Car Hire - Lanzarote Airport (ACE)

Lanzarote is the easternmost of the Canary Islands, sitting in the Atlantic Ocean roughly 125 kilometres off the north African coast. It is a volcanic island in every sense, shaped by centuries of eruptions that have left behind a striking, otherworldly terrain. The capital, Arrecife, is a port city on the east coast with a compact historic centre, a couple of waterfront castles and a relaxed, local feel. Away from the capital, you will find sun-drenched resort towns like Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise, white-washed villages in the north, and sweeping stretches of coast. The island has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993 and has a year-round mild climate that makes it a popular destination in any season.

A hire car gives you real freedom on Lanzarote. Having your own vehicle means you can reach the national park, volcanic caves and quieter beaches that are difficult to access otherwise. The main roads are well maintained and easy to navigate, and much of the island is covered by clear, well-signposted routes. Whether you are heading straight to a resort or planning to spend your days exploring the interior and coastline, vehicle rental Lanzarote visitors choose most often comes in the form of a compact car or SUV. Families travelling together sometimes opt for a 7-seater people carrier, which offers extra comfort for longer drives across the island. An automatic car is also a popular choice, particularly for those less familiar with driving abroad.

Nearby attractions

Timanfaya National Park is one of the most striking natural landscapes in Spain. Formed by volcanic eruptions in the 18th century, the park covers a vast area of craters, lava fields and solidified rock in the west of the island. Visitors can take a guided bus tour through the volcanic terrain, ride a camel at the park's camel station, or dine at the El Diablo restaurant, where food is cooked using heat from the earth itself.

Cueva de los Verdes is a remarkable volcanic cave system in the north of the island. Formed by ancient lava flows, around two kilometres of the tunnel are open to visitors on guided tours. Inside, lighting designed by artist Jesús Soto highlights the natural rock formations, which shift between shades of grey, black and red.

Jameos del Agua is another standout attraction in the north, built into the mouth of a lava tunnel by the artist César Manrique. The space combines natural cave pools, sculpture and gardens in a way that feels unlike anything else on the island. There is also a restaurant and a small concert hall carved into the rock.

Lanzarote rewards those who take the time to get off the main roads. From volcanic craters to dramatic coastal scenery and quiet northern villages, the island has a character that is hard to find elsewhere in the Canaries.