Discovering Lanzarote’s Best Budget-Friendly Bars
Lanzarote, the ‘Island of a Thousand Volcanoes,’ is a sun-drenched paradise renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, unique architecture by César Manrique, and, of course, its vibrant atmosphere. While many associate the Canary Islands with a relaxed holiday vibe, you might be wondering if a trip here needs to break the bank, especially when it comes to enjoying a few drinks. Fear not! As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny of this stunning island, I’m here to guide you through the best cheap bars in Lanzarote, proving that you can have a fantastic time without emptying your wallet. From lively local haunts to spots with breathtaking views, there’s a budget-friendly beverage waiting for everyone.
Understanding Lanzarote’s Drinking Culture
Before we dive into specific recommendations, it’s helpful to understand a bit about Lanzarote’s drinking culture. Like much of Spain, evenings are often spent with friends, and bars are social hubs. You’ll find a mix of local Canarian bars, catering primarily to residents, and tourist-oriented establishments. The key to finding cheap drinks often lies in venturing slightly off the main tourist strips, seeking out places where locals gather, and understanding the typical offerings. Sangria and local beers are usually your most wallet-friendly options, and many bars offer generous tapas with your drinks – a fantastic way to get more for your money!
Top Neighborhoods for Budget Drinks
While you can find affordable drinks scattered across the island, certain areas are more conducive to budget-conscious imbibing:
- Arrecife: As the capital city, Arrecife boasts a more authentic local feel. You’ll find many traditional bars here, especially around the Charco de San Ginés and the marina, where prices are generally lower than in the resort towns.
- Puerto del Carmen (Old Town): While the main strip can be pricier, the Old Town section of Puerto del Carmen, near the harbor, often has more traditional and affordable establishments frequented by locals and savvy tourists.
- Costa Teguise: While some areas are geared towards package holidays, exploring the smaller plazas and side streets away from the main promenade can reveal hidden gems with good prices.
- Playa Blanca: This southern resort town can be a bit more upscale, but by exploring the marina area and venturing away from the beachfront hotels, you can still find some reasonably priced bars, especially those popular with Spanish holidaymakers.
Specific Bar Recommendations: Where to Find the Best Deals
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. These are places where I, and many locals, go for a good drink at a good price.
1. Bar Liandro (Arrecife)
Located in the heart of Arrecife, close to the iconic Charco de San Ginés, Bar Liandro is a true local’s bar. It’s unpretentious, bustling with chatter, and offers incredibly reasonable prices for both drinks and simple, delicious tapas. You’ll often find locals enjoying a caña (small beer) or a glass of wine here, accompanied by a small plate of olives or some fried cheese. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the authentic atmosphere of the capital without spending much. Ask for a ‘barraquito’ if you fancy a potent, sweet local coffee liqueur shot!
2. La Cantina (Arrecife)
Another gem in Arrecife, La Cantina, often surprises visitors with its value. While it might not have the flashiest décor, the warmth of the service and the affordability of the drinks are its main draw. They often have daily specials on local wines and beers. If you’re looking for a no-frills, authentic Canarian experience, this is it. It’s a great place to start your evening before perhaps heading to the seafront promenade.
3. El Perro Guau (Puerto del Carmen – Old Town)
This charming spot in the Old Town of Puerto del Carmen offers a fantastic atmosphere with sea views without the exorbitant prices of some of its neighbors. While it’s popular with visitors, it still maintains a friendly, local vibe. They serve a good range of affordable drinks, and often the music and general ambiance make it a lively place to spend an evening. Their sangria is usually well-priced and refreshing, perfect after a day exploring the coast. It’s a place where you can enjoy the sunset and a reasonably priced drink.
4. Bar La Ola (Puerto del Carmen – Old Town)
Right on the harbor in the Old Town, Bar La Ola is a classic. It’s a straightforward, honest bar where you can get a cold beer or a glass of wine at prices that feel like a throwback. It’s often filled with local fishermen and residents, giving it a genuine feel. You can sit outside, watch the boats bobbing in the harbor, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a cheap drink and good company. Don’t expect fancy cocktails; expect good, honest service and fair prices.
5. El Chiringuito del Risco (Famara Beach Area)
If you venture out to the wild, rugged beauty of Famara Beach, you’ll find a few simple beach bars. El Chiringuito del Risco is one such place, offering a very laid-back, rustic vibe. While it’s not strictly a ‘bar’ in the traditional sense, it serves drinks right on the sand. Prices are generally very reasonable, reflecting its remote and relaxed setting. It’s the perfect place to grab a cold beer or a refreshing juice after a surf session or a walk along the dramatic coastline. The views alone are worth the trip, and the prices are a bonus.
6. Bodega La Geria (La Geria Wine Region)
While not a ‘bar’ in the typical sense, visiting a bodega in La Geria for a wine tasting is an essential Lanzarote experience and can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you’re interested in local wines. Bodega La Geria offers tastings where you can sample their unique Malvasia wines, grown in the volcanic ash. The cost of a tasting is often redeemable against a bottle purchase, making it a very cost-effective way to enjoy and learn about Lanzarote’s distinctive wines. It’s an experience that combines culture, scenery, and a delicious, budget-friendly beverage.
7. Local ‘Bares’ in Villages (e.g., Soo, Caleta de Famara, Guatiza)
One of the best ways to find truly cheap drinks is to explore the smaller, less touristy villages dotted across the island. Places like Soo, Caleta de Famara, Guatiza, or even inland villages like Mozaga, often have a single village bar (‘bar del pueblo’) where life moves at a slower pace. These bars are the heart of the community. You’ll find locals chatting over coffee or a beer, and prices are almost always the lowest on the island. Don’t be shy; walk in, order a ‘cerveza’ or a ‘vino tinto,’ and enjoy the authentic atmosphere. You might even be offered a small tapa for free!
Tips for Finding Cheap Drinks Like a Local
- Look for ‘Tapas’ Deals: In many local bars, ordering a drink (especially beer or wine) often comes with a small tapa – a piece of cheese, some olives, or a small portion of ‘papas arrugadas’ (Canarian wrinkled potatoes). This can significantly reduce your spending on both drinks and snacks.
- Embrace Local Drinks: Stick to local beers (like Dorada or Tropical) and Canarian wines. Imported spirits and international brands will always be more expensive.
- Avoid ‘Happy Hours’ on the Main Strips: While tempting, advertised ‘happy hours’ in heavily touristy areas can sometimes be a marketing ploy. Often, the regular prices in local bars are already lower.
- Venture Inland and Off the Beaten Path: The further you get from the main tourist resorts and beachfront promenades, the better the prices tend to be. Explore the smaller towns and villages.
- Observe Where Locals Gather: If you see a bar packed with Spanish speakers, it’s usually a good sign that the prices are fair and the atmosphere is authentic.
- Check Out ‘Menu del Día’: While this is more for food, many bars and restaurants offer a ‘menu del día’ (menu of the day) at lunchtime, which often includes a drink for a set, low price. This can be a great way to have a cheap meal and a drink simultaneously.
- Consider a ‘Botellín’ or ‘Caña’: Opt for a small bottled beer (‘botellín’) or a small draft beer (‘caña’) rather than a large pint, which might be disproportionately more expensive.
The Joy of Simple Pleasures
Ultimately, enjoying a cheap drink in Lanzarote isn’t just about saving money; it’s about embracing the island’s laid-back lifestyle. It’s about savoring a cold beer with a view of the Atlantic, sharing stories with newfound friends in a bustling local bar, or simply enjoying the quiet satisfaction of finding a hidden gem. The island offers so much more than just its famous attractions, and its authentic, affordable drinking spots are a testament to its enduring charm.
For those looking to explore more about local culture and perhaps even discover some unique beverages or brewing insights, the dropt.beer Insights & News Blog is an excellent resource. And if you’re interested in exploring a wider range of craft beers or finding some unique brews to take home, don’t forget to check out the dropt.beer Shop, which often features interesting selections. You can also find more about the world of beer and brewing at dropt.beer.
So, next time you’re in Lanzarote, venture beyond the obvious, follow the local buzz, and you’re sure to find some fantastic, affordable bars that will make your island experience even richer. ¡Salud!
