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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Air Travel

Airlines & Routes

Many airlines operate flights to Lanzarote due to its popularity as a holiday destination. Direct flights mainly originate from the UK, Ireland, Germany, Scandinavia, and mainland Spain.

Operators

  • Major European Airlines: Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, TUI Airways, Vueling, British Airways.
  • Inter-island: Binter Canarias and Canaryfly connect Lanzarote with other Canary Islands.
  • Seasonal availability: High year-round. Prices peak during Christmas, Easter, and summer. Booking Several months in advance helps secure better rates. Skyscanner for comparison.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Lanzarote Airport (ACE) has two terminals, with most international flights using Terminal 1. Facilities support comfort and convenience for travelers.

Transfer Options to Puerto del Carmen

  • Taxi: Readily available outside arrivals. Approx. 10-15 minutes, €15-€20.
  • Bus: Public bus route 161. Approx. €1.40-€2.00 to Puerto del Carmen.
  • Pre-booked Transfers: Many hotels and operators offer shuttle services for convenience.

Airport Services

ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, cafes, restaurants, car rental desks, tourist info, free Wi-Fi.

Global Hubs

Travelers from outside Europe typically connect through major European cities like Madrid, London, or Frankfurt.

Car Rental

Desks at arrivals. Booking in advance is Suggested for best rates and availability.

Departure Information

Check-in & Security

  • Check with your airline for recommended check-in times.
  • Standard airport security procedures apply (liquids, electronics).
  • VAT Refund: Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds at designated points before security.
  • No specific exit fees or taxes upon departure.

Airport Amenities

  • Shops, including duty-free for non-EU passengers.
  • Restaurants and cafes for dining before your flight.
  • Comfortable lounges for relaxation.
  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road Quality

Roads in Lanzarote are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. Signage is clear, and the network is modern.

Safety Awareness

Be aware of strong winds on open roads, as they can affect vehicle stability. Some rural roads are narrow and winding.

Parking

Parking can be challenging in popular areas of Puerto del Carmen during peak season. Look for designated parking lots or side streets.

Land Transportation

Public Bus Service

Lanzarote does not have a train network; transportation relies on roads. The public bus service, IntercityBus Lanzarote (operated by Arrecife Bus), connects the island.

Bus Network Details

  • Comprehensive connections across the island, including Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Playa Blanca.
  • Timetables are available online via the IntercityBus Lanzarote website and at major bus stops.
  • Buses offer a convenient and affordable way to explore if driving is not preferred.

Driving Regulations

The road network in Lanzarote is modern and comprehensive. Speed limits are clearly marked, and driving is on the right-hand side.

Rules

  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, 100 km/h on main dual carriageways.
  • Driving side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Roundabouts are common; understand the rules for safe navigation.

Car Rental Requirements

Non-EU license holders should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with their national driving license. EU licenses are accepted.

Rental Conditions

  • Drivers typically must be at least 21 years old (sometimes 23 or 25 for certain car categories).
  • License held for a minimum of 1-2 years.
  • A credit card for the security deposit is usually necessary.

Sea Arrivals

Regular ferry services connect Lanzarote to other Canary Islands. No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon departure from Lanzarote or Spain.

Ferry Routes

  • From Fuerteventura (Corralejo): Ferries arrive at Playa Blanca, Lanzarote. Operators: Fred Olsen Express, Naviera Armas.
  • From Gran Canaria (Las Palmas): Ferries arrive at Arrecife port. Operated by Naviera Armas.
  • Immigration: Standard procedures apply if arriving from outside the Schengen zone.

Important Considerations for Driving

  • Speed limits are strictly enforced.
  • Mobile phone use is prohibited without a hands-free system.
  • Always lock your car and do not leave valuables visible.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Some rural roads leading to remote areas are narrow.
  • Parking in central Puerto del Carmen during peak times can be challenging.

Cruise Ports & Transfers

Arrecife Cruise Port

Arrecife serves as the main cruise port for Lanzarote. Cruise ship passengers typically use taxis or shuttle buses to explore Arrecife or other island resorts like Puerto del Carmen.

Connecting to Puerto del Carmen

  • Taxis are readily available at the port.
  • Local buses connect to the airport and other island destinations, including Puerto del Carmen (via Line 03).
  • Journey from Arrecife to Puerto del Carmen is relatively short.

Inter-Island Ferry Connections

Lanzarote features ferry links to neighboring Canary Islands, providing opportunities for multi-island trips. No navigable rivers exist on the island.

Main Ferry Routes

  • Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) to Corralejo (Fuerteventura) for short, frequent crossings.
  • Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) for longer journeys.
  • These routes are popular for day trips or longer island-hopping adventures.

Ease of Access

The short distance from the airport to Puerto del Carmen offers quick and easy transfers.

Year-Round Flights

Flight availability stays high throughout the year, reflecting Lanzarote's consistent popularity.

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon departure from Lanzarote or Spain.

Arrival Procedures

Air Travel Arrival

Immigration procedures are standard for the Schengen Area. Passport control occurs upon arrival at Lanzarote Airport (ACE).

Steps

  • Present valid passport and visa (if applicable).
  • Officers may ask about visit purpose or duration of stay.
  • Proof of onward/return travel and accommodation might be requested.

Sea Travel Arrival

Standard immigration procedures apply for entry into Spain and the Schengen Area if arriving from outside the Schengen zone by sea.

Ferry Immigration

  • If arriving from another Canary Island or mainland Spain, no immigration checks occur.
  • This maintains seamless travel within the same national and Schengen territory.
  • From Playa Blanca ferry port, buses and taxis connect to Puerto del Carmen (Route 161).

Transfer Options from Ports

From Playa Blanca Ferry Port

Buses and taxis are available to transport you to Puerto del Carmen. The bus connection involves route 161.

From Arrecife Port

Taxis and local buses connect to the airport and other island destinations, including Puerto del Carmen (via Line 03).

Convenience

These transfer options provide straightforward access to Puerto del Carmen from all major arrival points on the island.

Pre-Travel Check

Before your trip, check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements for Spain. Confirm passport validity and any necessary visa or ETIAS requirements for your nationality to avoid delays.