More about: Lanzarote in 7 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit
One-third of the island of Lanzarote was once covered in lava, giving it a unique volcanic character. With its craters, white-sand beaches, fishing villages, and art integrated into the natural landscape, the island offers a variety of experiences around every corner. If you’re wondering what to see in a week, this itinerary is for you.
Day 1: Mirador del Río, La Graciosa Island, and Órzola
Start your trip in the north, with panoramic views, quiet beaches, and villages where time seems to stand still. From the Mirador del Río, you’ll see the island of La Graciosa, where you can spend the day enjoying the sand and the sea. End your tour in Órzola, the perfect spot for dinner by the sea.
Mirador del Río
Located 400 meters above sea level, the Mirador del Río is a work by César Manrique that offers spectacular views of La Graciosa. Its architecture blends seamlessly with the rock, and it features a café, binoculars, and parking. You can also enjoy the scenery for free from the nearby Mirador de Nahum.
La Graciosa Island
From Órzola, you can take a ferry to La Graciosa, an island with no cars or paved roads. Explore its small village and enjoy Playa Francesa, accessible on foot or by bike. You can also book an excursion from Lanzarote that includes a catamaran ride and lunch.
Caletón Blanco Beach
On the way back, stop at Caletón Blanco Beach, with its white sand, volcanic rocks, and shallow waters. It’s one of the best beaches for kids and perfect for a final dip of the day.
Stroll through Órzola and sample its cuisine
Órzola is a fishing village with whitewashed streets and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to end the day by sampling fresh fish or seafood at one of its seaside restaurants.
Day 2: Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, and a boat ride
Spend the day exploring two of Lanzarote’s volcanic gems: Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes. In the afternoon, relax with a sunset boat ride from Puerto del Carmen—a perfect way to see the coast from a different perspective.
Cueva de los Verdes
Cueva de los Verdes is a volcanic tunnel that you can explore on guided tours. It features a natural concert hall and was redesigned by César Manrique, who skillfully highlighted its beauty through lighting and design.
Jameos del Agua
Just a few minutes away, Jameos del Agua is another section of the same volcanic tube, where you’ll find an inland lake, a restaurant, and spaces designed by Manrique that blend architecture and landscape.
Take a sunset boat ride
From Puerto del Carmen, you can take a boat tour that includes appetizers and a glass of champagne. You’ll see cliffs and beaches from the sea while enjoying the sunset.
Day 3: Timanfaya National Park
The third day is dedicated to the incredible volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park: craters, reddish rocks, and lava fields that look like they’re from another planet. Here you can also try food cooked using geothermal heat.
Mancha Blanca Interpretation Center
Before entering the park, visit this free center, where you’ll learn about the area’s geological history and the origin of the eruptions. It’s the perfect introduction.
Hilario Islet
At Hilario Islet, you’ll see geothermal demonstrations, such as artificial geysers and rocks that ignite upon contact with the air. The Volcanoes Trail begins here.
Volcano Route in Timanfaya
This guided bus tour takes you through the park’s most spectacular spots. The terrain is so fragile that it cannot be explored on foot.
Tremesana Trails
If you’d like to go for a walk, you can sign up for a free walking tour at the interpretation center. The trail is 2 km long and requires advance registration.
Day 4: Atlantic Museum and Papagayo Beaches
Today it’s time to explore the south: dive among underwater sculptures at the Atlantic Museum and then relax on the pristine coves of the Los Ajaches Natural Monument.
Underwater Museum
The Atlantic Museum can only be visited by diving. There are more than 300 sculptures under the sea, created by Jason de Caires Taylor. It’s the perfect place to take your first dive.
Papagayo Beaches
The Papagayo beaches are coves with white sand and crystal-clear water, connected by trails. You can also visit the San Marcial Rubicón archaeological site on Pozo Beach.
Day 5: Casa Museo del Campesino and Wine Tour
This day is dedicated to local culture. It begins at the Casa Museo del Campesino, followed by a tour of some of the island’s most iconic wineries.
Casa Museo del Campesino
The Casa Museo del Campesino was designed by Manrique as a tribute to the island’s farmers. Here you can see traditional architecture, buy handicrafts, or enjoy local dishes.
Wine Tour
The LZ-30 highway connects wineries such as Los Bermejos, El Grifo, and La Geria, where you can enjoy wine tastings and learn about viticulture on volcanic soil.
Day 6: Art Museum and César Manrique Foundation
Today is all about art. Visit the International Museum of Contemporary Art and then the César Manrique Foundation in Tahíche.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Housed in an old castle, this museum features works by Miró, Tàpies, and Sempere, as well as a restaurant with ocean views.
César Manrique Foundation
Built on volcanic bubbles, Manrique’s former home is now a museum. You can combine your visit with a stroll through Tahíche or stop by the Haría House Museum.
Day 7: Charco de los Clicos, Los Hervideros, and Salinas de Janubio
Round out your itinerary in the southwest of the island with volcanic landscapes and unique natural phenomena.
Charco de los Clicos
This green lake, located inside a volcanic crater, owes its color to sulfur and algae. You can view it from the overlook or walk down to the shore.
Los Hervideros
In this area of cliffs, the sea surges forcefully into lava tunnels, creating jets of pressurized water. It’s a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Janubio Salt Flats
These historic salt flats have been in operation since 1895. In addition to producing salt, they form a picturesque landscape and are a protected area for birds.