Getting Around Arrecife. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Walking & Cycling in Arrecife

The city center around El Charco de San Ginés and Calle Real is highly pedestrian-friendly. These zones are designed for strolling, finding a pleasant urban experience.

A long, well-maintained promenade stretches along the shoreline of Arrecife. It runs from the airport area (Playa Honda) through Arrecife (Playa del Reducto) and further north. This promenade is ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling, continuous sea views.

Walking & Cycling Highlights

Self-guided: Explore Arrecife's sites like Castillo de San Gabriel, El Charco, and Calle Real on foot.
Guided Tours: Local tour operators may offer guided walking tours focusing on history, local food, or cultural aspects. Inquire at tourist information centers.
Bicycle Infrastructure: Some dedicated cycling lanes (ciclovías) exist around urban areas, especially along the coast. Roads outside towns are generally good for cycling.
No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas within tourist zones. Motorways are prohibited for cyclists.

Playa del Reducto

A prominent urban coast within walking distance.

Calle Real

The main pedestrian shopping street for a leisurely stroll.

El Charco de San Ginés

Picturesque natural lagoon, the heart of the old fishing quarter.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Numerous tour operators offer full-day or half-day excursions.
These cover main island attractions like Timanfaya National Park and César Manrique sites.
Tours often include pick-up services from hotels in Arrecife.

Water & Unique Transport

Boat Taxis: Limited within Arrecife itself, but small boat tours operate from El Charco de San Ginés.
Ferry Services: From Arrecife Port connect to other islands.
No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like those in Lanzarote.

Accessibility Services

Improving Accessibility

Lanzarote is generally improving, specifically newer hotels and public infrastructure.

Flat Terrain

Arrecife's promenade and many central areas are relatively flat, which supports mobility.

Adapted Vehicles

Some tour companies and car rental agencies offer adapted vehicles. Check with providers in advance.

Planning Ahead

Confirm services and suitability for your needs with specific providers.

Public Transportation Tips

IntercityBus Lanzarote operates the island's public bus system. This structure is efficient and affordable.

Navigating Buses Efficiently

Check look at schedules early, especially at a lower cost frequent routes or weekend travel.
Have small change ready or your BonoCard prepared for fares. Drivers might not always have change for large denominations.
Be aware of "parada" (stop) signs; signal the driver to stop if you want to board or alight.
Use Google Maps for real-time bus information and routes, which display delays or updated schedules.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis: Typically white cars with a green roof light. All licensed taxis have a fare meter and display their license number.
Hailing: Hail taxis on the street or find them at designated taxi stands (airport, bus station, popular attractions). You can also call a taxi over the phone.
Fares: Regulated by tariffs (Tariff 1 for weekday daytime, Tariff 2 for nighttime/weekends/holidays). Most accept cash; some accept cards.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber or Bolt are not commonly used or widely available in Lanzarote.

Driving & Rental Options

Rentals: Car rental is the most flexible way to explore. Motorcycle, scooter, and bicycle rentals are also available.
Insurance: Understand the insurance options offered (Collision Damage Waiver, full comprehensive coverage).
Fuel: Most rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy.

Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. Signage is clear, especially for major attractions.
Safety: Use licensed taxis only. For longer taxi journeys, confirm the meter use or agree on a price.

Walking & Cycling Routes

City Center

Pedestrian-friendly around El Charco de San Ginés and Calle Real.

Coastal Promenade

Long, well-maintained path for walking, jogging, cycling with ocean views.

Guided Tours

Check local tourist information for available walking tours.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

While traditional options cover most travel needs, some specialty transport choices are available for specific tours or accessibility.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Operators: Offer full-day/half-day island excursions, including Timanfaya and Manrique sites.
Hotel Pick-ups: Often include pick-up services from Arrecife hotels.
Boat Tours: Small boat excursions from El Charco de San Ginés for lagoon/bay cruises.
Ferry Services: From Arrecife Port connect to other islands.

Accessibility Services

Flat Terrain: Arrecife's boardwalk and central areas are comparatively flat.
Adapted Vehicles: Some tour companies and car rental agencies offer these. Check in advance.
General Note: Lanzarote has no cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems of this type.

Travel Strategy Insights

Budget-Friendly Island Exploration

Combine public buses with walking to see more without breaking the bank.

BonoCard for bus savings.

Freedom with Car Rental

Prepare in advance for arrival.

Organized Sightseeing

For comprehensive islplus touring, consider an organized bus tour.

Logistics and commentary are included.

Travel Advice

Public Transport Practicalities

Check look at schedules early for efficient travel.
Small change or BonoCard is useful for fares.
Signal bus drivers at stops.

Taxi & Driving Notes

Confirm meter use or agree on a price for longer taxi journeys.
Book rental cars early, especially in high season.
An IDP is needed for non-EU/EEA licenses.

Important Warnings

Unlicensed Transport: Avoid unofficial taxis or individuals offering rides; these may not be safe or regulated.
Driving Conditions: Roads outside towns are generally good for cycling, but remain aware of traffic.
Motorway Restrictions: Motorways are prohibited for bikers.
Ferry Information: If arriving by ferry from a different island, check the ferry company's website for specific departure and arrival points, as not all ferries dock directly in Arrecife.

Tipping: Not required, but welcome for excellent service.
Bank Notification: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid card issues.
Document Backup: Keep scans of your passport and other important documents separate from the originals and store digital copies.
Petty Theft: Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and keep valuables secure.

General Tips for Getting Around

Combining public buses with walking is a budget-friendly way to see more.

Smart Travel Strategies

Public Bus: A budget-friendly way to explore the island.
Car Rental: Gives the most freedom for exploration.
Organized Tours: Look into for comprehensive islplus touring.
Arrecife Exploration: Explore El Charco de San Ginés and the coastal promenade on foot or by bike.

Practical Advice

Book flights and car rentals well in advance.
An International Driving Permit is needed for non-EU/EEA licenses if behind the wheel.
Consider purchasing a BonoCard for discounted bus fares.
For beach relaxation, summer offers warm water.