6 Charming Towns and Villages in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote is a very popular beach destination for sun-seekers, especially during the winter months. But if you decide to go beyond the pretty beaches and the streets of the resorts, you will discover a charming island, with lots of small villages, where you can try the local food and see the Canarian architecture.

In our opinion, the Canary Islands are a really unique place in the world and we recommend to everyone coming here on holiday to go out and explore, discover the real villages and towns and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

Most beautiful towns and villages in Lanzarote

The island of Lanzarote has a much smaller population compared to Tenerife or Gran Canaria, so if you decide to drive around the island you will discover many small villages and even hamlets, away from the busy tourist areas. These places are the most interesting to discover in our opinion, as here you can see how the locals live, you can taste the real authentic food and you can get away from the noise and crowds of the resorts. 

1. Haria

Haria is a small but beautiful village in the north of Lanzarote, with a population of barely over 1000 people. If you're coming to the island, we absolutely recommend coming here for a visit to one of Lanzarote's most authentic villages.

Haria is situated in the valley with the same name, also known as The Valley of The 1000 Palms. This area is the most fertile place in Lanzarote, due to the rainfalls which are more frequent than in the rest of the island. Also, due to its location and the fact that it is surrounded by volcanoes, Haria is sheltered from winds and is one of the most humid areas in Lanzarote.

2. Teguise

Teguise is considered the oldest town in the Canary Islands, dating back to the XVIIIth century. La Villa de Teguise as it is locally known, used to be the capital of Lanzarote for over 450 years, up until 1852 when Arrecife became the new capital city.

Teguise is a really quiet place in Lanzarote, where you can discover the true spirit of the island. 

On Sundays, there's a massive market organized and if you want to do some shopping while in Lanzarote, Teguise market is the best place to go.

3. Caleta de Famara

A few kilometers away from Famara beach you'll find a charming place called Caleta de Famara, where you can enjoy a lovely meal of fresh fish in a local setting - no fancy bars or restaurants here.

Caleta de Famara is a small town, located right next to Famara beach, which is one of the most impressive beaches in Lanzarote in our opinion.

4. San Bartolome

San Bartolome is a small town in Lanzarote, in the municipality with the same name, located in the central part of the island.

You can go on a stroll through the narrow streets of San Bartolome, or you can visit Ethnographic Museum and then try a delicious dessert at Pasteleria Lolita.

5. El Golfo

Although when most visitors to Lanzarote hear the name El Golfo they automatically think of the Green lake or Green lagoon on the island, the name El Golfo actually belongs to the small village situated in close proximity to the lagoon.

El Golfo used to be a fishing village and some fishing is still being done today, so after visiting this side of the coast you can make a stop in the village for lunch.

6. Arrieta

Arrieta is actually a small coastal village part of the municipality of Haria, in the north of Lanzarote.

The most photographed place in Arrieta is the Blue House or Casa La Juanita, which is located right next to the small beach. 

SEE ALSO

• Best Airbnbs in Lanzarote
• Where to stay in Lanzarote: best areas & resorts