How to Island-Hop Around the Canaries Without Breaking the Bank
So, you’re dreaming of an amazing summer getaway without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. With the cost of living crisis driving prices up, a relaxing holiday abroad might seem out of reach, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Welcome to the Canary Islands.
This diverse archipelago, located just off the northwest coast of Africa, offers the perfect mix of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
Even better, you don’t have to stick to just one island. While island-hopping might sound expensive, the good news is that getting between the islands is surprisingly affordable, especially with our money-saving tips.
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Join us as we break down our budget-friendly guide to exploring the Canaries so you can make the most of your trip.
TRAVEL DURING THE SHOULDER SEASONS
The great thing about the Canary Islands is that they’re wonderful to visit year-round. However, if you’re on a budget, timing your trip is important. The islands see two main tourist peaks each year. The first is in winter, from mid-December to February, when visitors from Europe come chasing the sun. The second is in July and August, when locals take their summer holidays. These busy periods often bring higher prices and crowded resorts.
For a quieter and more affordable visit, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons, spring, March to May, or autumn, September to November. During these times, the weather stays pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and prices tend to be lower. It’s also a great season for outdoor activities like hiking, and for diving enthusiasts, October is one of the best months to explore underwater.
AVOID RESORTS
The Canary Islands offer a wide variety of accommodation options, so there’s something for every budget. However, choosing your base wisely is important. The larger islands provide many affordable choices, from simple hotels and hostels to self-catering apartments and Airbnbs, perfect if you want flexibility and the option to cook your own meals.
If you prefer a quieter, more unique experience, consider staying outside the main tourist areas. Islands like El Hierro offer peaceful rural settings with budget-friendly lodgings in charming villages far from the crowds. Remember, the Canaries are all about natural beauty and outdoor adventures, so don’t worry too much about fancy accommodations, you’ll probably spend most of your time exploring anyway.
EAT THE LOCAL CUISINE
Eating well in the Canaries doesn’t have to be expensive, you just need to avoid touristy beachfront spots and dine like the locals. In northern Tenerife and some of the western islands, look out for ‘guachinches’, small, home-style restaurants often run by local families that serve traditional dishes and homemade wine in a relaxed setting. On Lanzarote, similar community-run places known as ‘teleclubs’ offer hearty local meals at budget-friendly prices.
Sharing tapas is also a great way to sample a variety of dishes without overspending. Try local favourites like papas arrugadas with mojo picón (a spicy garlic and pepper sauce), regional cheeses, or fried fish. A few small plates and a drink can make for a tasty and affordable meal.
USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT
All seven main Canary Islands have reliable, easy-to-use bus networks, each operated by a single company serving the entire island. In Tenerife, there's also a convenient tram that connects the capital, Santa Cruz, with the historic town of La Laguna. With a bit of planning, it’s easy to explore much of the islands using public transport alone.
However, on smaller islands like Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa, bus services are more limited and often infrequent. In these cases, renting a car is usually the best option for getting around. By relying on public transport where it’s strong and renting a car, when necessary, you can see the best of the Canaries without blowing your budget.
ENJOY FREE ACTIVITIES
The islands offer plenty of free activities that highlight their culture and natural beauty. Many museums, such as the Museo de Naturaleza y Arqueología in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, provide free entry during specific hours, usually on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Additionally, several towns, including La Laguna and Santa Cruz, offer complimentary guided walking tours through their historic centres. These tours are often organised by local tourism offices, so it’s a good idea to check official websites or visit a tourist information centre to get details or reserve a spot.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the national parks are a real gem. Parks like Timanfaya in Lanzarote and Garajonay in La Gomera host free, small-group hikes led by certified guides. Just remember to book ahead and enjoy the experience at no cost.
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