Tips and Information For The Canary Islands

Are you in search of a beautiful destination to escape the cold and dreary winter months? Look no further than the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located off the coast of Africa. With its year-round warm weather, stunning beaches, and unique volcanic landscapes, this is the perfect place for a memorable vacation in Europe. In this blog, we’ll share with you some helpful tips and information for planning your Canary Islands trip.

Choosing Your Perfect Canary Island Vacation

The Canary Islands, Spain is an island archipelago that consists of seven main islands and multiple smaller islets, each with its own unique charm. Tenerife is the largest and most popular island in the Canary Islands, which is known for its lively nightlife and gorgeous beaches. Gran Canaria is famous for its incredible sand dunes and the wide variety of outdoor activities it affords visitors. Lanzarote's claim to fame is that it boasts fascinating volcanic landscapes and spectacular views. As each island is so unique and varied in what it offers visitors during their Spain travels, before you book your trip, make sure to research which island will best suit your interests.

When to Go: The Best Time to Visit the Canary Islands

Thanks to the Canary Island’s mild climate, any time of year is a good time to plan a Canary Islands visit. However, the peak tourism season in the Canary Islands runs from November to March, so if you’re looking for a quieter Canary Islands trip, consider visiting the Canary Islands during the summer months. The average temperature in the Canary Islands is around 25°C, making these Spanish islands the perfect destination for those looking for some warmth and sunshine.

Canary Islands Currency

The official currency of the Canary Islands is the euro. You can easily exchange money at Canary Islands banks or exchange offices, both of which are widely available throughout the islands. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in the Canary Islands, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and for tipping.

Electricity/Voltage

The standard voltage in the Canary Islands is 220-240V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The Canary Islands electrical outlets are two-pin plugs, so it’s a good idea to bring an adapter if you're traveling from a country that uses different types of plugs.

Canary Islands Language

Unsurprisingly, the official language of the Canary Islands is Spanish. However, due to the popularity of international tourism in the region, English and other languages are also widely spoken. This is great news for visitors, as you should have no problems navigating around and finding locals who can converse with you in your native tongue. 

What to Pack for Your Canary Islands Trip

As previously mentioned, the Canary Islands have a subtropical climate presenting mild temperatures year-round, which means you won’t need to pack any heavy winter gear when planning your vacation to this Spanish paradise! Instead, simply pack light and breathable clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. Also, add to your packing essentials list:

1. Sunscreen: With the strong sun and long hours of daylight present in the Canary Islands, it's essential to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.
2. Beachwear: Whether you plan on lounging on the beach all day or taking a quick dip in the ocean, don't forget to pack your swimsuit, beach towel, and flip-flops.
3. Walking shoes: The Canary Islands offers great opportunities for hiking and exploring, so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for all types of excursions.
4. Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, so consider bringing a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day as you explore all there is to see.
5. Hat and sunglasses: To shield your face and eyes from the sun, it is a good idea to pack a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses.
6. Travel adapter: As mentioned earlier, the Canary Islands use European plugs, so be sure to bring a travel adapter if your devices will need it for recharging.
7. Light jacket: While the weather is warm during the day, it can get cooler at night in the Canary Islands, so it is always smart to pack a light jacket or sweater for evenings out.

Public Transportation in the Canary Islands 

The most common form of public transportation in the Canary Islands, Spain is local buses. The local Canary Islands buses are affordable operate frequently, and take visitors throughout the islands. As for private transfers, taxis are also readily available, but they can be expensive. Some Canarian islands also have ferry services that travel between them.

Useful Contacts During Your Canary Islands Stay

If you need any assistance during your stay in the Canary Islands, listed below are some useful Canary Islands contacts:

• Emergency services: 112
• The Canary Islands tourist information office: +34 928 219 600

By following our expert Canary Islands recommendations on what to pack, where to go, and what to see, you're sure to have an amazing time exploring this beautiful Spanish island archipelago. So get ready to soak up the sun, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and create unforgettable memories. As always, we are here to help with all your planning needs. Have a wonderful Canary Islands vacation!