Best Time to Visit Lanzarote

Thanks to its year-round sunshine, any time is perfect for holidays to Lanzarote from Dublin or Cork. Summer is ideal for beach lovers, while winter offers quieter escapes and unbeatable Lanzarote last minute deals.

Our team regularly visit Lanzarote to experience the resorts, hotels, and attractions first-hand. In May 2025, our travel expert Andrew visited Lanzarote as part of a luxury family trip with the Spanish Tourist Board, giving us up to date, on-the-ground insight into the best areas, hotels, and experiences to recommend to our customers. Read more in Andrew’s Lanzarote Trip Report here.

Alternatively, Christmas in Lanzarote brings a unique holiday charm, with festive decorations, local traditions, and warm weather creating a magical atmosphere. Whether you’re after a summer getaway or a winter holiday, Lanzarote has something special to offer all year.

Lanzarote Weather

Lanzarote enjoys warm weather all year round thanks to its location close to Africa. This makes it an ideal destination for winter sun, as well as summer holidays.

• Winter: Mild temperatures, perfect for winter sun breaks
• Spring: Warm weather and excellent value
• Summer: Hot and sunny, ideal for beach holidays
• Autumn: Warm seas and fewer crowds

While Lanzarote can occasionally be windy or overcast, Andrew’s Lanzarote Trip Report strongly recommends always wearing sun cream, as the sun remains powerful even when it doesn’t feel hot.

Top Things to Do & See on Your Lanzarote Holiday

• Ferry Trip to Fuerteventura: From Playa Blanca, catch a scenic ferry to Fuerteventura for a day filled with new landscapes and exciting attractions. The trip is perfect for adding variety to your Lanzarote itinerary.
• Explore Volcanic Wonders: Visit Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to witness breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
• Historic Teguise: Visit the old capital, Teguise, to stroll through cobblestone streets, explore traditional Canarian architecture, and shop at local markets. The town’s historic atmosphere and beautiful views make it a must-visit for those interested in Lanzarote's heritage.
• Soar Above the Island: For thrill-seekers, paragliding over Lanzarote’s coastline offers breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes and turquoise waters. Experience the island from a unique perspective!

Lanzarote Nightlife – Where to Go for a Great Night Out

• Puerto Del Carmen: This place is well known for lively nightlife, Puerto Del Carmen is the place for clubs, late-night bars, and bustling beachside venues. Enjoy everything from live music to dance floors along the Avenida de las Playas.
• Arrecife: The capital, Arrecife, offers an urban nightlife scene with stylish bars and sophisticated lounges. It’s a great choice for those wanting a mix of local vibes and international influences.
• Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca: If you prefer a laid-back evening, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca have plenty of Irish pubs, cocktail bars, and beachfront lounges that cater to a relaxed crowd.

Dining & Cuisine in Lanzarote

Enjoy authentic Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, and grilled meats.

• Local Cuisine: Lanzarote’s culinary scene is diverse, with restaurants offering everything from Canarian specialities to international dishes. Try mojo potatoes (papas arrugadas), fresh seafood, and grilled pork dishes that highlight local flavours.
• International Dining Options: For those looking for variety, Lanzarote has plenty of options for Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. The resort towns feature a wide selection of family-friendly and fine dining options.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Rancho Texas Park: Located in Puerto Del Carmen, Rancho Texas Park is an exciting Lanzarote destination for families, with attractions like a zoo, water slides, and cowboy shows. Kids will love the animal interactions, including dolphin shows and pony rides.
• Submarine Safaris: Take the family on an underwater adventure with Submarine Safaris in Puerto Calero, where you can explore the island’s marine life without getting wet! This one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for both kids and adults.

Lanzarote Beaches – Best Spots for Relaxation and Sun

• Playa Blanca: Known for its soft, golden sands, Playa Blanca is ideal for families and those looking to relax. With calm waters and beachfront restaurants, it’s the perfect beach for a day of sun and sea.
• Playa Papagayo: For a more secluded experience, Playa Papagayo is a stunning cove with turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. It’s popular among visitors for its natural beauty and is one of the island’s best spots for snorkelling.

Shopping in Lanzarote – Boutiques and Markets

• Teguise Market: Every Sunday, Teguise hosts the island’s largest market, where visitors can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local foods. It’s a great place to buy gifts and support local artisans.
• Arrecife Shopping: The capital city, Arrecife, offers several shopping malls, including Centro Commercial Biosfera Plaza, with stores featuring both local and international brands. You’ll find everything from fashion boutiques to souvenir shops.

Lanzarote Carnival – Festivities and Celebrations

Each February and March, Lanzarote celebrates Carnival with lively parades, colourful costumes, and fireworks. This vibrant celebration is held across the island, with Arrecife and Puerto Del Carmen hosting some of the biggest events.

Currency in Lanzarote

Lanzarote uses the Euro (€), making it easy for Irish holidaymakers to manage without currency exchange.

Time Zone in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is in the same time zone as Ireland, so you can enjoy your holiday without adjusting your routine.

Getting Around Lanzarote – Transport Options

• Public Transport: Lanzarote has a reliable bus service that connects most major resorts and attractions. Buses are affordable and convenient for day trips.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available and reasonably priced, making it easy to travel between resorts or visit nearby attractions.
• Car Hire: For those who want to explore Lanzarote independently by driving, car hire is a popular option. It’s ideal for reaching remote beaches and scenic viewpoints across the island.

Easy Flights and Accommodation to Lanzarote

With Lanzarote flights and hotel packages departing directly from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, and Knock, your holiday begins the moment you book. Flying time is just over four hours, making it a short and convenient journey from Ireland.

Andrew travelled with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Arrecife, with a flight time of approximately 4 hours each way. Transfer times vary by resort, with Matagorda and Puerto del Carmen just 10–15 minutes from the airport, while resorts such as Puerto Calero are around 30 minutes away.

• Avoid drinking tap water and opt for bottled water
• Carry some cash, as tips and taxis are often cash-preferred
• Bring sun cream and apply it regularly, even on cloudy days
• For nightlife, Puerto del Carmen offers the widest choice and is easily reached by taxi from quieter resorts

All tips above are based on first-hand experience from Andrew’s recent visit to Lanzarote.

1. What is the best time of year to go to Lanzarote for a holiday?

Answer: Lanzarote is a year-round destination known as the "Island of Eternal Spring." For the hottest weather, visit between June and September. If you are looking for comfortable hiking temperatures and lower prices, the "shoulder seasons" of May and October are ideal. Even in winter (December to February), temperatures rarely drop below 17°C, making it a top choice for Irish holidaymakers seeking winter sun.

2. Which part of Lanzarote is best for a holiday?

Answer: The best area depends on your holiday style. Puerto del Carmen is the most popular for its vibrant nightlife and expansive beaches. Families often prefer Playa Blanca for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the famous Papagayo beaches, while Costa Teguise is a favorite for windsurfing enthusiasts and those seeking a mix of local culture and resort convenience.

3. Are Lanzarote holidays expensive?

Answer: Compared to mainland Europe, Lanzarote offers excellent value for money. As part of the Canary Islands, it enjoys a special tax status, meaning duty-free prices on many goods. Budget Travel offers a range of cheap Lanzarote holiday deals, from self-catering apartments to All Inclusive resorts, ensuring there is an option for every budget.

4. What are the top things to do in Lanzarote?

Answer: Beyond the beaches, a must-visit is the Timanfaya National Park to see the "Fire Mountains." Other highlights include the Jameos del Agua (designed by César Manrique), a boat trip to the tranquil island of La Graciosa, and exploring the volcanic vineyards of La Geria. For families, the Rancho Texas Park and local waterparks are popular day trips.

5. How long is the flight from Ireland to Lanzarote?

Answer: The average flight time from Dublin, Cork, or Shannon to Lanzarote (ACE) is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. This relatively short flight time makes it one of the most accessible sun destinations for Irish holidaymakers.

6. Do I need to hire a car in Lanzarote?

Answer: While many holidaymakers stay within the well-equipped resorts of Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca, hiring a car is highly recommended if you want to explore the island’s unique volcanic interior. The roads are excellent and easy to navigate. Alternatively, Lanzarote has a reliable and affordable public bus service (intercity bus) connecting the main resorts and the capital, Arrecife.

7. Is the sea warm enough to swim in Lanzarote year-round?

Answer: Yes! The Atlantic waters surrounding Lanzarote remain relatively stable throughout the year due to the island's location. Sea temperatures range from roughly 18°C in February to 23°C in September. This makes water sports like snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving popular activities regardless of when you book your Lanzarote holiday