In the north of Gran Canaria, Firgas is a small village famous for its unique staircases! We climbed them and enjoyed their splendour. You too can visit this colorful jewel of the island.
Here’s our guide to the must-see places in the village of Firgas, 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 the village of Firgas worth a visit?
Yes, Firgas is worth a visit! We admired its famous staircase. A cascading fountain, representations of the different Canary Islands, a line of magnificent faience benches – it’s all there for the eye to feast on. The site also boasts a lookout point with a beautiful view of the surrounding area, a small mill and charming alleyways to wander through.
This is one of Gran Canaria’s most beautiful villages.
1. Climb the Paseo de Gran Canaria staircase
We came to Firgas to climb its famous staircase, El Paseo de Gran Canaria. Nestled between small white houses, the staircase is a veritable work of art, lined with the coats of arms of the island’s communes and superb blue and yellow earthenware benches.
2. Admire the staircase fountain
We were struck by the beauty of the fountain at the bottom of the staircase. It evokes a veritable waterfall. The contrast between the water, the white houses, the flowering vegetation and the earthenware forms a magnificent spectacle.
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.
3. Admire images of the Canary Islands
Continuing upwards, the staircase is also interesting for its representation of the Canary archipelago. We contemplated the different islands, which spread out like paintings from one walk to the next.
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
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4. Discover the Moulin de Firgas
Before exploring the staircase, we discovered El Molino de Firgas, also known as del Conde, at the entrance to the village. A hydraulic mill dating back to the 16th century, it echoes the area’s sugar-making past. It is charming with its exposed stonework and yellow color.
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5. Linger in front of San Roque Church
At the bottom of the staircase is the San Roque church. We were seduced by its typical Canarian architecture, with white walls, basalt stones and a Baroque influence. Inside, the stained glass windows are original and colorful.
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
6. Contemplate the panorama from the Mirador Plaza de San Roque
We continued our tour of the village at the Mirador Plaza de San Roque. The view is superb. You’ll be able to see the bay of Las Palmas and the Arucas Mountain.
7. Let yourself be carried away by the charm of traditional houses
Stroll through the streets and admire the small traditional houses with their balconies and bright colors. We also like the mix of volcanic stones framing doors and windows.
Other attractions in and around Firgas
You’ve already discovered our must-sees in Firgas, but if you have the time, we suggest you explore the surrounding area, which is full of surprises:
- The pretty village of Gáldar, a 30-minute drive away, is home to an exceptional archaeological site and small museums.
- A little further on is Agaete and its magnificent Las Salinas natural pools.
- Inland, the picturesque village of Teror is also worth a visit.
- Venture up to Roque Nublo, a peak with breathtaking views over the island.
How to get to Firgas + parking
Where to find Firgas
- North of Gran Canaria inland
- Next to the charming villages of Gáldar andAgaete
- 30min drive from Las Palmas
- 1 hour from Maspalomas
Here’s a map of the island to help you find your way around:
How to get there
Meet us in Firgas by car, the best way to get around the island in our opinion. Here are our tips for renting a car in Gran Canaria.
There are also bus routes 204, 211 and 251 from Las Palmas.
Or let us guide you on an organized tour. Here are our suggestions:
- Take a bus tour of the island’s interior via Firgas
- Discover the island’s villages, peaks and viewpoints.
Parking in Firgas
A municipal parking lot is just a 2-minute walk from the center and the stairs.
Visiting Firgas: useful tips
How long and when?
Allow between 1h and 1h30 to visit the village, which is quite small. Firgas and its beautiful staircases attract many people all year round. In fine weather, we advise you to visit in the morning for a quieter visit. Gran Canaria and Firgas in winter are a little less crowded, with ideal temperatures and sunny weather!
Tour directions, map and difficulty
First, we recommend a visit to the village’s small yellow mill. Continue with the village’s star attraction, the Paseo de Gran Canaria staircase. Discover its staircase fountains, representations of the Canary Islands and the superb ceramic benches that line the ascent. Then head back down to Plaza San Roque to admire the little church and the view from the Mirador.
Visiting with children
It’s perfectly possible to visit the village with children. Climbing the stairs is not ideal, however, and difficult if you have a stroller. But you can also admire the Paseo from below and enjoy the Mirador de Plaza San Roque.
Restaurants
The village has few restaurants. We haven’t tested them, but why not give these addresses a try?
- Restaurant El Rincon de Marco, serving grilled meats
- Restaurant Cafeteria El Viejito
- Casa Conchi Restaurant
Hotels
Firgas has very few hotels. We recommend you choose accommodation in Las Palmas or Agaete, where you’ll find some fabulous hotels!
You can appreciate it:
- Hotel Boutique Cordial Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana – See prices, photos and availability in Las Palmas
- Hotel Occidental Roca Negra Adults Only – See prices, photos and availability in Agaete
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
