The Canaries, lands of Contrast

Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, offers a blend of historic charm and vibrant urban life. The historic quarter, Vegueta, is a must-visit with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana. The Casa de Colón museum provides fascinating insights into Christopher Columbus's voyages and the island's history.

For beach lovers, Las Canteras Beach is a stunning urban beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, overlooking the Atlantic, hosts various cultural events. Stroll along the picturesque promenade, enjoy local cuisine at seaside restaurants, and experience the lively atmosphere of this dynamic Canary Islands city.

Lanzarote, part of the Canary Islands, is home to gorgeous aquamarine seas, white-sand beaches and nearly year-round sunshine. The islands most famous feature is its otherworldly landscape, born of hundreds of fire-breathing peaks.

Top Things to Do on Lanzarote:

• ride a camel in Timanfaya National Park
• relax on Puerto del Carmen beach
• venture into the tunnel of Jameos del Agua
• stroll through the Jardin de Cactus
• taste wines at a local winery

Nestled on the east coast of Lanzarote is the island's capital, Arrecife, named after the rocky reefs and outcrops that dominate its coastline. This pretty working city has a friendly, authentic feel, and has managed to remain true to its roots as a historic fishing village. Ships will dock at either Muelle de los Mármoles or the Arrecife Cruise Terminal. The terminal is about 3 km (1.8 miles) from the city center, a short 10-minute drive. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available, providing easy access to the city and its attractions.

Explore the Charco de San Ginés, a picturesque lagoon surrounded by charming whitewashed houses and local eateries. Visit the Castillo de San José, a historic fortress now housing the International Museum of Contemporary Art. For those interested in shopping, the bustling Marina Lanzarote is nearby, offering a variety of shops and dining options.

Fuerteventura, the second largest of the Canary Islands, is known for its pristine coastline with emerald green waters and over 150 km of white sand beaches. The entire island is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is considered a windsurfer’s and kite surfer’s paradise. Explore Corralejo, a bustling town known for its white sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. For a taste of the island's history, visit Betancuria, the former capital, where you can explore the 15th-century Santa María Church and quaint cobblestone streets. Fuerteventura's volcanic origins are showcased at the Calderón Hondo crater, offering scenic hikes with panoramic views.

Docking in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura’s capital, offers a gateway to the island's unique attractions. Begin with a stroll through the town’s vibrant streets, adorned with murals and sculptures. Visit the Casa Museo Unamuno, dedicated to the Spanish writer Miguel de Unamuno, to delve into the island’s cultural history.

A short drive away, explore the stunning Corralejo Natural Park, where you can enjoy vast sand dunes and turquoise waters ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. For a historical touch, head to Betancuria to see the 15th-century Santa María Church and enjoy its quaint atmosphere.

Discover the charming village of Los Cristianos, in the south of the island of Tenerife. While the former fishing town is edged by some beautiful fine-sand beaches, it is also known for the two protected nature reserves that surround it – Mount Chayofita and Mount Guaza. Both are ideal for hiking and for admiring the captivating views, facing the North Atlantic. Authentic and festive, Los Cristianos is also famous for its many water-based activities, ranging from scuba diving to snorkelling and water sports.

‘La Isla Bonita,’ La Palma is one of the smaller of the Canary Islands. Its capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a beautiful colonial-style city set on a picturesque harbour. The island’s landscape is one of black sand beaches, mountainous terrain and rich plant life. Ships will dock at the port of Santa Cruz de la Palma.

Top Things to Do on La Palma:

• visit the salt fields in Fuencaliente
• swim in the La Fajana natural ocean pools
• take a guided tour of the Silk Museum
• enjoy the view from La Cumbrecita lookout
• walk the Volcano San Antonio trail

‘La Isla Bonita,’ La Palma is one of the smaller of the Canary Islands. Its capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a beautiful colonial-style city set on a picturesque harbour. The island’s landscape is one of black sand beaches, mountainous terrain and rich plant life. Ships will dock at the port of Santa Cruz de la Palma.

Top Things to Do on La Palma:

• visit the salt fields in Fuencaliente
• swim in the La Fajana natural ocean pools
• take a guided tour of the Silk Museum
• enjoy the view from La Cumbrecita lookout
• walk the Volcano San Antonio trail

Puerto De La Estaca is the main port on the island of El Hierro, part of Spain’s Canary Islands. Ships dock directly at the Puerto De La Estaca cruise terminal, which is about 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) from Valverde, the island's capital. This journey typically takes around 15 minutes by car.

Discover the unique Ecomuseum of Guinea, offering insights into the island's past, or enjoy panoramic views from Mirador de la Peña. Nature enthusiasts can explore the mystical El Sabinar forest or swim in the natural pools of Charco Azul. La Restinga, famous for its vibrant marine life and diving spots, is also a popular destination. Don't miss the scenic trails and volcanic landscapes of El Hierro, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

San Sebastián de la Gomera stands as a hidden gem amidst the Canary Islands, a place where history whispers through the cobblestone streets and natural beauty unfolds at every turn. As the capital of La Gomera, it serves as a gateway to the island's lush landscapes and the ancient laurel forests of Garajonay National Park. The city itself is steeped in history, home to well-preserved monuments like the Torre del Conde, a fortress that dates back to the 15th century.

San Sebastián is also famously linked to Christopher Columbus, who made a final stop here before his voyage to the New World. With its quaint plazas, local cuisine, and serene beaches, San Sebastián de la Gomera offers a tranquil retreat and a peek into a storied past, making it a must-visit for those seeking a blend of culture and natural beauty.

Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, offers a blend of historic charm and vibrant urban life. The historic quarter, Vegueta, is a must-visit with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana. The Casa de Colón museum provides fascinating insights into Christopher Columbus's voyages and the island's history.

For beach lovers, Las Canteras Beach is a stunning urban beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, overlooking the Atlantic, hosts various cultural events. Stroll along the picturesque promenade, enjoy local cuisine at seaside restaurants, and experience the lively atmosphere of this dynamic Canary Islands city.