Are you on vacation in Gran Canaria? Visit the interior of the island and the small town of Teror. Its beautiful basilica and picturesque old town charmed us. You’ll also be seduced by its friendly market and perfume museum.
Here’s our guide to the must-see places in Teror, Gran Canaria, and 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 Teror worth a visit?
Yes, Teror deserves a visit. We found the little town charming! Located in the highlands to the north of Gran Canaria, it is renowned for its historical and religious heritage. Admire the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, pretty alleyways and colorful houses. Teror is also famous for its chorizo bread, which can be tasted at the market.
It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Gran Canaria!
If you don’t have a car, you can discover Teror and the interior of the island on an organized tour from Las Palmas or Maspalomas.
1. Visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino
We were impressed by the majesty of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino as soon as we arrived in Teror’s main square. This imposing church, dedicated to the patron saint of Gran Canaria, blends Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The volcanic stone façade and pink tower are a real eye-catcher.
Inside, we contemplated the venerated statue of the Virgin of Pine. Don’t miss the gilded altarpieces and murals telling the story of the saints. The building’s serene atmosphere was particularly touching.
- Opening hours: Monday 3.30pm-8pm, Tuesday-Friday 9am-1pm and 3.30pm-8pm, Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 8am-8pm
- Free admission
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2. Taste the chorizo bread at Mercadillo de Teror
The Mercadillo de Teror is the ideal place to enjoy a local specialty, chorizo bread, a sandwich made with homemade chorizo. We found the snack good, though perhaps a little dry. But the atmosphere of the market is worth the detour, it’s authentic.
In addition to this specialty, you’ll find local products such as honey, cheese and handicrafts. It’s a great opportunity to discover Canarian gastronomy and experience the atmosphere of a traditional market. The conviviality of the mercadillo and the quality of the products on offer made our visit particularly enjoyable.
- Market day: Sunday
- Opening hours: 8am-2pm
- Location: around the basilica
3. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center
We were charmed by the authenticity of the narrow streets in Teror’s historic center. Lined with colorful houses, they invite you to take a stroll. Typical wooden balconies, ornate facades and flower-filled patios create a picturesque setting. As we strolled along, we discovered shady squares, ancient fountains and local craft stores. Take time to observe the details of the buildings, such as carved doors and ironwork. This walk immersed us in the atmosphere of an unspoilt Canarian town.
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.
4. Admire beautiful monuments
Our visit to Teror enabled us to discover several monuments that bear witness to the city’s past. The Casa de los Patrones de la Virgen, next to the basilica, is a fine example of 18th-century Canary architecture, with its wooden balcony and large, small-paned windows. Today it houses a museum dedicated to local history and religious traditions. Don’t miss the Casa Consistorial, the town hall, with its superb neoclassical façade.
- The Casa de los Patrones de la Virgen is next to the basilica.
- The town hall is located in Plaza Muro Nuevo
5. Plaza de la Alameda
We found Plaza de la Alameda very pretty. This square, the heart of Teror, is next to the basilica and Plaza de Sintes. A century-old tree adds charm to the whole, as do the typical houses surrounding the esplanade. On Sundays, you’ll find the town’s small market.
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:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families
Select by city:
6. Discover Plaza Teresa de Bolívar
On the other side of the basilica, we discovered Plaza Teresa de Bolívar. This tranquil square pays tribute to Teresa de Bolívar, the Teror-born wife of Simón Bolívar, the liberator of South America. We found this square interesting not only for its historical aspect, but also for its charm. The site is surrounded by preserved traditional buildings. A stone fountain, an ornate bench and a pretty little church make for a peaceful setting.
7. Smell the scents of the Canaries at the Museo del Perfume
Our visit to Teror’s Museo del Perfume was a delightful sensory experience. This tiny museum-shop showcases local aromatic plants. You’ll discover essences from the Canaries and all over the world. We smelled various perfumes, soaps and oils. It’s an opportunity to make little gifts and enjoy a fresh perspective on Gran Canaria‘s natural heritage. Guided tours are offered to discover extraction and production techniques, and to smell mysterious aromas.
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
- Free admission in store
- Guided tour Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays €7.90
- Book your visit online here
FUN in Gran Canaria:activities
Dolphin watching
Buggy / Quad
Snorkeling
Kayaking in the Mogan caves
But also: Canyoning, Horse riding, Via Ferrata, Coasteering… See all options
8. Climb to Cruz de los Caídos
In the town center, a steep staircase leads up to a cross, Cruz de los Caídos. We admired it from below, but the bravest can attempt the ascent. The view over the city must be worth a visit!
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Other attractions in and around Teror
Other monuments in Teror
Teror also boasts a number of other monuments. For example, we recommend
- The Fuente Agria fountain and its 3 wells
- The contemporary auditorium
- The Monasterio Cisterciense and its pastries
Places to visit around Teror
The surrounding area is also full of surprises. You are welcome to visit:
- Doramas Natural Park and José Hernandez Park, ideal for hiking
- The Barranco del Alamo
- La Cruz de la Hoya Alta
- La Chaudière de Pino Santo
- Finca de Osorio Farm
- The Covento de las Dominicas
Excursions in and around Teror
Situated in the hills above Gran Canaria, Teror is at the heart of exciting excursions to discover the island’s center and exceptional sites:
- Discover the treasures of Gran Canaria’s interior via Teror – see program and availability.
- Take a bus trip to the center of the island and explore Firgas, Roque Nublo and Aguïmes.
- Discover the island’s villages, peaks and viewpoints.
How to get to Teror + parking
Where is Teror
- In the north of Gran Canaria, inland
- 30min drive from Las Palmas
- 40min from Gáldar
- 1 hour from Maspalomas
How to get there
Drive to Teror, which we think is the best way to get around the island. Here are our tips for renting a car in Gran Canaria.
There are also bus routes 215, 216 and 229 from Las Palmas.
Or let us guide you on an organized tour. Here are our suggestions:
- Visit the Teror and San Mateo markets on this tour – see program and availability.
- Discover the treasures of Gran Canaria’s interior via Teror – see program and availability.
- Take a day trip by bus and visit several villages on the island, including Teror – see program and availability.
Parking in Teror
Teror is home to numerous parking lots near and in the center. The parking lot next to the basilica is likely to fill up more quickly, but you can try your luck. We parked at the Ctra General Teror parking lot and walked for a few minutes to the historic center.
Useful tips for visiting Teror
How long and when?
Allow 1h30 to 2h30 to visit the town. In summer, the coolness of the heights is pleasant, but it’s likely to be more crowded. In winter, your visit to the city will be more exclusive, and the weather will be good too! Gran Canaria in winter is a very pleasant destination indeed. Temperatures are mild and the days sunny. We were there over Christmas in December and really enjoyed the climate!
Tour directions, map and difficulty
We started by visiting the basilica, then strolled around the church. It was market day and we took the opportunity to discover the local specialities. We then ventured into the squares and alleyways. The streets are sometimes cobbled, and there are climbs. We advise you to bring good shoes, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area.
Visiting with children
In our opinion, the city can be visited by the whole family. The Sunday market and the small perfume museum will be of interest to younger visitors. Taste and smell experiences are on the agenda!
Restaurants
We haven’t tried out any of Teror’s restaurants yet, but we did spot a few that looked nice, such as Restaurant l’Araucaria. You can also take advantage of the terraces lining the squares.
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
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
