boat trip tenerife to lanzarote

• Ferry from Tenerife to Lanzarote

Tickets, Prices & Schedules

• Ferry Tickets
• Ferry routes

Ferry schedules

Is there a ferry from tenerife to lanzarote.

Yes, there is an indirect route from Tenerife to Lanzarote, including a stopover at the port of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria . There are normally  daily ferry crossings all year round, operated by Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express .

Tip : ferry timetables are subject to change depending on the season. You can find real-time information about your trip for the Tenerife - Lanzarote route on Ferryhopper.

What’s the ferry schedule from Tenerife to Lanzarote

Usually, the earliest ferry leaves from Tenerife to Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) at around 06:00 , while the latest departure is scheduled at 19:30 .

The ferry from Gran Canaria to Lanzarote then usually departs at 23:50 , reaching Lanzarote at 06:30.

Ferry Tickets, Offers & Discounts

How much is the ferry from tenerife to lanzarote.

Ferry tickets for the indirect Tenerife - Lanzarote route start at around €174 in total . Tenerife (Santa Cruz) - Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) are at around €75, while Las Palmas - Lanzarote (Arrecife) tickets start ar around €99.

The final cost depends on available offers and discounts, seat type and vehicle selection.

Discover the best available ferry deals and offers for Spain  on Ferryhopper. Find real-time information about ferry routes, compare fares and offers, and book your ferry tickets  to the Canaries on Ferryhopper at the best prices !

Note that current offers are automatically applied when booking your ferry tickets.

Find all  special discounts  on Ferryhopper, including the  Canary Islands resident discount reaching up to 75-85%, and book cheap ferry tickets to Lanzarote!

Some passenger categories entitled to discount tickets are:

• Children (4-11 years old)
• Young travelers (<26 years old)
• Senior travelers (60+ years old)
• Residents of the Canary Islands

Note : infants and toddlers up to 3 years old normally travel free of charge .

Ferry Route Info

How long is the ferry ride from tenerife to lanzarote.

The duration of the Tenerife - Lanzarote ferry route normally ranges from 11 hr to 22 hr , depending on the crossings your pick, waiting time, and the weather conditions.

The ferry from Tenerife to Gran Canaria takes 1 hr 45 in  on average, while the Gran Canaria - Lanzarote connection usually lasts 6 hr 40 min .

Is there a high-speed ferry from Tenerife to Lanzarote?

Yes, you can find high-speed ferries traveling from Tenerife to Lanzarote. The shortest ferry connection lasts around 11 hr.

What’s the distance between Tenerife and Lanzarote?

The distance between Tenerife and Lanzarote is approximately 148 nautical miles (274 km).

Note that the distance between the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is around 51 nautical miles (94 km), and the distance between Las Palmas and the port of Arrecife in Lanzarote is approximately 119 nautical miles (221 km).

Ferry Trip Tips

Useful tips for your ferry trip to lanzarote from tenerife.

Here are some travel tips for your trip from Tenerife to Lanzarote:

• The port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the busiest in the Canary Islands. We recommend arriving at least  1 hr before departure, especially if you are traveling with a vehicle.
• The port of Arrecife in Lanzarote is close to many of the island's popular resorts and accommodation options.
• Check out our Lanzarote travel guide for more vacation tips and useful information about the island.
• From Lanzarote, you can easily travel to other neighboring islands of the Canaries, such as La Graciosa and Fuerteventura. Find all available ferry routes on Ferryhopper and the best tips for your island-hopping trip in the Canaries .
• For even easier and faster bookings, download the Ferryhopper App for free!

Where to take the ferry from Tenerife to Lanzarote

You can travel by ferry to Lanzarote from the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife , in the capital of the island. The city is located in northeastern  Tenerife , about 15 km from the Tenerife North Airport and approximately 60 km from the Tenerife South Airport.

Bus 20 takes you from Tenerife North Airport to Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 25 min. To get to the capital from Tenerife South Airport , you can catch bus 10 . The ride takes around 50 min.

Can I travel on the ferry from Tenerife to Lanzarote with a car?

Yes, most ferries to Lanzarote from Tenerife have car decks and transport vehicles.

Bear in mind that car spaces can run out fast, especially in high season, so we recommend booking your car or motorcycle tickets well in advance .

Ferry luggage

Each ferry company has its own baggage allowance policy :

• Naviera Armas allows each passenger a maximum of 4 luggage pieces , weighing up to 60 kg in total. It also offers trolleys to help passengers transport their luggage.
• On Fred. Olsen Express , you can carry up to 20 kg of luggage free of charge. The company also offers trolleys to transport your bags and lockers for €1. Keep in mind that you can only have 1 piece of luggage in the lounge in addition to your handbags.

Yes, you can book a cabin on your Tenerife - Lanzarote trip for a more comfortable journey. More specifically, you can book a cabin on Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) - Lanzarote (Arrecife) ferries, and on the overnight Tenerife - Gran Canaria ferry. 

Note that  onboard seating is included in the ticket price.

You can travel with your pet on all Tenerife - Lanzarote ferries, as long as you include the pet in the booking .

Pets are normally allowed in seating areas, as long as they weigh up to 10 kg and stay in a carrier . They are also allowed on the outside decks. When outside their carriers, pets should wear a leash .

Tip : make sure you carry your pet’s updated health certificates and any necessary supplies you might need during the trip.

Book cheap ferry tickets from Tenerife to Lanzarote

Check out all available ferry connections in the Canaries on our Map of ferries , compare schedules and prices, and book ferry tickets from Tenerife to Lanzarote online on Ferryhopper easily and quickly !

• How to book?
• EUR (€) GBP (£) NOK (kr) USD ($)
• Have your say

Ferry to Lanzarote

The best crossings and routes to arrecife and playa blanca (image).

FerryGoGo » Spain » Ferry to Lanzarote

Arrecife-Las Palmas

Playa Blanca-Corralejo

Arrecife-santa cruz de tenerife, cadiz-arrecife, the ferries that get you to lanzarote.

Lanzarote is the closest Island to mainland Spain and for some travelers also a good ferry start-location if you seek to travel to the Canary Islands from Spain . This guide however skips the chapter on getting to Lanzarote from the mainland but focuses on traveling to Lanzarote from the other Canary Islands.

• From Tenerife to Lanzarote (currently there is only an indirect / not attractive route possible from Tenerife!)
• From Las Palmas / Gran Canaria to Lanzarote
• And the (fast) Corralejo to Playa Blanca connection that gets you from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote.

The other islands do not have a direct connection, if you want to travel from La Palma, La Gomera, or El Hierro then you need to first travel towards Los Cristianos ( Tenerife ) and from there on onwards you can travel to Lanzarote. Be careful though: Don't underestimate the distances between the Canary Islands . These indirect ferry routes are not that attractive. 

You may also like:

• All Canary Island ferries
• From Spain to Canary Islands
• To La Palma
• To Fuerteventura
• To Tenerife
• To La Gomera
• To El Hierro
• To Gran Canaria

Map with all ferry routes to Lanzarote

The routes from Spain (Cadiz and Huelva) are excluded from this overview since we have a specialized guide for this: Getting from Spain to the Canary Islands . For Lanzarote, the connection from Cadiz is a very interesting one though! Be sure to check that one out if you want to go from Spain to the Islands.

Check availability and compare prices

An easy way to find a good price is by filling in the fields below:

Travel tip: Last ship back? Be there in time

If you want to go for a day trip towards Fuerteventura or Lanzarote and at the end of the day you want to go back with the operator you booked: Sometimes these ships can be very full. So be there in time and if you plan to go on the latest boat: this can be risky!

Also on this page

From gran canaria to lanzarote, ferry from fuerteventura to lanzarote, ferry from tenerife to lanzarote, to conclude: lanzarote connections, frequently asked questions ferry to lanzarote, ferry talk: share your questions and opinions.

From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Arrecife is quite a long connection, in 6 hours however you will arrive at Lanzarote when you leave from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. You'll be traveling with Naviera Armas on the Ciudad de Ibiza. Which is above all a cargo ship with passenger seats instead of a passenger ship with cargo options. =) Not very luxurious but ok if you don't have very high expectations. 

Gran Canaria ⇔ Lanzarote (Arrecife)

This is what we call a cool ferry connection.  This route is very popular for day trips from or to Fuerteventura.  There are 3 companies sailing on this route from Corralejo to Playa Blanca: Armas, Fred Olsen and Lineas Romero:

• Fred Olsen, with the Bocayna Express is there in 25 minutes.
• Armas with the Volcan de Tindaya is there in 35 minutes.
• Lineas Romero with the Don Juan is there in 30 minutes.

There is not a huge difference between these ferries and ferry companies, since it's only a short time we would recommend just booking the ferry that has a good time for you. In terms of cost they are also more or less the same.

 Fred Olsen Ferry getting ready for docking in Tenerife.

Fuerteventura ⇔ To Lanzarote

While many websites and booking engines regarding ferry trips show direct connections between Tenerife and Lanzarote this is currently not the case . You have to travel indirectly with a stopover in Gran Canaria. This makes this trip a very long option: 10 hours to go from Tenerife to Lanzarote. 

If you want to ferry hopping from Tenerife and you are considering Lanzarote, we would recommend going to Fuerteventura instead.

Tenerife ⇔ Lanzarote

Google Maps is not listing all the accurate connections and also several booking engines are behind on the true connections from and towards the lovely island of Lanzarote. A few things you should know before we conclude:

• North of Lanzarote there is a small island called La Graciosa, you can visit this Canary Island on a day trip from Lineas Romero. You have to depart from Orzola. (in the North of Lanzarote)
• There is no  direct connection between Arrecife and  Puerto del Rosario. 
• There is no direct connection between Arrecife and Tenerife.

And then to finally conclude:

Lanzarote is a top destination from Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Spain . The indirect connections are not something we can advise you to do. If you go ferry hopping on the Canary Islands: Lanzarote is not the best option to end or start. Mainly due to the distance between Arrecife and Tenerife. However, if you want to do this and want to visit 4 islands, this is the best route to go for:

Start: Lanzarote -> Fuerteventura -> Gran Canaria -> Tenerife -> La Gomera -> Tenerife . (Fly or Ferry back) The total ferry cost of this route between the islands would be around € 600. 

From Corralejo to Playa Blanca is a fast connection used a lot for day trips from one island to the other. With multiple sailings every hour there isn't a connection near Lanzarote that can compete with these numbers.

Armas and Fred Olsen are the big companies, there is however also a smaller ferry company active: Lineas Romero.

There are two harbors: Arrecife and Playa Blanca. These harbors will bring you to most destinations.

In August it's difficult, all parking spaces(except a few in Arrecife center) are free though so if you manage to find a spot you don't have to pay for it. 

On all ferries in the Canary Islands dogs are allowed on the ferries. Also on the ferries from and to Lanzarote.

Ask, answer, and explore ferry routes with the community's expertise!

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Smooth sailing with the FerryGoGo ferry guides to your dream destinations. Discover the perfect ferry routes with our interactive maps and essential travel insights.

About | Contact | Disclaimer  | Privacy & cookies

🌐 Deutsch      🌐 Dutch

FerryGoGo aims to make ferry travel accessible and easy for everyone. We believe that by providing you with the most accurate and reliable information on ferry routes, we can help you discover new destinations and create unforgettable experiences.

• Ferries to Spain 
• UK to Norway ferry (Indirect)
• Ferries to France from the UK / England
• Ferries to Ireland (from the UK)
• Avoid Seasickness
• Ferry Companies 
• #1 Alaska Interactive Map
• To Portugal ! (from UK)
• Ferries to the Netherlands 
• 2 Maps: Ferry to Paris 
• Dover Calais Ferries
• Significant Drop (-22%) in Rental Car Prices Across Europe
• This is what you’ll spend this summer on a ferry crossing.
• Tinos: sunny and spiritual
• Historic ferry crossings from the UK to Scandinavia
• Can I take the dog to the UK?
• Follow us on 𝕏

• Tenerife Tourism
• Tenerife Hotels
• Tenerife Bed and Breakfast
• Tenerife Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Tenerife
• Tenerife Restaurants
• Things to Do in Tenerife
• Tenerife Travel Forum
• Tenerife Photos
• Tenerife Map
• All Tenerife Hotels
• Tenerife Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Tenerife
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Boat trips to lanzarote - Tenerife Forum

• Europe    
• Spain    
• Canary Islands    
• Tenerife    

Boat trips to lanzarote

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Canary Islands forums
• Tenerife forum

So it would not be cheap

The other choice {island wise} is La Gomera....

http://www.tenerife-excursions.co.uk/Gomera.htm

Thanks for reply flash that's just what I was looking for

Short of flying, I would have thought that La Gomera is the only island feasible for a day trip.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Protests in Tenerife 9:42 am
• Taxis 9:03 am
• Mobility scooter - so nervous 7:38 am
• Rooftop bars 4:59 am
• Parking at the Casablanca apartments 12:35 am
• Pueblo Torviscas yesterday
• Iberostar Selection Sabila Hotel- building works yesterday
• Trips near Mynd Adeje? yesterday
• Trouble yesterday
• Teide transport Apr 20, 2024
• Restaurants mid range Apr 19, 2024
• Are children allowed in pubs/bars Apr 19, 2024
• Aircraft Noise Apr 19, 2024
• Are sandals suitable for Tenerife? Apr 19, 2024
• Weather in Tenerife in February 3 replies
• Where to stay in Tenerife? 2 replies
• What is the best part of Tenerife 4 replies
• Which island for best weather in November? 20 replies
• Looking for a nice beach front hotel ?? 4 replies
• tenerife at christmas 9 replies
• Best area 12 replies
• Drink prices. your view 10 replies
• Still looking 12 replies
• gay bars in south 32 replies

Tenerife Hotels and Places to Stay

• List of Medical facilities and practitioners in Tenerife
• Where are the Hospitals and Clinics in South Tenerife ?
• Can I swim with Dolphins at Aqualand

•   Tours
•   What to do
•   Areas Playa Blanca Puerto del Carmen Costa Teguise

Boat trips in Costa Teguise

Boat tours in Costa Teguise

Tour to Isla de Lobos + dolphin watching

Enjoy some dolphin watching and an excursion to Lobos Island

Free cancellation : up to 24 hours in advance.

Duration: 5,5 hours

Tour days:  Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Harbor of Departure: Pier of Puerto del Carmen.

Pick up areas : Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, Puerto Calero and Arrecife.

Sunset and dolphins cruise

Enjoy a boat tour to see the sunset and some dolphins.

Duration: 2,5 hours.

Tour days: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Harbor of Departure: : Muelle de Puerto del Carmen.

Yellow Submarine tour

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime underwater adventure with the Yellow Submarine in Lanzarote

Duration: 1 hour.

Tour days: from Monday till Saturday.

Harbor of Departure: Puerto Calero pier.

Pick up areas: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.

La Graciosa catamaran trip

Enjoy a fun and relaxing day on the nearby La Graciosa Island. This experience will undoubtedly be one of the most endearing memories of your holidays in Lanzarote.

Harbor of Departure: Puerto de Orzola pier.

La Graciosa boat trip - 5,5 hours

Visit the La Graciosa Island, the eighth island of the Canary Islands, and enjoy 2 pleasant boat trips on an unforgettable day.

Duration: 5 hours

Tour days: From Monday till Saturday.

Pick up areas : Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, Puerto Calero and Arrecife

Sunset catamaran cruise

Enjoy one of the most relaxing moments of your holidays in Lanzarote on this catamaran trip to see dolphins and watch the sunset.

Duration: 2 hours.

Tour days: Tuesday. Thursday and Saturday.

Harbor of Departure: Puerto del Carmen marina.

Papagayo boat trip

Enjoy one of the funniest moments of your visit to Lanzarote in the boat trip that will take us from Puerto Calero to Playa de Papagayo, the most beautiful of the island.

Duration: 4 hours

Tour days: see in tour information.

Departure from: Puerto Calero pier.

Pick up areas: Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen.

Boat Trips Costa Teguise

Check all the Lanzarote boat trips and book them online. If you want to be picked up, please indicate the name of your hotel in Costa Teguise during the booking process. If you are staying in other tourist areas, please read the boat trips from Playa Blanca and the Puerto del Carmen boat trips options. Most of the boat excursions are the same.

Is there a dock in Costa Teguise?

No, that’s why all the boat trips leave from other coastal areas in Lanzarote, the ones that have a dock. However, you can enjoy every one of the boat trips since they all have pick-up points near your Costa Teguise accommodation.

Can I make a sunset boat trip from Costa Teguise?

Yes, there is a sunset boat trip from Costa Teguise , or rather, one that has pick-up points in this area, although the boat trip leaves from the Puerto del Carmen pier.

Can I see dolphins from Costa Teguise?

Yes, there are different boat trips to see dolphins in Lanzarote with pick up in Costa Teguise.

Can I take a boat trip from Costa Teguise to Fuerteventura?

Yes, you can do a day trip from Costa Teguise to Fuerteventura to see the center and north of the neighboring island. The transfer from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura is done by boat from the Playa Blanca dock, in southern Lanzarote, and the Fuerteventura tour begins in Corralejo, which is the place where the boat docks in the north of the island.

What other excursions are there in Costa Teguise?

You can find all the Costa Teguise excursions at this link.

What other things can I do in Costa Teguise?

Please, read all the things to do in Costa Teguise here.

Ferries from Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Santa Cruz De Tenerife

Navigation Route

Passengers selection, vehicle selection, navigation route inbound, book your ferry from arrecife (lanzarote) to santa cruz de tenerife with netferry.

Book your ferry from Lanzarote to Santa Cruz De Tenerife with our Canary Islands ferry search platform. Book your ferry crossing to Santa Cruz De Tenerife from Lanzarote in just a few steps and find all the information you need including prices , travel times and timetables .

The Lanzarote Santa Cruz De Tenerife line is covered exclusively by NAVIERA ARMAS">Naviera Armas who carry out 4 trips per week with mainly afternoon and evening boardings and crossing times ranging between 10 hours and 16 hours. This route is served by ferries allowing cars, motorbikes, campers and trucks. Once on board, you will find bars, shops and self service restaurants to make your crossing more relaxing and comfortable. Cabin accommodation allows you to rest with peace of mind.

Don't miss the chance to come aboard, fill the form above and choose your ferry and travel with ease, thanks to NetFerry services!

Ferry Operators

Naviera armas.

4 weekly sailings

Duration: 10 hours

Alternative routes

Alternative routes to santa cruz de tenerife.

• Ferries from Agaete (Gran Canaria) to Santa Cruz De Tenerife
• Ferries from Las Palmas De Gran Canaria to Santa Cruz De Tenerife
• Ferries from Morro Jable (Fuerteventura) to Santa Cruz De Tenerife
• Ferries from Puerto Del Rosario (Fuerteventura) to Santa Cruz De Tenerife
• Ferries from Santa Cruz De La Palma to Santa Cruz De Tenerife

Alternative routes to the Canary Islands

• Ferries from Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Las Palmas De Gran Canaria
• Ferries from Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Puerto Del Rosario (Fuerteventura)
• Ferries from Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Santa Cruz De La Palma

Port of Arrecife (Lanzarote)

Arrecife is the main port on the island of Lanzarote, which is also known as the port of Los Marmoles. Cruise ships and ferries dock here daily connecting with the other islands of the archipelago, Cadiz and Huelva. The port is a 30-minute walk from the city center. Originally the port was for fishing and later with the development of tourism, it became one of the major ports in the Canary Islands, especially for the transport of goods and goods. The port of Los Marmoles is about 38 km from Playa Blanca along the LZ-2 road and 37 km from and Orzola via the LZ-1 road which runs along the coast.... [ More information ]

Address: Av. de los Marmoles, 35500 Arrecife, Las Palmas, Spagna

Directions: Google Map @ Arrecife (Lanzarote), port

Guide of Santa Cruz De Tenerife

Santa Cruz is the Capital of the island of Tenerife and is located on the north-eastern side of the island. This cheerful and captivating city is well known for its festivals and celebrations, including the famous carnival. Places to visit Santa Cruz is very green and full of parks and gardens, so is a great place to enjoy long walks. Santa Cruz has many places of artistic and architectural interest, from ancient buildings to works of modern and contemporary architecture. In addition to the parks, Santa Cruz has many beautiful churches, the Mother Church of Our Lady of the Conception or the Ch... [ More information ]

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Want to learn more about your trip from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE?

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="1"> How long is the crossing from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE?

The duration of the crossing from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE is usually 16 hours with NAVIERA ARMAS. Travel times may vary depending on the date and time of departure.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="2"> How many crossings are there per week from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE?

The ferry operator NAVIERA ARMAS carries out 4 weekly itineraries. The number of crossings may vary depending on the time of year.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="4"> How much is a ferry ticket from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE?

The price of the ticket from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE varies according to the date and time of departure and the offers available at the time of booking. Our website always gives you the best available price. Book now and save .

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="5"> Can I take my car on the line from ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) to SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE?

The ships that operate on this route allow vehicles onboard.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="6"> Looking for information on the return journey?

If you are looking for information on your return journey, click this link Ferries from SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE to ARRECIFE (LANZAROTE) .

Do you need help? Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions or need clarification.

Lanzarote or Tenerife: An Honest Comparison To Help You Decide!

W ith excellent beaches, a subtropical climate, volcanoes, and viniculture, the Spanish Canary Islands have blossomed into a major tourist destination, and for good reason too. The short flights make the Canaries a firm favourite with northern Europeans seeking winter sunshine, and the islands present a family-friendly, affordable getaway with plenty to do. But how do you decide which one to visit? That’s where we can help!

Tenerife is the largest island in the group, and it welcomes tourists by the tens of thousands every year to visit its spectacular beaches and lively nightlife – which is often considered better than Lanzarote’s nightlife. It offers lush forests, exotic fauna and flora, deserts, mountains, volcanoes, stunning coastlines and idyllic beaches.

Lanzarote is smaller, less busy, and a bit more peaceful than Tenerife, and is known for its volcanoes, lava fields, vineyards, and stunning beaches. The landscape is often compared to Mars, and its waters are excellent for surfing and scuba diving – that’s why it’s nickname the ‘Hawaii of Europe’.

Below we’re going to dive deep into all the similarities and differences between Tenerife and Lanzarote to help you make the perfect choice for your next vacation.

We compare their beaches, hotels, nightlife, expenses, and even more. All to help you choose your next vacation destination!

Which Is Easier To Get To?

Which is easier to get around, which has the best vibe, which is better for beaches, which is better for snorkeling & scuba diving, which has the best nightlife, which has the best hotels, which is best for families, which is cheaper, what time of year is best.

• Our Final Thoughts

As two islands in the Atlantic Ocean, it’s going to take a flight to get you to the Canary Islands. The good news is that both islands are well-served by a plethora of flights from all over Europe. Flights arrive from a multitude of European airports, including many of the smaller regional airports outside the European capital cities.

Tenerife, as the largest of the Canary Islands, has two international airports – Tenerife North and Tenerife South. Between them, these two airports receive more than 15 million passengers per year, with Tenerife South handling two thirds. The southern airport handles flights from some major airlines, such as Lufthansa and British Airways, and the northern airport is more focused on budget travel and charter flights, with the latter being busier in the summer.

Lanzarote only has one solitary airport, situated just outside the island’s capital of Arrecife, but Lanzarote is about half the size of Tenerife. Lanzarote Airport welcomes a little over seven million passengers each year to the island’s shores.

The two islands are relatively easy to get around once you arrive. Both have well-maintained roads and public transport options, and car hire is reasonably priced.

Upon arrival in Lanzarote, you will need transportation to your hotel. Many visitors travel on a package tour, and the airport transfer is usually via coach and is included in the package. If you are an independent traveler, you may need to make these arrangements yourself.

There is no public bus running between the airport and the island’s major tourist towns. But there is a public bus service from the airport, but it is very limited and only goes to the island’s capital – Arrecife – and back to the airport again. In this case, it may be better to take a taxi or arrange a private airport transfer with your accommodation.

The limited bus services on Lanzarote makes the option of hiring a car appealing. The cost of a daily rental is around €15-20 per day. This will also give you the most freedom to explore the island at your own pace.

Conversely, the airport links in Tenerife are a little better. The main bus operator on Tenerife is Titsa, and they run several routes connecting the two airports with the main tourist destinations across the island.

Tenerife also has a few more bus operators running bus routes across the island. Some of them are geared towards tourists and link the major towns together. However the reality is the buses can be time-consuming with lots of waiting time, but the island is also well served by taxis to take you around.

Car hire on Tenerife is similarly priced to car hire on Lanzarote, and is a great option on those days when you plan to venture a little farther away from your accommodation. Especially to places in the countryside like the famous picturesque mountain village of Masca (see picture below).

As two major players in the European tourism industry, both islands have busier built-up areas with a larger concentration of hotels, bars, and restaurants. But also, both islands have a quieter, more tranquil side. But of the two, bigger and busier Tenerife probably has the more lively vibe – more on that later.

Lanzarote, being a little smaller, is perhaps a little more peaceful and will be better for nature lovers and couples. Surfers will also prefer this island due to the fantastic water sports and surf, while Lanzarote is also well worth visiting for those who enjoy rugged landscapes and beaches.

On both Tenerife and Lanzarote, the south and east are devoted to traditional Spanish package holidays – sun, sea, and sangria. Whereas the north and west of these two islands are a bit more laid back and appeal more to the independent traveler looking for a chilled vibe.

The main resort area of Tenerife is centred around its southern coast, between Costa Adeje and El Medano , close to the southern airport. Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas are the two best known areas and are both well-equipped with resort hotels, huge beaches, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re more into nature than nightlife, the north-east region around Santa Cruz and the Parque Rural de Anaga might suit you better. These areas are closer to the northern airport, so be sure to choose your flights carefully.

Lanzarote has a similar split in the vibe it gives off. The main tourist drag stretches from Playa Blanca in the southwest, along the coast to Costa Teguise in the east. The island’s airport is roughly halfway along this stretch of coastline, close to the island’s capital, Arrecife . If you are looking for big hotels with pools, English breakfasts, and jugs of sangria, then the vibe in the south of Lanzarote will be perfect for you.

The more tranquil north of the island is best for those looking for hiking or surfing, and a more local, chilled vibe. The Parque Natural de los Volcanes and the Parque Nacional de Timanfaya offer stunning scenery and some excellent hikes and treks (see photo below). The town of Caleta de Famara , to the west, is popular with surfers and has a younger crowd, but is still relatively chilled.

Recommended: The Best Hiking Trails On Lanzarote For Views & Fun!

Whichever island you choose, you can rest assured that there will be excellent beaches waiting for you upon arrival. For both islands, the main tourist beaches are concentrated around the southern coasts. There are plenty of options if you are looking for somewhere to top up the tan.

In general though, Lanzarote’s beaches are a little more rugged than Tenerife, but they have lots of character, and there are plenty to choose from.

For Lanzarote, perhaps the pick of the bunch are Playa de Papagayo and Playa Mujeres in the southwest of the island. Take your snorkeling gear with you, and you may just spot a turtle! The windier west side of the island is the place to look if you’re after a surf beach.

Tenerife’s best beaches are also towards the south. Playa de las Americas is the island’s most popular beach, but it can be a little congested in peak seasons. As with Lanzarote, the northern beaches are a little more rugged and characterful. The northern beaches have blacker, volcanic sand, are backed by impressive cliffs, and are a little less crowded than the southern beaches.

All-in-all, both Lanzarote and Tenerife have some great and varied beach options for you to enjoy.

The southerly position of the Canary Islands, off the coast of Morocco, makes it one of the best scuba diving locations within the EU and the islands are subsequently popular amongst European divers.

The water temperature rises from around 20 degrees Celsius in the winter up to 25 degrees at the end of the summer. With sea turtles, stingrays, octopus, and moray eels all commonly seen, the diving can be very good. The area is also famed amongst divers as being a great place to spot angel sharks, and even the occasional manta ray!

As the islands are very close together, you will see similar marine life in both locations. And if you’ve never scuba dived before, the conditions on each island are ideal for learning, with protected bays offering warm, clear water and plenty to see.

With good chances of spotting turtles, the snorkeling in both locations is also very good. Due to the prevailing winds, the best snorkeling spots are along the southern and eastern coasts of both islands. The beaches in the west and the north can get a little too windy and wavy.

Playa Chica is one of Lanzarote’s most popular snorkel spots, as the conditions are very relaxed and snorkelers of all experience levels can enjoy the calm location.

El Puertito and Playa de Las Vistas are close to each other and are good snorkeling beaches, and there’s a good chance of spotting a loggerhead turtle in this area.

If a few nights of hard partying are on your agenda, you will be pleased to know that both Lanzarote and Tenerife have hedonistic sides that you can enjoy until your heart’s content. But, as the larger of the two islands, the party scene is perhaps a little better on Tenerife.

Tenerife’s main party zone is Playa de las Americas , in the south-west of the island. There are plenty of bustling bars and clubs here, so you can bar-hop and party the night away in style. But you don’t need to travel to this area every night if you want to let loose after the sun has set. Most of the tourist towns along the south coast enjoy a good party, and you will have no trouble having a good time after dark.

Lanzarote’s best party spots are shared between the capital, Arrecife , and Puerto del Carmen . Puerto del Carmen has lots of expat bars and English pubs to start your night off in, and some great clubs if you want to carry on into the wee small hours.

Whilst not quite in the same league as Ibiza , these two Spanish islands sure know how to throw a party too.

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote have plenty of variety and choices for accommodation. But you should factor in what type of holiday you are planning when choosing your hotel. 

Both islands offer accommodation to suit all budgets and needs. We’ll have a look at the best luxury hotels, family resorts, and budget options for each location below…

For a luxury option in Lanzarote, check out Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park and Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa .

Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park is situated a short walk from Playa Flamingo and offers impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean. This luxurious hotel is a thirty-minute drive from the airport and features four outdoor swimming pools, including one for children. There is a free gym and a sun terrace with sun loungers. The relaxing spa includes a sauna, a hammam, and a hot tub. See rates and photos here.

Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa is an adult-only resort in Puerto Calero, a little over ten kilometers from the airport. This hotel also boasts four heated outdoor pools, as well as a free gym and sports facilities. There is also an excellent spa for when you need a little pampering. See rates and photos here .

For an excellent family choice, the Relaxia Lanzasur Club – Aqualava Water Park should definitely be checked out. There’s a clue in the name as to why this is a winner with families. If you book at their all-inclusive rate, you will get unlimited access to the Aqualava Water Park! There’s a bar with live entertainment, and an on-site supermarket, and the gym and four pools ensure there’s always something to do. See rates and photos here.

If you are traveling on a budget, Cinco Plazas offers an excellent, affordable option. The hotel is located in Puerto del Carmen and has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a bar, gardens, an outdoor pool, and a children’s playground. See rates and photos here.

One of Tenerife’s top luxury options is The Hard Rock Hotel . The luxurious beachfront hotel set in the tranquil residential area of Costa Adeje features three swimming pools, a saltwater lagoon, and free WiFi throughout. There’s a spa, a fitness center, and a Hard Rock shop, in addition to several dining and entertainment options, a miniclub for children and teenagers, and a beach club. See rates and photos here !

Set around a shared swimming pool and a short walk from the beach in Adeje, Regency Torviscas Apartments and Suites offer apartments with sea views and are a great family option. The apartments feature a living room with a flat-screen satellite TV. This accommodation is under twenty kilometers away from the airport, and the Siam Park Waterpark is only three kilometers away. See rates and photos here .

For a more budget-friendly option in Tenerife, check out Endless Summer House . The property is located a couple of kilometers from the centre of Playa de las Americas and offers private rooms and dormitories with free WiFi. See rates and photos here.

Families have been enjoying holidays in the Canary Islands for decades now. And with good reason – they’re easy to reach; the temperatures are hot, but not too hot; there are plenty of familiar and new food choices; and, of course, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone happy and entertained.

Tenerife has a couple of amusement parks that are very popular with the children: Siam Park and Loro Park . Not to be completely outdone, Lanzarote has the Aquapark Costa Teguise . This huge water park has something for kids of all ages, with shallow pools and toddler slides for the younger children, and more fast-paced adrenaline-inducing rides for the older kids.

If you and your family enjoy experiencing the great outdoors, then there’s plenty to explore on each island too. From either island, you can head out into the Atlantic on a whale-watching trip for an unforgettable family experience, or if you prefer to stay on dry land, there are great hikes and volcanoes to enjoy. Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote is great for nature walks, as is the area around Spain’s highest mountain – Mount Teide – on Tenerife.

The myriad beaches on each island also have plenty of family activities to enjoy – snorkeling, pedalos, and banana boats are possible on both islands.

But Tenerife, as the larger island, may be better for family holidays as there are a few more activities to join in with, and more hotel choices to find the perfect one for you and the kids.

However all in all, both Tenerife and Lanzarote provide very similar family vacations.

Overall, the two destinations have similar prices for most things, and you would require a similar budget in either location, there are a few differences though.

Food and drinks are very similarly priced on both islands, but hotels can be a little higher on Lanzarote. Transport can also stretch the budget a bit more on Lanzarote, but the average price for excursions and entrance fees tends to be a little lower there than on Tenerife.

Whilst some things will cost slightly more on one island versus the other, these things tend to balance themselves out so that the overall spending will be similar in either location. And while budget is always an important factor when planning a dream holiday, if you are choosing between Lanzarote and Tenerife, you should focus on other factors as the difference between the two islands is not that significant.

Tenerife and Lanzarote are both considered year-round destinations. The weather will be warmer in the summer months, but the islands are also popular with North Europeans seeking some warmth during the winter months.

Due to the northeasterly winds, the northern shores of the two islands feel the temperature drop a little more than in the south of the islands during the winter, but average temperatures are still in the low twenties.

If you are traveling on a budget, being flexible with the dates can be a great way to save a bit of money. Avoid Christmas and school holiday times to get the best deals on flights and on accommodation.

Lanzarote vs Tenerife: Our Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the deciding factor on which island is better for your holiday is you. Both islands are fantastic holiday destinations, and neither will disappoint. The beaches on both islands are great for topping up the tan and for snorkeling, and the general amenities are of a similar standard. In general, both are good for hiking and scuba diving, and there are plenty of activities and excursions to join in either location.

Lanzarote, being a little smaller, is perhaps a little more peaceful and will be better for nature lovers and couples. Surfers will also prefer Lanzarote, and it’s perhaps better for those who enjoy rugged landscapes and beaches.

Tenerife, as the larger island, may be better for family holidays as there are a few more activities to join in with. Being busier, Tenerife will also appeal more to those seeking out a more vibrant nightlife, and the larger towns offer better shopping opportunities too.

Both Tenerife and Lanzarote are fantastic holiday destinations, and the heady mix of sun, sea, and sangria will ensure you have a great holiday, whichever one you choose.

Related Posts

The Best Canary Islands For Hiking: All 7 Main Islands Ranked!

Tenerife vs Cape Verde: The Honest Comparison You Need!

Fuerteventura or Tenerife: The Honest Comparison You Need!

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit sed.

Follow us on