Fondly known as the islands of eternal spring, the Canary Islands are as close as you can get to Hawaii without leaving Europe. These volcanic islands enjoy a blissfully warm subtropical climate throughout the year, making them a great choice if you’re looking to shake off the snow and enjoy some glorious winter sunshine.
During your 14-day Canary Islands trip, you’ll have the chance to discover just how diverse the landscape of the Canaries really is. From wind-swept black sandy beaches that stretch on for miles and sleepy fishing villages that time forgot to lush jungles home to mysterious hidden walking trails and urban cities that will make you feel like you’re in Madrid or Barcelona, there’s absolutely loads to explore here.
Compiling your own travel itinerary can be a big challenge. Especially if you’ve never been to the place you’re visiting before. There are so many must-see places in the Canary Islands that it can feel overwhelming just getting started.
To help you out, we’ve done a lot of the hard work for you and have put together a fun-filled guide you can follow to explore the very best that the Canary Islands have to offer. We’ve also added some tips to help you get off to a great start before you even book your flight!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
Two Weeks in the Canary Islands
Preparing for the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands form part of the EU. So as long as you plan on spending fewer than 90 days within the archipelago, you don’t need a visa to travel to the Canary Islands. All you need is a passport that’s valid for at least three months following your planned departure date from the Canary Islands. Your passport also needs to have been issued within the past 10 years.
The above information is true for most countries, including the US, but not all of them. To be safe, check official sources to find out exactly what paperwork you need to travel before leaving home for your 2-week trip to the Canary Islands.
The Canary Islands’ currency is the euro. It’s possible to exchange your money for euros before you travel. But it’s a better idea to wait until you arrive on the islands before getting euros. All you need to do is go to an ATM and withdraw the cash directly from the machine. Getting euros this way is reliably cheaper than exchanging your money.
If you don’t want to use cash at all, you don’t have to. Almost everywhere, from tiny minimarkets to fine dining restaurants, accepts all major credit cards, with the exception of American Express.
Things to Know Before You Go
If you speak Spanish and you want to try to talk to the locals during your 2 weeks in the Canary Islands, you may struggle a little. While they do speak the same variety of Spanish that locals do on the mainland (Castellano/Castillian), they’ve got a distinct dialect that can be difficult to understand.
To make it worse, each island has its own dialect with its own slang words! Don’t worry too much about it. A lot of locals on the island speak at least basic English, so you shouldn’t have too much of a problem.
Most people in the Canary Islands have an extremely laid-back attitude. When your waiter tells you they’ll be back “in 2 minutes” with your bill, don’t be surprised if they take more than 10 minutes. Get used to being on Canarian time, and you’ll have a much more chilled-out vacation.
Avoid doing anything important in the middle of the day, on Saturday afternoons, or any time on Sunday. Many important businesses, such as banks, pharmacies, post offices, and supermarkets, close between 1 pm and 5 pm on weekdays, from 2 pm onwards on Saturdays, and all day on Sundays. Use the time to get out into nature and enjoy the gorgeous landscape.
Getting Around the Canary Islands
Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may find it a little tricky to get to the Canary Islands. We recommend you fly to Tenerife South Airport because this airport has the most connections to the rest of Europe. If you’re planning a big European trip, try to end up in Barcelona or Madrid before visiting the Canary Islands. You’ll find it easy to fly between the islands and these two cities.
There are no ridesharing companies in the Canary Islands, and taxis can be pricey. Public transport (buses and trams) are an option, but they can often be very infrequent and unreliable.
Because of this, we recommend flying into your starting airport and renting a car. Gas is very affordable in the Canary Islands compared to a lot of other places in the world. There are also very low-cost ferry routes that go between many of the islands several times each day.
Renting a car and moving between the islands via ferry allows you to be flexible with your schedule and carry all your stuff without worrying about paying extra for baggage.
Canary Islands Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights
Tenerife North – 2 nights
The north of Tenerife is the first stop on your Canary Islands itinerary. This part of the island is blanketed in lush greenery, dotted with hidden villages, and home to some of the most spectacular volcanic beaches you’ll ever see if your life.
Things to do in Tenerife North
Mount Teide
Start your 2-week trip to the Canary Islands with a visit to Mount Teide. The highest peak in Spain, this impressive volcano and the surrounding landscape look like something you’d find on an alien planet, not a subtropical island.
Guachinches
The north of Tenerife is where you’ll find “guachinches.” These are small Canarian restaurants that dish up great local food for less than the loose change in your pocket. We suggest checking out Guachinche Como En Casa.
Loro Parque
Loro Parque is, without a doubt, one of the top places to visit in the Canary Islands for animal and plant lovers. Or, for something a little less touristic, go hiking in the Anaga Mountains. This is one of the most stunning parts of the island, with trails ranging from 30 minutes up to 8+ hours.
Getting To Tenerife North
The easiest way to get to Tenerife North is to fly into Tenerife Norte-Ciudad de La Laguna Airport from mainland Spain or one of the other Canary Islands. There are cheap flights leaving from Barcelona and Madrid several times each day.
After you arrive in Tenerife North, we recommend you rent a car. Car rentals and gas are incredibly affordable in the Canary Islands. Driving yourself is the cheapest, quickest, and most convenient way to get around.
Where to stay in Tenerife North
If you’re craving a bit of urban life, consider staying in Santa Cruz. This is the island’s capital city and is the liveliest place in the north of the island. The biggest vacation resort town in Tenerife North is Puerto de la Cruz. Here you’ll find loads of great hotels and attractions with a more laid-back vibe than the resorts in Tenerife South.
For a unique experience, stay in La Laguna. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Laguna is full of stunning buildings and beautiful parks with a distinctly local, Canarian feel.
Tenerife South – 2 nights
The most popular vacation destination in all the islands, the south of Tenerife boasts luxury resorts, dazzling beaches, and world-class attractions. Because the island is so compact, you can easily visit rural Canarian villages, mystical forests, and breathtaking viewpoints after just a short drive.
Things to do in Tenerife South
Siam Park
Tenerife South is home to so many of the best Canary Islands attractions that you’ll be exhausted after the end of your second leg! Siam Park, voted the best water park in the world for more than seven years running, is an absolute must-visit. If high-speed watercoasters aren’t your thing, there are plenty of beaches where you can enjoy a chilled-out day in the sun. Playa del Duque is one of the best.
Boat Tour
Tenerife is an amazing place for wildlife, so hop on an eco-friendly boat tour and go searching for whales and dolphins. When you need time to unwind, head to the bohemian surfer resort town of El Medano and barhop while enjoying the gorgeous views.
Getting To Tenerife South
The easiest way to get from Tenerife North to Tenerife South is to simply drive there. If you decide against renting a car, hop on the bus. While a taxi is convenient, the trip will be very expensive.
Where to stay in Tenerife South
As Tenerife South is mostly a purpose-built vacation resort, there are plenty of fantastic places to stay. Costa Adeje is in the center of the region and boasts countless hotels, cafes, bars, restaurants, and stores. For something a little more laid-back, we suggest the older and more peaceful area of Los Cristianos.
If you want to get away from the tourist areas, consider staying in La Tejita. This neighborhood has a very local vibe and is home to the largest natural beach in Tenerife.
La Gomera – 2 nights
One of the smallest Canary Islands, La Gomera feels like a place that time forgot. This clandestine island is one of the best places in the Canary Islands, home to a never-ending number of hiking trails and viewpoints. Very few people speak English here, so brush up on your Spanish before you go!
Things to do in La Gomera
Garajonay National Park
The best 2-week Canary Islands itinerary has to include hiking in La Gomera. The island is blanketed in thick, verdant forests that hide trickling waterfalls, centuries-old bridges, and fountains that boast some of the purest water you’ll ever drink. Whether or not you plan on hiking, the Garajonay National Park is a magical place to visit, with a labyrinth of trails, picnic and BBQ areas, and a visitors center.
Abrante Viewpoint
For an awesome view, visit Abrante Viewpoint. Here you’ll find a glass platform you can step out onto and gaze 1,300 feet below you, across the ocean and all the way to Tenerife. To get a little closer to the ocean, spend a lazy day at the volcanic beach at Valle Gran Rey.
Getting to La Gomera
If you’ve decided to rent a car, you can reach La Gomera from Tenerife South via ferry. Fred Olsen is the fastest and cheapest ferry service, with several connections every day between Los Cristianos in Tenerife South and San Sebastian in La Gomera.
If you’re using public transport, you can fly from Tenerife South Airport to La Gomera Airport with Binter. The flight goes via Gran Canaria. So even if you don’t have a car, we still recommend you travel via ferry for a speedier journey.
Where to stay in La Gomera
San Sebastian is the main city in La Gomera. Here you’ll find a decent selection of bars, cafes, and restaurants, which are all within walking distance. Valley Gran Rey is the biggest vacation resort on the island, although it has a much more serene and local vibe than anything you will have experienced in Tenerife.
La Palma – 2 nights
La Palma is where you’ll find some of the most stunning places to see in the Canary Islands. Fondly nicknamed “La Isla Bonita” (the Beautiful Island), La Palma is filled with misty forests, dramatic volcanoes, and a spectacular coastline.
The island was recently devastated by a volcanic eruption that lasted months. Although everything has settled down now and it’s completely safe to visit today, you can still see the remarkable aftermath of the natural destruction.
Things to do in La Palma
Start your La Palma adventure by hopping in your car and heading for one of the best places to go in the Canary Islands. The volcano that erupted (Cumbre Vieja) is located in the southern center of the island. Drive anywhere in this area, and you’ll be surrounded by giant mounds of ash the volcano left behind.
Salinas de Fuencaliente
When you need a breath of fresh air, head to the coastline and visit Salinas de Fuencaliente. This fascinating place shows you how salt is harvested from the sea and used to make all kinds of wonderful products. If you’d prefer something a little sweeter, visit Quesería Luna de Awara and Bodegas Carballo for some cheese and wine tasting.
Roque de Los Muchachos
La Palma is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. End your visit to the island with a guided tour to Roque de Los Muchachos, where you’ll learn about everything in the night sky.
Getting to La Palma
You can reach La Palma from La Gomera by taking the Fred Olsen or Naviera Armas ferry. Both ferry lines operate between San Sebastian in La Gomera and Santa Cruz in La Palma. Alternatively, you can fly with Binter between La Gomera Airport and La Palma Airport.
Where to stay in La Palma
Llanos de Aridane is the most built-up part of La Palma, with the most cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and stores. It’s very central, and staying here makes it easy to travel anywhere on the island. If you want to chill out somewhere and enjoy plenty of beach time, Tazacorte is the place for you. This small coastal village has black sandy bays and one stunning upmarket hotel.
Gran Canaria – 2 nights
Part desert and part tropical paradise, Gran Canaria is where you’ll find some of the best places to visit in the Canary Islands. The second most popular of the Canaries, after Tenerife, Gran Canaria has it all. From wild, rugged landscapes and beaches that stretch on for miles to amazing family attractions and stunning coastal villages, you’ll have a great time here.
Things to do in Gran Canaria
Maspalomas Dunes
Start off the Gran Canaria leg of your journey with one of the best things to do in the Canary islands – the Maspalomas Dunes. Located in the south of the island, these undulating mountains of sand will transport you to a remote desert in an instant. For something a little less dry and arid, check out Poema del Mar. This amazing aquarium is packed with enough exhibits to keep you entertained for hours.
Poema del Mar
Whether you’re in the mood to explore or relax, Las Canteras Beach is a great place to visit. Here you can lounge under the sun on the soft golden sand or take a walk along the promenade that stretches on for 2 miles.
Mogan
If you’ve got time, check out the resort town of Mogan. With gorgeous bougainvillea, rippling canals, and cute bridges, this place is as close as you can get to Venice without leaving the Canary Islands.
Getting to Gran Canaria
To get to Gran Canaria from La Palma, simply hop on the ferry at Santa Cruz. In a few hours, you’ll arrive at the Port of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria. A quicker option is to fly from La Palma Airport in La Palma to Las Palmas Airport in Gran Canaria.
Try not to get confused with the similar names! This journey takes less than one hour, although you’ll have to drop off your rental car in La Palma and pick another one up in Gran Canaria.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria
If you’re seeking a lively vibe with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, plan to stay in Maspalomas or Playa del Ingles. You’ll find loads of evening entertainment here, as well as gorgeous hotels and dazzling beaches. For something a bit more peaceful, we suggest Puerto de Mogan, San Agustin, or Puerto Rico.
While there are still plenty of dining options and beaches at these resorts, they’re slightly more upmarket and peaceful. Check out our picks for the best hotels in Gran Canaria.
Fuerteventura – 2 nights
Not as developed as Tenerife and not as primitive as La Gomera, Fuerteventura is figuratively nestled comfortably in the middle of the two. While the island is home to some of the best cities to visit in the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is best known for its dramatic sand dunes, rugged coastline, and spectacular conditions for all kinds of watersports. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you want to surround yourself with nature while still being just a short walk away from civilization.
Things to do in Fuerteventura
Caleta de Fuste
For an experience you’ll never forget, head to Caleta de Fuste and go swimming with sea lions. The port in this resort is home to three friendly sea lions who love showing off their skills and playing with visitors. For more animal antics, dry off and take a gentle stroll along the coastline. Keep a look out, and you’ll spot countless cute chipmunks hiding and playing among the rocks!
Corralejo Natural Park
The must-visit attraction in Fuerteventura is the Corralejo Natural Park. With giant golden sand dunes that stretch into the sky, this part of the island is an excellent place to snap some amazing photos.
Majorero Cheese
When you need a break from all the sightseeing, visit one of the island’s many cheese museums. Fuerteventura is famous for its delicious Majorero cheese, which is something you’ve absolutely got to try.
Getting to Fuerteventura
Getting from Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura is easy if you’ve got a rental car. Simply drive to the Port of Las Palmas and hop on a Fred Olsen or Naviera Armas ferry. In just a couple of hours, you’ll arrive at Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura.
If you want to avoid the ferry, you can also fly between the islands. There are several cheap flights every day connecting Las Palmas Airport in Gran Canaria with Fuerteventura Airport (also known as El Matorral Airport).
Where to stay in Fuerteventura
Corralejo is the liveliest place to stay in Fuerteventura. This part of the island is home to luxury hotels and small boutique inns, as well as great beaches, cool cocktail lounges, and trendy restaurants.
For something a bit more tranquil, consider staying in El Cotillo or Caleta de Fuste. These peaceful resort towns boast gorgeous beaches and natural volcanic swimming pools, as well as a good number of fish and seafood restaurants. Check out our picks for the best hotels in Fuerteventura.
Lanzarote – 2 nights
Last up on your Canary Islands itinerary is Lanzarote. This stunning island was formed by a volcanic eruption 180 million years ago and, as a result, has a spectacular landscape full of surprises. The coastline is dotted with luxury vacation resorts and gorgeous beaches, while inland, you’ll find incredible volcanic scenery and some of the most beautiful cities in the Canary Islands.
Things to do in Lanzarote
Timanfaya National Park
If you only do one thing in Lanzarote, you’ve got to visit the Timanfaya National Park. Here you can surround yourself with a phenomenal alien-like landscape created over millions of years. You can also stop by El Diablo restaurant and have your food cooked using the heat of a volcano!
When you’ve had enough of mountains and volcanoes, head to the coast. If you want to stay on top of the ocean, try your hand at surfing in Famara. If you’d rather get underwater, go diving and discover the very first underwater museum in Europe.
Jardín de Cactus
Not a fan of water? Stay on dry land and discover thousands of plant species at the Jardín de Cactus. Or visit the César Manrique Foundation and check out the amazing house where the famous local artist used to live.
Getting to Lanzarote
The final leg of your journey is just as simple as the others. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are extremely close. Hop on a Fred Olsen or Naviera Armas ferry in Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura, and in 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Arrecife Port in Lanzarote.
If you’d rather catch a plane, you can fly from Fuerteventura Airport to Lanzarote Airport (César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport). But there are no direct flights – you have to fly via Gran Canaria. Because of this, we definitely recommend catching a ferry. It’s both quicker and cheaper.
Where to stay in Lanzarote
If you’re visiting Lanzarote as a family, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are great places to stay. These resort towns are in the middle of all the action, home to great hotels, bars, restaurants, shops, and beaches.
Consider staying in Famara if you’re an avid surfer and you want to catch some waves. This part of the island always has amazing surfing conditions. Or, for a little bit of peace and quiet, consider the laid-back resort of Haria. Check out our picks for the top boutique hotels in Lanzarote!
There you have it! That’s our perfect 2-week Canary Islands itinerary. Where will you be traveling on your trip to the Canary Islands?
SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST
