Travelling to Spain

Part of Spain, the Canary Islands are an archipelago located off the coast of western Africa. Warm temperatures year round coupled with sprawling beaches and unique volcanic formations have led to the islands’ development as a booming tourist destination, especially during the summer.

Whether you’re planning to hit all the local sites or simply relax on the beach, there’s so much to take in when visiting these majestic islands.

Tenerife is home to Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited national parks in Europe. The park is home to two active volcanoes, one being Mount Teide, the tallest mountain in Spain. While a permit is required for those who wish to scale the mountain (we should inform you that it’s over 3500 metres in height), the park is still worth a visit even if you’re not a master climber. Exploring your way through the diverse landscape of the park, you’ll first be surrounded by pine tree forests. As the altitude increases, you might notice that the land is becoming more barren as colourful flowers sprout from the rocky terrain.

After you’ve finished exploring nature, head to San Cristobal de la Laguna, a historical town with vibrantly coloured mansions, amazing architecture, and tons of restaurants and cafés. The recently restored Neo-Gothic San Cristobel de La Laguna Cathedral can be found in the centre of the town.

A different island entirely, Gran Canaria is famed for its beaches and sunshine. If you’re looking to swim or lay out in the sun, this is the place to be. The most frequented beach here is Maspalomas, with golden dunes that stretch across over 6 kilometres. The sheer size of the beach means that it hardly ever feels crowded, even during peak season. Here, lifeguards ensure safety for swimmers, while snacks can be found near the beach’s frequently photographed lighthouse.

Other options for beaches in Gran Canaria include Las Canteras, which is easily accessed from Las Palmas, and Guayedra, a quiet beach with volcanic sand that’s located off the beaten tourist path.

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, is home to two airports. Most international flights arrive at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), also known as Reina Sophia Airport. Major and minor airports in the UK also have nonstop flights to Tenerife, with departures from London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham occurring daily. The flight from London to Tenerife takes around four and a half hours. Book in advance for the best deal.

Tenerife North Airport (TFN) is a smaller airport located on the same island. While there aren’t any flights from the UK at this airport, if you’re travelling to Spain and then heading from the mainland to the Canary Islands by air, there’s a good chance you’ll arrive here. When island hopping, you can book direct flights to Tenerife from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and La Gomera.

Lanzarote, the northernmost Canary Island, is serviced by Lanzarote Airport (ACE). As Lanzarote has long been a favourite holiday destination, it’s no surprise that direct flights are easily booked from most British cities, including Bristol, Edinburgh, and Leeds.

Known for its sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, Gran Canaria is the most populated island in the Canaries. If this is where you’re headed while travelling to Spain, fly into Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) direct from cities like London, Doncaster, or Newcastle. Seasonal flights to Gran Canaria from Bournemouth and Exeter can also be booked during peak months. From Gran Canaria Airport, you can easily reach the largest city in the islands, Las Palmas.

Located east of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea, the Balearic Islands are a popular holiday destination and for fun in the sun and soaking up the rich local culture. These islands are not to be missed when travelling to Spain.

Palma is the largest city on the island and a must-visit for those travelling to Spain. In the city, you’ll find the Cathedral of Mallorca, an impressive Gothic style structure that’s free to enter. With its position above the Bay of Mallorca, you’re sure to encounter stunning views when visiting the cathedral at dusk. Palma is also filled with winding alleys that lead to hidden restaurants and cute cafés. Be sure to take your time exploring the city – you never know what hidden gems you’ll stumble upon.

Once you’ve had your fill of the city, consider a trip to Migjorn on the southern coast of Mallorca. Home to pristine beaches and picturesque scenery, Migjorn is an excellent place to relax. Head to the highly photographed Calo des Moro for azure waters and a swimming, or to the secluded Es Caragol Beach for some low key relaxation or snorkeling.

A more laid back summer destination, Menorca is less party-oriented than the other Balearic Islands. Even so, this beautiful island has so much to offer those travelling to Spain.

It’s said that the island is home to 99 beaches, and out of these, our top pick is Cala Macarelleta. Here, the white sands and nearby pine trees make you feel as if you’ve stepped into the scene of a postcard. Head out to the sea for an adrenaline-rushing tour by Jet Ski or take your time kayaking around the jagged coastline.

Next, trek down the cobbled streets of Ciutadella as you find yourself surrounded by 14^th century Gothic style homes and be sure to admire the view from the port while enjoying a glass of local wine.

When in Menorca, you’ll also have the chance to climb to the top of El Toro (it’ll take about two hours) and admire the landscape below from over 350 metres above sea level.

If you’re travelling to Spain from the UK and plan to visit the Balearic Islands, flying direct to Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is a convenient option. Multiple airlines connect Palma with major British cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Routes tend to be competitive during the summer months, which means it’s the perfect time to discover low priced fares.

Menorca Airport (MAH) gets busy during peak travel season when a number of flights from the UK and other countries begin operation. During the summer months, you’ll be able to book direct flights to Menorca from most airports in the UK.