Unfortunately, the weather outside still isn’t fully treating us right… one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s rain mixed with sleet. So, what would you say to a trip to a place where we have beautiful weather, the sea, and magnificent views? We invite you on a journey to the Spanish volcanic islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria!
Where are we flying from?
You can find comfortable flight connections to the Canary Islands from many European hubs, including major airports like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Eindhoven. The flight time from the Netherlands to the islands is about 5 hours. During the journey—if you don’t have a plan yet, of course—you can map out what is worth seeing on Tenerife or Gran Canaria!
Tenerife – The island of sun, volcanoes, and beautiful beaches!
Once you are there, you absolutely must see the Teide National Park, which is home to the highest peak in Spain (3718 m above sea level). You can reach the summit by cable car or choose a hiking trail. No matter which option you pick, it is worth the effort because beautiful views are waiting for you at the top.
Another place worth your attention is Los Gigantes, impressive cliffs reaching heights of up to 600 meters. You can go on a boat trip to look for dolphins and whales, or go diving in the crystal-clear water. Near the cliffs, you will find a charming town with numerous restaurants and a beach made of volcanic sand.
If you want to feel the true atmosphere of the Canary Islands, visiting La Laguna—or San Cristóbal de La Laguna—cannot be missing from your plans. It is a gorgeous, historic city inscribed on the UNESCO list, filled with charming streets packed with cafes, museums, and colorful buildings.
As we mentioned above, Tenerife is an island of sun and wonderful views, but also of beautiful beaches! Here are our three recommendations 😉
The first is one of the most famous beaches in Tenerife – Playa de las Teresitas, covered with golden sand imported from the Sahara and surrounded by palm trees. For those who like a bit of luxury, we recommend Playa del Duque, which impresses with its elegant atmosphere, many exclusive amenities, and turquoise water. Our third option is the wild beach of Playa de Benijo. This is a picturesque spot with black volcanic sand, surrounded by cliffs and rocks, where you can admire unforgettable sunsets!
For people traveling with children (though not only), we also recommend dropping by Loro Parque, the famous zoo and entertainment park. Loro Parque is one of the most celebrated zoos in the world, known among other things for its impressive collection of parrots and shows featuring dolphins, killer whales, and sea lions. It is a place that is truly worth visiting, regardless of your age 😉
Gran Canaria – Golden dunes and atmospheric towns
During a visit to Gran Canaria, it is worth seeing, above all, its extraordinary landscapes and charming towns. The first place we recommend is the Maspalomas Dunes. Here you will encounter a unique, desert-like landscape stretching right next to the ocean, creating one of the most picturesque spots on Gran Canaria. It is an ideal place for walks and watching the sunset.
Rising up in the heart of the island is Roque Nublo. This is an impressive volcanic rock, recognized as one of the symbols of Gran Canaria, located at an altitude of 1813 m above sea level. The hike to its peak offers unique views over the entire island, and with good weather, you can even spot neighboring Tenerife.
The next stop is the island’s capital, Las Palmas. One of its greatest assets is Las Canteras beach, considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports. It is also worth visiting the historic Vegueta district, where you can admire picturesque streets and the Cathedral of St. Anne.
When you are in the south, it is worth visiting Puerto de Mogán, often called “Little Venice” because of its charming canals and colorful houses. It is the perfect place for a stroll among blooming bougainvillea or a relaxing break in one of the lovely cafes.
Among the places you must see while on Gran Canaria is one of the most beautiful towns on the island – Teror, famous for its traditional Canarian balconies and rich history. The central point of the town is the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, the patron saint of the island, to which locals make a pilgrimage every year.
Gran Canaria is another island famous for its diverse beaches. Playa de Amadores with its turquoise water, Playa de Güigüí for nature lovers, or Playa de Las Canteras, which is ideal for relaxation and water sports.
All of these attractions make the island an excellent destination both for active people who love walking and sightseeing, and for those who just want to relax and laze around on the beach 😉
How to get from Tenerife to Gran Canaria
To get from Tenerife to Gran Canaria, we have two options: a ferry or a plane.
The ferry is the most popular way to travel between the islands. Ferries run several times a day, and the journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The main operators are Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. You can also take a car with you for an additional fee.
The second option is a plane. The flight time is about 30 minutes. You can use domestic flights operated by Binter Canarias or Canaryfly.
In conclusion, the Canary Islands are a perfect holiday destination for people who want to both sightsee and relax on one of the local beaches! You can quickly and easily reach Tenerife or Gran Canaria and discover their unique charm. So, choose your island and head off on your dream journey!
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