Budget Sightseeing in the Canary Islands this winter

Holidaymakers travelling to the Canary Islands have been told how to have a fabulous winter holiday and explore the islands without breaking the bank.

The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have researched the six top budget-friendly spots for those visiting these beautiful Spanish islands.

The Canary Islands are a popular holiday destination for a reason – the charming volcanic isles have something for everyone: nightlife, culture, landscapes and best of all, gloriously sunny weather all year round.

It can be easy to get carried away and break the bank whilst holidaying – but luckily there are plenty of free sights and interesting day trips costing under €10 all over the islands.

The Canary Islands host plenty of unique activities – from visiting an active volcano in Lanzarote to the cultural hotspots of Tenerife.

Visitors can soak up the culture in Lanzarote’s quirky museum once owned by Omar Sharif and then hop over on the high-speed boat trip across the La Bocayna sea to Fuerteventura to explore what the other islands have to offer.

A spokesperson for StressFreeCarRental.com said: “The Canary Islands attract millions of tourists each year, coming from all over the world to soak up some Spanish sun and relax down by the warm seas.

“Whilst on holiday it can be easy to spend over your budget. We all want to spend our evenings trying the local cuisine in nice restaurants and have a few fancy cocktails, and then enjoy what the islands have to offer during the day.

“Luckily, there are plenty of day trips and things to do across the Canary Islands which are completely free and budget-friendly whatever you are looking for. The islands have spectacular views and cultural attractions that are cost-friendly for everyone, and this guide will help you plan out your holiday whilst staying on track with spending.”

Here are StressFreeCarRental.com’s budget-friendly hotspots in the Canary Islands:

1. Stroll around the popular Tenerife market
El Mercado Nuestra Senora de Africa (or, ‘The Market of our Lady of Africa) is a popular market in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, that has been thriving since its beginnings in 1942, and is a great place to experience some authentic foods from the market stalls, and restaurants surrounding the marketplace. Visitors to the market can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, fish, flowers, crafts, clothes, and relax at local bars and eateries.

El Mercado market also hosts regular life music performances and wine tasting sessions in the courtyard area. Open every day of the week from 6am – 3pm, the market is a great way to try local cuisine and culture whilst on a budget in Tenerife.

2. Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote
The Timanfaya National Park is completely made up of volcanic soil and hosts the only active volcano on the island. This National Park is a must-see when visiting Lanzarote, as it’s a great way to view the natural rugged scenery the island has to offer. There are a few footpaths around the volcano, as well as a free car park.

The best way to experience the National Park is by the coach as the trip takes tourists to landscapes which are otherwise closed to the public. The coach costs around €12 for adults and €6 for children, with a 20% discount for those visiting after 3pm wanting to catch the beautiful sunset over the Timanfaya volcano.

3. Las Teresitas Beach, Tenerife
Las Teresitas is the most well-known beach in Tenerife for a reason. Located in the Santa Cruz area, this beach has an interesting history.

The sand was once black volcanic dust but was transformed in the 1970s to bring the only white sand beach to the island. Imported in from the Sahara Desert, the beach was filled up with new sand to make the beach bigger and a visible dyke was built to reduce the waves. And of course, Las Teresitas is free to visit – no trip to the Canary Islands is complete without a beach day.

4. Lagomar Museum, Lanzarote
The Lagomar Museum is not just for those wanting to soak up some local culture, as the museum is magnificently set within the old volcanic rocks of Lanzarote. Once a private house owned by the famous actor Omar Sharif, Lagomar features secret passages, tunnels, and caves for visitors to spend the afternoon exploring.

The museum is just a few euros for entry to look round the unique architectural gem, as well as the accompanying art gallery. After wandering around this Lanzarote oasis, there is a restaurant and bar open to visitors.

5. Lanzarote to Fuerteventura Boat Trip
Take the 30-minute boat trip from the port of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote across to Corralejo, Fuerteventura. There are regular ferry trips from several different businesses in the area, all costing around just €20 per person. The boat trip is a great way to explore the beauty of another island for a day, without having to spend a load of money.

6. Mogan Mall, Gran Canaria
Mogan Mall is a unique shopping visit for those wanting to recharge their batteries when visiting Gran Canaria. Free to visit, the mall hosts lovely restaurants, bars, and a wide variety of shops. Set within the natural rocky landscape of the island, spending an afternoon at Mogan Mall is a great way to unwind.

What makes the mall different from anywhere else, is the magical water fountain show, featuring colourful lights beaming to the beat of the music at the daily show at 9.30 pm; a free show and spectacle in itself.