Canary Island Hopping Guide

What better place to go island hopping than the Canary Islands? This Spanish archipelago has seven main islands to explore, each with their own identity and diverse landscape. Whether you are after great nightlife, secluded beaches or breathtaking sunsets, the Canary Islands have it in abundance. No wonder it’s one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe.

Ferry to Canary Islands

If you are looking for a cheap and easy way of travelling around the Canary Islands, the ferry is your best option. With 45 ferry crossings to choose from all year round, you won’t struggle to find a ferry that suits your travel plans. There are many ferry operators available in the Canary Islands including:

• Fred Olsen Express
• Naviera Armas
• Lineas Maritimas Romero
• Naviera Nortour
• Ferry Isla De Lobos

Climb aboard and experience the Canary Islands like never before and at half the price. There are 17 ports in the Canaries that accommodate ferry travel, so sailings are very frequent throughout the year, especially from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. And don’t forget the magnificent sea views that you would otherwise miss if you travelled by plane.

Popular Canary Island Ferries

When it comes to ferries, you are spoilt for choice in the Canary Islands. Every island is accessible by ferry, with most departing from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Here are some routes to get you started on your island-hopping adventure.

Ferry from Tenerife to Gran Canaria

There is no better place to start your holiday in the Canary Islands than Tenerife. Located in the heart of the archipelago, Tenerife is the central hub for ferry travel. With a diverse landscape, this breathtaking island has something for everyone. If you are looking for a lively atmosphere and resorts, we recommend staying in the south of the island. While the north is much more tranquil, with scenic viewpoints like Mirador Risco Amogoje. However, the crowning glory of Tenerife is Mount Teide. Standing at 3,715 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Spain and can be accessed by foot or cable car.

When you are finished exploring in Tenerife, set sail for Gran Canaria on the Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas ferry. This route is available with Naviera Armas and departs up to 5 times per day. Depart from Santa Cruz de Tenerife port in the north of the island and arrive at Las Palmas in just 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Ferry from Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura

Your first stop in Gran Canaria should be Playa de Maspalomas, a stunning beach located next to the dunes with seafront restaurants nearby. You can also take a camel ride across the dunes to the mesmerizing nature reserve. Alternatively, you could visit Palmitos Park, a botanical zoo-themed park with exotic animals from all over the world. This is a perfect setting for families, with a variety of restaurants and cafés within walking distance.

Climb aboard the Las Palmas to Morro Jable ferry and arrive at Fuerteventura in 2 hours with Naviera Armas or Fred Olsen Express. There are approximately 15 weekly sailings departing from as early as 08:00 in the morning. If you don’t mind a longer ferry journey, take the Las Palmas to Puerto del Rosario ferry instead, which is located on the northeast side of the island.

Ferry from Corralejo to Playa Blanca

When you reach the bright shores of Lanzarote, you will be blown away by how much there is to do. If you want to relax then look no further than Las Canteras Beach, located on the north coast of the island. Another place worth visiting is Roque Nublo, an remarkable mountain peak which provides sweeping views of the island and is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Best Things to do in the Canary Islands

There’s never a dull day in the Canary Islands. That’s because you have such a large array of things that it’s difficult to know where to start. Luckily, we are here to help.

Please keep in mind that prices are subject to change depending on the time of year that you visit.

Do you need a car to get around Canary Islands?

You don’t necessarily need to rent a car to travel around the Canary Islands. If you prefer, there is public transport available from buses and water taxis, particularly on the most popular islands. However, a hire car does give you the freedom of travel, allowing you to visit many places off the beaten track and without having to adhere to a strict schedule.

What is the best way to get around the Canary Islands?

There are a variety of different ways to travel around the islands when you arrive. You can rent a car, which gives you flexibility and allows you to explore the remote areas of each island, especially useful in Lanzarote and Tenerife. Alternatively, each island has a public bus network called “guaguas.” Public buses in Tenerife are operated by TITSA and public buses in Gran Canaria are operated by Global. These are often a cost-effective mode of travel, but less convenient if you wish to visit remote locations.

How many days do you need in the Canary Islands?

The ideal length of your trip all depends on your travel plans, but we suggest that you stay in the Canary Islands for 10 to 14 days if you are planning to visit multiple islands. This will give you more flexibility to take advantage of the exciting activities available like hiking, windsurfing and diving. You can also get the most out of each island, allowing you enough time for travel.

When is the best time to visit the Canary islands?

Thanks to its subtropical climate, the Canary Islands are a year-round holiday destination. But without doubt the best time to visit is in February when the Carnival of Santa Cruz gets underway. Temperatures still range from 19 to 23 degrees Celsius at this time of year, making it considerably warmer than most of Europe. However, if you don’t mind the busier season, you could visit in June for the Fiesta de San Juan festival.