Spain has quite a few islands, almost all of which are worth visiting. The islands can be divided into two groups: the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands. Do you want to know more about each island and what there is to experience? Here you will discover the top 10 largest Spanish islands.
10. El Hierro
El Hierro is the southwestern island of the Canary Islands. It is not the smallest of the Canary Islands, but it is the smallest island that is actually inhabited. Because of its size it is also called La Isla Chiquita. It is a volcanic island that was shocked in 2011 because an eruption could take place. Luckily that didn’t happen. It is especially a suitable island for anyone looking for rugged, untouched nature. You will of course discover several beaches, but the volcanic landscape is the star of this island.
9. La Gomera
La Gomera is also part of the Canary Islands and is slightly larger than El Hierro. It is mainly a very quiet island. There is little industry and most of the landscape is filled by farms. There are also few tourists on this island, making a visit to La Gomera a treat for peace seekers. Hike through the dense forests of Garajonay National Park or explore the landscape around the Roque de Agando volcano.
8. Ibiza
Ibiza belongs to the Balearic Islands and is a popular holiday destination. Many people love the island for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful nature. It is also a good place if you like to attend parties and festivals. Walk through the Ses Salines nature reserve and admire flamingos up close or enjoy the clear blue water when you lie on one of Ibiza’s many beaches. Ibiza Town is also worth a visit. Stroll through the historic part with its old cathedral or go shopping in the boutiques around the harbor.
7. Menorca
Menorca also belongs to the Balearic Islands and is especially popular thanks to its beautiful beaches. You can not only relax on extensive sandy beaches that are also suitable for young families, but also enjoy the tranquility when you visit one of the secluded bays. It is also worth snorkeling when in Menorca. Especially the northern part of the island has a coastline with all kinds of exotic fish. Natural Park Albufera des Grau is known for the many birds that you will find in this reserve.
6. La Palma
We are going back to the Canary Islands with the island of La Palma. This island is located in the northwest of the archipelago and mainly attracts tourists who want to enjoy nature. There are several volcanoes on La Palma, where a last eruption took place in 2021. These eruptions are of course dangerous for the inhabitants of the island, but at the same time they are responsible for the unique nature that you will find on La Palma. You will discover this when you walk through the Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
5. Lanzarote
Lanzarote is located in the east of the Canary Islands and was created more than fifteen million years ago by volcanic activity. Nature consists largely of lava fields and volcanic craters, which creates a rugged landscape. It is possible to get close to a magma chamber during a guided tour. These chambers are deep underground, but the enormous heat can also be felt above ground. You feel that the gravel is hot and you see how water immediately turns into steam when it is poured into the ground. But a holiday on Lanzarote offers more than just volcanoes, there are also beautiful sandy beaches and beautiful historic villages such as Teguise and Yaiza.
4.Gran Canaria
It goes without saying that Gran Canaria belongs to the Canary Islands. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of the island and also the most densely populated city of all the Canary Islands. Here you will discover the home of Christopher Columbus and learn more about the rich history of the island in a museum. The island also has a bird park, Palmitos Park, and an open-air museum that tells about the original inhabitants of the island.
3. Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is also a Canary Island and is best known for its dry climate. Here you will not only find volcanic landscapes, but also high dunes. You will dive into the history of the island when you visit the capital Betancuria. Here you will find buildings that date from the seventeenth century, such as an old church. The atmospheric El Cotillo is also worth a visit. This is an old fishing village where you can also enjoy the sun on the various beaches.
2.Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest Canary Island and also a tourist attraction. It has no less than two airports to continue to welcome all tourists. One of the highlights is Teide National Park, which is named after the highest point on the island. You can also delve into the history of the island when you visit the Pyramids of Güímar. These are pyramids that were probably built by farmers who lived on the island in the nineteenth century. And to complete your tour in Tenerife, you should of course also visit the many beautiful beaches that this Spanish island has to offer.
1. Majorca
The largest island in Spain is Mallorca, which is part of the Balearic Islands. Especially the city of Palma is worth a visit. Here you will not only find bustling streets with shops and cafes, but also beautiful beaches where you can fully enjoy the sun. The old cathedral of Palma is also worth a visit. Furthermore, the island has a fourteenth-century castle: Castell de Bellver. You can also discover special nature, for example at the caves of Drach. This cave system is incredibly long and a good destination to explore the underground world.