Gran Canaria Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gran Canaria with our detailed guide, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a picturesque island in the Canary Islands, located off the coast of West Africa and belonging to Spain. With its rugged coastline, stunning natural scenery, and a diverse range of activities, Gran Canaria is a perfect holiday destination. The island is known for its mild climate throughout the year, making it an all-year-round destination. Gran Canaria is famous for its pristine beaches, incredible mountainous landscapes, and its old-world charm.

List of Places to Visit in Gran Canaria

Here are some must-visit places in Gran Canaria that will make your vacation unforgettable:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa de Colón: This museum is dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his connection to the Canary Islands, showcasing the island’s place in world history.
  • Cathedral of Santa Ana: This Gothic-style church, located in Las Palmas, is a must-visit attraction for its unique blend of history and religious significance.
  • Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park: This museum showcases the pre-Hispanic culture of Gran Canaria, especially the Canary Islands’ ancient people’s legacy.

Natural Attractions of Gran Canaria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Roque Nublo: This rocky landmass, reaching 1,813 meters above sea level, is the most impressive landmark on the island.
  • Maspalomas Dunes: These golden sand dunes are a protected natural area and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Barranco de Guayadeque: This natural park features a beautiful gorge, which is a perfect location for hiking and exploring the island’s trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a paradise for hikers and bikers due to its rugged terrain, making it one of the best locations in Europe for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some recommended hiking and biking routes on the island:

  • Pico de las Nieves: This is Gran Canaria’s highest peak, making it an excellent location to take in the island’s stunning scenery and panoramic views.
  • La Reserva Natural de Las Dunas de Maspalomas: This is an excellent bike trail, taking you through the island’s most attractive sand dunes and nature reserves.
  • Ruta de Chira: This 90-kilometer challenging trail is perfect if you’re up for a challenging hiking experience.

Best Things to Do in Gran Canaria: Activities and Tours

There is so much to do on your Gran Canaria trip - here are a few things you shouldn’t miss:

  • Surfing: Gran Canaria’s beaches offer perfect conditions for surfing, and there are several excellent surf schools for beginners.
  • Camel Rides: Experience the wonder of the Gran Canaria terrain on a camel’s back - a unique and memorable experience.
  • Boat Tours: Take in the stunning coastline of Gran Canaria on a boat tour, seeing the island from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gran Canaria

If you want to see the best of Gran Canaria in a week, here is an itinerary that will help you with your planning:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Casa de Colón, and the Surfing museums
Day 2 Stroll around Maspalomas and explore the dunes, lighthouse, and the fabulous beach.
Day 3 Hike to and summit Roque Nublo
Day 4 Visit the magnificent Cueva Pintada Museum and the Archaeological Park
Day 5 Spend the day at Puerto de Mogán, enjoying the beaches and shopping
Day 6 Take in the island’s spectacular beauty on a Jeep tour
Day 7 Spend the day relaxing and enjoying the beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria has a rich culinary culture that is renowned throughout Spain. Here are some locally recommended dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Papas Arrugadas: This traditional Canarian dish is boiled potatoes served with a delicious spicy mojo sauce.
  • Sancocho: This fish stew is made with salt cod, potatoes, and onions.
  • Bienmesabe: This is a popular dessert made from almonds, sugar, and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Ron Miel: This honey rum liquor is a unique drink only found in the Canary Islands.
  • Cerveza Tropical: This is the local beer brewed in Gran Canaria and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Gran Canaria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gran Canaria offers numerous options for accommodation, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some local recommendations:

  • Lopesan Baobab Resort: This luxury resort offers a stunning location and top-notch amenities.
  • Bull Reina Isabel & Spa: This Adults-only hotel is near the beach and provides an excellent base for exploring Gran Canaria.
  • Hostel Casa de Cristina: A budget-friendly hostel with a family environment is perfect for backpackers and travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Gran Canaria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Apart from fascinating culture, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine, Gran Canaria has some exceptional local products and souvenirs that you can take home with you. Here are some recommended products to bring home:

  • Cheeses: Gran Canaria boasts many different types of cheese, including queso flor and queso de cabra, made from goats’ milk.
  • Liquors and spirits: We recommend buying a bottle of Ron Miel, Amaro, and Cerveza Tropical as these are unique to this location and not easily available elsewhere
  • Pottery: From hand-painted plates to hand-crafted vases, Gran Canaria’s unique ceramics make for a perfect keepsake.

Local Culture and Customs of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria, like many other regions in Spain, is proud of its cultural heritage. A few local customs and traditions that visitors can enjoy and respect are:

  • Carnival: The Gran Canaria Carnival is one of the largest and most famous in Spain, with elaborate costumes and a festive atmosphere.
  • Siesta: The local ‘Siesta’ is an afternoon nap or rest, and it is customary for businesses to close for a few hours in the early afternoon.
  • Buen Provecho: This is a Spanish phrase used to wish someone a good meal and is commonly used when starting any meal in Gran Canaria.

Best Time to Visit Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria can be visited throughout the year, as the climate is mild and enjoyable year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on your interests and travel preferences. The summer months (June, July, and August) are ideal if you’re a beach lover. Still, the winter months (December, January, and February) offer cooler weather and less crowded streets, perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty and cultural sights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gran Canaria

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to ensure a smooth and respectful Gran Canaria trip:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try out local cuisine
  • Be friendly to people around you; the local people are famous for their warm hospitality

Don’t:

  • Wear your swimwear outside beaches or pools
  • Speak loudly or act inappropriately in public
  • Be late or miss a reservation or meeting; punctuality is highly valued here

Safety and Health

Gran Canaria is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and excellent medical facilities. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions to safeguard their wellbeing. Here are some tips:

Safety in Gran Canaria

  • Watch your belongings and never leave them unattended
  • Be aware of pickpockets and tourist scams
  • Stay on designated walking paths during hikes
  • Avoid swimming on unguarded beaches
  • Protect yourself from the sun and heat with hats and sunscreen

Health in Gran Canaria

  • Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is always an option
  • Make sure to carry medications with you when traveling
  • Get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Gran Canaria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here is all the information you’ll need to get to Gran Canaria:

Airports Near Gran Canaria

  • Gran Canaria International Airport : This is the primary airport serving Gran Canaria and the busiest airport in the Canary Islands.

Bus Stations Near Gran Canaria

  • Global Bus Station: Located in the center of Las Palmas, the station provides easy access to the main hub for island-wide connections.

Other Options

  • Ferry service: Daily ferries from the mainland port of Arrecife in Lanzarote are available.

How to Get Around in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria offers an efficient and reliable public transportation system. Buses are frequent, regular, and connect almost all the significant areas of the island. Taxis are easily available for travelers looking to explore the island in comfort and speed.

Where to Go Next from Gran Canaria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you wish to travel around more of the Canary Islands, here are some of Gran Canaria’s top neighboring destinations:

  • Tenerife: The largest of the Canary Islands and just a short 45-minute ferry ride from Gran Canaria, making it a perfect day trip.
  • La Gomera: A rugged beauty crystal clear waters, excellent countryside hiking, and an hour away by fast ferry.
  • Fuerteventura: With vast white sand beaches and clear waters, you can take pleasure in watersports or savor fresh seafood in traditional Canarian restaurants.

Conclusion

We hope that this comprehensive travel guide is beneficial for planning your trip to Gran Canaria. From exploring culture and natural landscapes to enjoying the captivating culinary scene, Gran Canaria has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. Ensure you plan thoroughly, respect the local culture, and soak up every moment of your stay.

Sunset from Embalse de Chira Sunset from Embalse de Chira Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Church of John the Baptist) in Arucas Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Church of John the Baptist) in Arucas Iglesia de San Juan Bautista in Telde Iglesia de San Juan Bautista in Telde


    Northern Gran Canaria
    Puerto Rico
    Puerto de Mogán
    Southern Gran Canaria