Arrecife, Spain: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Arrecife is a city and municipality in the Canary Islands, located in the central-eastern part of Lanzarote, and has been the island's capital since 1852. The city derives its name from the rock reef that lines its beach. It also lends its name to the nearby Arrecife Airport. The municipality has a population of 61,351 and covers an area of 22.72 square kilometers. Arrecife lies south of Teguise and east of San Bartolomé, with the Atlantic Ocean to its southeast. As a port town on the east coast, Arrecife is served by ferries to other islands, as well as Europe and mainland Africa. The LZ1 road connects Arrecife to the northeast of the island, the LZ2 road links the capital to the southwest, and the LZ3 road functions as the city's beltway. The tallest building in Lanzarote, the Arrecife Gran Hotel, is located on the seafront next to the harbor.

History of Arrecife

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, has a rich and varied history shaped by its strategic coastal location and maritime heritage. Here is an overview of its historical development:

Early Settlement and Origins

The area now known as Arrecife was first settled in the 15th century by the Spanish. Its name, which means “reef” in Spanish, refers to the volcanic reefs that protect its coastline. These natural formations provided a safe harbor for fishing boats, making it an ideal location for a fishing village to develop.

Pirate Attacks and Fortifications

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Arrecife was frequently attacked by pirates and corsairs, who were attracted by its strategic position and the wealth generated by the island’s agriculture and trade. To defend against these incursions, a series of fortifications were built. Notable among these is the Castle of San Gabriel, constructed in the late 16th century on a small islet connected to the mainland by a causeway. Later, the Castle of San José was built in the 18th century to further bolster the town’s defenses.

Growth and Economic Development

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Arrecife began to grow as a commercial center due to its excellent natural harbor. The town became the primary port for Lanzarote, facilitating the export of local products such as cochineal dye, which was derived from the cochineal insect and used in the textile industry. The development of salt production also contributed to the town’s economic growth.

Becoming the Capital

Arrecife’s growth accelerated in the 19th century, eventually surpassing the inland town of Teguise in importance. Its natural harbor and increasing population led to it becoming the commercial hub of Lanzarote. In 1852, Arrecife was officially declared the capital of Lanzarote, reflecting its economic and political significance.

20th Century Modernization

The 20th century brought significant changes to Arrecife. The rise of tourism transformed the island’s economy, leading to rapid urban development and modernization. Arrecife expanded, with new residential and commercial areas emerging to accommodate the growing population and influx of tourists.

The construction of the Arrecife Gran Hotel, the tallest building in Lanzarote, symbolizes the city’s modernization. The hotel, located on the seafront alongside the harbor, offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, highlighting Arrecife’s blend of traditional charm and contemporary amenities.

Present Day

Today, Arrecife is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling port, and tourist attractions. The city’s historical sites, such as the Castles of San Gabriel and San José, offer glimpses into its storied past. The modern marina, shopping centers, and cultural institutions, like the International Museum of Contemporary Art housed in the Castle of San José, attract both residents and visitors.

Arrecife continues to thrive as the economic and administrative heart of Lanzarote, balancing its historical legacy with contemporary development. The city’s strategic location, protected harbor, and dynamic economy ensure its ongoing significance in the Canary Islands.

In summary, Arrecife’s history is marked by its early settlement as a fishing village, its fortification against pirate attacks, its growth as a commercial hub, and its modern development into a vibrant city and capital of Lanzarote.

Visiting Arrecife for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Arrecife on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Arrecife not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Arrecife and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

St. Dominic's Convent

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Continentaleurope

St. Dominic’s Convent is one of Malta’s most peaceful and intriguing religious sites, quietly nestled away from the busier streets of Valletta. It’s a place where faith, legend, and cinematic history intertwine, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the island’s spiritual and cultural depth. Though it remains relatively unknown compared to Malta’s grander attractions, the convent deserves far more attention…

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Location: St. Dominic's Square Rabat RBT 2521 | Website | Distance: 2,721.6km

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Visiting St. Dominic's Convent

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Mosta Dome

CC BY-SA 3.0 / GFDL

The Mosta Dome, or Rotunda of Mosta, is one of Malta’s most breathtaking landmarks — an architectural marvel known for its vast dome, elegant neoclassical design, and miraculous World War II story. Dedicated to St. Mary, this grand church stands as a powerful symbol of faith, beauty, and resilience at the heart of Malta.Mosta Dome Mosta Dome which is also…

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Location: Rotunda Square, Mosta | Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-17:00h, Sat 9:30-16:30h, Sun 12:00-16:00h | Price: €2 (Sacristy) & €1 for War Shelters | Distance: 2,724.5km

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Visiting Mosta Dome

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Arrecife . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are one of Valletta’s most picturesque and peaceful public spaces, perched high above the Grand Harbour with unmatched panoramic views. Originally laid out in 1661 as a private retreat for the Italian Knights of the Order of St. John, the gardens became public in the 19th century and have since evolved into a symbol of Valletta’s…

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Location: Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triq Sant' Orsla, Valletta, Malta | Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00. Closed on: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Santa Marija (15 August), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. | Distance: 2,731.9km

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Visiting Upper Barrakka Gardens

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Lascaris War Rooms

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Amanda Tonna

Hidden deep beneath Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens lies the Lascaris War Rooms, one of Malta’s most fascinating underground sites. This labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, carved 400 feet below the surface, once served as the nerve center of Allied operations during World War II. It was here that the defense of Malta was coordinated, including the island’s crucial role during…

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Location: Lascaris War Rooms, Lascaris Ditch, VLT 2000, Valletta, Malta | Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10.00 - 17:00 | Price: Adult €12.00, Children € 5.00 | Website | Distance: 2,732.0km

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Visiting Lascaris War Rooms

Casa Rocca Piccola

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Continentaleurope

The elegant Casa Rocca Piccola offers visitors a rare glimpse into the life of Maltese nobility. Built in the 16th century, this palazzo has been home to the de Piro family for over 400 years and remains a lived-in residence to this day. Its name, meaning “the small house on the rock,” reflects both its noble heritage and its intimate…

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Location: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, VLT 1117, Malta | Hours: Open from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4pm) every day except Sundays and Public Holidays. | Price: The prices for the guided tours are €9 for Adults and €5 for Students. Children under 14 are Free. | Website | Distance: 2,732.3km

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Visiting Casa Rocca Piccola