Lanzarote Money: Euros, Cards, Cash and Spending Tips

Lanzarote uses the euro (€), just like mainland Spain and the rest of the Canary Islands. For most visitors, handling money here is refreshingly straightforward: cards are widely accepted, cash machines are easy to find in resort areas, and everyday costs can be reasonable if you venture beyond the busiest seafront strips.

Still, it pays to arrive prepared. A little cash is useful for markets and small independent businesses, card providers may charge foreign transaction fees, and knowing local tipping expectations helps avoid awkward moments. This guide covers the practical side of spending money in Lanzarote, from ATMs and exchange rates to realistic holiday budgets.

For broader advice on resorts, transport, beaches and attractions, see the complete Lanzarote travel guide.

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What Currency Is Used in Lanzarote?

The official currency in Lanzarote is the euro (€).

Lanzarote is part of the Canary Islands, an autonomous Spanish region, so the currency, banking system and payment practices are the same as elsewhere in Spain. Euro banknotes come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500 denominations, although €5 to €50 notes are by far the most practical for daily use.

Coins range from 1 cent to €2. It is useful to keep a small amount of change for coffee stops, public toilets where applicable, market purchases and parking meters.

If you are travelling from another eurozone country, there is no need to exchange currency at all. Visitors from the UK, US, Canada and elsewhere should consider how their bank charges for overseas purchases and cash withdrawals before leaving home.

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Can You Pay by Card in Lanzarote?

Yes. Debit and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere visitors are likely to go, particularly in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Arrecife and larger towns.

You can usually pay by card at:

• Hotels, apartments and villa-management offices
• Restaurants, bars and cafés
• Supermarkets and pharmacies
• Petrol stations
• Car-hire companies
• Tourist attractions and museums
• Dive centres, surf schools and excursion providers
• Many taxis
• Shops in resorts and larger villages

Contactless payment is common, and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay are widely usable where contactless terminals are available.

Visa and Mastercard are the safest cards to carry. American Express may be accepted by larger hotels and businesses but is less reliable at small restaurants, local shops and independent attractions.

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Should You Carry Cash in Lanzarote?

Yes, but there is no need to carry large amounts.

Cards cover the majority of holiday spending, but having around €30–€80 in cash per person is sensible for smaller purchases and places that may prefer cash. This is especially useful if you plan to explore beyond the main resorts.

Cash can come in handy for:

• Market stalls in Teguise and smaller village markets
• Small cafés and family-run restaurants
• Tipping
• Occasional taxis
• Beach kiosks and independent vendors
• Small purchases in rural villages
• Parking or public facilities requiring coins

Many local restaurants accept cards, but cash remains appreciated in smaller establishments. If a card terminal is unavailable or the connection drops in a remote part of the island, cash saves inconvenience.

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ATMs and Withdrawing Cash

ATMs, known in Spanish as cajeros automáticos, are widely available in Arrecife and all major resort areas. You will also find them in larger towns including Teguise, Haría and Yaiza, although they may be less frequent in quieter rural areas.

The easiest approach is to withdraw cash from an ATM once you arrive rather than exchanging large quantities of money before departure.

ATM Tips for Lanzarote

• Use machines attached to established banks where possible.
• Check your bank’s foreign withdrawal charges before travelling.
• Decline dynamic currency conversion if the ATM offers to show the transaction in your home currency. Choosing euros usually gives you a better exchange rate through your own bank or card provider.
• Avoid withdrawing more cash than you need for a few days.
• Keep your PIN private and be aware of your surroundings, as you would anywhere.
• Do not leave cash, cards or valuables visible in a hire car.

For general information about the euro and the notes and coins in circulation, the European Central Bank’s euro information is a useful reference.

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Should You Exchange Money Before Travelling?

Exchanging a small amount before your trip can be helpful if it gives you peace of mind, particularly for an arrival after bank hours or if you expect to need cash immediately. However, it is rarely necessary to exchange your full holiday budget in advance.

Airport exchange desks often offer less favourable rates than your bank or a fee-free travel card. Similarly, exchange bureaux in heavily tourist-oriented areas can be convenient but may not offer the best value.

For many travellers, the best combination is:

1. Bring a card that does not charge high foreign transaction fees.
2. Withdraw a modest amount of euros from a bank ATM after arrival.
3. Use card payments for most hotels, meals, supermarket shops and attractions.
4. Keep some cash for villages, markets and smaller purchases.

Avoid relying solely on one payment method. Carry a backup card separately from your main wallet, particularly if you are hiring a car or travelling around the island independently.

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Typical Prices in Lanzarote

Prices vary considerably between resort promenades and more local inland or fishing-village restaurants. Puerto del Carmen’s main strip, central Playa Blanca and busy marina areas tend to command higher prices, while places such as Yaiza, Haría, Tinajo and Arrieta can offer better value.

As a general guide, expect costs roughly along these lines:

Item	Typical Price Range
Coffee	€1.50–€3
Local beer	€2.50–€5
Glass of Lanzarote wine	€3–€6
Casual lunch	€10–€18 per person
Menú del día set lunch	€10–€14
Dinner in a mid-range restaurant	€20–€40 per person
Supermarket water, large bottle	Around €1–€2
Taxi journey within a resort	Often €5–€15
Car hire	Varies strongly by season and insurance level
Attraction entry	Usually a modest additional daily cost

A menú del día is one of the best-value ways to eat well. These lunchtime set menus commonly include a starter, main course, dessert and sometimes a drink. They are especially worth seeking out in local towns rather than on the most tourist-focused resort strips.

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How Much Spending Money Do You Need for Lanzarote?

Your budget depends largely on accommodation type, how often you eat out, whether you hire a car, and how many paid attractions or excursions you include.

Budget Traveller

A traveller staying in self-catering accommodation, preparing some meals and focusing on free beaches, villages and hikes could manage on approximately €40–€70 per day, excluding accommodation.

This could cover supermarket food, casual meals, public transport or occasional taxis, drinks and low-cost activities.

Mid-Range Holiday

For a typical holiday involving restaurant meals, a hire car shared between travellers, sightseeing, beach days and a few drinks, allow around €80–€140 per person per day, excluding accommodation.

This is a comfortable level for most first-time trips, particularly if you plan to visit Timanfaya, César Manrique attractions and the La Geria wine region.

Higher-End Holiday

Upscale hotels, frequent cocktails, marina dining, private excursions, diving and premium restaurants can quickly push spending to €160 or more per person per day.

Lanzarote can absolutely be a luxury destination, especially around Puerto Calero and parts of Playa Blanca, but it does not have to be expensive. The island rewards travellers who mix headline attractions with free coastal walks, local dining and self-guided exploration.

Tipping in Lanzarote

Tipping is appreciated in Lanzarote but is not expected at the same level as in North America.

For ordinary service, rounding up the bill or leaving €1–€2 is polite and generous. For a larger meal or notably good service, a tip of around 5–10% is appropriate.

A practical guide:

• Café or bar: Round up or leave small change.
• Restaurant: €1–€2 for a casual meal; 5–10% for excellent service or a larger bill.
• Taxi: Rounding up is sufficient.
• Hotel staff: Optional, but a few euros for especially helpful service is welcomed.
• Tour guides and activity instructors: Tip if the service was excellent, but do not feel obliged.

Service may sometimes be included on a bill, especially in more tourist-focused venues. Check before adding an extra tip.

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Money-Saving Tips for Lanzarote

Lanzarote is compact, but your spending can differ dramatically depending on where and how you travel.

Eat Beyond the Resort Strip

Restaurants along the busiest beaches and promenades are convenient, but they are often more expensive. For better-value Canarian food, seek out village restaurants in Haría, Yaiza, Tinajo, Arrieta or El Golfo.

Order papas arrugadas with mojo, grilled goat’s cheese, fresh fish and a glass of local wine for a more local and often better-value meal.

Shop at Supermarkets

If you have self-catering accommodation, supermarkets are excellent for breakfasts, picnic lunches, snacks, water and beach supplies. Buying drinks and snacks before heading to the beach can be significantly cheaper than purchasing everything from a promenade bar.

Use a Hire Car Strategically

A hire car can represent good value when shared between two or more people, particularly if you want to explore Timanfaya National Park, La Geria, the north of the island and quieter beaches. However, compare the full price, including insurance, fuel policy and any additional-driver charges.

If you only plan to stay around one resort, taxis, buses and occasional guided trips may be cheaper.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Many of Lanzarote’s best experiences cost little or nothing. Spend time on the beaches, walk the volcanic landscapes, visit villages, watch the sunset at coastal viewpoints and explore the island’s distinctive architecture.

For more useful planning information on getting around, packing, accommodation and avoiding common holiday mistakes, browse these practical Lanzarote travel tips.

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Keeping Your Money Safe in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is generally a relaxed destination, but normal travel precautions still apply. Petty theft is uncommon compared with some major cities, yet busy promenades, beaches, markets and nightlife areas are places to remain alert.

Use these simple precautions:

• Carry only the cash you expect to use that day.
• Keep a backup card separate from your main wallet.
• Use hotel safes where available for passports, spare cards and larger sums of cash.
• Cover the keypad when entering a PIN.
• Check card receipts and enable transaction notifications through your bank app.
• Do not leave wallets, bags, cards or electronics in a hire car, even in the boot.
• If you lose a card, freeze it immediately through your banking app and contact the provider.

A cross-body bag, zipped pocket or small money belt can be useful on travel days, in markets and during evening outings, though there is no need to be overly anxious.

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Final Thoughts on Currency and Money in Lanzarote

Using money in Lanzarote is uncomplicated for most travellers. The euro is the only currency you need, cards are accepted in the vast majority of visitor-facing businesses, and ATMs make it easy to withdraw a small amount of cash when required.

The best approach is usually to pay by card where convenient, keep some euros for smaller purchases, avoid unnecessary exchange fees and budget a little extra for car hire, excursions and restaurant meals. With those basics covered, you can focus less on payment logistics and more on Lanzarote’s volcanic scenery, beaches, villages and excellent Canarian food.

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FAQ: Lanzarote Currency Money