Canary Islands: Essential Practical Travel Tips

Navigate your trip to the Canary Islands with confidence using our guide to visas, money, transport, safety, and local customs.

Kanarya Adalari · 4 min read

The Canary Islands, or Canary Islands, offer stunning landscapes and a welcoming atmosphere. To make the most of your visit, a little preparation goes a long way. This guide provides practical, traveler-focused information to help you navigate the essentials, from your arrival to your departure. We cover the key details so you can travel with confidence and focus on creating great memories across this beautiful Spanish archipelago.

Essential Pre-Travel Information

As an autonomous community of Spain, the Canary Islands are part of the Schengen Area. This means that visa requirements are the same as for mainland Spain. Travelers from EU/Schengen countries can enter freely, while visitors from other nations should verify if they need a Schengen visa. Rules can vary based on your nationality and the length of your stay. Always consult the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate for the most current and accurate visa information before booking your travel.

The official currency is the Euro (€). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, especially in tourist-heavy areas. However, it is wise to carry some cash. Smaller cafes, local markets, and businesses in more remote villages may be cash-only. ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are readily available in towns and resorts, but be aware that some may charge a fee for withdrawals, in addition to any fees from your own bank.

Healthcare facilities in the Canary Islands are of a high standard. Citizens of EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland should carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to state-provided healthcare. For all other travelers, comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is strongly recommended. Pharmacies (farmacias), identifiable by a green cross, are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medication and advice for minor health issues.

Getting Around and Staying Connected

Traveling between islands is straightforward, with frequent flights from local airlines like Binter Canarias and Canaryfly, as well as ferry services from companies like Fred. Olsen and Naviera Armas. On each island, public buses, known as 'guaguas', are an affordable and effective way to travel between towns. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace, but be sure to book in advance during peak season. Roads are generally well-maintained, though some mountain routes can be narrow and winding.

Official taxis are a reliable way to get around. They are typically white and have a meter. Always ensure the meter is running, or agree on a fare before starting your journey for longer trips, such as from the airport. Avoid unlicensed taxis; stick to designated taxi ranks or book through a reputable app or your hotel. Fares are regulated, and a list of standard charges should be visible inside the vehicle.

While Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, its speed and reliability can vary. For consistent and secure internet access from the moment you land, consider installing a travel eSIM like a SimMaxi plan for the Canary Islands. This avoids the hassle of finding and registering a local SIM card and can be more dependable than public Wi-Fi, especially when you need to use navigation apps or make online bookings while on the move.

Daily Life and Safety

Tap water across the Canary Islands is generally safe for consumption as it is treated, but it is often desalinated and can have a high mineral content, giving it a distinct taste. Many residents and visitors prefer to drink bottled water (agua mineral). You can ask for 'agua sin gas' (still water) or 'agua con gas' (sparkling water) in any shop or restaurant.

The Canary Islands use the standard European Type F (Schuko) plug with two round pins. The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If your devices use a different plug type or voltage, you will need a travel adapter and potentially a voltage converter. Most modern electronic devices like laptops and phone chargers are dual-voltage, but it is always best to check the label on your device.

Tipping is not obligatory in the Canary Islands, but it is a welcome gesture for good service. In restaurants, if you are happy with the service, leaving a tip of 5-10% of the bill is customary. For smaller bills at a cafe, rounding up to the nearest Euro is common. It is also polite to tip hotel porters, housekeeping staff, and tour guides a few Euros for their service.

Useful Local Phrases

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making an effort to use a few Spanish phrases is always appreciated and can enhance your interactions with locals. A simple 'hola' or 'gracias' can go a long way. Don't worry about perfect pronunciation; the effort is what counts.