Things To Do
in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a diverse island in the Canary archipelago that feels like a miniature continent. Its landscapes span golden dunes in Maspalomas, pine-clad mountains in the north, and volcanic craters inland. The capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria blends historic quarters with modern beaches and a vibrant cultural scene.
The island offers year-round sunshine, welcoming locals, and a mix of seaside towns and mountain villages for every traveler.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Gran Canaria Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Las Palmas. Take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café overlooking the ocean.
Explore Las Palmas, visiting the historic Vegueta district where you can admire stunning architecture and vibrant plazas. Stop by the Casa de Colón to learn about Christopher Columbus’s voyages. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Canarian restaurant, sampling local dishes like papas arrugadas.
Stroll along the Las Canteras beach promenade as the sun sets, enjoying the lively atmosphere of street performers and vendors. Indulge in fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant. Cap off your day with drinks at a nearby bar, soaking in the island vibe.
After breakfast, head to the stunning Maspalomas Dunes, a unique natural reserve characterized by golden sand and impressive dunes. Spend the morning exploring the area and feel the soft sand beneath your feet. Don’t forget to have your camera ready for some amazing photos.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby beach club before taking a dip in the warm waters of the Atlantic. Afterward, take a scenic camel ride through the dunes, an experience that truly captures the essence of this desert landscape. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
As dusk falls, visit the nearby lighthouse and enjoy the picturesque views of the sunset over the ocean. Choose from a variety of dining options at the Meloneras promenade, offering everything from gourmet cuisine to tapas. End the day by tasting local wines at a quaint wine bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night stay in mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $800-1200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Year-round sunshine and diverse landscapes
- Beautiful beaches, dunes, and mountains
- Friendly locals and a strong tourism infrastructure
- Excellent seafood and Canarian cuisine
- Good value for money compared to mainland Spain
- Tourist crowds in the south during peak season
- Northern weather can be cloudy and rainy in winter
- Some rural areas require a car to explore
- Fewer direct flights to some regions outside Europe
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Gran Canaria
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic cobbled streets and the golden façade of the cathedral make for atmospheric city photography.
Golden sands, turquoise sea, and surfers set against a long promenade and distinctive lifeguard towers.
Golden dunes leading to the sea with the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse as a dramatic backdrop.
A striking volcanic rock formation with sweeping island views at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful canal-side architecture and boats in a picturesque fishing village.
Crater views over cypress and vineyard terraces; great for wide-angle shots.
Food in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small salted potatoes served wrinkled with red or green mojo sauces.
Must-Try!
Salt cod stew with potatoes and gofio-based accompaniments.
Warm gofio flour mixed with broth, a traditional side dish.
Almond-based dessert with honey and sugar.
Soft Canarian cheese, often enjoyed with bread and wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Las Palmas offering fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and local snacks.
Vibrant market area near the harbor with seafood stalls and eateries.
Popular weekly market known for produce, cheeses, and baking in the Agaete–Tejeda corridor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and maintain polite conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees covered.
Some smaller shops may observe short mid-day breaks; plan accordingly.
Safety
Tipping in Gran Canaria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in dining and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still used in markets and smaller eateries; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry in the south, with refreshing coastal breezes; beaches crowded in peak weeks; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan early visits to outdoor sites.
Mild temperatures (often 15–22°C) with more humidity and occasional showers in the north; ideal for hiking and sightseeing with less crowds.
Blooming almond trees around Tejeda and Tejeda–Agaete corridor; comfortable hiking conditions and vibrant landscapes.
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and stable sea conditions for swimming and diving.
Gran Canaria at Night
Hiking in Gran Canaria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic rock formation near Tejeda offering sweeping island views.
Canyon with cave dwellings, churches, and terraces in a dramatic landscape.
Volcanic crater with lookout points and vineyard terraces.
Highest point on the island with panoramic viewpoint opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Gran Canaria by plane.
Main international gateway to the island, located near Telde; frequent flights to Europe and beyond; drive to Las Palmas takes about 20-40 minutes.
Major hub on Tenerife island; convenient for quick connections to Gran Canaria or as a base for exploring the archipelago.
Island skyport in Lanzarote; accessible by short flight for island-hopping across the Canaries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Canarian and Spanish nationals with a strong Canarian cultural identity; family-oriented communities.
Large numbers in the south, from the UK, Germany, and other European countries; many long-term residents in seasonal settlements.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class spots like Pozo Izquierdo attract pro sailors.
Consistent Atlantic swells along the north and west coasts.
Trails through Roque Nublo, Bandama, and Caldera de Bandama.
Challenging mountain routes and scenic coastal rides.
Several coastal courses with year-round play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gran Canaria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetables, salads, and gofio-based dishes; ask for mojo verde without meat; consider vegetarian versions of sancocho or plant-based options; many places can accommodate with advance notice.