Travel to Canary Islands

Canary Islands entry and exit regulations

Formalities and visas

No visa is required for travelers from EU countries. Spain – and thus also the Canary Islands – belongs to the Schengen area, so there are no more regular controls at its borders with the EU.

Issuing of visas in Germany

If a stay lasts longer than a certain period of time or serves other purposes than tourist, the visa department of the embassy should be consulted.

Consular department of the Embassy of Spain

Steinplatz 1

10623 Berlin

Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 31 50 92 51/-53

Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 31 50 99 62

Email: botschaft.spanien@t.online.de

Import and export of foreign currency and goods

Import and export of foreign

currency There is no limit to the import and export of foreign currency in the local currency, but the export of amounts over € 6,010 must be declared. Import and export of

goods

The import and export of weapons, ammunition or explosives is strictly prohibited. In addition, the import and export of plants and animals protected under the Washington Species Protection Act is prohibited. Violation can result in severe penalties.

The following articles can be imported duty-free when entering from non-EU countries:

  • 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco
  • 1 liter of spirits (over 20% alcohol content) or 2 liters of alcoholic beverages up to 22% alcohol content
  • 2 liters of wine
  • 250 ml eau de toilette and 50 g perfume
  • 500 g coffee or 200 g coffee extract
  • 100 g tea or 40 g tea extract
  • Gifts worth € 37

Note

Tobacco products and alcoholic beverages may only be imported by people aged 17 and over.

Entry with peddlers

The EU regulation on the import and export of pets from October 1st, 2004 applies to the entry of pets into Spain. According to this EU regulation, only pets may be imported into Spain that either have an implanted electronic chip or are tattooed (from 2011 an electronic chip is mandatory for all pets) and are therefore clearly identifiable. In addition, an EU pet passport must be issued for every pet brought with you. This card can be issued by any resident veterinarian.

Every pet that is imported into Spain must be vaccinated against rabies. The rule here is that the rabies vaccination must have taken place at least 21 days before entry and must not be older than twelve months. Pets must be at least three months old to be vaccinated against rabies. Pets that are younger than three months and are therefore not vaccinated against rabies can still bring them to Spain. These pets must be chipped or tattooed, an EU pet passport must be issued and it must be ensured that these animals have been kept in the same place since birth and that they have not been able to come into contact with wild animals.

In Spain there are also special regional regulations regarding the obligation to wear a muzzle and a leash. In some regions, dangerous dog breeds are banned and therefore may not be introduced there.

Animal transport with an accompanying person (owner)

In this case, proceed as follows: At the airport, the animal is locked in a transport crate previously obtained by the owner. It must be ensured that the container is large enough that the animal can stand in it and turn around, and it must also be ensured that no liquids can run out (urine). This is done using suitable absorbent material, in the simplest case using a sufficient amount of newspaper. There should also be a water bowl and, depending on the length of the flight, enough food. The transport container is handed over to the staff at the check-in counter. The transport fee depends on the weight of the animal. It is essential to ensure that there is space for the animal for the flight booked, as the number of animals that can be transported

The animal is located in the machine in an air-conditioned area between the passenger deck and the cargo area. As a rule, no member of the crew takes care of the animal during the flight, not even to give water or food. However, experience has shown that the stress of checking in and the take-off phase is so stressful for most animals that they sleep for most of the flight. The administration of sedatives before check-in is not only not recommended, as their effects cannot be foreseen under these conditions, but is even prohibited for reasons of security (smuggling). Many airlines also exclude a number of dogs (attack dogs) from transport.

Animal transport without an accompanying person

In this case, a specialist company must be commissioned with the transport, which then takes care of everything else. However, it should be ensured that the animal is picked up at the arrival airport by someone who is familiar to the dog. And of course all import regulations for pets for the country have to be explored beforehand and strictly adhered to.

Note

It has proven to be very helpful if you have accustomed the animal to such a transport container at home a few weeks before the intended flight.

Canary Islands, Canaries: arrival and transport

How do you get to the Canary Islands?

Air traffic

With a few exceptions, visitors come to the Canary Islands by plane. And actually nothing seems to be easier than getting to Tenerife and Co. from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The charter connections and cheap offers are almost endless, which bring the holiday-hungry to the popular Spanish archipelago in the hot summer months at the latest. There are flights from almost all noteworthy German airports, so that a detailed representation is prohibited at this point. In any case, it is always worth paying attention to the many last-minute offers and the offers from the low-cost airlines.

The Iberian Peninsula can be reached in an estimated two hours by plane from the Canaries and Central Europe in around four hours. Direct flights exist between the Canary Islands and the largest or most important cities in the world. Each of the seven main islands has its own airport, with the international aeropuertos of Tenerife South and Gran Canaria being the largest in the Canary Islands and also among the busiest in Spain. La Gomera and El Hierro are mostly approached from the other islands despite their own airports. Connections between the islands are also guaranteed by plane. Such flights are mainly flown by the Canarian airline Binter Canarias, which is based in Gran Canaria, and by the Canarian airline Islas Airways.

Shipping

There are numerous ferry connections to the individual Canary Islands. These ferries are mainly operated by the shipping companies Fred Olsen Express, Compañía Trasmediterránea and Naviera Armas. By the way, Tenerife and Gran Canaria each have their own seaport. Both are among the largest seaports in the world in terms of size, trading activities and shipping volume. The ferry, which departs once a week from the southern Spanish port of Cádiz , also goes there. These seaports are also called from the Portuguese city of Portomaio (Algarve). If you want to reach one of the smaller islands, you have to expect a stopover on one of the larger islands.

Various cruise lines also call at the islands. Anyone interested can get more information at www.ferryknowhow.info

Travel in the country

Air traffic

The Canary Islands are connected to one another by means of “national” air traffic, which ensures connections several times a day. Most of the time, the ATR-72 turboprop aircraft are used for this, and they run absolutely safely and quickly. Unfortunately, domestic flights are far from cheap, but they are still the best alternative to bus and ferry. In particular, the local airline Binter Canarias serves six of the seven main islands of the Canary Islands. It is based in Gran Canaria. In addition, the Canarian airline Islas Airways also operates.

Bus transport

Buses are the most important means of transport for the infrastructural development within the individual islands. In contrast to mainland Spain, they are unfortunately quite expensive. In addition, you will have to speak Spanish with the drivers, because English or even German is not expected. The buses are not called autobús (plural autobuses) in the Canary Islands, but guagua (plural guaguas). Every island has its own company that maintains and offers it. Another disadvantage of public bus transport on the islands is that the guaguasoften operate very rarely and only drive to the most important (tourist) destinations. The best and most frequent bus connections will be found in Tenerife.

Rail transport

There is no public rail transport in the Canaries. What there are, however, are plans to set up a railway line between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Los Cristianos.

Tram

Believe it or not, there is actually a tram in Tenerife. It was established in 2007 after there was one on the island between 1904 and 1959. This makes the Tranvía Tenerife, Tenerife’s tram, the only rail-based means of transport in the Canary Islands. Incidentally, it runs between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the university town of La Laguna.

Shipping

The shipping connects the individual Canary Islands with each other. Most of the ferries are quite modern and also reasonably cheap. They are provided by such important shipping companies as Fred Olsen, Transmediterránea and Navierra Armas. In addition to the (car) ferries, hydrofoils and jetfoils also operate.

Taxis

Taxis are very expensive, but are not necessary in larger cities unless you are in a great hurry. The taxi drivers, who are easy to find, are honest and hardly likely to cheat.

Rental Cars

Since the expensive taxis and the unreliable buses literally cry out for alternatives, you should rent a car from one of the numerous (international or local) car rental companies for time-saving and independent island explorations. An inspection of the car is very advisable before starting the journey and especially recommended in the tourist centers. Get an exact picture of the seriousness of the car rental company and pay attention to the terms of the contract (which insurance is included, how do I contact the towing service, who is responsible for repairs? Etc.). Another tip: If you want to rent the car for a longer period of time, you should do so in your home country, as the local prices are often higher. A price comparison between the different car rental companies should also be mandatory.

Traffic rules

The rules and regulations for road traffic in the Canary Islands are similar to those in Germany. There is an alcohol limit of 0.5 per mille, towing in a private car is prohibited, you must wear seat belts and you are not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving. Usually high fines are demanded for offenses. Tolls are required for certain motorway routes, bridges and tunnels.

Warning

Since 2008, the sanctions for traffic violations have been increased drastically. For example, anyone who drives faster than 200 km/h on motorways and faster than 110 km/h in urban areas can expect prison sentences of between 3 to 6 months. The same penalties are imposed for alcohol offenses exceeding 1.2 per thousand.

Emergency call

In the event of an accident or other problems with the car or motorcycle, you can reach the ADAC 24 hours a day in Munich at the following number:

0049 – (0) 89 – 22 22 22

International license plate

According to Abbreviationfinder, The international license plate of Spain is:

E.

Canaries, travel medicine and risks

Infectious Diseases

In the Canary Islands, the following infectious diseases are to be expected in Germany or Central and Northern Europe:

  • Malaria, there is no risk of malaria
  • Lyme disease, transmitted by a tick bite
  • Intestinal infections caused by contaminated food or water, including amoebas, lamblia, salmonella, shigella, worm infestation and all kinds of viruses and bacteria
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Kala azar disease,
  • Lambliasis
  • Leishmaniasis Disease

Vaccination recommendations

When traveling to, the following vaccinations recommended:

  • Diphtheria, a vaccination against diphtheria should always exist in your home country
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Tetanus, a vaccination against tetanus should always exist in the home country

Vaccination There are no vaccination regulations when entering or staying in the Canary Islands.

Hazards and current warning notices

Foreign Office (AA) of the Federal Republic of Germany

Citizens’ Service

Telephone: 0049 – (0) 30 – 5000 – 2000

Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 5000 – 51000

Current warning

notices from the AA: www.auswaertiges-amt.de

Canary Islands, Canaries: Currency and Shopping

The local currency in the Canary Islands is of course the euro (€) = 100 cents.

The following banknotes are – as in the entire euro area – valid in the country and in circulation:

  • 5 €
  • 10 €
  • 20 €
  • 50 €
  • 100 €
  • € 200
  • 500 €

Bank opening hours

The banks in the Canary Islands are open during the week from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Shop

Shop opening times

There are no statutory closing times in the Canaries. However, most shops are closed in the afternoon (for siesta) between about 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., in smaller places they are often completely closed.: Thus two opening times give 13:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 20:00. As for the large shopping centers, they are open all day.

All about money

Costs in the Canary Islands

The costs of everyday life are only slightly lower in the Canary Islands than in Europe. Those who need money can visit the numerous exchange offices or use the ATMs. The known credit cards are readily accepted.

Tips

As all prices in the restaurant include the legally stipulated service surcharge, tips are your own choice. Nevertheless, you are welcome to give it, whereby 5% of the total bill is appropriate. You just leave the change on the plate.

Trading

Those who absolutely want to trade should limit themselves to the markets, even if nothing is going on there without fixed prices. Sometimes you get lucky with cheap hotels (out of season) and get a few euros off.

Canary Islands, Canaries: Diplomatic and tourist missions

Visit Countryaah for a full list of Canary Islands embassies and consulates in each country around the world.

German representations in the Canaries

German Consulate in Gran Canaria (Las Palmas)

Calle Albareda 3-2 °

35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Tel: 0034 – 928 49 18 80

Fax: 0034 – 928 26 27 31

Email: info@las-palmas.diplo.de

Web: www.las-palmas.diplo.de

Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany on La Palma (Santa Cruz)

Avenida Maritima, n ° 66

38700 Santa Cruz de La Palma

Tel: 0034 – 9 22 42 06 89

Fax: 0034 – 9 22 41 32 78

Email: consulado-aleman@palmasol.e.telefonica.net

Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Tenerife (Santa Cruz)

C/Costa y Grijalba, 18

38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tel: 0034 – 922 24 88 20

Fax: 0034 – 922 15 15 55

Email: ingofp@hotmail.com

Web: www.honorarkonsul-teneriffa.de

Representation of Spain in Germany

Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Berlin

Lichtensteinallee 1

10787 Berlin

Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 25 40 070

Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 25 79 99 557

Email: emb.berlin.inf@maec.es

Web: www. spanischebotschaft.de

Austrian representations in the Canary Islands

Austrian Honorary Consulate

Calle Hermano Apolinar 12

38300 La Orotava/Tenerife

Tel: 0034 – 922 325 961

Fax: 0034 – 922 322 184

E-Mail: juan@cullenabogados.com

Austrian Honorary Consulate

Hotel Reina Isabel, Calle Alfredo L. Jones, 40

35008 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Tel: 0034 – 928 76 25 00

Fax: 0034 – 928 33 20 02

Representation of Spain in Austria

Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Vienna

Argentinierstrasse 34

1040 Vienna

Tel: 0043 – (0) 1 – 505 57 88

Fax: 0043 – (0) 1 – 505 57 88 25

E-Mail: emb.viena@maec.es

Swiss representations in the Canaries

Swiss Consulate in Las Palmas de GC

Urbanización Bahía Feliz

Edificio de Oficinas, Local 1

E-35107 Playa de Tarajalillo

Gran Canaria

Tel: 0034 – 92 815 79 79

Fax: 0034 – 92 815 79 00

E-Mail: laspalmasgc@honorarvertretung.ch

Representation of Spain in Switzerland

Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Bern

Kalcheggweg 24

3000 Bern 15

Tel: 0041 – (0) 31 – 350 52 52

Fax: 0041 – (0) 31 – 350 52 55

Email: emb.berna@mae.es

Web: www.mae. es/embajadas/berna

Tourist office

Sociedad Anónima de Promoción del Turismo

Plaza de España, 1

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tel.: 0034 922239811

Fax: 0034 922239812

Tenerife Tourist Office C

Villalba Hervás

3 – 3º Oficina 4

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tourist Office of Spain in Germany

Kurfürstendamm 63

D – 10707 Berlin

Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 882 65 43

Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 882 66 61

berlin@tourspain.es

www.tourspain.es

Branches

Düsseldorf

Tel. 0049 – (0) 211 – 680 39 80

Frankfurt/Main

Tel. 0049 – (0) 69 – 72 50 33

Munich

Tel. 0049 – (0) 89 – 53 01 58

Spanish Tourist Office Vienna

Walfischgasse 8/14

A-1010 Vienna

Tel: 01 – 512 95 80

Fax: 01 – 12 95 81

viena@tourspain.es

www.spain.info

Spanish Tourist Office Zurich

Seefeldstrasse 19

CH-8008 Zurich

Tel: 01 – 252 79 30

Fax: 01 – 252 62 04.

zurich@tourspain.es

www.spain.info

There is a branch in Geneva

Tel: 022 – 731 11 33

Travel to Canary Islands