Temperatures are dropping and the days are getting shorter, and you’re looking for somewhere to get away to? Look no further! There’s one place that attracts visitors all year round with a pleasant climate, plenty of sunshine, and a relaxed atmosphere: the Canary Islands.
No wonder more and more people (from retirees to digital nomads and families) are opting for long-term vacations on the Canary Islands. But what makes the islands so perfect for a longer stay? Which island is best for you? And what should you bear in mind when planning? Get all the important information here!
Why the Canary Islands Are the Ideal Destination for a Long-term Vacation
- 🌞 Mild climate all year round (65-77°F, even in winter)
- 🏝️ Diverse landscapes: beaches, forests, and volcanic terrain
- 📡 Good infrastructure & fast internet – great for remote work
- 🏡 Wide range of accommodations from apartments to villas
- 📜 Easy visa process for EU citizens
Which Island Is Best for a Long-term Stay?
🌆 Tenerife – The Island for Variety & City Life
- Perfect for long-term vacationers who want to combine city life and nature
- Good infrastructure, fast internet, and a large expat community
- Ideal for digital nomads, couples & active seniors
☀️ Gran Canaria – The Island of Opportunities
- Mildest climate in the Canary Islands, especially in the south (Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés)
- Big city flair in Las Palmas with coworking spaces and an international community
- Ideal for long-term vacationers who want to combine sun and city life
🏄 Fuerteventura – The Island of Beaches
- Endless sandy beaches, perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts
- Little hustle and bustle, lots of nature, perfect for relaxation
- Ideal for pensioners and surfers who want to escape the winter
🎨 Lanzarote – The Island of Artists & Volcanic Landscapes
- Unique landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere
- Sustainable tourism and less mass tourism than on other islands
- Ideal for creative people
🌿 La Palma, La Gomera & El Hierro – The Natural Paradises
- Perfect for hikers and nature lovers
- Hardly any tourist infrastructure, ideal for people looking for peace and quiet
- Ideal for nature fans & individualists
How Much Does a Long-term Stay in the Canary Islands Cost?
| Category | Average Costs per Month |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-room apartment) | $500 – $1,200 (depending on island & location) |
| Service charges (electricity, water, internet) | $60 – $120 |
| Food | $250 – $400 |
| Eating out (local restaurants) | $8 – $15 per meal |
| Transportation (public transport or rental car) | $30 – $400 |
| Leisure (excursions, sports, culture) | $100 – $300 |
💡 Tip: Long-term rentals are often cheaper than vacation rentals! You can find good rental options on platforms such as idealista.es or in local Facebook groups.
What You Should Look Out for During a Long-term Stay
- ✅ Book your accommodation early: The Canary Islands are popular, so secure your place in advance.
- ✅ Health care: Good medical care is available, but private health insurance abroad can be useful.
- ✅ Mobility: Rental cars are practical, but public transport is well-developed on many islands.
- ✅ Internet & work: Coworking spaces are available in Las Palmas, Santa Cruz, and Puerto de la Cruz.
- ✅ Language: English is widely spoken, but basic Spanish knowledge is helpful!
🔥 Insider Tip: Winter on La Gomera
If you really want to switch off and spend the winter in a peaceful environment, La Gomera is the place to be. The island is particularly popular with long-term vacationers who embrace alternative lifestyles and nature.
Highlights on La Gomera:
- ✅ Valle Gran Rey – A popular valley for artists
- ✅ Playa de la Calera – Beautiful, quiet beach
- ✅ Garajonay National Park – Perfect for hiking
Is a Long-term Vacation in the Canary Islands Right for You?
Whether you simply want to escape the winter, work remotely, or retreat for a while, the Canary Islands offer the right environment for everyone.
Thanks to the mild climate, good infrastructure, and varied landscape, they’re the perfect destination for a long-term stay.
🎒 So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and enjoy life under the Canarian sun! 🌞
© 2025 Canary Islands Travel Guide