How Do You Get Around In Lanzarote?
Lanzarote, as one of the beautiful major Canary Islands, is full of exciting tourist attractions that you must visit.
So, where to go isn’t really a big deal.
It’s a matter of how you will go there and how you will travel from one destination to another.
Some holidaymakers say it’s better to opt for the island’s public transport, yet others recommend that you hire a car upon arrival.
Here is a guide on How To Get Around Playa Blanca, Lanzarote.
In this article, I’ll be comparing the different transportation means in Lanzarote to help you decide which of the following options will lead you to a more enjoyable journey.
Please note that this post might contain affiliate links, I will earn a small percentage should you choose to purchase something, but it will be at no cost to you. You can read the disclosure policy.
Does Lanzarote Have Public Transport?
Lanzarote has no train service. But I think that it still has a commendable public transport system since buses, taxis, as well as ferries, are readily available when you need one.
There are intercity buses that regularly go around the island’s major towns and iconic destinations.
Fare starts at € 1.40 and increases depending on how far you’re going. Bus timetables typically run from 6 AM to 11 PM.
You can often avail a top-up bus card on the buses or at the central bus station in Arrecife.
These cards grant users a 10% discount on all fares, so it’s pretty handy if you want to explore most places in Lanzarote without breaking the bank.
Playa Blanca Bus Station
Playa Blanca is a hit destination among visitors, especially families. Buses in the area are frequent and prompt.
The resort’s bus station is located on the corner of Avenida Playa Blanca, next to the villa complex Las Brisas.
Main connections
- Bus 13 Playa Blanca – Teguise Market
- Bus 30 Interior Playa Blanca
- Bus 43 Playa Blanca – Instituto de Yaiza
- Bus 261 Playa Blanca – Puerto del Carmen – Aeropuerto
Arrecife Main Bus Station
As Lanzarote’s Capital city, Arrecife has frequent and reliable buses that can easily take you to the rest of the island and the airport.
Arrecife bus station, also known as Estación de Guaguas, is located in on the Rambla Medular.
Main connections
- Bus 01 Arrecife – Costa Teguise
- Bus 02 Arrecife – Puerto del Camen
- Bus 05 Arrecife – Femés
- Bus 06 Arrecife – Puerto del Carmen – Playa Blanca
- Bus 14 Arrecife – Teguise Market
- Bus 21 Arrecife – Playa Honda
- Bus 22 Arrecife – Aeropuerto
- Bus 23 Arrecife – Aeropuerto – Playa Honda
- Bus 42 Arrecife – Instituto de Yaiza
- Bus 60 Arrecife – Playa Blanca
You can also check out IntercityBus Lanzarote for complete and helpful information regarding the island’s bus lines and timetables.
Pros Of Lanzarote Public Transport
Bus fares are very affordable. You can go to various places for a small price. It’s ideal if you want to stick to a specific budget.
You can enjoy an alcoholic drink (or more). Riding the bus is a safe and affordable option for returning to your accommodation after grabbing some drinks.
You can have fun and not worry about driving afterward because you can just catch the next bus ride to your desired destination.
Chance to meet and mingle with the locals. Buses are easily accessible for holidaymakers and locals alike.
That said, a bus ride can give you an opportunity to strike up conversations with locals and get to know Lanzarote better.
Buses are clean and prompt. The buses in Lanzarote are air-conditioned and well-maintained, so you’re likely to be comfortable throughout the trip. Plus, they arrive on time.
The majority of buses run all week, holidays included. You won’t need to worry about catching a bus ride on weekends and holidays because many buses operate daily.
Cons Of Lanzarote Public Transport
Bus service is limited during night-time. Buses are most likely unavailable if you finish a tour late at night or you want to travel after 11 PM.
The bus schedule runs every 30 minutes. You are required to be at the bus stop at very specific times.
So you don’t have much freedom on your departure or arrival at the destinations.
There are some attractions that the bus service cannot reach.
Bus stops are not always close to the place you want to visit, especially when the destination is located in rural areas.
Taxis In Lanzarote
You can find taxis almost anywhere on the island and immediately flag one.
There are also taxi ranks at the airport, major towns, and most accommodations.
Taxis are considered one of the most efficient transportation modes to travel around the island.
Riding one gives you more flexibility regarding when you want to go or leave a particular place.
While a taxi ride is slightly pricier than a bus trip, it’s a convenient option if you’re in a hurry and want to get to a destination quickly.
Like the rest of Spain, taxi drivers in Lanzarote use meters to determine the cost of the fare. You can pay through cash or credit card.
Pros Of Taking A Taxi In Lanzarote
Taxis are highly accessible. There’s a big chance that wherever you are, you’d easily find a taxi or two to take you to the destination of your choice.
Fairly priced trips. Taxi rides are fairly affordable and worthwhile, especially if you want to comfortably travel from one place to another.
Taxis are available 24/7. Unlike bus services, taxis operate day and night. There are no specific schedules for you to follow.
Taking a taxi offers you convenience and flexibility. You can go straight from Point A to Point B without much hassle when you opt for a taxi ride. There are no unnecessary stops and transfers.
You can enjoy an alcoholic drink (or more). By taking a taxi, you won’t have to worry about driving back to your accommodation after drinking.
You can have a great time, knowing that someone will give you a drive back to your doorstep or any destination you still want to visit.
Cons Of Taking A Taxi In Lanzarote
The cost of taxi fares might be a concern for frequent travelers. Fares definitely add up when you use taxis a lot.
Not to mention that traveling long distances via taxi means higher fares.
Limited seat capacity. An average taxi can only fit a maximum of 5 people at once.
So, you need to take separate rides if you’re traveling with a large group.
Can I Rent A Car In Lanzarote?
Car hire is a very popular means of transportation among holidaymakers.
After all, renting a car lets you explore the island in total freedom and it’s ideal if you’re traveling with young children.
It’s easy to hire a car in Lanzarote.
In fact, you can instantly book one upon your arrival since there are many car rental companies located at the airport.
There are great car rental fleets to choose from.
Prices heavily depend on your party size and personal preference.
Pros Of Car Hire In Lanzarote
Hiring a car in Lanzarote is cost-effective. Car hire might seem expensive at first glance, but it’s actually worthwhile and cheap in the long run.
Especially if you’re staying on the island for weeks or months, renting a car could save you a lot more money.
A great option for families with small kids. It’s not easy to travel with children.
Having a car that’s exclusive to your family makes it manageable for you to go to locations in utmost comfort.
Car hire lets you visit the hidden gems of Lanzarote. Attractions like Los Charcones and Timanfaya National Park cannot be easily accessed by riding a taxi or bus.
Driving to such locations by hire car is the best option.
No waiting times. You won’t have to wait for a schedule to catch a ride nor look around and flag a taxi down.
Once you opt for car hire, you can go straight to any of the destinations you have in mind.
Cons Of Car Hire In Lanzarote
Extra paperwork. Unlike other transportation options, hiring a car would require you to do some additional paperwork.
You must bring and submit particular documents before you finally hit the road.
Car hire can be costly if you’re traveling alone. Car hire has a lot of perks but if you’re on a solo trip, the total cost might turn out expensive and outweigh the benefits.
You cannot drink. In Lanzarote, the allowed alcohol limit in blood is 0.05% BAC.
It’s very low, so it’s best to not drink at all to avoid fines or penalties. Plus, not drinking ensures you a much safer journey.
Biking Around Lanzarote
Do you like to stay active while on vacation? If so, a bike ride might be the ultimate choice for you.
Lanzarote has plenty of lesser-known attractions that can only be reached through hiking or cycling.
There are also some famous and exciting cycling courses you can try out.
Cycling around the island offers a unique travel experience — you’d be able to see impressive landscapes and make multiple stops without many restrictions.
Hire bicycles are available for adults and kids.
Prices start around 10 euros and could go higher depending on what kind of bike you choose.
Pros Of Cycling Around Lanzarote
Enjoyable for groups. Cycling is a wonderful activity you can do with your loved ones.
You get to enjoy each other’s company while actively exploring the island.
Plenty of bike lanes and cycling routes. Lanzarote’s terrain has charmed many avid cyclers for a good reason.
Coastal bike lanes are easily accessible and there is little to no traffic at all.
The roads and volcanic landscapes are ideal for a memorable bicycle road trip.
Bicycle hire is budget-friendly. You don’t need to spend a lot to see the entirety of the island.
With proper planning and the right bike, you can complete an extensive tour around Lanzarote on a budget.
Total freedom wherever you want to go. With bicycle hire, you can pretty much travel anywhere you want. You can stay or leave any destination whenever you wish.
Cons Of Cycling Around Lanzarote
Lack of storage. If you decide to do bicycle hire, there wouldn’t be much space to store your belongings.
You can only bring a very few lightweight essential items with you, and nothing more.
It could be exhausting. Long trips require lots of energy. You’re likely to be exhausted and sore after quite some time on the road.
Not ideal when the weather is extra warm.
Lanzarote has a generally lovely climate. But there are super warm days when cycling wouldn’t be advisable since doing so might lead to health issues.
Final Thoughts
The best transportation mode always varies from person to person.
Public transport works best if you want to cut on your overall travel cost, and you don’t mind following a particular schedule.
Taxi and car hire are top choices if you prioritize comfort and convenience.
Finally, bike hire is perfect if you’re up for some adventure and physical activity.
In the end, it all boils down to your needs and personal preference.
I hope this article helped you get familiar with Lanzarote’s different transportation means. And don’t forget to Pin it and share it with your travel buddies.
Enjoy your trip, and safe travels!