La Palma - Discovering Spain

Travelling to La Palma

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in La Palma, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to La Palma and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around La Palma, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about La Palma for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to La Palma

La Palma is a small volcanic island located in the northwestern part of the Canary Islands archipelago, belonging to Spain. It covers an area of around 708 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 85,000 people. The island is famous for its natural beauty, lush forests, stunning volcanic landscapes, and clear skies that make it an ideal spot for stargazing. Its capital city is Santa Cruz de La Palma, and the island's economy is mostly based on agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industries.

What to visit in La Palma

1. Roque de los Muchachos Observatory: One of the premier astronomical observatories in the world located on the highest peak of the island. Visitors can go on stargazing tours and see some of the most stunning views of the constellations.
2. Caldera de Taburiente National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most popular parks in Spain. Visitors can hike along the many trails throughout the park, swim in the crystal clear water of the Roque de las Nieves, and see some of the most stunning landscapes in the Canary Islands.
3. Cueva de Las Palomas: A beautiful underground world of thousands of stalactites and stalagmites created by the dripping of water over thousands of years. Visitors can take guided tours to see all this natural wonder.
4. Playa de Los Cancajos: One of the most stunning beaches on the island, Playa de Los Cancajos is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
5. San Antonio Volcano: This massive volcano is one of the most important tourist attractions in La Palma. Visitors can hike to the top of this volcano and see stunning views of the island below. 6. Mirador de las Breñas: A breathtaking viewpoint offering one of the most stunning panoramic view in La Palma, the Mirador de las Breñas is a must-visit for all nature lovers. Here visitors can see panoramic view of the the mountains, the coast, the forests and some of the island's most famous landmarks.
7. La Palma Aquarium: The aquarium has a wide collection of marine life from the Canary Islands and visitors can see and interact with a lot of sea creatures, learn about the local marine wildlife and see the seahorses, octopuses, and much more. 8. Dacil Visitor Center: Visitors can know more about the life on the island by visiting the Dacil Visitor Center and learning about the island’s history, culture, and traditions. There are also exhibits showcasing the flora and fauna of the island.
9. El Charco Azul: A beautiful natural pool surrounded by cliffs and lush nature, the El Charco Azul is a perfect spot for a refreshing swim, or just for relaxing beside the water. It is best to visit during the week as it is quite busy on the weekends. 10. Museo de la Seda: La Palma has a long and important tradition of silk production, and this museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of silk making on the island. Visitors can see how silk was produced on La Palma and learn about the ways in which it has been used over the centuries.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in La Palma.

When to go on holiday to La Palma

The best time to visit La Palma, Spain is from April to June or September to early November, when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. July and August can be hot and crowded, so if you plan to travel during this time, it is recommended to book your accommodation well in advance. Keep in mind that La Palma is a year-round destination, so you can also visit during the winter months when the island is at its greenest and the night skies are ideal for stargazing.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to La Palma

La Palma is an island located in the Canary Islands, Spain. To get to La Palma, you can take a flight from many major cities in Europe to La Palma Airport (SPC), which is the island's main airport. There are also flights available from other Canary Islands, as well as from mainland Spain.
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from several ports in the Canary Islands to Santa Cruz de La Palma, which is the island's capital city. The ferry trip can be a bit longer than a flight, but it can be a more scenic and enjoyable way to get to La Palma, especially if you have time to spare.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit La Palma, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in La Palma

La Palma is one of the seven Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa, and it has a unique gastronomy influenced by its geography, climate, and history. Here are some of the typical foods and dishes of La Palma with a brief description: 1. Papas arrugadas - potatoes boiled in salt water until the skin wrinkles and then served with a mojo sauce. These small but flavorful potatoes are a staple in La Palma's cuisine.
2. Gofio - a traditional flour made from roasted grains such as wheat, barley or corn, that can be eaten alone or added to other dishes. It's often used as a thickener in soups and stews.
3. Puchero - a hearty stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, meat, and sometimes fish, that is a popular dish in La Palma during the winter months.
4. Potaje de berros - a local soup made with watercress, onion, potatoes, and sometimes pork or bacon. It's a refreshing and nutritious dish, particularly during the hot summer months.
5. Enyesque - a tasty dish consisting of bread, fresh cheese, and gofio, served with honey, olive oil, or mojo sauce. It's a typical breakfast or snack in La Palma.
6. Queso de cabra - goat cheese is a major component of La Palma's culinary culture and is produced in many parts of the island. It's typically served as a dessert or as an appetizer with gofio and honey.
7. Churros de pescado - deep-fried fish and potato croquettes, served hot and crispy. They are a typical snack or tapa in La Palma's coastal villages.
8. Caldereta de langosta - a delicious lobster stew cooked with vegetables, tomatoes, wine, and spices. It's a popular dish for special occasions and celebrations.
9. Bienmesabe - a sweet almond dessert made with ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest, among other ingredients. It's typically served cold and covered with honey.
These are just a few examples of the rich culinary traditions of La Palma that you should try during your visit to the island.
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is La Palma an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other popular tourist destinations in Spain, La Palma can be considered slightly more expensive. However, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of a trip will depend on various factors such as the time of year, your accommodation choices, your mode of transportation, and your activities while on the island. Additionally, you can find budget-friendly options for food, accommodation, and entertainment if you plan ahead and do your research. Overall, it is possible to have an affordable trip to La Palma by choosing reasonably priced options and by being conscious of your spending.

Where to find accomodation in La Palma

La Palma is a small island, and there are several areas where you can find accommodation. The most popular areas and towns for visitors include: 1. Santa Cruz de La Palma: This is the capital city of the island and is a great spot to experience the local culture and see historical landmarks.
2. Los Cancajos: This is a resort area in the east of the island and is popular for its beach and proximity to the airport.
3. Puerto Naos: This is another resort town on the west coast of the island and is known for its beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife.
4. Tazacorte: This town is located on the west coast of the island and is popular for its local restaurants and bars, as well as being near to several walking trails.
5. Fuencaliente: This is located on the southern coast and is popular for its natural beauty, including the Teneguía Volcanoes and the Salinas de Fuencaliente.
The choice of where to stay will depend on your interests and the activities you want to do during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at La Palma here:
Booking.com

Is La Palma a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, La Palma is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate on the island is relatively low and the police presence is noticeable. However, like anywhere else, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist areas, so it is always important to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to keep your belongings safe. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night. Overall, La Palma is a safe destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting La Palma.

What type of travelers will enjoy La Palma the most?

La Palma, Spain is a beautiful and diverse destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it is particularly ideal for couples, families, and nature enthusiasts who are seeking a laid-back and tranquil getaway. Couples will certainly appreciate the romantic ambiance of the island with its lovely beaches, coastal trails, and sunset views perfect for spending quality time together. Families can explore the island's many parks and zoos, and enjoy fun outdoor activities such as hiking through volcanic landscapes. La Palma is not really known for its nightlife and it is not the most vibrant destination for young people looking for entertainment and fun. However, if you love adventure and outdoor activities, the island offers breathtaking landscapes and trails that will surely provide you with unique and thrilling experiences.

How to get around La Palma

There are several transportation options to move around La Palma, Spain. The most common ones are renting a car, taking a taxi, using public buses, or walking. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island, while taking a taxi is a good option for short trips or if you prefer not to drive. Public buses run regularly between the main towns and villages, but they may not be as frequent outside of these areas. Finally, walking is a great option for exploring the island's stunning natural scenery.

What to see around La Palma

Certainly! Here are six charming places you can visit on a day trip from La Palma (Spain): 1. Santa Cruz de La Palma: This is the capital of La Palma and has lots of beautiful colonial architecture you can explore.
2. El Paso: A picturesque village in the center of the island with stunning views and traditional architecture.
3. Los Llanos de Aridane: Another town on the western coast of La Palma known for its beautiful historic center.
4. Puerto Naos: A beautiful beach town on the island's west coast, known for its black sand and the volcanic landscape.
5. Caldera de Taburiente National Park: This is a very popular destination for visitors who are interested in hiking and outdoor activities. There are several hiking trails that run through the park and offers visitors stunning views and abundant flora and fauna.
6. Roque de Los Muchachos: This is the highest point on the island and a very popular spot for stargazing. The view from here is in fact incredible and definitely worth a visit.
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