The Canaries sit about 100 km off the coast of Morocco and have the most stable climate in Europe. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the biggest, with real cities (Santa Cruz and Las Palmas), mountains and every kind of beach. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are drier and windier; La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro are green and quiet.
The islands are part of Spain and the EU but outside the EU VAT area, with a lower local tax (IGIC) instead.
Climate
Mild all year: roughly 18 to 22 °C in winter and mid-20s in summer on the coasts. South coasts are sunnier and drier; northern slopes are greener and cloudier.
Best time: Any time. Winter is high season for northern Europeans.
Food and drink
Papas arrugadas with mojo sauces, gofio, fresh fish, goat cheese, and wines grown in volcanic ash on Lanzarote.
What it’s like
Volcanic landscapes, Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak), black and golden beaches, and a laid-back pace. Las Palmas is a favourite base for remote workers because of its climate, city beach (Las Canteras) and coworking spaces.
Living here
Costs are moderate, though rents have risen with demand. Island life means flights for most travel, and some goods cost more because of shipping. Residents get a 75% discount on flights to mainland Spain and between islands.
Getting around
Good bus networks (guaguas) on the big islands. Inter-island ferries and flights are frequent.
Towns and cities in Canary Islands
Canary Islands
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Europe’s favourite winter base for remote workers: a city beach (Las Canteras), coworking spaces, surf, and the same mild weather all year.
€€€€ 2 to 3 days
Canary Islands
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tenerife’s capital: one of the world’s biggest carnivals, the Auditorio, the Anaga mountains and Mount Teide within reach.
€€€€ 2 days
Fiestas in Canary Islands
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a different visa for the Canary Islands?
No. They are part of Spain, so the same visa and residence rules apply. They are outside the EU customs and VAT area, which matters for shipping goods.
What is the best time to visit Canary Islands?
Any time. Winter is high season for northern Europeans.
What is the weather like in Canary Islands?
Mild all year: roughly 18 to 22 °C in winter and mid-20s in summer on the coasts. South coasts are sunnier and drier; northern slopes are greener and cloudier.
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