Located in the northeast of the island of Gran Canaria, the capital of the Canary Islands, Las Palmas, is a unique destination for travelers in search of cultural diversity and golden beaches. Between the cobbled streets of the historic Vegueta district and the tall ships of the port, this is where the heart of the archipelago beats.
In this article, we share with you the reasons why we love this cosmopolitan city.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Is Las Palmas worth a visit?
Las Palmas is well worth a visit. This lively city is a unique blend of culture, history and modernity. We loved its magnificent beaches, its colonial facades, its many museums and its gastronomy full of surprises. It has many assets. Not to mention a pleasant year-round climate. We visited it in winter and enjoyed it to the full.
We list the reasons in more detail below. You can also take a look at our selection of the city’s top attractions.
Reason 1 – The picturesque historic district
The Vegueta and Triana districts are the historic heart of Las Palmas. We loved strolling through their colorful cobbled streets. Their colonial architecture is magnificently preserved. Vegueta is a Unesco World Heritage site. We found many restaurants with lively terraces.
On the way down to the sea, we recommend a visit to the Vegueta Market. This gives a real insight into Canary Island life at its most authentic.
Why not embark on a private walking tour of the old town with a local guide? An opportunity to discover all the secrets of the colonial city. See prices, photos and availability.
WHERE TO STAY IN Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the old town, surrounded by charming alleyways.
Hotel Cordial Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana – see photos and availability
On the Playa de las Canteras side, a long sandy beach.
Hotel Maresía Canteras Urban – view photos and availability
Near Playa de la Alcaravaneras, a less touristy area.
Hotel Santa Catalina, historic – see photos and availability
See our selection of the best hotels in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Reason 2 – Exceptional urban beaches
Las Palmas’ beaches are a real treasure trove. The most famous is Playa de Las Canteras. It stretches for almost 3 km along the western edge of the city. It is protected by a natural rock barrier , which ensures calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its promenade, the Paseo de las Canteras, is bustling with bars and restaurants.
To the south, Playa la Cicer attracts surfers with its more powerful waves. But the most experienced can also be found at Playa del Confital, on La Isleta, to the north of the city. It’s wilder, its natural setting superbly preserved.
These urban beaches combine convenience with natural beauty. They benefit from modern facilities and offer a wide range of activities. In fact, we’ve devoted an entire article to the most beautiful beaches in Las Palmas. Find out more about:
- Playa Grande
- Playa Chica
- Playa Peña de la Vieja
- la Playa la Cicer
- Playa de las Alcaravaneras
- Playa del Confital
Reason 3 – A lively cultural life
Las Palmas’ cultural life vibrates with diversity. We found a number of contemporary art venues, including the Centre Atlantique d’Art Moderne (CAAM), the La Regenta Art Center and the Castillo de la Luz, dedicated to Canary Island-born sculptor Martín Chirino. Don’t miss our article on the museums of Las Palmas.
The Teatro Perez Galdos also hosts internationally renowned shows, and theAlfredo Kraus Auditorium boasts exceptional acoustics. Las Palmas is also a vibrant music scene. Not to mention the festivals that take place throughout the year:
- Carnival at the end of January. Find out more here.
- the International Film Festival in April. Find out more 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.
Reason 4 – Rich historical heritage
Las Palmas has a rich cultural heritage. We visited Santa Ana Cathedral and its Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art, in the heart of the Vegueta district. The building is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Neoclassical styles.
The Plaza de Santa Ana, in front of the cathedral, is lined with historic buildings from the colonial era. Just like the Casa de Colón, which recounts the passage of Christopher Columbus and illustrates the beginning of the colonial era.
We also discovered the culture of the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands, the Guanches, by visiting the Canario Museum. Fascinating Guanche artifacts are on display. They offer a glimpse of this pre-colonial civilization.
Reason 5 – Port atmosphere
Port de la Luz, the port of Las Palmas, is one of the most important in Spain. It brings the city to life with its constant effervescence. Huge cruise ships and cargo ships rub shoulders with small fishing boats and sailboats in a fascinating ballet.
The promenade along the harbor offers a wide view of the ocean andmaritime activity. The seafood bars and restaurants in the La Isleta district are the perfect place to savor the authentic harbor atmosphere. We also made a gourmet stopover at the Marché du Port.
Boat trips are easily accessible from the port and marina. Why not discover Las Palmas from the sea during a day’s sailing along the coast? See prices, photos and availability.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Reason 6 – Varied local gastronomy
Gastronomy in Las Palmas is a delicious blend of influences. There’s Canarian cuisine, of course, but there are also flavors from all over the world. Fresh seafood is in the spotlight, with dishes featuring vieja (old lady) or octopus.
We tasted the famous gofio. A traditional dish made with barley and corn flour inherited from the Guanches. Chef Abraham Ortega ‘s interpretation at Restaurant Tabaiba was a real surprise. To find out more, discover our best culinary addresses in Las Palmas.
Reason 7 – Mild year-round climate
In our opinion, the climate is one of Las Palmas’ major assets. The town enjoys the “eternal spring” of the Canary Islands. Temperatures are mild and stable throughout the year, with averages ranging from 18°C in winter to 25°C in summer.
It rained a little during our winter stay, but the showers were very short-lived. The rare rainfalls are concentrated between November and February. The Atlantic Ocean maintains comfortable humidity and pleasant temperatures. The waters, influenced by the Canary Current, are ideal for bathing all year round.
Reason 8 – Diversified nautical activities
We didn’t really take advantage of it, but Las Palmas offers a wide range of water sports. Some, like swimming, can be practiced alone, while for others you may need a guide:
- snorkeling, ideal for Playa de las Canteras, thanks to the rocky barrier. See prices, photos and availability.
- surfing , Playa de la Cicer, or for the more experienced, Playa del Confital
- kayaking, Playa de las Alcaravaneras, See prices, photos and availability
- and also scuba diving, sailing, sport fishing…
In any case, stay alert, you’re on the Atlantic Ocean. Currents can be powerful and unpredictable, and swells can be surprising, especially beyond the rocky barrier of Las Canteras. Respect the swimming flags and the advice of the lifeguards. Choose supervised beaches, especially if you’re with children.
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Reason 9 – An ideal base for exploring Gran Canaria
Las Palmas is strategically located and boasts a wide range of infrastructures. This gave us easy access to the various regions of Gran Canaria, from the beaches in the south to the mountains in the center. Proximity to theairport and ferries is also a big advantage.
To be able to get around everywhere, we recommend that you rent a car. You’ll be completely independent. Alternatively, you can take advantage ofday excursions from Las Palmas. See prices, photos and availability.
Reason 10 – Shopping opportunities
We found plenty of opportunities for shopping in Las Palmas. It’s a modern, active city that lives year-round by its activities and where shopping malls abound, such as Las Arenas, behind the Afredo Kraus Auditorium.
Then there are the pedestrian streets, like Calle Mayor de Triana in the old town orAvenida Mesa y Lopez, behind Playa de las Canteras. And finally, in a more picturesque style, we loved the markets of Las Palmas. They’re also a great opportunity to pick up local crafts and fresh produce.
Some disadvantages of a trip to Las Palmas
High season tourist numbers
The Canary Islands lend themselves easily to mass tourism, welcoming many travelers from northern Europe in particular, in search of beaches and sun. They often opt for all-inclusive packages and fill the resorts on the south coast.
For independent travelers, there are plenty of opportunities to visit Las Palmas away from the crowds. Given the mild climate, the high season lasts a long time: from December to April and July-August. It’s a little less crowded the rest of the time.
Limited public transport (you may or may not need to rent a car)
Las Palmas has a well-developed bus network, making it easy to get around the city from one point to another. However, while there are many stops, the frequency of service is very low, and patience is often required.
The city is taking steps to improve mobility and encourage alternative modes of transport. You can therefore choose to use the electric bikes, scooters and scooters available to users. Find out more here.
However, if you want to enjoy the surrounding area or the rest of the island, we strongly recommend renting a car.
Urbanization
How to get to Las Palmas
There are two options for getting to Las Palmas:
- Ferry: from Huelva and Cadiz (in Spain) or from another island if you are already in the archipelago – see routes
- By plane: Las Palmas International Airport serves 133 destinations in 28 countries with direct flights – see available flights
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
