Tenerife holidays

Pretty as a picture, Los Cristianos holidays take you to one of Tenerife’s most delightful resorts. It merges new facilities with traditional charm, giving you a taste of Canarian life with all the modern trimmings. You have not one but two curved golden beaches to choose from, stretching back to a busy and cosmopolitan seafront promenade that’s so long you can walk all the way to neighbouring Playa De Las Americas. Bobbing in the attractive marina are glass-bottom boats to take you out to the reefs so you can explore the underwater world without getting your feet wet, to ferries that can take you whale watching. If you’re here with the kids, then you have plenty to keep them happy all day long on Los Cristianos holidays. If you need a break from those golden sandy beaches, you’re just 15 minutes away from the local water park and zoo.

Things to do

Pick between Los Cristianos’ bookend beaches, which are both equally beautiful. A vibrant waterfront promenade bustling with shops and cafés runs the length of both beaches, perfect for a mid-morning snack or ice-cream. If you like cranking up the excitement then there are plenty of water sports to try. For something a little more relaxing, head to the marina for a leisurely yacht ride, dolphin-spotting excursion or a sea fishing trip. Save the sunniest day for the Aqualand water park, where the whole family can enjoy crazy rides and cooling off in beautiful lagoons. In the evenings, wander along the seafront and sample some of the local cuisine at a pizzeria or seafood restaurant.

Excellent beaches

Los Cristianos is a great resort as it has a fine amount of beautiful beaches all with soft, white sand and tranquil, turquoise waters. The sea is quite calm and appealing with shallow areas making paddling a priority when visiting.

Las Vistas beach is close to the harbour and makes for a nice day out if you fancy a change from Los Cristianos. Lifeguards patrol the lovely stretch of clean white sand, that gradually slopes into the cool water, which is great for families with small children. There are a lot of amenities on the promenade like small shops and a range of cafes and bars so spending a day here is relaxing.

History and culture

Los Cristianos is favoured for its flowery-decked harbour in the heart of the resort. The large resort was once an old working fishing village that has, over the years, expanded to keep up with the growing tourism in the surrounding areas. Fishing is still a part of the area’s ethos and groups can still take trips to the open water to fish, snorkel and spot the local sea life.

Vibrant nightlife

The feel good atmosphere doesn’t stop when the sun goes down; in fact, the resort turns up the volume and becomes much more energetic. Some of the bars are situated along the coast so you can sip on a drink with picturesque views of the resort lights twinkling on the dark sea.

The perfect bar for a pre-sunset cocktail is The Wild Side. Pop in for a delicious Mojito or Piña Colada and relax in the retro décor on the comfy loungers. The Wild Side also serves great food which you can enjoy whilst listening to an upbeat summer soundtrack. With plenty of other bars open until late, the only decision you’ll have to make is what order to visit them in.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Adeje | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca | Playa de las Americas | Puerto de la Cruz

For fun in the sun, you can’t beat Playa De Las Americas holidays. This vibrant and dynamic destination hums with energy all year round in its bars and nightclubs, where some of the world’s top DJs do guest spots all through the summer to keep everyone dancing from dusk to dawn. Once you’ve finished raving all night, take a morning stroll along powder-soft beaches and catch the ocean breeze as shimmering water laps gently against Tenerife’s south coast. Families are looked after too on Playa De Las Americas holidays, with plenty of attractions and resorts that are perfect for all ages. If it’s lazy days on a sun lounger, dipping your toes in the water, and building sandcastles that you're after, then it’s easy to find a place to unwind among the fabulous beaches of Playa De Las Americas.

Things to do

There’s plenty to see and do in Playa de las Americas, whether you’re here with your friends for a week of dancing until dawn, or have the family with you for a fabulous beach holiday in the sun. Although it has a reputation as clubber’s central on Tenerife, holidays to Playa De Las Americas are just as good for families or couples. And with year-round sunshine, you can choose to take your break in high season, or during the quieter autumn and spring months. Adrenaline junkies will love the water sports on offer, while a trip into the interior of the island will take you on a journey of discovery through a unique landscape. 

Vibrant nightlife
Being the party capital of Tenerife, Playa de las Americas does not disappoint when it comes to a great night out. Party out on the strip until the sun comes up, or have a quieter night in one of their many bars and clubs. Mingle with the locals and make it a holiday to remember. If you delve into the nightlife scene deep enough, you may find some hidden gems.

Family friendly
Away from heavy bass music and flashing lights, Playa de las Americas is incredibly family friendly. A wide range of activities including water parks, zoos, tours and paddle-friendly beaches, your children are guaranteed to have the time of their lives. Over half of the hotels in the resort are family friendly, many offering daytime clubs and night time entertainment, so you’ll definitely find one that is suitable for your needs.

Stunning beaches
Tenerife boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Particularly the unique volcanic beaches with black sand. Chill out with a group of friends, enjoy watching your child play or walk hand in hand with your partner under the stars. The beaches offer an amazing day out and what makes it better, is that it’s absolutely free.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Adeje | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca | Los Cristianos | Puerto de la Cruz

While most people head to the south of the island for the parties, the bars, and the banging clubs, you’ll find the northern coast of Tenerife has its own special charms too. It’s more chilled out, making it ideal for romantic getaways for couples, or family holidays away from the crowds. Puerto de la Cruz holidays are a great choice, and this city is one of the island’s favourite places for its natural beauty and traditional charm.

Spread down the hill is a town filled with old architecture, Spanish restaurants, and unique shops, reaching to the resort’s bustling waterfront. It’s laid back, relaxed, and gives you a real taste of old Tenerife. Puerto de la Cruz holidays are famous for the black sand and backdrop of its beach, Playa Jardin, as well as its incredible coastal water park.

Things to do

The Old Town is a fascinating place to explore on foot during your holiday in Puerto de la Cruz, with winding streets opening up into lively plazas fringed by old buildings, shops, and cafés. Stroll around the outdoor stalls and stop for lunch in a pavement café, then take a leisurely amble down to the busy waterfront. The resort’s harbour is right next to its famous black sand beach, which is perfect for sunbathing or aspiring surfers. If you’re here on a family holiday then don’t miss the Lago Martianez coastal water park, complete with lagoons, waterfalls, and fountains.

Take a Segway tour of the city

Puerto de la Cruz has a lot of places to visit. To make sure that you see all of them, you can take a fun Segway tour. After some basic training, your knowledgeable guide will whizz you and your small group around the city, whilst giving you some fascinating insight into its history.

Take a dive

Off the coast of Puerto de la Cruz you’ll find six different places to dive and underwater sights that will blow you away. Ancient volcanic eruptions have moulded incredible rock formations below the surface of the water, which is home to many species including turtles, sting rays, barracudas and eels.

Visit the old town of La Orotava

The old town of La Orotava is a charming place to spend an afternoon wandering around its cobbled streets. When the sun goes down, you can head out and sample some of the delicious local cuisine in one of the many bars and restaurants.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Adeje | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Los Cristianos | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca | Playa de las Americas

Costa Adeje holidays are super popular with all types of travellers. You can have family breaks in the sun, wild nights partying till dawn or laid-back eco-tourism. Or you can hit the shops, then spend the evening relaxing in a restaurant. There are even water sports and snorkelling if you’re feeling more adventurous. Surrounded by the incredible scenery, a holiday in Costa Adeje will leave you relaxed and charmed by this wonderful destination.

One of the favourite beach resort destinations in Tenerife, you’re sure to fall in love the moment you set foot on the wonderful sandy waterfronts. Each one is Blue Flag-rated and a fantastic example of the natural beauty of Tenerife. Costa Adeje’s beaches have the silkiest sand brought in from the Sahara Desert, perfect for you to relax all day beside the sea. The shallow water makes it ideal for toe-dippers and paddlers, or more adventurous types can head out for some serious water-based fun.

The resort’s buzzing waterfront and town centre have shopping centres, bowling and cinemas for when you need a break from the beach. Families and couples alike can expect great food, classy shopping and a touch of glamour in Costa Adeje. With sensational views and thrilling adventure parks not far from the resort centre, it won’t take long until you realise that this destination is one of the best in Tenerife. 

In Costa Adeje, holidays are for those seeking both thrills and some tranquillity. So, it’s perfect if you want to scale rocky crags or sunbathe on soft sand beaches. Or if you want to party all night or lounge in the sun all day. If you’re an adrenaline junkie or a homebody, there’s somewhere for everyone on holidays to Costa Adeje. With its four-hour flight from the UK, surrounded by sapphire waters, this fantastic destination has everything you could wish for on holiday to Tenerife.

Things to do

Costa Adeje’s fabulous beaches are at the heart of the resort, bringing together mates, families, and couples to soak up the Spanish sun on the beautiful white-gold sand. If you need a fix of adrenaline you can get stuck into water skiing, or chill out and go sailing. Plan a day at the huge local water park to check out the rides, guaranteed to keep the kids happy. For something a little more leisurely, head inland to enjoy the island’s spectacular green scenery with a round of golf. At the end of the day, relax with dinner and a show, sing your heart out at the karaoke bars, or hit the local clubs and dance all night.

Fantastic beaches

This area has a wonderful coastline. There’s a brilliant range of beaches from dark volcanic sand and pebbly coves to bays with golden sand from the Sahara Desert. Costa Adeje has two Blue Flag beaches, both with modern facilities and lovely promenades. You can stroll along the seafront following the path from Playa Fanabe around the Toscas headland. Windsurfing, sailing, surfing and waterskiing are just a small taster of the wide choice of water sports you’ll find waiting for you. Behind the beaches are shopping centres with plenty of food options including fast food, British, international and Canarian.

Lush landscapes

There’s lots of striking scenery to be seen in and around Costa Adeje in the form of rugged mountains, volcanic remains, pine forests and canyons. It’s a great place for getting outdoors and being active. It’s well worth the hike through Barranco del Infierno canyon for incredible views; alternatively take the steep Arona mountain pass, which will lead you through a lush pine forest. One of the best ways to see some of the most dramatic landscapes is by walking along the coastal path. It won’t cost you anything of course and is a great chance for families to spend time together. A boat cruise is a relaxing way to see the coast from a different perspective and there are daily excursions from most of Costa Adeje’s beaches.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Ibiza | Lanzarote | Los Cristianos | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca | Playa de las Americas | Puerto de la Cruz | Tenerife

With traditional beach resorts and glorious nature all around you, it’s no surprise that Bulgaria holidays are becoming more popular. This wonderful country has beach holidays for all tastes, tons of water sports, and some incredible scenery to explore. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an escape for the whole family, we’ve got lots of holidays in Bulgaria that’ll suit you.

Where is Bulgaria?

With Turkey and Greece to the south, Bulgaria is on the easternmost edge of Europe. It’s coastline is edged by the Black Sea with Romania directly to the north. This coast has miles and miles of beautiful golden beaches.

Bulgaria may be new as a tourist destination, this beautiful country actually sits at a crossroads of Ancient European culture, and is a real hidden gem that you should seriously look at if you love something a little different from the usual ‘tourist hot spots’.

So perfect is Bulgaria’s position in south-eastern Europe that it’s the site of many historic trade routes, and the coastal city of Varna was an exceptionally important trading port. This rich history gives Bulgaria much of its deep and fascinating culture.

Thanks to the sunny beaches in the east and the high mountains in the west, Bulgaria has the ideal geography for beach holidays as well as snowy winter escapes, making it an all-year-round destination. From snowshoeing and skiing in Bankso to sunbathing and swimming on the Black Sea, Bulgaria sits in a part of Europe that is undeniably magical and a fabulous destination for a holiday, winter or summer.

Things to do

There are so many things to do here, many first time visitors will wonder why they’ve never thought of visiting this amazing destination before! With water sports, sunbathing and luxury resorts on the Black Sea coast - this is destination you definitely need to add to your list of must-see places.

You’ll find rich and varied history here with ancient artefacts, sprawling medieval cities, and remote churches. You can easily have a perfect family holiday in Bulgaria, with a blend of warm sandy beaches and touring the cobbled seaside historic towns of Nessebar and Sozopol. 

Explore the beautiful Bulgarian landscape

If you love spending your holidays getting back to nature, there are all kinds of landscapes to explore in Bulgaria. Take a trip through the countryside, through wild woodlands and quaint villages, or put on your hiking boots and go trekking in the vast mountain ranges.

Along the coast, the golden sands give way to the waters of the Black Sea for the ultimate in beachside relaxation. The coastline here is rugged and beautiful with cliffs and fields giving way to long, uninterrupted beaches. There are plenty of watersports on offer at Sunny Beach, so hop on a boat trip and see the coast from the water. Children will love a visit to a waterpark, and parents can grab a cocktail and lie back in the sunshine while the little ones have fun.

During the winter months, the ski resorts in Bansko come to life as powder descends on the quaint cobbled village. The slopes are forested, with snow resting heavily on the branches of the pine trees all winter long, creating a picture-perfect winter wonderland.

Bulgaria’s astounding history

Steeped in ancient history, Bulgaria has some fascinating historic sites to explore. From traditional monasteries to Byzantine churches, you’ll uncover stunning architecture at every turn. At Beglik Tash, you can get up close to the mystical rocks at the ‘Bulgarian Stonehenge’.

After exploring the ruins of Bulgaria’s bygone eras, head back to the towns and cities to browse modern shopping centres, eat at family-run restaurants, and catch a glimpse of traditional folk festivals. In capital Varna, don’t miss a trip to the cathedral, where you’ll be greeted by a huge Orthodox building topped with dazzling golden domes.

Embrace the local cuisine

Your holiday to Bulgaria wouldn’t be complete without tucking into the delicious local food. Inspired by its Greek and Turkish neighbours, traditional dishes are a wonderful fusion of Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean flavours.

For lovers of a great mixed grill, try Meshana Skara with its delicious meat skewers and classic kyufte (meatballs). Moussaka is another firm favourite in Bulgaria, especially with a dollop of Bulgarian yoghurt on the side. With cheese pastries, Bulgarian Sirene cheese and spicy cured sausage, the food in Bulgaria will tickle your tastebuds and introduce you to some new and exciting flavours.

Places to stay

With its miles of golden sands and variety of bars and hotels, Sunny Beach certainly lives up to its name; this huge resort has everything from waterparks for the kids, to all-night clubbing for party-loving adults, and a fabulous beach for soaking up the warm rays. From here, it’s easy to explore the rest of the Black Sea coast, including the peaceful resort of Duni, to the cultural cities of Burgas and Varna.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bansko | Borovets | Duni | Golden Sands Resort | Nessebar | Sunny Beach Resort

Luring you in with Blue Flag awarded beaches made for lazy sunbathing stints, ancient ruins dating back as far as the 3rd century and an electric nightlife attracting world-renowned DJs, Cyprus holidays are one-of-a-kind. And that’s just the beginning, think waterfront restaurants combining the flavours of Greece and Turkey, splash-filled waterparks perfect for families and most importantly, a sizzling summer climate. 

Things to do

Whether you’re a history buff seeking out UNESCO-listed hotspots or a hardcore reveller looking for the best cocktail venues in Ayia Napa, holidays to Cyprus are action-packed. And if you’re just wanting to lounge around on one of its 160 beaches, relaxing getaways are aplenty too.

For starters, Coral Bay oozes tranquility with a swathe of golden sand calling you to top up your tan. Meanwhile, Nissi Beach is known as the beach that never sleeps thanks to its live music and thrilling watersports. As for Lara Bay, well that’s an isolated sand spot dedicated to protecting loggerhead turtles. 

For those with kids, the Mediterranean coastline is best explored via horseback (especially at sunset). And when the ocean doesn’t cut it, WaterWorld is a must! It’s the largest themed waterpark in Cyprus, daring you to slide down its freefall kamikaze and float along its lazy river. Not to mention the splash zones for tinier tots, inflatable obstacle courses and bubbling hot tubs. 

When you want to get wet and wild among nature's finest, Adonis Baths promises cascading waterfalls. Or,  you can always check out the largest rock formation Petra tou Romiou, the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. Legend has it that if you swim around the rock three times, you’ll be granted eternal beauty.

No trip is complete without visiting the archaeological marvel, Tomb of the Kings. Around 100 Ptolemaic aristocrats are estimated to have been buried there, along with a substantial trove of jewels and personal effects! Trek up the Troodos Mountains and you’ll be greeted by another phenomenon, Kykkos Monastery founded in the 11th century. Here alongside timeless manuscripts and antiques lies the silver-gilded icon of the Virgin Mary. 

Places to stay

Cyprus is an island of contrast! Head to the rustic fishing village of Latchi for quaint tavernas and a relaxed welcome. Or, check out our Ayia Napa holidays if you want to party until sunrise. When it comes to sands that resemble the Caribbean, Nissi Bay holidays and Protaras are firm family favourites.

And when you want to be next door to some of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Paphos should be your go-to. There’s no shortage of luxury either thanks to the superyachts decorating the coastline of Limassol. This cosmopolitan resort has a fantastic mix of award-winning beaches, designer stores and historical relics; the ruined city Kourion, in particular, will lure you in with its cocktail of cultures. 

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Ayia Napa | Larnarca | Limassol | Nissi Bay | Paphos | Protaras

Madeira holidays will take you to a land of breathtaking landscapes and botanical beauty. This sun-drenched Portuguese island is known as the ‘Floating Garden’, so you can expect lots of colour. From the turquoise Atlantic coastline to its year-round climate promising exotic blooms and the scarlet poinsettias that decorate its backdrop, it’s hardly surprising that Madeira is a continuous winner of the ‘World’s Leading Island Destination’. 

Holidays to Madeira beg you to explore. Get lost among the cobbled alleyways of Funchal’s Old Town and you’ll discover some of the best seafood tavernas, market stalls packed with tropical fruits and the awe-inspiring Zona Velha (a street of painted doors).  Avid hikers will love trekking through the lush mountainous scenery met with cascading waterfalls, or you can head for the beautiful beach of Porto Santo for an afternoon of sandcastle building with the kids. 

Things to do

If you’re wondering why Madeira is called the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’, it’s because of its beauty. Seeing is believing, so for unspoilt views from a 580-metre-high glass platform, check out the dramatic cliff face of Cabo Girão. And if that wasn’t high enough, gear up for a six-hour hike up Pico do Arieiro where you’ll walk above the clouds. A quicker way to reach this summit is by jeep safari, these tours not only take you 1,400 feet into the mountains, but through banana plantations and sugarcane farms. 

Looking for history? Explore Funchal’s Gothic Sé Cathedral, or travel by cable car up to the charming little village of Monte. Meanwhile, watersport enthusiasts will make a beeline for the coastline, especially Garajau National Marine Park with its spectacular scuba diving.

If you’re travelling with kids in tow, Madeira holidays serve up plenty of family-friendly attractions. And top of the list has to be the Aquaparque Waterpark. When you’re not plunging down jaw-dropping slides, see if you can spot dolphins and whales on a boating adventure in the Atlantic. 

Excellent beaches

Most of Madeira’s 150-kilometre coastline is made up of black sands due to its volcanic past. That’s why  you’ll find popular stretches accessorised with a lido promenade, which features a range of swimming pools alongside direct sea access. Ponta Gorda is one of the best with its playgrounds, snack bars, sports activities and wide selection of eateries. 

For natural wonders, Porto Moniz has a rock pool filled with seawater which was formed by lava and acts as a hot tub. Or, sail over to Camara de Lobos to discover the island's most photogenic beach and its fascinating history. It was put on the map by Winston Churchill in 1949, who set up an easel and painted this jaw-dropping sand spot - 50 years on and it’s still identical to his drawing. 

Don’t worry, it's not all about pebbles and dark grains, Praia da Calheta Beach in Machico is made up of Moroccan imported sands and the only artificial shoreline on the island.

History and culture

The botanic island of Madeira is in the autonomous region of Portugal and first became a popular tourist destination in the 1850s. In the 16th century, Madeira was Portugal’s top producer of wheat and sugar cane, which brought in more wealth for the region. This started a variety of trade in the 17th century, including today’s most exported product, the famous Madeira wine.

Madeira is still rich in traditional culture that can be witnessed throughout its architecture and delightful customs. Recited by writer Ernest Hemingway as the ‘most exhilarating experience’ of his life, one of its most famous traditions is a toboggan ride down the hill from Monte to Funchal. Take a ride in wicker baskets pushed by a team of Carreiros de Monte, who will fly with you down the paved streets at 30mph and break using only their rubber-soled shoes.

Food and drink

This culinary gem is famous for its rustic food and delicious wine. Funchal’s Farmers Market has been around since the 1940s, here you can sample exotic fruits such as guava or sleeve (which is part of the mango family), herbs and spices alongside fresh fish. Speaking of fish, Madeira is famous for its Black Scabbard which is seasoned with garlic and served with banana. 

See what all the fuss is about at So Far Bistro & Steakhouse, this fine dining spot in Funchal is not only famed for its tuna steak, but its wagyu and passion fruit pudding dessert. Other traditional favourites include hearty meals like espetada, which is marinated garlic and beef cooked with bay leaves on skewers. And look out for a yellow drink named Poncha, which is commonly found all over the island. There are several variations, but Taberna da Poncha is the most authentic batch. Combining honey, lemon, sugar and distilled alcohol (usually rum) produced from sugarcane, this zesty concoction is a delicacy. 
  
Nightlife

Madeira’s nightlife is said to be quieter than those found on the mainland. That being said, you can still enjoy a late evening meal and a few cocktails in an array of waterfront bars accompanied by live music and entertainment. If you do want to party, the island really comes alive at the weekend. If you want to dance the night away, there are several nightclubs that stay open until the early hours. In Funchal, the atmosphere is more contemporary with an abundance of upbeat night spots to enjoy throughout the week.

Places to stay

Madeira’s thriving capital, Funchal, is located on the south coast of the island. Known for its stylish tapas eateries, chic rooftop cocktail spots and charming Old Town, this city pulls out all the stops. If an authentic Madeiran experience is high on your to-do list, the sleepy town of Machico guarantees traditional stays. Back in 1420, the first explorers settled on the island in this very location and it’s now teeming with history. Alongside its fascinating past, this hotspot is known for being a natural paradise.

Canico is dotted with fancy accommodation, but its dramatic surroundings and underwater world are its biggest draws, especially the stunning protected area  - Garajau's Nature Reserve. As for sand spots, Canico’s shores are a far cry from your average beach days with pebbly and rocky options offering unique sunbathing opportunities.
 

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We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Funchal

With miles upon miles of white sandy beaches fronted by azure Atlantic waters and backed by peaceful resorts, Fuerteventura holidays are what dreams are made of. Rolling dunes, a year-round climate and a beautiful volcanic landscape are just some of its allures. And if you want to get up close and personal to its natural wonders, Jandia should be on your radar with its Caribbean-like sand spots and tropical reserves. But for tucked-away tapas spots and adrenaline-pumping watersports, Corralejo is a must-visit. 

If you’re travelling with tots in tow, Costa Calma is the answer. Just 15 minutes from Oasis Park, your little ones can look out for camels, lemurs and wallabies. Meanwhile, teens will make a beeline for the paintballing in La Pared. Luxurious stays are typically found in the horseshoe-shaped Caleta de Fuste. Here, glamorous yachts decorate the harbour, while fine dining restaurants offer unbeatable panoramic ocean views. Feeling inspired yet? 

Beautiful beaches

There’s no other Canary Island with as many sand dunes and beautiful beaches. In fact, Fuerteventura is home to some of the most impressive stretches in all of Europe. Ajuy Beach, in particular, is a real sight for sore eyes with fine black volcanic sand that contrasts perfectly with the blue of the sea. Just south of Corralejo, you’ll find the breathtaking sand dunes of Parque Natural de las Dunas. This 11-kilometre stretch is made up of fine white grains with stunning views of neighbouring Lanzarote and Los Lobos.

Family fun

Holidays to Fuerteventura are a great choice for family fun in the sun. Oasis Park is a big hit with animal lovers. Housing around 3,000 species, you’ll be able to take a ride on a camel, watch a show and wander through the tropics of its botanical gardens. Water babies should try Acua Water Park in Corralejo for exciting slides, wave pools, splash zones and a mini-golf course. 

Action and adventure

This Canary Island is a great choice if you’re craving thrills and spills. Why not try your hand at a new watersport like paddleboarding or windsurfing? The breeze off of the Jandía Peninsula is perfect for catching waves. You can also head inland and explore the mountainous landscape on a jeep safari or jump on a horse and let your steed guide you through the incredible volcanic scenery.

More travel guides

Check out our other destination guides, including: Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Caleta de Fuste | Canary Islands | Corralejo | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Caleta | Costa Calma | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Gran Canaria | Jandia | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca

Lanzarote holidays sitting in your ‘maybe’ pile? Well, with stunning stretches of sand, gorgeous weather and all-singing-all-dancing beach resorts, you’ll want this highlight of the Canary Islands on your ‘book it’ list instead! And when you look beyond the coastline, you’ll discover a landscape so unique you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.

Why you’ll love Lanzarote holidays
• Beach life to suit your style: Whether you stay for five days or two weeks, chances are you’re heading to Lanza for the beaches! Get away from it all at Papagayo, throw yourself into Famara’s surf scene, or unwind on Playa Blanca’s white sands with everything you need in easy reach.
• The jaw-dropping scenery: Lanzarote’s so special that the whole island is protected by UNESCO! Check out the Fire Mountains of Timanfaya National Park, the weird and wonderful lava tunnels, and the dramatic views from the Mirador del Rio lookout.
• Exciting theme parks and waterparks: Grab your cowboy (sun)hat for a day’s Wild West fun at Rancho Texas, or swoosh down adrenaline-pumping chutes and paddle in tot-friendly splash zones at one of the aquaparks. Stay at the Relaxia Lanzasur Club and Aqualava Waterpark will be next door!
• Buckets of local flavour: Lanzarote’s got plenty of authentic character, from its pretty sugar-cube buildings to family-run restaurants. Explore the quaint village of Yaiza, take a stroll around Puerto del Carmen’s Old Town harbour, and amble along the narrow streets in La Puntilla, Arrecife.
• The art: Yes, really! Renowned artist-architect César Manrique lived here, and you can see his legacy everywhere from the famous El Diablo volcanic restaurant to the beautifully designed cactus garden – and even the cave-based nightspot, Los Jameos del Agua.

Best places to stay in Lanzarote
Holidays to Lanzarote pack a punch with a tempting array of beach spots, watering holes and awesome hotels. Not sure where to make your base? Get started with our quick guide to the top destinations on this little island.
Costa Teguise: Winning the hearts of those in search of the ultimate combo of chill time and playtime. Think gentle waters for safe family days by the sea, the fantastic Aquapark Costa Teguise and Lanzarote Aquarium, plus a laid-back nightlife scene.
Playa Blanca: Lanzarote’s south coast crowd-pleaser! Adored for its Blue Flag sands and modern marina, no wonder it remains a sunseekers’ favourite. Make yourself at home at the 5 star H10 Rubicon Palace for a top spot on the seafront.
Puerto del Carmen: Once a fishing village, now a thoroughly vibrant beach town with plenty of waterfront restaurants. At its edge are swish Puerto Calero, charming Matagorda and the laid-back delights of Playa de los Pocillos.
Arrecife: the capital of Lanzarote. Pick an Arrecife hotel and get your history fix from the town’s old fortresses and museums or enjoy a shopping spree, all on your doorstep. Don’t worry, Arrecife has beaches too!

More about Lanzarote holidays
Thirsty for more info? Check out our guides to Lanzarote’s main resorts: Costa Teguise | Playa Blanca | Puerto del Carmen

Famous sand dunes, sleepy fishing villages and centres bursting with bars pretty much sums up holidays to Gran Canaria. It’s the ideal place to chase the sun too with spring temperatures promising a year of beach days. The south is where you’ll find it’s lively resorts and desert-like landscape, while the rocky north’s green terrain and hidden coves are quite the contrast. And don’t forget to explore the ninth largest city in Spain with a trip to Las Palmas. This cultural hotspot will take you back to the 16th century with its colonial architecture and secret courtyards. 

Things to do

Gran Canaria’s year-round weather means there’s plenty of things to do no matter where you are on the island. One of its biggest draws has to be its impressive coastline. Home to around 80 beaches, you’re never far from a spot of sand.

In the south of the island, you’ll find the bustling Playa del Inglés. Most people flock here to take advantage of its sprawling three-kilometre-long coastline, while others prefer to take in the Atlantic views from its the pestrainised Paseo Costa Canaria (a path stretching all the way to San Agustín). But if you’re going to visit one beach while on the island, make sure it's Amadores. As one of the prettiest shorelines in Gran Canaria with a Blue Flag award under its belt, it’s a must-see on all Puerto Rico holidays.

If you can tear yourself away from your sunlounger, you’ll find a new, more interesting landscape around every corner. A trip to the Maspalomas dunes should be your first adventure. Discover them by foot, try sandboarding, or explore them the traditional way, with a camelback ride. If it’s mountainous vistas you’re after, don’t forget to tick off Roque Nublo, a free-standing piece of volcanic rock which has become symbolic of the island. Or, go one bigger and visit the highest peak in Gran Canaria. Standing 1,949 metres above sea level, Pico de las Nieves promises a sunset sitting above the clouds. And then there’s the sea itself, where you can paddle surf, snorkel or dive alongside everything from parrot fish, to damsels and sea bream.

Those interested in the history of the island, shouldn’t miss a trip to Las Palmas. Explore its beautiful old town (Vegueta), where you’ll get a sense of its traditional roots. From cobblestone streets to beautiful Gothic landmarks like Catedral de Santa Ana and museums hiding all kinds of artifacts. Not to mention its links to the great explorer, Christpher Columbus. About 30 minutes from here, on the northern coast is the Painted Cave of Galdar, whose wall paintings will wow any art enthusiast. 

Come to Gran Canaria to shop? You won’t be disappointed with the Yumbo Centre. Home to 200 shops and spread across four floors, find supermarkets selling all the essentials alongside stores filled with luxury. Abuzz with bars, restaurants and boutiques, Puerto Rico Shopping Centre is also great for a spot of retail therapy, especially if you want to hunt down the island’s leather goods.

 Places to stay

Head south if you want to stay in Gran Canaria’s most popular resorts. Playa del Ingles and San Agustin are among the villages that cluster together to form Maspalomas. If you carry on eastwards, you’ll reach a string of bustling resorts; Arguineguin, Puerto Rico and Mogan, before you come to the more peaceful beach at Playa de los Amadores. Artists have colonised the northwestern coastal village of Agaete, turning many of the whitewashed houses into galleries. If you want a dose of culture and history alongside sunbathing, wander the winding streets of Las Palmas.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Maspalomas | Playa des Ingles | Puerto Rico | San Agustin