Do I need a visa to visit the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands follow Spanish visa requirements. EU citizens can travel freely. Non-EU citizens should check Schengen visa requirements based on their nationality.

What is the currency used?

Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.

Is English widely spoken?

English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic Spanish phrases enhances the experience, especially in local communities.

Are the Canary Islands part of the EU?

Yes, as an Autonomous Community of Spain, they are part of the European Union and Schengen Area.

What's unique about Canarian cuisine?

Features fresh seafood, papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauces, goat cheeses, and tropical fruits. Don't miss local wines from Lanzarote and Tenerife.

Varies by nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only ID. Many others (US, Canada, UK) can stay up to 90 days visa-free. Check with Spanish consulate.

What currency is used?

Euro (€). Credit cards widely accepted, but carry cash for small shops and taxis.

Can I drink tap water?

Generally safe, but taste may vary due to desalination. Bottled water is cheap and recommended.

What is the time zone?

Atlantic/Canary (GMT+0, +1 in summer) – one hour behind mainland Spain.

Are there dangerous animals?

No dangerous wildlife. Watch for jellyfish and sea urchins in water.

Do I need a rental car?

Recommended for exploring rural areas and hidden beaches. Public transport is good for main routes.

What is the best island for hiking?

La Palma, Tenerife (Teide), and La Gomera offer spectacular trails.

Yes, but heed red flags for strong currents. Many beaches have lifeguards.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, roaming within EU is free for EU citizens. Others can buy local SIMs.

What is the local cuisine?

Try papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh fish, gofio, and local wines.

Are there any festivals?

Carnival (February) is huge, especially in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas.

Canary Islands - Travel destination image

Canary Islands

Autonomous CommunitySpain, Europe

Canary Islands is a STATE in Spain, Europe.

The Canary Islands are a spectacular volcanic archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, offering year-round sunshine, diverse landscapes, and a unique blend of Spanish and African cultures. Known as the 'Islands of Eternal Spring' for their consistently pleasant climate, each island boasts its own distinct personality. Tenerife features Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide, a UNESCO World Heritage site with otherworldly landscapes and exceptional stargazing. Lanzarote captivates with surreal volcanic terrain and the visionary architecture of César Manrique. Gran Canaria offers dramatic sand dunes of Maspalomas alongside lush mountain villages. Fuerteventura provides Europe's best windsurfing beaches, while La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro offer pristine hiking trails through ancient laurel forests and volcanic craters. Beyond natural wonders, the islands celebrate vibrant festivals like Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, rivaling Rio's celebrations. Local cuisine blends fresh seafood with African influences, featuring specialties like papas arrugadas with mojo sauces and excellent local wines. Whether seeking adventure sports, relaxation on black or golden sand beaches, or exploring unique ecosystems, the Canary Islands deliver an unforgettable escape where European charm meets subtropical paradise.

Best time to visit Canary Islands

Year-round destination due to mild climate. Peak tourist seasons are December-April (European winter escape) and July-August (summer holidays). For ideal weather with fewer crowds, visit May-June or September-November. Spring (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Autumn (September-November) provides warm sea temperatures. Carnival season (February/March) is spectacular but requires early booking. Whale watching is best November-February. Hiking is excellent October-April when temperatures are cooler.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 23-27°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Mid

Pleasant; harvest festivals

Know before you go

Getting there

TFS

Tenerife South Airport

International

0 km away

TFN

Tenerife North Airport

International

0 km away

LPA

Gran Canaria Airport

International

0 km away

ACE

Lanzarote Airport

International

0 km away

FUE

Fuerteventura Airport

International

0 km away

Getting around

"Inter-island travel is primarily via ferries (Fred. Olsen, Naviera Armas) or domestic flights (Binter Canarias, Canaryfly). On larger islands, public buses (guaguas) are affordable and connect major towns but may have limited service in remote areas. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond resorts—major international and local rental companies operate at all airports. Taxis are metered and widely available. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in limited areas. In cities like Las Palmas and Santa Cruz, local buses are efficient. For hiking areas, specific bus services or guided tours may be necessary to reach trailheads."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

35 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from €5 (e.g., Vodafone, Movistar)

Calling code

+34

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty theft is the main concern; violent crime is rare.

Night safety

7/10

Petty theft is the main concern; violent crime is rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"The Canary Islands are generally very safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft in crowded tourist areas, beaches, and rental cars. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on beaches. Be cautious when hiking in volcanic areas—stay on marked trails, carry sufficient water, and check weather conditions. Some coastal areas have strong currents; heed warning flags on beaches. Road safety is good, but mountain roads can be narrow and winding—drive cautiously. Scams are rare but be wary of timeshare presentations with overly aggressive sales tactics. Emergency services are efficient and responsive throughout the islands."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Tourist Police

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are modern and widely available in urban areas and tourist centers. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to public healthcare. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up-to-date. Sun protection is crucial due to strong UV radiation year-round. Tap water is generally safe but often desalinated with a distinct taste; bottled water is widely consumed. Be cautious of strong ocean currents and waves when swimming. Pharmacies (farmacias) are well-stocked and staffed by trained professionals who can provide advice for minor ailments."

Culture

Local customs

"Canarians are generally relaxed, friendly, and welcoming. Greetings typically involve handshakes or two kisses on the cheek among acquaintances. Meal times are Spanish-style: late lunches (2-4 PM) and dinners (9-11 PM). Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory—rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is customary for good service. Dress is casual but modest when visiting churches or smaller villages outside resort areas. Respect local siesta traditions where some smaller shops may close midday. Try to use basic Spanish phrases—locals appreciate the effort. During festivals and religious processions, observe respectfully from a distance unless invited to participate."

SpanishCanarian Spanish dialects

Costs and practicals

Currency

Euro (EUR) · €

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a typical meal at a mid-range restaurant

Hotels

$60-120 | budget hotels range $40-80/night, mid-range $60-120

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ride ~€1.50

Cost notes

Prices vary by island; Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are slightly cheaper than Tenerife.

Timezone

Atlantic/Canary +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (GMT+1 during DST)

More facts

Population

2,200,000

Area

7,493 km²

Government

Autonomous Community of Spain with its own Parliament and President

ISO code

ES-53

Type

Autonomous Community

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Yr Ynysoedd Dedwydd, Ilhas Canárias, Inizi Kanaria;Inizi Eürus;Inizi Wenvidik, Kanaríeyjar, Illas Canarias, Canárias, Kanari, Îles Canaries, Канарские острова, Islas Canarias, De Kanariske Øer, Канарські острови, Canarias, Kanarische Inseln, Kanári-szigetek, Kanarieöarna, カナリア諸島州, Kanarski otoki, Canarie, Canàries, Kanaren, Ìzołe Canàrie, Inizi Kanariez, جزر الكناري, Tigzirin Tiknariyin, Canarische Eilanden, Kanariansaaret, Wyspy Kanaryjskie, Canary Islands, Канарскія астравы, Na hOileáin Chanáracha, Κανάρια Νησιά, Yr Ynysoedd Canarïa, ᎧᎾᏈ ᎤᎦᏚᏛ, Canaries, Kanariak, Kanárske ostrovy, 加那利群岛, Канары, ES-CN, Sancta Crux Nivariae, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Tenerifekoa, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Santa Cruz de Ténérife, Santa Krouth nte Tenerife, Santa Krus de Tenerife, Santa Kruz de Tenerife, Santa-Krus-de-Tenerife, Santa-Krus-deh-Tehnehryfeh, Santakrusa de Tenerife, TCI, Tenerife, Tenerifes Santa Krusas, Teneriffa, Tenerifės Santa Krusas, san ta kru sde te ne rife, santa kruja de teneriphe, santa krujha de teneripha, santa krusa de tenarifa, santa krws, santa krws dy tynyryfa, santa krwth dy tynyryfh, santa krwz dy tynyrf, santakeuluseudetenelipe, sheng ke lu si-de te nei li fei, snth qrws dh tnryph, Σάντα Κρουθ ντε Τενερίφε, Санта Круз де Тенерифе, Санта Крус де Тенерифе, Санта-Крус-де-Тенерифе, Санта-Крус-де-Тенеріфе, Санта-Крус-дэ-Тэнэрыфэ, סאנטא קרוז דע טענעריפע, סנטה קרוס דה טנריפה, سانتا كروث دي تينيريفه, سانتا كروس دى تينيريفا, سانتا کروز دی تینیرف, سانتا کروز ٹینرائف, سانتا کروس, सांता क्रुझ दे तेनेरीफ, सान्ता क्रूस दे तेनरीफ़, সান্টা ক্রুজ দে তেনেরিফে, ซานตากรุซเดเตเนรีเฟ, სანტა-კრუს-დე-ტენერიფე, サンタ・クルス・デ・テネリフェ, 圣克鲁斯-德特内里费, 산타크루스데테네리페

Capital CityMajor HubBeachVolcanic LandscapesHikingStargazingWindsurfingFamily-FriendlyHistoric CityWine Region