the Pico Viejo volcano, adjacent to the majestic Teide.

When you enter the Cueva del Viento, you enter a fascinating underground world, where winding galleries stretch for over 18 kilometers. Visitors can follow well-developed trails through this natural wonder, discovering unique geological formations, dark tunnels and impressive chambers.

Garajonay National Park

On the island of La Gomera, in the heart of the Canary Islands, lies an unspoilt natural treasure: Garajonay National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is an exceptional example of subtropical laurel forest, where nature reigns supreme.

The park takes its name from the island’s highest peak, Garajonay, which rises to 1,487 meters. The most striking feature of this park is the laurel forest, a dense forest of laurel, heather and ferns that creates an enchanting landscape. Well-maintained hiking trails let you venture into the heart of this enchanted forest.

Las Canteras Beach

Located on the magnificent island of Gran Canaria, Las Canteras Beach is a true Canary Island gem. With its three kilometers of golden sand bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, it’s not just a beach, but also a place to live, relax and enjoy for locals and visitors alike.

Las Canteras Beach is famous for its friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Stroll along the lively promenade, where you’ll find numerous restaurants, cafés and boutiques. Locals call this promenade the “Paseo de las Canteras”, and it’s a great place to sample local dishes, enjoy a drink on the terrace or go shopping.

One of the beach’s most emblematic features is the “Barra,” a natural rock formation that runs parallel to the coast. It’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, as it’s home to a variety of fish and other marine creatures.

Papagayo Beach

Located on the island of Lanzarote, in the Canary archipelago, Papagayo Beach is a true natural jewel. Nestled in Los Ajaches Natural Park, this beach is famous for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.

To reach Papagayo Beach, you’ll have to take a bumpy path through the hills of Los Ajaches, which adds a sense of adventure to your visit. Once you reach this pristine beach, you’re rewarded with postcard-perfect scenery.

Cueva de los Verdes

Located on the Canary island of Lanzarote, the Cueva de los Verdes is one of the archipelago’s most fascinating geological wonders. This volcanic cave, formed some 3,000 years ago during an eruption of the La Corona volcano, offers a unique underground experience.

During your visit to the Cueva de los Verdes, you’ll have the opportunity to explore impressive underground galleries, adorned with spectacular rock formations. The subtle lighting highlights the different colors and textures of the rocks, creating a mysterious atmosphere.

Cactus Garden

The Cactus Garden is home to over 1,400 species of cactus from all over the world. These succulent plants stand proudly in a lunar landscape, creating a striking contrast between their greenness and the aridity of the surrounding volcanic soil. You can admire cacti of all shapes and sizes, from the smallest to majestic giants.

The garden’s design is just as impressive as its cactus collection. Winding paths wind through cactus clumps, allowing you to discover every nook and cranny of this astonishing place. Wrought-iron sculptures, also by César Manrique, add an artistic touch.

The Cactus Garden offers magnificent views of Lanzarote’s volcanic mountains, creating a picturesque landscape that contrasts with the garden’s lush plant life. You can also visit a restored windmill, once used to grind grain.

Timanfaya National Park

The Canary island of Lanzarote is a veritable geological museum, and nowhere is this more evident than in Timanfaya National Park. This park offers a striking insight into the power of nature and the impact of volcanic eruptions.

The landscape of Timanfaya National Park is worthy of a distant planet. Black lava fields stretch as far as the eye can see, with rugged rock formations and volcanic craters creating a desolate but captivating panorama. The park owes its current appearance to a series of volcanic eruptions in the 18th century.

Sotavento de Jandía Beach

Located on the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary archipelago, Sotavento de Jandía Beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers and travelers in search of relaxation. This exceptional beach stretches for several kilometers along the south coast of Fuerteventura.

What makes Sotavento de Jandía Beach so special is its ever-changing landscape created by tides and wind. At low tide, vast stretches of sand are revealed, creating an ideal playground for walking, beachcombing and family activities. At high tide, the ocean gently laps the shore, offering superb opportunities for swimming and water sports.

Maspalomas Beach

Located on the magnificent island of Gran Canaria in the Canary archipelago, Maspalomas Beach is one of the region’s most emblematic seaside destinations. This exceptional beach is renowned for its vast strip of golden sand dunes, stretching for several kilometers along the coast.

The Maspalomas dunes are a protected natural site, creating a spectacular desert landscape in the middle of the island. The dunes offer a unique, almost Saharan experience, with their high sand ridges and wind-sculpted shapes. It’s the ideal spot for a picturesque sunset stroll.

Corralejo Beach

Located on the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary archipelago, Corralejo Beach is a popular seaside destination for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters and exciting water activities. Whether you’re into scuba diving, windsurfing or just looking for a relaxing day at the beach, Corralejo has it all.

The beach is famous for its fine golden sand, which stretches for several kilometers, offering abundant space for swimmers and sun lovers. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for families with young children.

Pilancones Natural Park

The landscape of Pilancones Natural Park is diverse, ranging from rugged mountains to deep canyons and plateaus covered in native vegetation. The park is a reflection of Gran Canaria’s fascinating geology, with amazing rock formations and lunar landscapes.

Well-maintained hiking trails criss-cross the park, offering visitors the chance to explore its hidden beauties. You can discover a variety of native plants, including Canary pines and endemic euphorbias. Nature lovers will be delighted to spot native birds, lizards and even majestic birds of prey.

Teresitas Beach

What makes Teresitas Beach so special is the unique sand imported from the Sahara, which creates a stretch of golden sand along the coast. The water here is a deep, clear blue, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The waves are generally gentle, making it suitable for families too.

The beach is bordered by a lively promenade where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, bars and stores. It’s the perfect place to sample delicious local cuisine, sip cocktails while watching the sunset or buy souvenirs.

Taburiente Caldera National Park

The Caldeira de Taburiente National Park is a natural treasure trove offering an unforgettable hiking and exploration experience. This massive caldera, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, is one of the Canary Islands’ geological wonders.

The caldera, which extends over 8 kilometers in diameter, is surrounded by steep mountains, sharp ridges and spectacular cliffs. It is the result of millions of years of volcanic activity, creating a breathtaking landscape where hikers can venture.

The village of Masca

Nestled in the mountains of the island of Tenerife, the village of Masca is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by travelers in search of adventure and natural beauty. Masca is famous for its spectacular location, traditional Canarian houses and breathtaking mountain scenery.

This picturesque village lies in a secluded valley surrounded by towering peaks, creating a picture-postcard setting. Masca’s houses are built in typical Canarian architectural style, with whitewashed walls and tiled roofs. As you stroll through its winding streets, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, discovering an authentic atmosphere.

Las Vistas Beach

Las Vistas is one of Tenerife’s most popular beaches, and no wonder. Its fine golden sand stretches for over a kilometer, providing ample space for swimmers and sunbathers alike. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for safe swimming, even for the youngest.

The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly, with numerous beach bars where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while taking in the ocean views. There’s also a lively promenade where you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.

Famara Beach

The Vatican Museum, located in the heart of Vatican City, is a priceless artistic treasure trove that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. This immense museum complex houses one of the world’s greatest collections of art and antiquities, assembled over the centuries by the popes.

Strolling through the galleries of the Vatican Museum, visitors can admire priceless works of art, including classical sculptures, Renaissance paintings, exceptional tapestries and ancient artifacts. The Sistine Chapel, world-famous for its grandiose frescoes by artists such as Michelangelo, is one of the museum’s highlights.

Puerto del Carmen Beach

Puerto del Carmen beach stretches for over 1.5 kilometers, offering plenty of space for swimmers, sunbathers and families. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal place to relax in the sun. The waves here are generally gentle, making it suitable for safe swimming.

The waterfront is lined with bars, restaurants and boutiques, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day and night. Enjoy delicious local cuisine, sip exotic cocktails or shop for souvenirs.