Here’s an in-depth guide to the best things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, covering culture, nature, beaches, food, and local experiences so you can truly enjoy this beautiful Atlantic island city..
1. Explore Las Canteras Beach
Las Canteras Beach is one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, stretching over three kilometers along the city’s western edge. It offers golden sand, clear waters, and a natural reef called “La Barra,” which creates a calm lagoon for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can enjoy long walks along the beach promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops. The northern area of the beach, known as La Cícer, is ideal for surfing, while the southern part offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Watching the sunset here is one of the city’s most memorable experiences.
2. Visit the Historic Quarter of Vegueta
Vegueta is the oldest and most historic district in Las Palmas. It is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and cultural landmarks. Visitors should start at the Plaza de Santa Ana, where the imposing Santa Ana Cathedral stands. You can climb the cathedral tower for panoramic views of the city. Close by is the Casa de Colón (Columbus House), a museum that explores Christopher Columbus’s connection to the Canary Islands. The Museo Canario, another important stop, showcases archaeological artifacts and offers insights into the island’s ancient aboriginal population, the Guanches. The area is best explored on foot to appreciate its old-world charm.
3. Discover the Triana District
Just across from Vegueta lies Triana, a lively commercial and cultural area filled with shops, boutiques, and local restaurants. The main street, Calle Mayor de Triana, is a pedestrian zone perfect for shopping and people-watching. Historic buildings with traditional balconies line the street, and you will find plenty of cafés offering pastries and coffee. The Gabinete Literario, an elegant 19th-century cultural building, is also located here and often hosts exhibitions and events. Triana combines modern life with traditional Canarian character, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy city culture.
4. Relax in Parque Doramas and Pueblo Canario
Parque Doramas is one of the most beautiful green areas in Las Palmas. It features lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures inspired by Canarian history and nature. Within the park is Pueblo Canario, a charming replica of a traditional Canarian village. It often hosts folk music and dance performances, especially on weekends, offering visitors a taste of local culture. Nearby is the Museo Néstor, dedicated to Néstor Martín-Fernández de la Torre, one of the Canary Islands’ most celebrated artists. The park is a great place to unwind and experience the artistic side of the city.
5. Go Hiking in the Natural Areas Nearby
Las Palmas is surrounded by striking landscapes that offer excellent hiking opportunities. One of the most popular spots is the Caldera de Bandama, a large volcanic crater about 20 minutes from the city. You can walk around its rim or descend into the crater itself, where you’ll find vineyards and unique vegetation. The nearby Tafira area is also perfect for leisurely walks among palm trees and volcanic hills. For a more adventurous trip, you can drive inland to Pico de las Nieves, the highest point on the island, which provides breathtaking views of Gran Canaria’s mountains and valleys.
6. Experience the Cultural Life of the City
Las Palmas has a vibrant cultural scene, with many theaters, museums, and art galleries. The Teatro Pérez Galdós, named after the famous Canarian novelist Benito Pérez Galdós, hosts concerts, operas, and plays in a beautifully restored setting. The Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM) is another highlight, focusing on contemporary art from Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, located at the southern end of Las Canteras Beach, is an architectural landmark and one of the city’s main venues for music and festivals.
7. Taste Traditional Canarian Cuisine
Food is an essential part of the Las Palmas experience. Traditional dishes are simple but full of flavor. One of the most famous is “papas arrugadas,” small wrinkled potatoes boiled in sea salt and served with “mojo” sauces—either red and spicy or green and herby. Other must-try dishes include grilled fish such as “cherne” or “vieja,” “gofio” (a toasted grain flour used in various recipes), and local stews made with vegetables and pork. The city’s many tapas bars offer a chance to sample a variety of dishes. For drinks, try Canarian wines or Arehucas rum from the nearby town of Arucas.
8. Visit the City’s Viewpoints
Las Palmas offers several excellent viewpoints where you can appreciate the beauty of the city and its coastline. The Mirador de la Cornisa provides panoramic views of the port and surrounding areas. The Mirador de Altavista offers a different perspective, overlooking Las Canteras and the ocean. For a more natural and quiet experience, El Confital, a rugged coastal area west of Las Canteras, is perfect for walking and watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
9. Explore Puerto de la Luz and Its Surroundings
Puerto de la Luz is one of the most important ports in the Atlantic and a hub for trade and travel. The marina area is pleasant for walking and has many waterfront bars and restaurants. One of the top attractions nearby is Poema del Mar, an impressive modern aquarium that showcases marine life from around the world. You can also take boat excursions from the port to see dolphins, go fishing, or simply enjoy the sea views along the coast.
10. Take Day Trips from the City
Las Palmas is well-connected to the rest of Gran Canaria, making day trips easy and worthwhile. The town of Arucas, just a short drive away, is famous for its striking neo-Gothic church and rum distillery. Teror is another picturesque town known for its colorful wooden balconies and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, an important religious site. Further south, the Maspalomas Dunes form a unique desert-like landscape next to the sea and are one of the island’s most iconic natural attractions.
11. Additional Tips for Visitors
Las Palmas enjoys mild, pleasant weather all year round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C. The best months for swimming and outdoor activities are between May and October. The city is easy to navigate on foot, and the local bus system, known as Guaguas Municipales, is affordable and reliable. Visitors will notice that Las Palmas has a relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere, combining urban life with the charm of island living.
