In recent years, there has been a growing trend among travellers to seek quieter and more authentic destinations, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. This preference has led many to explore small towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants, where one can enjoy a rural, picturesque, and charming atmosphere. Holidu, one of Europe’s most well-known holiday home and apartment booking portals, has compiled a ranking of the most searched for Canarian villages on the internet. Here, we present to you the top 5 of these unmissable destinations.
1. Garachico, Tenerife | 1,470 searches/month
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Leading the list is Garachico, a picturesque village located on the island of Tenerife. With 1,470 monthly searches, Garachico attracts visitors with its impressive historical heritage and natural beauty. Its cobbled streets, historic churches, and the famous San Miguel Castle, which holds stories of pirates, are just some of the attractions that captivate tourists. The natural pools of El Caletón, formed by volcanic eruptions, offer a unique place to swim and enjoy the sea, making Garachico a must-visit destination.

Archived image of the Garachico Pier, in Tenerife / LP / DLP
2. Tejeda, Gran Canaria | 350 searches/month
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In second place is Tejeda, on the island of Gran Canaria, with 350 monthly searches. This charming village is known for its mountainous landscape, dominated by the Roque Nublo and the Roque Bentayga, two iconic rock formations of the island. Tejeda is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering numerous trails with spectacular views. Additionally, the village is famous for its local products, such as almond-based sweets and marzipan, that delight visitors. The hospitality of its inhabitants and its tranquil atmosphere make Tejeda an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty.

Archive – Roque Bentayga seen from the municipality of Tejeda / EUROPA PRESS – Archivo
3. Betancuria, Fuerteventura | 300 searches/month
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Betancuria, located on the island of Fuerteventura, takes the third position with 300 monthly searches. This historic municipality is known for being the former capital of the island and one of the early European settlements in the Canaries. With its cobbled streets, the church of Santa María, and the Archaeological Museum, Betancuria offers a journey into the past. The surrounding landscape of this village is equally impressive, with mountains and valleys creating a serene and picturesque environment. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the place while exploring its rich history and unique culture.

Betancuria, the most beautiful town on the island is now almost deserted / La Provincia
4. Tazacorte, La Palma | 130 searches/month
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In fourth place is Tazacorte, on the island of La Palma, with 130 monthly searches. This small municipality is known for its pleasant climate and volcanic landscapes. Tazacorte offers black sand beaches, such as Playa de Tazacorte, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. The village is also famous for its banana plantations and colourful picturesque houses. Visitors can explore the fishing port, savour the local cuisine based on fresh sea produce, and stroll through the old town. Tazacorte is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet and authentic atmosphere on La Palma.

Infographic of the new pier that will connect Puerto Naos with Tazacorte. / E. D.
5. Buenavista del Norte, Tenerife | 110 searches/month
Closing the top 5 with 110 searches per month is Buenavista del Norte. This charming village, located on the island of Tenerife, is known for its spectacular coastline and rural landscape. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs of Teno, creating a perfect environment for nature and photography enthusiasts. The Teno Rural Park is a prominent spot for hiking and bird watching. Additionally, Buenavista’s golf course is one of the best on the island, offering a unique seaside experience. The tranquillity and natural beauty of Buenavista del Norte make it an attractive destination for visitors.

Lighthouse in Buenavista del Norte from which the sightings were made. / Birding Canarias
Methodology of the ranking
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To compile this ranking, Holidu analysed the municipalities and villages in the Canary Islands with a resident population of 5,000 or fewer inhabitants. Using data from the Semrush site, the average monthly search volume on Google over the past 12 months with the keywords “what to do in” and “what to see in” along with the name of each municipality was examined. These criteria are based on the INE’s definition of a “small municipality.” In cases where multiple municipalities had the same search volume, those with fewer residents were prioritised.
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