Best things to do in Arrecife
Bustling Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote, brimming with visual, cultural and natural attractions, such as fascinating museums, stunning views and distinct architectural treasures.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Historical monuments
San José Castle: Currently housing the International Museum of Contemporary Art (MIAC), the castle was constructed in the 18th century. Outside, the black stone walls are a noteworthy feature, while inside it displays art by some of Spain’s most avant-garde contemporary artists.
San Ginés Church: Near the Charco de San Ginés lagoon, this 17th-century church is an incredible example of traditional Canary Islands architecture. The interior is modest, but still impressive.
The best districts
Charco de San Ginés: Known locally as the Venice of Lanzarote, this is one of Arrecife’s most picturesque places. You can stroll around the natural lagoon, which is encircled by pretty houses and cafés, and watch the fishermen at work.
El Almacén: Formerly a gathering point for artists, this collection of buildings has been fixed up and turned into a cultural hub. It now houses art galleries, bars and a cinema, and often features live music events.
Lanzarote Marina: There are open green spaces, waterfront cafés and playgrounds all around the marina, which is just a short stroll from the city centre. It’s a great place to enjoy ice cream while taking in the yachts anchored in the harbour.
Parks and gardens
Islas Canarias Park: This small green space, which is a popular meeting spot for locals, is perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic in the shade. It has a nice oasis-like feel in the middle of the city thanks to its fountain and surrounding palms.
Day trips in the area
Timanfaya National Park: Around 30 minutes from Arrecife you can spend a surreal day exploring moon-like landscapes formed by volcanic activity and sample food cooked over geothermal heat at El Diablo restaurant.
Los Verdes Caves: This intriguing cave system, roughly 40 minutes from Arrecife, was created by an old volcanic eruption. Tours of the underground tunnels allow you to marvel at the incredible formations and natural acoustics.
Activities for families in Arrecife
Whether they want to have lots of beach days, visit fun attractions, or just unwind in the city’s open spaces, families will find plenty of entertaining things to do during Arrecife holidays.
Marine encounters: Families will enjoy a day out at the Lanzarote Aquarium, in nearby Costa Teguise. Children can engage with sea creatures in touch tanks and observe a variety of the Canary Islands’ marine species.
Water parks: Older children will love the exciting water slides, while other watery amusements keep the young ones happy, at Aquapark Costa Teguise.
Boat trips: From Charco de San Ginés, you can take the family on a glass-bottom boat, which offers the chance to observe what’s under the sea without getting wet.
Beach: Playa del Reducto is one of the most popular spots in Arrecife for families, due to its clear, calm waters, soft sand and abundance of family-friendly facilities.
Free things to do in Arrecife
Enjoying Arrecife and the rest of the island doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The city offers a range of free activities that will allow you to have a good time without going over budget.
Free museums: You’ll find that some museums, such as the MIAC inside San José Castle, don’t charge admission on certain days. To save money, check the museum timetables for times when entrance is free.
Annual festivals: You’re in for a treat if you visit during one of Arrecife’s wonderful festivals, like the Carnival in February. Anticipate free street performances, dancing and vibrant parades.
Free guided tours: Walking tours are available from a number of organisations, which cover the city’s key areas. Since these tours operate on a tips-only basis, you decide how much you want to pay.
Nature and outdoor activities in Arrecife
Hiking and cycling: The volcanic landscape of Lanzarote offers numerous hiking and mountain bike trails. The nearby César Manrique trail honours Lanzarote’s most well-known artist while providing a lovely hike through untamed countryside. The cycle path from Arrecife to Puerto del Carmen is particularly rewarding, with views of the coast. In Arrecife, bicycles are available to rent.
Water sports: Kitesurfing and windsurfing are great on the beaches of Arrecife and nearby Costa Teguise, thanks to the steady Atlantic breezes. Arrecife is also a great place for diving, due to its amazing underwater volcanic formations. Local operators organise diving trips to the Museo Atlántico, a museum dedicated to underwater artwork.
Jeep and buggy tours: An exhilarating way to explore off-road places and isolated beaches is to take one of the jeep or buggy guided tours that leave from Arrecife.
