There is no bad time to visit these idyllic volcanic islands. Floating serenely in the Atlantic off the north west coast of Africa, the Canary Islands benefit from pleasant temperatures and sunshine all year round making them an obvious choice for sun-seeking holidaymakers. As an autonomous community of Spain, the islands have enjoyed an eclectic mix of influences – including Spanish, Latin and African – which has helped to make them unique. The volcanic nature of the region has also played a large part in fashioning the Canary Islands into the fascinating and exciting destinations they are today.
Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are the strongest tourist magnets. The largest of these is Tenerife – a destination that has something for everyone, including sun-drenched beaches, an excellent party scene and one of the largest volcanoes in the world. On the archipelago's second largest isles, the many well-established Fuerteventura hotels and resorts are particularly popular with families thanks to the island's picturesque beaches and numerous activities. Meanwhile, Gran Canaria, the third largest and the most populated island, boasts some of the most beautiful sand dunes in the Canary Islands. As a pleasing all-rounder, Lanzarote, like its neighbours, offers a great mix of sun, sea, sand, surf, shopping, sumptuous cuisine and exciting nights out.
You certainly won't be disappointed when you choose one of these amazing isles as your next getaway destination. To find your perfect holiday base right now, browse our selection of great value Canary Islands hotels.
Fact file
Language: Spanish
Capital: Santa Cruz De Tenerife and Las Palmas De Gran Canaria
Currency: Euro
Religion: Dominant religion is Roman Catholic
Time difference: GMT +0 hours
Things to do in the Canary Islands
Explore the explosive nature of Tenerife
Sun-kissed beaches go without saying on Tenerife, as do fine cuisine, activities for all ages and high quality resorts. The island is the largest and one the most well known of the Canary Islands, partly thanks to its vibrant party scene, which draws thousands south to Los Cristianos, Playa De Las Américas and Costa Adeje every year. The island is also a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The majestic Mount Teide, at 3,718 metres, is Spain's tallest peak and the world's third largest volcano. El Teide national park is a favourite spot for tourists, featuring fantastic volcanic landscapes and a multitude of archaeological sites just waiting to be explored. Meanwhile, Tenerife has plenty of other entertainments to keep the whole family busy, including Loro Parque – a park and aquarium home to thousands of exotic animals, and the fun-packed Siam Park water kingdom. For a taste of history try the Natural History Museum in Tenerife's capital, Santa Cruz De Tenerife.
Enjoy family fun in Fuerteventura
A great choice for family holidays, Fuerteventura offers gems such as Caleta De Fuste in the east, which boasts affordable, family-friendly hotels and an abundance of activities. Alongside this is the popular Corralejo in the north, which offers beautiful dunes and sandy coastlines for family beach-fun at its best. Fuerteventura's national parks, picturesque towns, museums, and activities such as golf, horse riding and even camel safaris mean that everyone will find something to enjoy here. Water sports are readily available across the island, with favourites such as snorkelling and sailing trips alongside the more adventurous kite boarding, wind surfing and scuba diving. If water sports are your particular passion, our Lanzarote hotels also offer a fantastic selection.
Go golden brown on the beaches of Gran Canaria
This idyllic isle is a sun-seekers paradise, boasting some of the loveliest beaches and dunes in the Canary Islands. Playa De Las Canteras in Las Palmas is a firm favourite, with great facilities and calm waters