Arrecife

The picturesque port city of Arrecife, located on the sunny island of Lanzarote in Spain, attracts tourists with its authentic atmosphere and ocean landscapes. For those deciding to travel to Arrecife, various convenient routes are available, mainly involving flights to the international airport or a sea voyage by ferry. Understanding how to get to Arrecife is quite simple, making it easy to organize an unforgettable holiday in the Canary Islands.

Although there is formally no runway within the city limits, the main air hub for tourists is the international Lanzarote Airport (ACE), located just a few kilometers from the center. It receives many scheduled and charter flights from cities in continental Europe and Spain, ensuring travelers a quick and comfortable transfer to Arrecife.

Alternatively, you can consider flying via neighboring islands of the Canary archipelago. Convenient transit points would be the airports in the cities of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria or Puerto del Rosario on Fuerteventura, from where it is easy to reach Lanzarote via a short domestic flight.

Reaching the city of Arrecife by train is not possible: on the island of Lanzarote, as on the entire Canary archipelago, railway connections are completely absent. Due to the complex volcanic terrain and geographic isolation, tracks were never laid here, so tourists will not see the usual train stations.

Fans of overland travel will have to leave dreams of the rhythmic sound of train wheels on the mainland of Spain. The main methods of getting around the island remain comfortable buses and rental cars, allowing you to enjoy unique landscapes without being tied to a railway schedule.

Since Arrecife is located on an island, direct bus service from the mainland of Spain is impossible. However, inside Lanzarote, there is a well-developed public transport network represented by the IntercityBus company, which connects the capital with key points on the island.

Travelers can easily reach the city from the local airport: a trip on a regular bus takes only 10–15 minutes. This is a convenient and economical option for those who do not plan to rent a car immediately upon arrival.

There is also frequent communication with popular resorts. Tourists staying in Puerto del Carmen or Costa Teguise can easily travel to Arrecife by bus to stroll along the promenade or visit shops. Distances are short, so the journey will not be tiring.

Since Arrecife is an island city, you can only get here by car using sea ferries. The most popular and fastest route for car travelers runs from the neighboring island of Fuerteventura (from the port of Puerto del Rosario): the travel time, including the crossing, takes a few hours. A trip from the capital of Gran Canaria, the city of Las Palmas, will take significantly longer — from 5 to 7 hours, as vessels have to cover a greater distance across the Atlantic Ocean.

There is a possibility to arrive by car from the mainland of Spain as well. Regular passenger and car ferries depart from the ports of Cadiz and Huelva. Such a journey takes more than a day (about 27–30 hours), but this is the only way to get to Lanzarote in your own vehicle from continental Europe, turning the road into a real sea cruise.

Moving around Arrecife itself by car or taxi is quite comfortable. A trip within the city or from the port to the center usually costs 10–15 euros, and a transfer to distant beaches will cost slightly more. The roads on the island are of good quality, which makes independent trips a pleasant part of the holiday.

To ensure your trip to Arrecife is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth learning about some local features and rules in advance. We have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will help you enjoy your holiday on this amazing island without any hassle.

1. Clothing and Belongings. The climate here is warm but often windy. Even in summer, be sure to bring a light windbreaker or sweater for evening walks by the ocean. You will also need comfortable flat shoes, as many roads are paved with tiles or have volcanic surfaces. Don't forget sunscreen with high SPF — the sun is active all year round.
2. Transport. The historic city center and the promenade are best explored on foot. For trips to distant beaches or other towns on the island, it is most convenient to rent a car. If you do not plan to drive, use local buses — they are comfortable, run on schedule, and are inexpensive.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, and major shops. However, keeping some cash in small denominations is useful for paying bus fares, shopping at markets, or tipping.
4. Health and Safety. Arrecife is a calm and safe city, suitable for families, but standard precautions are always wise. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and operate on a convenient schedule. Important note: tap water is not recommended for drinking; it is better to buy bottled water in supermarkets.
5. Communication. The official language is Spanish. In tourist areas, staff usually speak English well. Nevertheless, locals greatly appreciate politeness, so learning a couple of basic phrases, such as "Hola" (Hello) and "Gracias" (Thank you), is recommended.
6. Local Etiquette. Spaniards are friendly and open. When entering small shops or cafes, it is customary to greet the staff. Take note of the siesta time: many private shops and institutions may close for a break approximately from 13:30 to 16:30.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly forbidden to collect and take away volcanic rocks, sand, or corals from beaches and national park territories. This is considered a violation of environmental laws and carries a serious fine upon departure.
8. Extra Tip. The Canary Islands have a special tax status, so perfumes, cosmetics, and electronics often cost less here than on the mainland of Spain. Do not miss the opportunity to make advantageous purchases on the main shopping street, Calle Real.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Lanzarote's capital. We wish you a pleasant and fulfilling journey!