Teguise

Lanzarote's atmospheric former capital, a well-preserved colonial town famous for its Sunday market and cobbled streets lined with historic mansions. Its rich history and artisan crafts reflect the island's traditional culture.

Things to do

• Sunday Market in Plaza de la Constitución — Wander stalls of local crafts, produce and live folk music that take over the town's cobbled streets every Sunday morning.
• Castillo de Santa Bárbara — Climb Montaña Guanapay to this 16th-century volcanic-stone fortress, now home to the quirky Pirate Museum.
• Palacio Spínola — Tour this beautifully restored 18th-century mansion showcasing traditional Canarian architecture and period furnishings.
• Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe — Visit the whitewashed parish church at the heart of town, rebuilt after pirate raids and fires over the centuries.
• Convento de Santo Domingo — Explore this former convent turned cultural space hosting art exhibitions and craft demonstrations.
• Timple workshop visit — Watch local luthiers hand-craft the timple, the small five-stringed guitar central to Canarian folk music.

Food to try

• Papas arrugadas con mojo — Wrinkled salt-boiled potatoes served with spicy red mojo picón or green mojo verde sauce.
• Gofio-based snacks — Try this toasted grain flour, a Canarian staple, served as a dessert, drink or savory accompaniment.
• Rancho canario — A hearty stew of noodles, chickpeas, potatoes and meat traditionally eaten on Sundays.
• Queso majorero with local honey — Sample tangy goat cheese from the islands drizzled with palm or cane honey, sold at the Sunday market.
• Market street food stalls — Graze on grilled meats, empanadas and fresh juices from vendors set up around the Sunday market.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive early on Sundays — The market gets extremely crowded by late morning, so come early to enjoy it before tour buses arrive.
• Dress respectfully in churches — Cover shoulders and knees when entering the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe or the convent.
• Expect a midday lull on weekdays — Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours in the early afternoon outside of market day.
• Support local artisans — Prices at craft stalls are generally fixed and fair, reflecting the town's long tradition of handmade goods.