I love to explore places without a car, and on my website, I cover many topics for car-free travelers. In this article, we will visit Lanzarote and help you find the best places to stay in Lanzarote without a car.
I will share my recommendations for the top areas to stay in Lanzarote without a car, along with a helpful map. I’ll also tell you where I stayed in Lanzarote and suggest the best hotels in Lanzarote for all budgets.
Lanzarote is the fourth-largest of the Canary Islands, situated in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa. It is known for its unique volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and year-round warm weather.
The renowned local artist and architect César Manrique played a significant role in shaping the island’s development. His influence can be seen in the many artistic and environmental projects on Lanzarote, which blend architecture with the island’s natural beauty.
One of the most famous attractions on Lanzarote is Timanfaya National Park, a lunar-like landscape where visitors can witness geothermal activity, including hot springs and geysers.
Lanzarote boasts beautiful beaches. Popular beach areas include Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Famara Beach, which is also known for its excellent conditions for surfing.
It is possible to get around the island without a car, but it may require some planning and patience. Some alternative transportation options include public bus, taxi, walking.
Lanzarote has a network of public buses that connect many towns and tourist destinations. The main bus company is called Intercity Bus Lanzarote. The bus service is called “Guagua” in Spanish, and it’s relatively affordable. You can find schedules and routes online or at bus stations.
You can also use a taxi to get around, especially in tourist areas like Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, and Costa Teguise. They is a convenient option for shorter trips, but more expensive than other forms of transportation.
Lanzarote is relatively flat, and it can be an excellent destination for cyclists. You can rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace. Some towns may have dedicated cycling lanes.
If you’re staying in a particular area and don’t plan on traveling too far, walking is a viable option. Many towns and cities are compact and pedestrian-friendly.
Many tour operators on the island offer guided excursions to popular tourist attractions. This can be a good way to explore the island’s key points of interest without the need for a car.
If you want to visit other islands in the Canary archipelago, there are regular ferry services available from Lanzarote. Popular destinations include Fuerteventura and La Graciosa.
While it’s possible to get around Lanzarote without a car, having one can offer more convenience and flexibility, especially if you want to explore less touristy or remote areas.
Where to stay in Lanzarote without a car?
The best areas to stay in Lanzarote without a car are Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, Playa Honda, and Órzola. These are popular tourist towns on the island, so you’ll have easy access to attractions, beaches, and amenities by using a combination of buses, walking, and taxis.
Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Arrecife are the most well-connected locations on the island. Costa Teguise is the best area for first-time visitors, offering easy access to beautiful beaches and attractions such as Cucharas Beach, César Manrique Foundation, and Aquapark Costa Teguise.
Playa Blanca, located in the southern part of the island, offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Puerto del Carmen is a great area for a vibrant nightlife.
Arrecife is the transport hub and capital city of the island, home to numerous historical attractions such as the Castillo de San Jose, te Castillo de San Gabriel, and San Ginés church. It is a great area to explore the history of the island and take day trips to other towns on the island.
Playa Honda is the best base if you want to stay close to the airport. And Órzola on the northernmost point of Lanzarote is a great town for a quiet and relaxing holiday.
During my trip to Lanzarote, I stayed in Costa Teguise at Oasis Lanz Beach Mate. This is a very popular hotel with an excellent location in the central area of Costa Teguise and close to many restaurants. It is only 5 minutes to the beach and a short taxi ride from the airport.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Lanzarote for car-free travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Lanzarote, especially for travelers without a car. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Lanzarote have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in Lanzarote without a car:
1. Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is one of the most popular areas to stay in Lanzarote, especially for first-timers and car-free travelers. Located on the eastern coast of Lanzarote, it’s known for its beautiful beaches, year-round pleasant climate, and a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
To get from the airport to Costa Teguise, you can take a taxi, use car rental, hotel’s shuttle services. If using the bus, you can take bus route 22 / 23 to Arrecife then change to bus route 1 to Costa Teguise.
Costa Teguise boasts several sandy beaches, including Playa de las Cucharas and Playa Bastian. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like windsurfing, scuba diving, and kite surfing.
Costa Teguise is home to an 18-hole golf course, making it a great destination for golfers looking to enjoy the sport in a beautiful setting.
The town is home to the Aquapark Costa Teguise, a family-friendly water park with water slides, pools, and activities suitable for all ages. The nearby Aquarium Lanzarote has a wide range of species and underwater exhibits.
You can also find the charming Pueblo Marinero square with a selection of restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal or some local entertainment.
The area offers easy access to Cesar Manrique Foundation, which is dedicated to the works of Cesar Manrique, a famous Canarian artist and architect. It’s housed in Manrique’s former home and is a unique attraction for art and architecture lovers.
Another creation of Cesar Manrique, Jameos del Agua is a series of lava caves turned into a cultural center, featuring a restaurant, swimming pool, and even a concert hall.
If you’re in Costa Teguise on a Sunday, you can visit the Teguise Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Canary Islands. You can find a variety of goods, from local crafts to fresh produce.
Best places to stay in Lanzarote in Costa Teguise without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote – All Inclusive, Adults Only, 5-star hotel, featuring Superb breakfast, 2 swimming pools, and 7 restaurants.
- Mid-range ($$): Oasis Lanz Beach Mate, popular 4-star hotel in a quiet location in central Costa Teguise, offering paid airport shuttle services, Fabulous breakfast, and free private parking for those who drive. Short walk from Playa del Jablillo and a short taxi ride from Aqua Park.
- Mid-range ($$): H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens, 4-star family oriented resort located within a short walk from Playa de las Cucharas Beach, featuring free parking, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. Easy access to the beach, shops and restaurants, only 15 mins drive from the airport.
2. Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is a beautiful resort town located on the southern coast of Lanzarote, and is connected to the airport by bus route 161/ 261. It is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes.
Playa Blanca is home to several fantastic beaches, including Playa Dorada, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Blanca Beach. You can relax on the golden sands, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy various water sports and activities.
Marina Rubicón modern marina offers a range of shops, restaurants, and bars. You can also find a weekly market here, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products.
A short drive from Playa Blanca, the Papagayo Beaches are a collection of pristine, secluded coves surrounded by natural beauty.
You’ll also have easy access to Timanfaya National Park, known for its lunar-like landscape and volcanic activity. You can take a guided tour to explore the volcanic craters, geysers, and stunning scenery.
You can visit the Los Hervideros coastal area, which is famous for its rugged, rocky shoreline, caves, and blowholes. It’s a great place to witness the power of the sea as waves crash against the cliffs.
The town is home to the historic 18th century Castillo de las Coloradas, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area. It’s a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying a bit of history.
Playa Blanca is well-connected to the neighboring island of Fuerteventura. You can take a ferry from Marina Rubicón to explore the beaches and attractions on this nearby island.
Best places to stay in Lanzarote in Playa Blanca without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park, 5-star beachfront hotel, located within a short walking distance from the bay of Playa Flamingo, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean. It has swimming pools, Superb breakfast, and Free parking (bonus for guests with a car).
- Mid-range ($$): Jardines del Sol, 4-star stylish apartments, located in Playa Blanca, 10 mins walk to the beach, 20 mins walk to playa Blanca center, and 30 mins taxi ride from the airport. Easy access to taxi ranks and bus stops.
- Budget ($): Ona Las Casitas, 3-star family-friendly accommodation, located close to the beach, supermarket, bars and restaurants.
3. Puerto del Carmen (Tías)
Puerto del Carmen is a popular tourist destination located on the east coast of Lanzarote. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs.
The main beach is Playa Grande, which is a long and sandy beach with clear waters. There are also smaller beaches and coves in the area, offering various water sports and recreational activities.
The Avenida de las Playas is the main commercial street in Puerto del Carmen, lined with shops, boutiques, and a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.
Biosfera Plaza is a shopping and entertainment center located in the heart of Puerto del Carmen. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema, making it a popular spot for leisure and entertainment.
Best places to stay in Puerto del Carmen without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Fariones, 5-star hotel, located between the main strip and the harbor, featuring an infinity rooftop pool and direct access cove in Puerto del Carmen.
- Luxury ($$$): La Isla y el Mar, Hotel Boutique, 5-star hotel located only steps away from a supermarket, 15-minute walk from Playa Chica Beach, 10 mins walk from shops, bars and restaurants in the harbor area.
- Budget ($): Plus Fariones Apartamentos, great 3-star accommodation located within easy walk from both the old town and the Puerto Del Carmen strip. You can easily find good restaurants and shops nearby. The hotel offers Car and bicycle rentals services.
4. Arrecife
Arrecife is the capital city located on the eastern coast of Lanzarote. Arrecife is home to a major port, Puerto de los Mármoles, which is an important transportation hub for the island.
Many tourists visiting Lanzarote arrive in Arrecife and use it as a starting point for exploring the island.
While Arrecife itself may not be as tourist-oriented as some other parts of the island, it has a few attractions, including the San Gabriel Castle (Castillo de San Gabriel), the International Museum of Contemporary Art (MIAC), and the Charco de San Ginés, a picturesque lagoon surrounded by bars and restaurants.
Lanzarote has a rich cultural heritage, and you can find traditional Canarian architecture and influences throughout Arrecife and the island. The works of renowned artist César Manrique have had a significant impact on the island’s architectural and artistic development.
Canarian cuisine, which blends Spanish, African, and Latin American flavors, can be sampled in Arrecife. You can enjoy local dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, and goat cheese.
Best places to stay in Lanzarote in Arrecife without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa, 5-star hotel ideally situated in central Arrecife. 10 mins taxi ride from Lanzarote Airport, easy access to the beach and shops. It has an Indoor swimming pool, Private parking, and an on-site restaurant.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Lancelot, 3-star beachfront hotel located in the center of Arrecife, in front of the Reducto beach. Close to restaurants, bars and shopping. Easy access to a public bus stop for the bus to the airport.
- Budget ($): Apartamentos Islamar Arrecife, 2-star accommodation, offering rooms with views of Arrecife Bay and the Parque Islas Canarias Botanic Gardens. Within walking distance from the Puente de la Bolas Bridge, the San Jose and San Gabriel Castle.
5. Playa Honda
Playa Honda is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Playa Honda is situated very close to the island’s capital, Arrecife, and the Lanzarote Airport, making it a convenient location for travelers.
There is a pleasant seafront promenade that runs along the coast, which is ideal for a leisurely stroll, cycling, or rollerblading. It’s a great place to enjoy the sea views and the fresh ocean breeze.
Unlike some of the more bustling tourist destinations on Lanzarote, Playa Honda offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more relaxed vacation experience.
Best places to stay in Lanzarote in Playa Honda without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): MAGMA Rooms Playa Honda
- Budget ($): Canaryislandshost l Boya Suites
- Budget ($): Casa Yurena
6. Órzola (Haría)
Órzola is a charming coastal village located on the northern tip of Lanzarote. It is a great base for travelers seeking a quieter and more authentic Lanzarote experience.
Órzola is renowned for its pristine, uncrowded beaches. One of the most popular is Playa de la Cantería, which features golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
Órzola serves as a gateway to the neighboring island of La Graciosa, which is part of the Chinijo Archipelago. Ferries depart regularly from the port of Órzola to La Graciosa, making it a convenient day trip option for visitors. La Graciosa offers stunning beaches, excellent hiking opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Just a short drive from Órzola, you can find one of the island’s iconic landmarks, Mirador del Río. This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Another attraction worth visiting is Cueva de los Verdes, a unique lava tube cave system that offers an underground adventure full of stunning geological formations and history.
Best places to stay in Lanzarote in Órzola:
- Budget ($): Apartamentos Orzola
- Budget ($): Perla del Atlantico
In conclusion, Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, Playa Honda, and Órzola are the best places to stay in Lanzarote without a car. These areas are accessible by public bus and are easily explored on foot, so you don’t necessarily need a car when staying here.
You can continue reading Best places to stay in Fuerteventura without a car.
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas that you can stay during your car-free trip to Lanzarote. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.