In the heart of Las Palmas‘s old town, in the Vegueta district, we recommend a visit to the CAAM. The Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno has established itself as the benchmark contemporary art museum in the Canary Islands.
In this article you’ll find some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit to the CAAM Museum and have a wonderful time!
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 a visit to the CAAM worth it?
If you’re a fan of contemporary art, the CAAM is well worth a visit for several reasons:
- It is the Canary Islands’ leading museum of contemporary art. It is known for its coverage ofcontemporary art from 3 continents on the Atlantic Ocean.
- You’ll see temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists fromAfrica,America andEurope.
- It offers a complementary experience to Gran Canaria’s natural and historical attractions.
In our opinion, this is one of the best things to do in Las Palmas.
What you can see
The cultural heritage of 18th-century facades
The facades of several historic 18th-century buildings house the museum. They are typical of thecolonial architecture of the Canary Islands. We loved their elaborate balconies and ornate doors.
Oiza’s modern architecture
We were struck by the contrast between the facades and the interior of the building, renovated by Spanish architect Francisco J. Sáenz de Oiza. While the original façade has been respected, the interior is definitely contemporary, with 3,682 m2 spread over 3 floors. An ideal setting for contemporary art.
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.
The spectacular skylight
The skylight created by thehuge glass roof creates a unique atmosphere. We were very sensitive to the natural luminosity of the exhibition spaces. The vertical perspective is striking.
The impressive metal structure
The building’s exposed steel structure is phenomenal. It supports the huge glass roof. An imposing element in the museum’svisual atmosphere, we really appreciated the fluid circulation around it in the exhibition spaces.
Bright exhibition spaces
We found the exhibition spaces particularly bright. This is largely due to the work that has been done to bring in natural light through the glass roof and the skylight that feeds the different levels of the museum.
Exhibitions by contemporary artists
The CAAM organizes temporary exhibitions dedicated to contemporary artists of tricontinental origin (Africa, America, Europe). A vocation that has led to some wonderful discoveries. During our visit, we discovered an artist from South Africa, one from Germany, and another from Egypt. The annex building, San Antonio Abad, featured works by a Canary Island artist.
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.
CAAM Museum in Las Palmas: access
Where to find CAAM
The CAAM Museum is located at 11 Los Balcones, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (35001).
- In the old town, in the Vegueta district
- Close to Santa Ana Cathedral and Casa de Colón museum
Access by car and parking
The site is well signposted and easy to get to, but traffic can be very heavy (especially in summer).
There are several parking lots nearby:
- Parking Mercado de Vegueta, opposite the market on the seafront
- Parking Vegueta, the covered parking lot in the historic center
Out of season, it is also possible to find places in the adjacent streets.
Public transport access
The museum is located in the historic Vegueta district of Las Palmas. There are numerous bus stops nearby.
Visiting difficulties
There are no particular difficulties, and the site is accessible to people with reduced mobility via the store.
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
Useful tips for visiting the CAAM Museum
Schedules and prices
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 9pm, and Sunday, 10am to 2pm. Closed on Mondays, public holidays, December 24th and 31st. Find out more here.
Admission: free
How long
Allow 1 hour on site, depending on your interest in the exhibits.
Best moment
The CAAM organizes a wide range of activities (openings, conferences, happenings, etc.). It’s a good idea to come along to these events and consult the museum’s diary before your visit. More info here.
Otherwise, we recommend you come in the morning, as it will be less crowded and you’ll be able to take full advantage of the space.
Direction of visit
There’s no particular meaning, each exhibition is distinct. They can be visited one after the other. They are distributed over 2 buildings: the main building (Los Balocones) and the annex building (Sala San Antonio Abad) located in an adjacent street 2 minutes’ walk away, on the square of the same name.
Eating out
You’re downtown. There are plenty of restaurants nearby. See our article on our favorite restaurants in Las Palmas.
The tapas bar La Vegueta de Colón is a 2-minute walk from the museum, in the old town.
Hotels
You’re in the heart of Las Palmas. See our best places to stay in Las Palmas.
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
