What to See in the Canary Islands

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Canary Islands have three sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

La Gomera:

Garajonay National Park ★★★ (1986)
This mountainous park in the centre of the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its vegetation and beautiful rainforest. It’s great for hiking.

Tenerife:

La Laguna ★★★ (1999)
Officially San Cristobal de La Laguna. This large university city on the outskirts of Santa Cruz has a UNESCO-listed historic centre.

Teide National Park ★★★★ (2007)
At the heart of the island, this vast desert area is home to Mount Teide (3,718 m), the highest peak in the Canary Islands. Accessible by cable car or on foot, the park boasts stunning landscapes and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also crossed by the Carretera Dorsal, offering breathtaking panoramas. Teide is one of the most visited national parks in the world.

Province of Las Palmas

Located in the eastern part of the Canary Islands, the province includes the islands of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria.

• What to See in Fuerteventura: Primarily a mix of beaches and seaside resorts (Corralejo, Morro Jable, Puerto del Rosario...) alongside a rather desert-like natural landscape, notably the Jandía Natural Park.

• What to See in Gran Canaria: While the island is rich in beach resorts and all-inclusive stays, particularly in the Maspalomas area, it also boasts some cultural heritage with charming towns (Aguïmes, Las Palmas...) and historical or even archaeological sites (around Telde or Gáldar).

• What to See in Lanzarote: A solid "compromise" between culture, nature, and relaxation. There’s plenty of choice for beaches and seaside resorts (Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen...), nature (Chinijo Archipelago, several caves, and especially Timanfaya National Park), and some lovely old buildings scattered across the island’s towns.

Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Located in the western part of the Canary Islands, the province includes the islands of Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro.

• What to See in El Hierro: The entire (small) island as a destination for nature lovers, those seeking tranquility, and diving enthusiasts (particularly in La Restinga).

• What to See in La Gomera: Nature is the highlight, starting with Garajonay National Park or the basaltic organs of Vallehermoso. For beach lovers, Valle Gran Rey and Playa de Santiago are great options.

• What to See in La Palma: Mostly stunning landscapes away from the crowds, including the Caldera de Taburiente and Cumbre Vieja.

• What to See in Tenerife: An excellent balance between beach holidays (El Médano or especially Playa de las Américas), culture (the old center of La Laguna, Garachico, the pyramids of Güímar...), and nature. On the latter, the island is home to several "must-sees," such as Teide National Park, the Teno and Anaga massifs, and the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes.