Holidays to Arrecife
Arrecife is the capital of the island of Lanzarote. Like most of the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote boasts a wealth of modern beach resorts, and other tourist centres. However, a holiday to Arrecife gives you the chance to peer a little deeper into the history and unique culture of Lanzarote. This metropolitan port city is influenced by modern tourist culture, the lively and influential port, the legacy of Spanish settlers, and of course the historic inhabitation of the Canary Islands.
Arrecife is home to around half of the inhabitants of Lanzarote, and so it is perhaps not surprising that there are so many attractions on offer here. From cultural sites to theme parks, and from beaches to casinos – you’ll find something that will appeal to every member of the family, on a holiday to Arrecife.
The picturesque centre of Arrecife can be found at what is commonly known as ‘El Charco’, meaning ‘the puddle’. This seafront area boasts parks and promenades, as well as a rich and fascinating historical heritage. You’ll find tapas bars and restaurants everywhere in this area, and the cuisine on offer ranges from local delicacies to international favourites. El Charco is also the best place to come for shopping centres, bars and nightclubs.
Until the 19th century, Lanzarote’s capital was the historic town of Teguise. The importance of the port at Arrecife however, marked this town out as a point of major national significance. Arrecife’s port has always flavoured the local culture, and in the 17th and 18th centuries the city often came under attack from marauding pirates. You can still see the legacy of these frequent raids, in the two imposing castles, that stand guard over the natural harbour at Arrecife.
Both of these majestic constructions can be visited, and they make fascinating excursions during any holiday to Arrecife. At Castillo San Gabriel you’ll be able to visit the Ethnographic Museum, with its exhibits on the original inhabitants of Lanzarote – the Gaunche. Meanwhile, the older Castillo San Jose lies further away from the city, and commands excellent views out over Puerto Marmoles. Here visitors can pay a trip to Arrecife’s Museum of International Contemporary Art - a small, yet prestigious collection, as well as a stylish restaurant designed by the local architect and artist, Cesar Manrique. Other nearby destinations worth a visit include the beach of Playa Blanca.
Fancy a holiday to Arrecife?
No matter whether you’re exploring museum exhibitions, or lounging around on fine beaches; there are plenty of things to do on a holiday to Arrecife, that won’t involve reaching for your wallet. The city offers an attractive blend of ancient history, contemporary urban culture, staggering natural beauty, and beach resort charm. With such a perfect combination of features it’s no wonder that Arrecife is such a popular destination with holidaymakers. Book all your holidays to Spain with lastminute.com today!
Arrecife Travel Information
Language
Spanish (English widely spoken)
Currency
Euro
Local time
GMT/BST
Local airport
Lanzarote Arrecife
Flight time
4 hours 10 minutes
Transfer time
15 minutes
