Look, getting around the Canary Islands is easier than most people think — but only if you know a few things in advance. I have made every mistake possible over the years, and this is what I wish someone had told me before my first trip.
The Canary Islands are seven islands spread across the Atlantic, each with its own personality. Some you can explore on foot. Others you absolutely need a car. And if you want to island-hop, the ferry network is your best friend. Here is a quick breakdown of everything you need to know.
🚗 Renting a Car
Honestly? Rent a car. For most islands — especially Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura — a car changes everything. You get to the beaches nobody else finds, the villages that don’t appear in any guidebook, and the viewpoints that will genuinely take your breath away.
Prices are reasonable if you book in advance online. Avoid booking at the airport desk — you will pay double. And always check what insurance is included before you sign anything.
👉 Read more: Car Rental Canary Islands: The Complete Guide
✈️ Airports
Each major island has its own airport, and flights between them are surprisingly affordable. Knowing which airport serves which part of the island can save you a lot of time — especially in Tenerife, which has two airports on opposite ends of the island.
👉 Read more: Canary Islands Airports: Everything You Need to Know
⛴️ Ferries
If you want to island-hop, the ferry is the way to do it. Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen run regular routes between the main islands. Some crossings take 30 minutes, others a few hours — but the experience of arriving by sea is something you will not forget.
Pro tip: book in advance during summer and Easter week. Ferries fill up fast and prices go up.
👉 Read more: Getting Around by Ferry: The Complete Island-Hopping Guide
🚌 Buses
Every island has a public bus network — called guagua locally — and they are cheap, reliable and cover most tourist areas. Not as flexible as a car, but a solid option if you prefer not to drive.
🚕 Taxis & Transfers
Taxis are widely available and regulated, so prices are fair. For airport transfers, booking in advance is always cheaper than grabbing a taxi on arrival. A lot of hotels offer shared transfers too — worth asking when you book.
Whether you are arriving for the first time or coming back for the tenth, getting the transport right sets the tone for the whole trip. Pick the option that fits how you like to travel — and don’t overthink it.