Being the closest destination to the UK that offers an all-important guarantee of mild temperatures and winter sunshine, the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands have been longtime favourites for British holidaymakers.
The Balearics, located in the Mediterranean, are made up of the main islands of Menorca, Majorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, while the Canary Islands in the Atlantic are best known for Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
The time has finally come for a head-to-head comparison between both of these Spanish island groups, with regards to climate, logistics, beaches and overall good-time vibes, to find out who will triumph in the stand-off.
Whether you are cruising to the Mediterranean Sea, to bask on Balearic beaches or cool off in the Canaries, a summer getaway to Spain is hard to beat.
Both sets of islands have a balmy climate between May and September, with highs often exceeding 30°C. Come winter, the Canary Islands are best for sunshine between December and February, while in Majorca and Menorca the mercury hovers between 10°C to 18°C.
The summer months in both the islands are equally hot, although the Balearics are more humid, but as winter draws in the weather gets milder and we recommend you to head to the Canary Islands.
Getting there is easy as there are several low-cost flight options from the UK to all of the islands. The average flight time from the UK to the Balearics is two hours thirty minutes while for the Canary Islands, it is around four hours. Although technically none of the flights can be considered as long-haul, if you are not a good flyer, the Balearics may appeal as a better option!
Both the Balearics and Canaries are blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. For instance, while Tenerife is home to the awe-inspiring Mount Teide, the highest point in Spain which is a must for star-gazing when you visit the island, Lanzarote has the stunning Timanfaya National Park at the top of every nature lover's list.
On the other hand, the Balearic Islands boast a diverse and captivating landscape. From the rugged cliffs and secluded coves of Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana to the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Menorca, the islands offer a striking contrast between mountainous terrains and serene coastlines.
To sum up, both the Canary and Balearic Islands have an equal share of jaw-dropping scenery to explore, so it is for you to decide what you want to see first.
Tenerife is home to the fabulous Siam Park in Costa Adeje, voted the best waterpark in the world. In comparison, Fuerteventura has a Spanish animal park with an African flavour plus unbeatable stay options.
The tiny Cabrera islet, just off the coast of Majorca is a total National Park and has fascinating wildlife that have found refuge here. Over to Ibiza, where kids would love the Cap Blanc Aquarium, just outside San Antonio.
Since both archipelagos have a plethora of attractions and activities for families with kids, it will be impossible to split them.
Nightlife has to be one of the top priorities on any holiday. Thankfully, both the Balearic and Canary Islands have plenty to offer.
Ibiza is said to be the party capital of the world, featuring nightclubs with world-class DJs, while Majorca is the site of Magaluf, a top nightlife hotspot where bars and clubs are open till dawn.
The Canaries, though, are a much quieter affair, with Veronicas in Playa de las Americas being the main hub for cheap nightclubs and bars.
So, if you are looking for an unforgettable nightlife experience, the Balearics have to be the hands-down winner.
Each archipelago has its benefits, so it is up to you to decide the type of holiday you are looking for, but it’s guaranteed that you’ll enjoy both for different reasons.
