Arucas is a charming town in the north of Gran Canaria, nicknamed the “Town of Flowers”. With its impressive neo-Gothic church, narrow streets steeped in history, museums and famous rum distillery, this small town offers an immersion in authentic Canarian culture. We were seduced by its architectural heritage, fashioned from the local blue stone.
Here’s our guide to the must-see places in the town of Arucas on Gran Canaria, and some useful tips for planning your visit.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Is the town of Arucas worth a visit?
Yes, the town of Arucas is well worth a visit. Sometimes referred to as Gran Canaria’s “Pearl of the North”, this elegant town offers a wonderful blend of historic architecture, living traditions and local craftsmanship. We were particularly impressed by the buildings sculpted in the blue-gray volcanic stone typical of the region, which lend the town a unique charm.
It’s one of the most beautiful towns on Gran Canaria, in our opinion.
If you don’t have a car, you can discover the island on an organized tour from Las Palmas, or even from the resorts in the south of the island, which is often one of the stops on tours of the north of the island – see options.
1. Admire the parish church of San Juan Bautista
On our visit to Arucas, we were immediately impressed by the imposing parish church of San Juan Bautista. Often mistakenly referred to by locals as the “Cathedral of Arucas”, this neo-Gothic church dominates the town with its majestic silhouette. Construction of the building began in 1909 and was officially completed in 1977, after almost 70 years of work. We learned that the church was built entirely by hand by local workers, without any mechanical assistance, and that it is carved entirely from the blue-grey volcanic stone of Arucas.
- Opening hours: Not clearly identified, we think 9.30am to 12.30pm and 4.30pm to 7.30pm
- See the latest news on the city’s official website here
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Gran Canaria
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
2. Stroll through the old town and its colorful alleyways
The historic district of Arucas charmed us with its maze of colorful cobbled streets dating back to the late 15th century. Strolling along Gourié and León y Castillo streets, we discovered a peaceful, authentic atmosphere, with numerous cafés and small local stores.
You’ll notice the ubiquitous blue-gray Arucas stone adorning the facades of the buildings, giving them their unique character. Other elements of traditional Canarian architecture include balconies and wooden elements.
3. Municipal Park
Parc Municipal d’Arucas, also known as Parc des Fleurs, is a green oasis in the heart of the city. Located right next to the Town Hall, this lush green space offers a pleasant place to relax. We particularly liked the dragon trees that thrive here, emblematic trees of the Canaries whose age is determined by the number of branches. The park also features original tree sculptures by local artist Antonio Benítez Jiménez, adding a unique artistic touch to the natural environment.
During the Christmas season, the park’s trees and plants are adorned with festive decorations.
4. Fuente del Pilar
Don’t miss the fountain at the entrance to the Arucas Municipal Park: La Fuente del Pilar. It’s a living testimony to local history. Erected in the 19th century, this fountain was part of a network of six public water points designed to supply residents with drinking water, long before the arrival of running water in homes.
Built of Arucas ashlar, it reflects the skills of local craftsmen and blends harmoniously into the town.
5. Explore the Arucas Municipal Museum
The Museo Municipal d’Arucas is considered one of the city’s most emblematic buildings. Housed in the former house of the Majorat d’Arucas, built in the early 19th century, this museum offers a journey through local history and culture: a collection of works by Canary Island painters and sculptors, historical objects…
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Price: free admission
- Closed on weekends and public holidays
- Latest news on the official website here
WHERE TO STAY IN Gran Canaria
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Gran Canaria
- Our favorite: Marina Suites Hotel
Select by hotel type:
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6. Visit Constitution Square and Casa Consistoriales
Place de la Constitution is the beating heart of Arucas. During our visit, we were captivated by this elegant square, home to the Town Hall (Casa Consistoriales), a remarkable example of 19th-century Canarian colonial architecture.
Note the façade of the municipal building, adorned with meticulous architectural details. Take the time to sit on a bench in the shade of the trees and watch the local life come alive around you. Don’t forget to take a photo in front of the giant “ARUCAS” letters, which have become a must-see spot for visitors.
7. Discover Arehucas Rum Distillery
Another must-see in Arucas is a visit to the famous Arehucas rum distillery. Learn more about the history of this factory, whose origins date back to 1883, when it was founded to process sugar cane. Today, it produces one of the Canary Islands’ most renowned rums. The guided tour takes you through the various stages of production, and we were particularly impressed by the ageing cellar where over 5000 American oak barrels release their bewitching aromas of wood, history and alcohol.
- Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Price: €9 per person (free for under-18s)
- Closed on weekends and public holidays
- Guided tours available in English
- Latest news on the official website here
8. Explore the city’s architecture
Ermita de San Pedro
The Ermita de San Pedro in Arucas is a small religious building dating from 1724. Inspired by an older chapel built in the 16th century at La Goleta, it was restored in the 1970s by the Arehucas distillery, which now owns it.
Heredad de Aguas
Located in the heart of Arucas, the Heredad de Aguas de Arucas y Firgas is a visually interesting building. Built between 1909 and 1912 to designs by modernist architect Fernando Navarro, this eclectic-style building features a facade of local stone and a tower topped by a dome adorned with a 1913 German clock. This mechanism was once used to regulate the distribution of water, a precious resource in this agricultural region of Gran Canaria. La Heredad, founded in 1505, is one of the oldest water management institutions in the Canary Islands.
Casa de la Cultura, a magnificent 18th-century Canarian house
As you stroll through the heart of the historic center, take note of La Casa de la Cultura. An elegant 17th-century Canarian residence. The building features an interior patio with wooden balustrades, typical of traditional Canary Island architecture. Carefully restored, the house retains its original features, such as finely carved wooden columns and ashlar surrounds. Today, it serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, concerts and various events, immersing visitors in the architectural and cultural heritage of Arucas.
Statue of the poet Domingo Rivero
Opposite the Casa de Cultura, note the bronze statue of the poet Domingo Rivero, a tribute to one of the Canaries’ leading literary figures. Created by sculptor Wenceslao Herrera García, the work depicts Rivero standing behind a balustrade, an open book in front of him, symbolizing his commitment to poetry and culture.
9. Admire and climb Mount Arucas
Mount Arucas (La Montaña de Arucas) is an ancient volcano that dominates the city’s landscape. Culminating at an altitude of 412 metres, this mountain is a must-see for panoramic enthusiasts. We recommend climbing up to the belvedere for a view of most of the island’s northern coastline, and a bird’s-eye view of Las Palmas to the south.
It’s about a 40-minute walk from the center, or you can get there by car.
10. Explore the Marquise House and Gardens
Located at the foot of the Arucas mountain, about 15 minutes’ walk from the town center, the Jardín de la Marquesa (Marquesa Gardens) offered us a verdant getaway. This five-hectare estate is home to a small palace built in 1880 by the first Marquis d’Arucas. We were amazed by the great diversity of plants and trees, including numerous palms and over 500 classified species that cohabit with a colony of free-roaming peacocks. Don’t miss the elegant glass marquee on the former family tennis court.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Closed on Sundays and public holidays
- Price: €6
- Latest news on the official website here
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Other attractions in and around Arucas
In addition to the must-sees, Arucas offers other monuments and museums, but you can also combine them with other nearby excursions.
Centro de Interpretacio del Labrante de Arucas
The Centre d’Interprétation du Labrante offers a glimpse into the local tradition of stone carving.
The beaches of Arucas
The Arucas coast also deserves your attention, with the natural pools of Los Charcones and the small cove of El Puertillo. Both seaside resorts have been awarded the Blue Flag, a guarantee of water quality and cleanliness. The area is also popular with local surfers for its excellent conditions.
Banana plantations
A visit to Arucas would not be complete without discovering its famous banana plantations. The land surrounding the town is lush and green, testifying to the importance of this crop to the local economy. The Arucas Banana Museum is located at the Hacienda Rekompensa. Learn more about this emblematic Canarian culture.
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How to get to Arucas + parking
Where is Arucas
- In the north of Gran Canaria, about 15 minutes’ drive from Las Palmas
- Las Palmas = 20 minutes drive
- Maspalomas = 50 minutes drive
- Gran Canaria airport = 30 minutes drive
- On the map below, Arucas is identified in the north of the island:
How to get there
The most convenient way to visit Arucas is to rent a car, which will also enable you to explore the surrounding area easily. From Las Palmas, you can also take the n°234 direct bus.
If you are coming from the south of the island or from the airport, there is no direct public transport, but you can opt for a private transfer or an organized tour that includes Arucas in its itinerary – see options.
Parking in Arucas
Parking in Arucas is relatively easy. Ample free parking is available right next to the main church. We recommend you take advantage of this convenient space, but beware of bogus parking attendants who may ask you for money after guiding you to a space. Other parking lots are available in the city center, notably near Place de la Constitution.
Useful tips for visiting Arucas
How long and when?
Allow at least half a day to explore the main sites of Arucas. If you also wish to visit the Arehucas distillery, the Marquise Gardens and the Banana Museum, a full day is required.
Note that the north of Gran Canaria can be cloudier than the south, bringing a welcome coolness during the summer months. Avoid visiting on Sundays, as many attractions, including the Arehucas distillery and Marquise Gardens, are closed.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
We began our visit at the imposing San Juan Bautista parish church, then explored the historic center on foot. This approach immediately captures the unique architectural essence of Arucas.
The town is relatively compact and can be easily visited on foot, although some streets are steep. For more distant attractions such as the Marquise Gardens or Mount Arucas, plan to use your own vehicle. The ascent to Mount Arucas on foot can be quite demanding and takes around 40 minutes from the town center.
Visiting with children
Arucas is a family-friendly destination with many attractions that children will love. The Municipal Park offers green spaces and play areas where the youngest can let off steam. The Jardins de la Marquise are usually a delight for children, with their free-roaming peacocks and lush vegetation. The Musée de la Banane offers an educational and interactive experience on the cultivation of this fruit loved by young and old alike. At the Arehucas distillery, even if children can’t take part in the tasting, they’ll be fascinated by the huge barrels and the production process.
Restaurants
We haven’t yet tested the restaurants in Arucas.
But on our list is:
- Restaurant Casa Brito, considered one of the best meat restaurants in Gran Canaria
- the Emblemática Rooftop Restaurant, offering a breathtaking view of the city
- La Catedral Bistró for local charm
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Gran Canaria
- Best of
Best things to do in Gran Canaria
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Archaeological sites
Best museums
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Gran Canaria
When to go?
How to get around
How to rent a car in Gran Canaria
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
- The must-dos
Las Palmas and its historic center
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria (coming soon)
Maspalomas dunes
Puerto de Mogan (Little Venice)
Agaete and its natural pools
The magnificent town of Agüimes
