Touching down in Lanzarote is a little like landing on another planet. The island’s dramatic volcanic landscape, black-lava fields and whitewashed villages feel strikingly different from mainland Spain. Once you’ve stepped off the plane at César Manrique–Lanzarote Airport (ACE), though, the first practical question is a familiar one: how do you get to your accommodation smoothly and stress-free? Whether you’re heading to a beach resort, a rural finca or a lively coastal town, here’s what to know about airport transfers, taxis and public transport in Lanzarote.
Getting Your Bearings at Lanzarote Airport
Lanzarote Airport is relatively small and easy to navigate. It’s located just outside Arrecife, the island’s capital, making it one of the more conveniently placed airports in the Canary Islands. International arrivals usually come through Terminal 1, where you’ll find car hire desks, cafés, ATM machines and clear signage for taxis and buses. Within minutes of exiting arrivals, you’ll already be choosing your onward transport.
Airport Transfers: Easy and Pre-Booked
For many visitors, especially first-timers or families, a pre-booked airport transfer is the simplest option. You can arrange your Lanzarote Airport Transfers through your hotel, a tour operator or an independent transfer company. A driver meets you in arrivals, helps with luggage and takes you directly to your accommodation.
This option is particularly appealing if you’re staying in popular resorts like Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise or Playa Blanca, or if you’re arriving late at night. Prices are usually fixed in advance, which removes any guesswork, and shared transfers can be a budget-friendly choice if you don’t mind a few drop-offs along the way. Private transfers cost more but offer speed, comfort and peace of mind after a long flight.
Taxis: Convenient and Widely Available
Taxis in Lanzarote are plentiful, reliable and regulated. Official taxis are white with a green stripe and display their license number clearly. You’ll find a taxi rank directly outside the arrivals area, and queues generally move quickly, even during busy periods.
Fares are metered, with supplements for airport pickups, late-night travel and luggage. As a rough guide, a taxi from the airport to Puerto del Carmen usually takes around 10 minutes, while Costa Teguise is about 15 minutes away. Playa Blanca, on the southern tip of the island, is the longest journey at around 30–40 minutes.
Most taxi drivers speak at least some English, but having your hotel name or address written down is always helpful. Tipping isn’t expected, although rounding up the fare is appreciated for good service.
Public Buses: Budget-Friendly but Limited
If you’re travelling light and watching your budget, Lanzarote’s public bus network—known locally as “guaguas”—offers a low-cost way to leave the airport. Bus stops are clearly signposted just outside Terminal 1, and services connect the airport with Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen and other key areas.
The main routes from the airport include services to Arrecife’s central bus station, from where you can transfer to buses heading across the island. Buses are clean, air-conditioned and very affordable, making them popular with locals and long-stay visitors.
However, buses are not always the most convenient option if you have lots of luggage, are travelling with young children or are staying in more remote locations. Timetables can be less frequent in the evenings and on Sundays, so it’s worth checking schedules in advance.
Car Hire as an Alternative
While not strictly an arrival transfer, car hire is another popular option to consider straight from the airport. Lanzarote is compact, roads are well maintained, and driving is relatively stress-free. If you plan to explore beyond the main resorts—think Timanfaya National Park, Mirador del Río or hidden beaches along the coast—having your own car can be incredibly freeing.
Car hire desks are located inside the terminal, and many companies allow you to pick up your vehicle immediately after landing. Just be sure to book ahead during peak travel seasons.
Choosing What’s Right for You
The best way to get from Lanzarote Airport ultimately depends on your travel style. Transfers offer simplicity, taxis provide flexibility, buses save money and car hire opens up the whole island. The good news is that Lanzarote makes arriving easy, with clear options to suit every budget and itinerary.
Once you’ve sorted your transport, all that’s left to do is soak up the sunshine, admire the volcanic scenery and start enjoying the unique rhythm of island life. Your Lanzarote adventure begins the moment you step outside the airport doors.
