Visit Gran Canaria

Things to do in Gran Canaria

Whether you’re into picturesque mountain villages and nature reserves, or family-friendly sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and thrilling theme parks, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Gran Canaria.

Places to visit in Gran Canaria

The third-largest Canary Island has a gloriously mountainous interior surrounded by expanses of golden-sand beaches. Like the other six Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has been shaped by volcanic eruptions. In fact, it’s still considered active, but don’t worry—the last eruptions were thousands of years ago!

The weather in Gran Canaria makes it a pleasant and sunny place to visit year-round. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is even considered the capital city with the world’s best climate, thanks to average annual temperatures of 18°C to 25°C.

Its pretty towns and villages are some of the most fascinating places to visit in Gran Canaria. In the north, lose yourself in the capital’s historic quarter, cathedral, and markets. Don’t miss nearby Firgas, a quaint village with a beautifully kept old quarter, a pretty mountain spring, and postcard-worthy coastal views.

If you like rum, stop by the Arehucas rum factory in Arucas, which also has a cathedral. Nearer Maspalomas, Puerto de Mogán features canals, and its whitewashed houses are the perfect canvas for the brightly coloured flowers spilling from the balconies. 

Almost 60 km of beaches are dotted along the island’s coastline. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly sands or swells to surf, you’ll find that Gran Canaria beaches are just for you. Maspalomas, together with our own Playa del Inglés, forms a 6 km stretch of golden sand, and there are water parks and theme parks here too, for endless fun, both wet and wild!

GRAN CANARIA BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Our island is blessed with an abundance of nature-based activities. Gran Canaria is home to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which covers about a third of the island, from mountaintops, striking ravines, and farmed valleys, down to the sparkling waters of the Atlantic.

Here, you can explore cool Canary pine forests, see a vast array of unique plants, visit charming villages, and hike to the base of Roque Nublo, an almost-90-metre-high monolith that pierces the sky.

Maspalomas beach in Gran Canaria

A CONTINENT IN MINIATURE

There’s a very good reason why you’ll never be short of things to do in Gran Canaria. The island is often called ‘a miniature continent’ thanks to its amazingly varied landscapes, climates, towns, and villages. 

The south tends to be warmer than the north, while the east is flatter with more beaches than the mountainous west. Don’t miss the Maspalomas sand dunes, a shifting desert-like landscape that’s different each time you visit.

The sea that surrounds the island is just as remarkable. It’s home to 26 species of cetaceans, from huge blue whales to frolicking dolphins, making the Canary Islands Europe’s most popular whale- and dolphin-watching spot. Join an excursion for an unforgettable experience!

If you’re looking for inspiration for more activities in Gran Canaria, just ask at reception! We’ll help you plan a guided tour, book a car, hire a bicycle, or we’ll recommend attractions and activities to suit your family.

What to do in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria hosts amazing events throughout the year catering to all preferences and tastes, ensuring visitors can make the most of the island. Enjoy sports, parties, festivals, and cultural events filled with art that will make you feel like a true Canarian.

Events in Gran Canaria

Transgrancanaria
Unamuno Viewpoint in Artenara
Maspalomas Pride