Itineraries in Lanzarote: what to see in 3, 5, 7, 10 days or more?

After sharing all the things to see and do on the island, it’s time to move on to an essential step in planning your vacation: itineraries in Lanzarote. When you start preparing your trip, you quickly realize one thing… There are many places to discover on this volcanic island. And even though Lanzarote isn’t very big, it’s far from being visited in the blink of an eye.

On my end, I spent a full week there, and honestly, I didn’t see the time go by. Between volcanic landscapes, beaches, lava tunnels, white villages, vineyards in the middle of ash fields, and excursions to La Graciosa, each day had its share of surprises and felt like a real change of scenery. Every time, I was more and more amazed!

What I found particularly impressive is the constant contrast in the landscapes. In just a few kilometers, you go from an almost lunar setting to a seaside atmosphere, then to agricultural land surrounded by volcanoes. What also struck me is that it’s an island that is at once raw, wild, and peaceful, where each region has its own charm.

You’ve probably guessed it by now, the goal of this article is to offer you several itinerary ideas in Lanzarote, depending on the length of your stay: 3, 5, 7, 10 days or more. Of course, I’m basing this on my personal experience on site to share the must-sees as well as some more discreet spots. That way, you can pick and choose to prepare your itinerary with everything that appeals to you the most.

By the way, we’ve also put together a complete guide on: what to do in Lanzarote. You can rely on that one too! In any case, whether you opt for a long weekend or a longer road trip, Lanzarote has plenty to offer. Now all that’s left is to organize and fine-tune everything!

We agree, quite a few visitors only give Lanzarote a few days, just enough for a long weekend. It’s true that it’s small and that you can already get a nice overview in 3 or 4 days. But if you really want to discover it in depth and not feel like you’re missing out, I recommend staying longer. As I mentioned, I stayed for a week and not only did I not get bored, but it also gave me time to soak up the island’s atmosphere.

It’s peaceful, you feel relaxed as if in another world, far from daily life, and that feels good! For me, it was the right timing to recharge and especially to go at my own pace while taking in the different landscapes that Lanzarote offers: volcanoes, natural pools, raw beaches, unique vineyards, lava tunnels, natural works, white villages, and so much more! Not to mention that I dedicated a full day to the island of La Graciosa, which is only a few kilometers off the coast of Lanzarote.

In short, I think you get the idea: Lanzarote hides beautiful things and above all unique ones. There are some you can’t see anywhere else, I promise! Come on, I’ll tell you more right away so you can organize your schedule on site.

As I was saying, traveling to Lanzarote for a long weekend of 3 or 4 days is short but doable. It will already give you a great overview of the island and its charm. It might even make you want to come back a second time. In just a few days, you’ll have plenty to discover its volcanic landscapes, its most beautiful beaches, and a few protected and unique sites. And in my eyes, it’s a great option to feel a real change of scenery without even leaving Europe. So, without making you wait any longer, here’s the itinerary I recommend for 3 or 4 days in Lanzarote:

Day 1: Arrecife, south coast and Papagayo beaches

To start gently, I recommend beginning with Arrecife, the capital. No need for a full day; it can be done in a few hours. Contrary to what you might think, it has kept its local and authentic feel. I recommend doing everything on foot; it’s a small, human-sized capital. I’ll take the opportunity to share what I enjoyed most in the city: Charco de San Ginés, Castillo de San Gabriel, the seaside promenade, Playa del Reducto, ending in a small local restaurant!

In the afternoon, head south to reach the famous Papagayo beaches and Playa Mujeres. In my opinion, these are the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote. Plus, they’re located in a protected park, Los Ajaches. They’re hidden in a desert-like setting worthy of a movie, which I really loved. I even recommend staying for sunset; you’ll see, it’s even more beautiful with the light on the ochre cliffs.

Day 2: Timanfaya National Park and the volcanic coast

You’ve surely already heard of Timanfaya National Park. That’s normal—it’s the volcanic heart of the island. For me, you can’t come to the island without going there. It’s a real favorite of mine and even exactly what I had imagined. The viewpoints over the Fire Mountains, the lava fields, and especially the panoramas with red, black, and golden hues are just incredible. To explain the visit a bit more, you start with the panoramic bus tour, which is well done and interesting thanks to the explanations of what you see along the way, and you finish with the geothermal demonstrations, which are always impressive. Be sure to allow a few hours on site, unless you arrive early before the crowds.

To round out this very volcanic day, I then recommend driving along the southwest coast, stopping at:

• Los Hervideros
• Las Salinas de Janubio
• then Charco Verde in El Golfo: the famous green lake surrounded by black volcanic rocks, which was a real favorite of mine

All of these spots are just a few minutes’ drive from one another, so make the most of it! I’d even say this day counts among my favorite places on the island!

Day 3: North of the island, Jameos del Agua and wild beaches (or La Graciosa)

On the third day, the scenery changes completely as you head north. You can start with Jameos del Agua, which is a very well-known place on the island. It’s one of the works of César Manrique, the island’s artist, who once again combined architecture and nature. Right next door, there’s also Cueva de los Verdes, which is just as impressive and also signed by this artist.
Then, I suggest two options:

• either head down to Famara beach for a wild, surf-and-cliffs atmosphere,
• or go for a day trip to La Graciosa (if you still have some energy), for an ultra-nature escape between deserted beaches and golden sand.

Honestly, I loved both, so I can’t really help you decide this time, haha. The choice is yours!

Day 4 (optional): Teguise, La Geria and a gentle ending

If you stay 4 days, don’t worry—a more relaxed day awaits you. You can enjoy the morning strolling through the village of Teguise. It’s the former capital of the island and has real charm. You’ll have plenty to wander through the cobbled streets and historic center, especially if you come on Sunday, which is market day.

Then, you can head toward La Geria to discover the vineyards planted right in the middle of volcanic ash. It’s a very beautiful landscape! Needless to say, this is the only place where you’ll find such vineyards. And to end your stay on a high note, you can choose one last beach or one last sunset in Playa Blanca or on the west coast.

So, over 3 or 4 days, I’ve suggested a fairly packed program that’s totally doable thanks to the short distances. But it will already give you a good idea of the wonders of Lanzarote. For more options, know that we’ve written an article on itinerary ideas for 3 days in Lanzarote.

5 days in Lanzarote already gives you more time to explore the island without rushing, at your own pace, leaving room for your desires. For the first 2 days, I would keep exactly the same as in my previous suggestion, namely:

• Day 1: Arrecife + south coast and Papagayo beaches
• Day 2: Timanfaya National Park & volcanic coast
• Day 3: North of the island – Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes and Famara

Head north with the magical visit to Jameos del Agua, followed by Cueva de los Verdes. In the afternoon this time, I recommend going to Famara beach and staying until sunset. I’m almost sure you’ll love the moment!

For the rest, here’s what I suggest:

Day 4: The island of La Graciosa

Many travelers don’t take the time to go to the island of La Graciosa, and I think that’s a shame. I’d even say something is really missing without it. I truly loved my day on the island, which was completely unexpected. It feels like stepping back in time, with no paved roads and very isolated places on the island. But I find it beautiful to see that nature has kept its rights and that the landscapes are simply magnificent. It also makes you think. And believe me, you really need a full day to see the island’s must-sees, including: Caleta de Sebo, Playa de las Conchas, Playa Francesa, Montaña Amarilla, Playa del Salado, etc.

Day 5: Teguise + Las Grietas + La Geria

I suggest starting with the village of Teguise, which I mentioned above, and then heading to Las Grietas. If you’re not familiar with them, these are volcanic fissures that you can visit from the inside. It’s quite impressive, and access is free so you can really enjoy it. These fissures are truly among my favorite spots on the island. To end the day in complete peace, cross the La Geria region with its famous vineyards. Once again, you’ll be faced with unique landscapes, and you can even stop at a bodega to taste local wine.

So, 1 week in Lanzarote—that’s starting to get really, really good! Personally, that’s how long I stayed, and it was ideal. I was able to discover the island with some calmer days and others that were busier; it was a great balance for me. So, ready to discover all of this? Without too much suspense, I suggest keeping the first 5 days exactly the same as in the previous itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrecife + south coast and Papagayo beaches
• Day 2: Timanfaya National Park & volcanic coast
• Day 3: North of the island – Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes and Famara
• Day 4: The island of La Graciosa
• Day 5: Teguise + Las Grietas + La Geria

For what comes next, we’re not stopping there:

Day 6: Viewpoints and wild beaches in the north

For this second-to-last day, why not discover another side of Lanzarote, completely different from the rest of the trip. It’s a more isolated, raw, and quiet area, but also more natural. I recommend starting with Mirador del Río, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the entire island. You’ll have an incredible view over La Graciosa, which you visited just before. You can then head back down toward the small, very peaceful port of Órzola, and then on to Caletón Blanco. This beach is really unique, with its black rocks forming natural pools surrounded by white sand. You can either swim or simply admire the scenery. If you see that the sea is fairly calm, you can also go to Playa de la Cantería, an even wilder beach—very beautiful but much more exposed to the wind. You’ll see, it’s a calmer and very pleasant day!

Day 7: Last day according to your wishes

For your last day in Lanzarote, after a busy week, I have several options to suggest depending on what you feel like doing:

• First option: go hiking around Caldera Blanca. It’s one of the best hikes in Lanzarote. The climb gradually gets steeper, but the view from the top is a great reward. It’s a real feast for the eyes!
• Second option: a more culture-oriented day, with for example the César Manrique Foundation or the Cactus Garden. These two iconic places help you better understand the island’s history and the importance of artist Manrique on the island.
• Third option: a true relaxation day with beach, restaurants, shopping, returning to Famara or heading south depending on your mood. Sometimes, it feels good to end a trip without a very defined plan.

(For some, 10 days in Lanzarote may seem like too much, but I think it allows you to alternate between relaxed days and busier ones. You’re getting used to it now—I recommend keeping the program from the first 7 days that I already presented. For the remaining 3 days, you can keep one beach day, one activity day to go diving in Lanzarote, try paragliding over the island, or go on a quad excursion. And for your last day, I recommend doing a hike in Los Volcanes Park. You see, there’s always something to do on the island, even in 10 days and even though it’s not the biggest of the Canary Islands.)

There’s no right or wrong answer, but I’ll help you choose how long to come to the island based on what you’re looking for. Personally, I found that one week was the ideal timing to visit the island without rushing. The landscapes flow by and change quickly—you can go from lava fields to turquoise beaches in just a few minutes. It’s a constant visual treat! This stay also allowed me to vary my activities and give myself moments of rest. I can assure you that Lanzarote is worth it and truly unique. So, take your time! And if you’re limited by time, as you’ve seen, there are still beautiful things to discover in 3 and 5 days in Lanzarote. It will be like a preview to make you want to come back and discover the rest of the island of volcanoes. Or maybe it will be enough to make you never want to leave. I met quite a few expats who chose to stay in Lanzarote and make their life there. You never know! To get back to the main question, it’s up to you to decide. You can’t go wrong—the island adapts to all types and lengths of stay.

We’re getting to the practical part of itineraries in Lanzarote. This is where we’ve compiled all the questions we’re asked most often. It should really help you!

You probably already know that Lanzarote is becoming increasingly well-known and even trendy as a destination. As a result, there are several direct flights from France, Belgium, and Switzerland, especially during high season. Plus, these flights are often operated by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, or Vueling. That’s an advantage for finding reasonably priced tickets. In general, the flight lasts between 3.5 and 4.5 hours—it doesn’t seem like it, but it’s not exactly next door. Of course, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find good deals.

Lanzarote is also well connected to the other islands by ferry, especially with Fuerteventura (which is right next door—you can see the coast from the south of Lanzarote), which is very convenient if you want to combine several islands during your trip. In short, getting to Lanzarote is simple, quick, and often affordable, whether by plane or by boat. You won’t have any trouble getting there!

I’ll warn you right away: the best way to get around Lanzarote is by car. The island isn’t very big, the roads are perfect, and it’s actually pleasant to drive all over the island. And then, nothing beats freedom on vacation—at least in my opinion! You can access beaches, volcanoes, and even the most isolated spots. You’ll be able to enjoy Lanzarote without limits! Personally, I went through Discover Cars to rent my car, and everything was perfect.

But of course, you also have other options such as:

• Buses (guaguas): there’s a pretty decent bus network on the island that connects the main towns with tourist areas. Plus, it’s the cheapest way to get around the island. But it requires a bit more organization and patience—they’re not always on time, haha. In my opinion, it’s worth considering if you’re staying in town.
• Taxis: you’ll easily find them around major towns like Arrecife, Playa Blanca, and Puerto del Carmen. They’re convenient for short trips but can add up quickly if you use them for all your transportation.
• Bicycles: a good solution in certain areas, especially for sporty travelers, as you’ll have to pedal against the wind, the heat, and some elevation changes.
• Organized excursions: if you don’t plan to rent a car and prefer to be guided, this is a good option to visit Timanfaya, La Geria, Jameos del Agua, or La Graciosa. It’s convenient, but of course more structured and less flexible.

In short, it all depends on your travel style. If you want to be free, flexible, and fully enjoy the island, the car remains the best choice. If you’re traveling in a relaxed way or on a small budget, buses and excursions are sufficient. For more info, we’ve dedicated a full article to the topic: how to get around in Lanzarote.

Rest assured, you can come to Lanzarote at any time of the year. Its climate is both mild and sunny. It rarely rains. It’s a safe bet for a family trip, a getaway with friends, or a couple’s vacation! To give you a quick overview of the seasons to visit Lanzarote:

• Winter (December to February): when winter settles in back home, Lanzarote is a great destination to take a sunny break away from the cold. It’s also a good time for hiking and visiting the island without it being too hot. However, prices rise quickly during the Christmas holidays.
• Spring (March to May): I’d say this is the perfect balance between mild temperatures, a bit of greenery (yes, even in Lanzarote!), and water that’s nice enough for a swim.
• Summer (June to August): unsurprisingly, there are many tourists at this time. It’s also very hot, but the winds make the heat bearable. It’s still doable!
• Fall (September to November): this is the season I chose for several reasons—the temperatures are ideal and prices become reasonable again after summer. The high-season crowds are already gone, so I was able to enjoy Lanzarote peacefully and to the fullest.

If you’re still unsure, feel free to check out our article on the best times to travel to Lanzarote.

For anyone wondering, you can truly eat very well in Lanzarote. There’s everything from small local spots to more touristy restaurants. I naturally recommend prioritizing local restaurants—that’s where I tasted the best dishes. The cuisine is simple, hearty, and often based on fish and local products, usually accompanied by papas arrugadas and mojo. These are what are known as guachinches. Special mention goes to the local restaurants in the village of El Golfo. I ate fresh fish and seafood paellas there, all with a magnificent view of the ocean.

There are also other towns like Arrecife, Playa Blanca, and Órzola that are full of great fresh fish restaurants. So don’t hesitate! In short, you won’t be short of good places to eat in Lanzarote, whatever your budget or travel style. Between small local restaurants, grilled fish facing the sea, and trendier spots, you’ll definitely find something to enjoy.

Know that there are all kinds of accommodations in Lanzarote, from the most budget-friendly to the most upscale. I’ll give you a few examples right here:

Higher budget

Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa: a superb seaside hotel in Playa Blanca, with several pools, restaurants, and a perfectly located spot right next to the beach. It’s simple—you come here for comfort and the ideal atmosphere to disconnect.

Mid-range budget

Caybeach Sun: a pretty nice and well-located hotel complex in Playa Blanca, with several pools, a water area for children, and practical apartments with kitchens. As a bonus, it offers excellent value for money, a warm atmosphere, and much more!

Affordable budget

Hostal Residencia Cardona: a simple, clean accommodation right in the heart of Lanzarote’s capital. You’ll be perfectly located between the beach and the city center at a reasonable price.

To discover more options, we’ve dedicated a full guide to the best accommodations in Lanzarote.

We’ve come to the end of this guide on itineraries in Lanzarote. I hope it helps you plan everything and, above all, enjoy all the must-sees in Lanzarote. Plus, it’s always available to you—you can come back to it several times.

If you’re planning to visit the main island of the Canaries, we’ve also written about itineraries in Tenerife. The goal is the same as here, so don’t hesitate to use it!

See you very soon for more discoveries in Lanzarote.

Written by Laura CALLES

Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to discover the Canary Islands, specifically Tenerife and Lanzarote, so that I could share these island paradises with you. Two real favorites of mine!

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