When taking a trip internationally, get protection from one of the top travel insurance carriers. You can get a 5% discounton Heymondo, the sole insurer that pays doctor bills up front for you,HERE!
Gran Canaria has numerous activities to partake in, from relaxing on the pristine sandy beaches to exploring the natural landscapes by foot. Additionally, Gran Canaria is one of Spain`s most visited Canary Islands, so travelers searching for nightlife, large resorts, as well as diversions yet desiring peace will have ample options.
In this guide, you’ll find different places worth visiting in Gran Canaria, as well as the best lodging, how to arrive, and how to traverse the island. I’ll even provide you with a map so you can quickly locate all the things I recommend. Also, if you’re uncertain whether or not this is the top island in the Canary Islands for you, I think this guide will help you determine it!
If you intend on visiting multiple islands in the Canary Islands with a limited timeframe, I advise reserving this full day excursion to experience all the must see locations in Gran Canaria. If you have more time available, the best choice is to rent a vehicle and independently explore the island at your own pace.
Table of Contents
1. Maspalomas Dunes, the best place to see in Gran Canaria, Spain
The Maspalomas Dunes are one of the places in Gran Canaria you absolutely ought to experience since they frame one of the most remarkable scenes in all the Canary Islands, a blend of wasteland and oasis.
This nature reservation encompasses over 980 acres of sand, palm trees and ponds. It’s a protected region with several indigenous species such as the Gran Canaria giant lizard and many birds. Actually, if you want to see the island’s native wildlife, this is one of the best places to visit in Gran Canaria. Most of the animals here are in the humid area known asCharca de Maspalomas or Maspalomas Lagoon.
If you want to visit the Maspalomas Dunes, I recommend initially going to the Las Dunas Interpretation Center. It is situated in the Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas, which also features an observation point overlooking the dunes. From there, you will locate a trail that passes among the dunes and leads to Maspalomas Beach.
This is certainly one of the best activities to partake in Gran Canaria, although mindfulness should be given that it’s a protected natural area.
2. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, a must-see in Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria serves as the island`s administrative center, making it one of the top attractions for visitors to Gran Canaria. The city is in the northwesternmost part of the island, and it’s also the most populated area, so it provides many recreational and cultural activities.
If you’re going to visit the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, I encourage starting with its historic core, where different notable landmarks can be discovered, such as the Plaza de Santa Ana and the Santa Ana Cathedral. Interestingly, in the square there are eight canine statues present which are known to be the guardians of Santa Ana.
Another noteworthy place is the Museo Canario, which has become a must-see attraction on Gran Canaria along with the Columbus House. They`re both located in the popular Vegueta neighborhood, which also features the oldest market on the islands known as the Vegueta Market that I suggest exploring.
Other sights to behold contain the Triana district renowned for colonial-style homes and diversity of retailers. Naturally, with limited time on an initial venture to the capital, this complimentary guidance offers a balanced overview of the city.
3. Roque Nublo, a lovely place to visit in Gran Canaria
The Roque de Nublo Natural Monument in Nublo Rural Park is one of the Gran Canaria points of interest you shouldn`t overlook.
This volcanic outcropping possesses an unusual figuration and towers over 260 feet in elevation, despite sitting more than 5,900 feet above sea level, allowing for amazing perspectives. It actually holds the third highest point in Gran Canaria after Morro de la Agujereada and Pico de las Nieves, both surpassing 6,230 feet.
It is a common activity for both locals and visitors in Gran Canaria to traverse the pathway guiding to Roque Nublo. The hike, which is regarded as one of the prime things to undertake on the island, spans a little over a mile in length. Despite the uneven terrain, it does not pose a challenge, rendering it an agreeable option for most individuals.
While you can do the hike on your own, if you arrange for this guided excursion, you’ll gain a lot of knowledge about the area, so I highly advise it. You could also book this alternative trip if you wish to combine Roque Nublo with the town of Teror and the Bandama Caldera, two other locations in Gran Canaria.
4. Tejeda and Roque Bentayga, two stunning places to visit in Gran Canaria
Tejeda is considered one of the most charming villages in Spain. The inland town is surrounded by mountains and offers views of Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga. Portion of its charm is the fact that its landscape is part of the Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
El Roque Bentayga is one of the top attractions in Gran Canaria that I recommend if you’re in Tejeda, as well as its Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn all details about the archaeology in the area. You’ll have to walk approximately 2 hours to reach the large rock formation, but it’s one of the most popular Gran Canaria activities, so it’s worthwhile.
Once reaching Roque Bentayga, you can continue traversing the circular route passing through Charco de la Paloma, Culata de Tejeda, and Cruz de Timagada. Along the way, breathtaking panoramas of Roque Nublo will be in view.
Another strongly emphasized thing to do in Gran Canaria, especially if you travel in spring, is to enjoy the almond blossom festivities in Tejeda.
5. Teror and San Mateo, two markets to visit in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Teror is another destination worth visiting in Gran Canaria and, together with Tejeda, it’s deemed among the most intriguing towns on the island.
The historic center of Gran Canaria is definitely a must-see area since it features some of the most aesthetically pleasing sights. Among the pedestrian pathways, visitors can admire the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino, one of the most iconic structures. I also recommend stopping by the local marketplace to sample the chorizo from Teror, a typical regional delicacy. One could even book this tour exploring the markets of Teror and San Mateo.
Speaking of which, San Mateo is another popular location in Gran Canaria worth exploring, and it’s surrounded by natural scenery. In fact, it belongs to the Canary Islands Network for Protected Natural Spaces, which explains its unspoiled beauty.
6. Tilos de Moya, the best place in Gran Canaria for hiking
Tilos de Moya, situated within the rural Doramas park, presents one of the better spots in Gran Canaria for a nature walk.
The circular trail covering a distance of one mile through a laurel forest containing fayas, hollyhocks, and the endemic endangered cockscomb plant species is among the prime activities for families in Gran Canaria. The route that passes through this area allowing sight of these plants and trees is highly recommended as it is quite easy going and well-travelled. Moreover, it offers a peaceful setting for hiking, though it sees more crowd particularly on weekends and public holidays.
The route begins at the Los Tilos Interpretation Center, where you’ll find free parking, trail maps, and additional information. You can find schedules and specific details on this website.
If time is limited, you can reserve this guided excursion, combining a stroll through Los Tilos de Moya with a visit to Artenara, where the archaeological site of Risco Caído is situated. It’s another amazing place to explore in Gran Canaria, so I’m certain you’ll enjoy it.
7. Dolphin and whale-watching, one of the things to do in Gran Canaria, Spain
Observing wild dolphins and whales in their natural habitat is, in my view, one of the finest activities available in Gran Canaria. Moreover, this island is considered among the best locations in the Canary Islands for such experiences, although dolphin sightings are more typical than whale sightings.
If you want to see whales and dolphins in Gran Canaria, I recommend this tour, which departs from Puerto Rico, southern of Gran Canaria. You’ll travel by motorboat with a guide who will tell you all about the cetaceans that inhabit the Canarian waters. You’ll also make a brief stop to swim in the Atlantic Ocean and visit some of the most lovely beaches on the island.
One of the finest outdoor pursuits accessible in Gran Canaria especially with children is this, and you can partake at any period of the year since multiple dolphin and whale species inhabit the region permanently. Of course, bear in mind they are untamed animals, so while the tour organization has decades of experience anticipating their movements, they cannot ensure sightings fully. That said, I can tell you that whenever we`ve taken a dolphin and whale-watching excursion here, we`ve been fortunate to observe quite a few, so I`m sure you will as well!
8. Puerto de Mogán, another spectacular place to see in Gran Canary, Spain
Puerto de Mogán, located on the southwest coast of the island, is another popular locale to visit in Gran Canaria. One of its main attractions is the ravines surrounding it, with Veneguera and Mogán among the most striking.
Alongside numerous paths between the gorges and natural scenery, there is also a wide beach with crystal clear water where you can swim, sunbathe, and engage in watersports. You can also book this boat trip to see the cliffs of Puerto Mogán and snorkel off the coastline. The tour also includes a Spanish appetizer tasting, so I highly recommend it!
An interesting fact about this town is that it experiences the highest number of sunny days annually in the Canary Islands, making it one of the most pleasant locations in Gran Canaria. This area is also known as “Little Venice” or “Venice of the Canaries” because several streets are crossed by canals.
9. Valle de Agaete, another area with more to do in Gran Canaria, Spain
The Valley of Agaete in Gran Canaria is another scenic area on the island renowned for its plantations growing coffee, oranges, and other tropical fruits.
The traditional homes in this area still maintain their original appearance, even after numerous renovations over time. Seeing them scattered amidst the coffee plantations creates one of the most scenic spots on the island. Valle Agaete is indeed considered one of the prime attractions in Gran Canaria and throughout the Canary Islands for growing coffee beans, with the coffee from here stated to be the best in the country!
Should you have spare time, I suggest also exploring the town of Agaete, where you can see the lovely Huerto de las Flores, a botanical garden boasting over one hundred unique plant varieties originating from locations worldwide. Alternatively, if time is limited, this guided excursion from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Valle Agaete and neighboring towns is also highly recommended.
10. Arucas, another city to visit in Gran Canaria
Something worth seeing in Gran Canaria if time allows is the town of Arucas, renowned for its abundant green spaces. In fact, it has earned the moniker City of Flowers due to its many lovely natural areas.
One of the top sights in Arucas is the Municipal Park of Flowers, housing over 200 indigenous and exotic species, as well as a laurel forest. Another good spot for sightseeing in Gran Canaria is the Marquesa Garden in Arucas, showcasing 500 plant varieties.
Be sure to make the most of your time in Arucas by seeing its historic center, which contains the Gothic-style Church of San Juan Bautista. It is located in Plaza de San Juan, where you will also find other structures with significant historical value. Another must-see is Arucas Park and the Heredad de Aguas y Firgas neighborhood.
Finally, if you’d like to grab a coffee or explore the bars and shops nearby, I definitely recommend León y Castillo Street, one of the liveliest parts of Arucas.
11. Firgas, another attraction to see in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Firgas is an additional must-see in Gran Canaria since it’s expressed to be one of the island’s most charming towns. It’s in the northern region of Gran Canaria, next to Barranco de Azuaje, a gorgeous nature reserve with walking trails. It’s one of the best tourist attractions in Gran Canaria, particularly for nature and hiking lovers.
Within the town of Firgas also lie historically significant buildings such as the Casa de la Cultura,Hermitage of San Juan de Ortega, and Dominican Convent of San Juan de Ortega. The latter two hold religious importance for Firgas.
The Plaza de San Roque is another engaging area, especially since it offers some of the best panoramic perspectives of the island’s northern coastline including distant glimpses of Tenerife and Fuerteventura islands.
12. Tamadaba Natural Park, the best place to hike in Gran Canaria
Tamadaba Natural Park is another cool attraction to see in Gran Canaria. In addition to being one of the wildest parts of the island, it is the sole location where some endangered bird species can be found.
A defining feature of this park is the Tamadaba pine forest and rock formations, which include ravines and cliffs. The structures create an impressive landscape and one of Gran Canaria`s top tourist spots, Roque Faneque. Over 3,300 feet high, it provides an aerial perspective of much of the island, although not for those afraid of heights.
One of the most popular activities here is to visit the Mirador del Balcón, an amazing spot to view the cliffs shaped like a dragon’s tail. Without question, this natural park represents one of the finest landmarks in Gran Canaria, so I recommend planning some time to pay a visit, particularly if you enjoy nature walks.
13. El Bufadero de La Garita, a unique place to go in Gran Canaria
Visiting El Bufadero de La Garita is another entertaining activity in Gran Canaria, as I’m certain you’ll find the coastal geological formations and terrain fascinating. Located in the Telde municipality, this region includes basalt cliffs, volcanic tubes, and a natural pool that occasionally emit water like a geyser. In reality, it’s a result of the tides and waves pushing through the rocks.
While the region is excellent for sightseeing in Gran Canaria, it can be a dangerous and slippery area, so swimming here is strictly prohibited.
14. Amadores Beach and other must-see beaches in Gran Canaria
If visiting some of the finest beaches on Gran Canaria is desired, Amadores Beach cannot be missed. Located in Puerto Rico, it is renowned for its crystal-clear light blue waters and fine white sand. Coming here is one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria with children since the waves are calm and shallow in depth.
Maspalomas Beach in the nature reserve Maspalomas Dunes is another must visit attraction on Gran Canaria. It can be found between the Maspalomas Lighthouse and Playa delInglés. That beach is ideal for surfing lessons, and if you are a beginner, you can book a session here.
Alongside the many famous beaches, Las Canteras Beach is the ideal location for taking this snorkeling tour. I additionally recommend Gran Canaria`s smallest beach, the charming Tufia Beach; and Güi Güi Beach, which is part of a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve.
15. Barranco de las Vacas, another amazing place to experience in Gran Canaria
Barranco de las Vacas, or Las Vacas Ravine, represents another site worth seeing in Gran Canaria guaranteed to leave you in awe. We didn`t anticipate finding such a place in Gran Canaria, but its landscapes reminded us of Antelope Canyon in the U.S.
One of the main attractions here is Tobas de Colores, intriguing rock formations surrounding a short walking trail. It’s best to visit this place early in the morning to avoid the crowds, or else it’s quite overwhelming.
While you’re there, you can also check out the Temisas Astronomical Observatory, one of the coolest tourist attractions in Gran Canaria. It constitutes one of the most breathtaking spots on the island to behold the stars, and it’s actually a designated Starlight Tourist Destination.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria
If planning to spend several days in Gran Canaria, the Occidental Margaritas hotel is one of the best options. It’s situated in the same town as Playa del Inglés, so you’ll be near the beach and Maspalomas Dunes, two essential places to see in Gran Canaria. Another excellent lodging option is Hotel Riu Palace in Maspalomas, which houses the Las Dunes Interpretation Center.
The H10 Playa Meloneras Palace, which is regarded as one of the top all-inclusive resorts located in Spain, is situated in the southern portion of the island. Therefore, if any of the previously mentioned lodgings are fully booked, I recommend staying there. If you prefer to reside somewhere in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, towards the north, I suggest the Silken Saaj Las Palmas.
Gran Canaria visitor information
Now that you are aware of what to see in Gran Canaria, as well as the top accommodations, I’d like to provide some extra information to help in organizing your trip.
How to get to Gran Canaria
There exists an airport on Gran Canaria’s eastern coast, and it welcomes incoming flights from the Iberian Peninsula, the other Canary Islands, and a handful of European cities. Therefore, you will face no difficulties arriving here by aircraft. We always utilize the Kiwi and Skyscanner websites to locate the most reasonably priced flight deals.
You can also arrive at Gran Canaria by boat from any other island within the Canary Islands archipelago. The Port of Las Palmas, also called Puerto de la Luz y Las Palmas, is among the most significant in the Canary Islands. Furthermore, vessels arrive from different parts of Europe, Africa, and the Americas. That being said, if you’re coming from any of these continents, I recommend reserving a spot since it`s quicker and much more comfortable. We utilize the Direct Ferries website to make boat bookings between the islands of the Canary Islands.”
How to get around Gran Canaria
The most practical way to navigate Gran Canaria is by rental vehicle. Possessing your own transport permits you to move around the island as you wish, and you can investigate more remote areas without needing to stick to a tour or bus schedule. We always reserve through DiscoverCars, which guarantees the finest prices.
Are you an enthusiast of crime dramatizations or The Godfather? Then you’ll be fascinated by the Mob Museum, one of the finest museums in Las Vegas. Here you can discover more about some of the most renowned mafiosi and lawbreakers in American history.
Where to eat in Gran Canaria
You can be certain that finding quality dining establishments will not pose any issues in Gran Canaria.
My top recommendation in the capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is Deliciosa Marta. The costs are a bit steep, but the dishes are incredible. If you’re seeking something more affordable, you can go to Las Lagunetas, one of the highest rated restaurants on the island. I recommend thechurros de pescado, their signature dish and one of the most popular foods to sample on the Canary Islands.
In the center of the island, specifically in Firgas, the finest restaurant you will find is Asador La Caldera. If you choose to dine here, try to arrive before 2 pm to avoid long wait times.
There are also excellent restaurants further south, such as El Senador, which is located right in front of Maspalomas Beach. Here you will find traditional Canarian cuisine as well as some Mediterranean and international dishes. Allende 22° in Playa del Inglés is another good pick, particularly for small plates.
In addition to the ones I’ve stated, you’ll find plenty more eateries on the island. Therefore, irrespective of where you travel in Gran Canaria, you’ll dine admirably!
Map of Gran Canaria
To end this guide, here is a map with all the essential points of interest on Gran Canaria. You’ll also find the hotels, restaurants, and other sites mentioned.
I hope this guide assists in planning an amazing trip to Gran Canaria. If you have any questions, feel free to leave me a comment below, and I’ll do my best to help. Have fun in Gran Canaria!
