Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a surprising destination in winter. The lively, multicultural capital of the Canary Islands combines historic heritage, sandy beaches and a vibrant cultural life all year round. We fell in love with this city of European, African and Latin American influences, where it’s great to stroll through the Vegueta district or walk along the Las Canteras seafront in the generous sunshine. In January and February, the city even gets into the swing of its own carnival.
Here are our tips for visiting Las Palmas in winter: activities, weather, temperatures… Plus, information on how to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve in this city full of surprises!
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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Visiting Las Palmas in winter: is it worth it?
Our review
Yes, visiting Las Palmas in winter is well worth the trip. With temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F), the city offers an ideal setting for those seeking sunshine away from the winter chill. We enjoyed the sandy beaches without the summer crowds, explored the narrow streets of Vegueta’s historic district in a serene atmosphere, and discovered fascinating museums at our own pace. All restaurants, hotels, museums and attractions remain open in winter, making it a fully operational destination. You’ll also benefit from more affordable rates during off-peak periods. We advise you to allow at least three days to enjoy both the city and the island’s many excursions.
Benefits
- Temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), ideal for sightseeing and walking.
- The beaches are accessible and pleasant, even in winter.
- Tourist sites and beaches are less crowded.
- Accommodation rates are lower than in high season.
- All attractions, museums and restaurants remain open.
- In January and February, Las Palmas Carnival brings the city to life.
- Numerous excursions around the island are possible all year round.
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Disadvantages
- January is the rainiest month: a few rainy spells are possible.
- The destination is popular with tourists from northern Europe in winter, and some sites can be crowded.
- Summer nautical activities are more limited.
- Days are a little shorter than in summer.
- Parking in the city center can be tricky.
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.
Weather, temperatures and conditions
Winter in Las Palmas is mild and often sunny. Daytime temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), making it one of Europe’s mildest winter destinations. Precipitation remains limited throughout the season, even if January sees the greatest risk of rain. We were able to enjoy the fine sandy beaches during our winter stay without feeling the need for a coat. Nights are cooler, so a light jacket is generally sufficient. In fine weather, the sunsets over Playa de Las Canteras or Bahia del Confital are truly remarkable.
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.
What to do in Las Palmas in winter
Las Palmas is full of winteractivities. Historical heritage, museums, beaches and markets offer a varied program, whatever your travel profile. Here are our best suggestions:
- Stroll through the historic district of Vegueta and its narrow streets of colorful colonial buildings
- Visit the Santa Ana Cathedral and climb its tower for a panoramic view of the city
- Explore the Casa de Colónthe former residence of Christopher Columbus, and its 13 exhibition rooms
- Stroll along the Sendero Azul, the 7km blue path along the seafront to Playa de Las Canteras.
- Enjoy the Playa de Las Canterasthe capital’s largest urban beach
- Visit thePoema del Mar Aquarium – book your skip-the-line ticket
- Discover the Museo Canario to delve into the history of the archipelago’s pre-Hispanic civilizations
- Explore the CAAM (Centre Atlantique d’Art Moderne) with free admission, at the crossroads of African, American and European cultures
- Shop at the Mercado del Puerto, a lively covered market under the arcades near the port.
- Discover the Castillo de la Luza 15th-century fortress converted into a cultural center
To explore the old town with a local guide, you can book a guided walking tour of the old town or opt for a bike tour. The Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus is also a great way to get to the main sights – just buy your ticket in advance.
Beyond the city, we also recommend a number of excursions from Las Palmas: the Agaete Valley, a 30-minute drive away, the Caldera de Bandama crater at an altitude of 575m, or a hike to the island’s waterfalls. See program and book.
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
How to get to Las Palmas
Las Palmas has an international airport with direct flights to 133 destinations in 28 countries. This is the most convenient option from Europe. View available flights here. It’s also possible to reach Las Palmas by ferry from Huelva or Cadiz in Andalucia, or from other islands in the archipelago – see available routes.
We recommend renting a car to explore the island at your own pace. In the city center, on the other hand, public transport is much more convenient: the “guaguas” city buses cover the whole city, and a self-service bicycle system is available. For sightseeing, the Hop-On Hop-Off bus is our favorite – book your ticket in advance. When it comes to parking, we recommend avoiding the Vegueta district, where the alleyways are narrow, in favor of secure pay parking. Large free parking lots are available near the beaches of Las Canteras and Las Alcaravaneras.
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Christmas in Las Palmas
Spending Christmas in Las Palmas means enjoying the festive season under a warm sun, in a festive and colorful atmosphere. The town is decked out in illuminations and offers a host of events to liven up the streets and squares. We loved the special atmosphere of this time of year: Christmas markets, bright decorations and the warmth of the Canarian people make the festivities authentic and warm. Restaurants offer special menus, and the whole city is alive with festivities. It’s also an opportunity to discover local seasonal specialities and to treat yourself to a New Year’s Eve dinner under the stars, in one of the capital’s best restaurants.
New Year’s Eve in Las Palmas
New Year’s Eve in Las Palmas is a celebration in its own right. The city comes alive on the evening of December 31st with festive gatherings, an electric atmosphere and, for those with a sweet tooth, fine New Year’s Eve menus in the capital’s establishments. We advise you to book your table in advance, as the best places sell out quickly. The mildness of the Canarian air makes New Year’s Eve a time spent largely outdoors, giving it a special flavor. The next day, enjoy an early morning stroll along Playa de Las Canteras to start the year in the Gran Canarian sunshine – a way to start the year that we particularly appreciated.
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
