Here’s a detailed Las Palmas de Gran Canaria itinerary that works perfectly for both 3 days and 5 days, helping you make the most of your time — whether you’re interested in beaches, culture, food, or nature. The plan balances sightseeing with relaxation so you can truly enjoy the rhythm of island life while experiencing the best of the city.
3-Day Itinerary: The Essentials
Day 1: Discover the Historic Heart – Vegueta and Triana
Morning:
Start your trip in Vegueta, the historic old town where Las Palmas was founded in 1478. Stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings.
- Visit Santa Ana Cathedral, one of the city’s architectural highlights. You can climb the tower for panoramic views.
- Explore Casa de Colón (Columbus House), a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus’s voyages.
- Stop by Museo Canario to learn about the island’s aboriginal Guanche culture.
Afternoon:
Walk across to the nearby Triana district, one of the city’s liveliest areas.
- Wander down Calle Mayor de Triana, a charming pedestrian street filled with boutiques and cafés.
- Visit Gabinete Literario, a 19th-century building that now serves as a cultural space.
- Have lunch or a coffee at a local café while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Evening:
Return to Vegueta in the evening when the streets are beautifully lit. Many local bars and tapas restaurants open after sunset.
- Try papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce) or ropa vieja canaria (a traditional stew).
- On Thursday nights, Vegueta hosts Tapas Night (Ruta de Pinchos), where local bars offer small dishes and drinks at low prices.
Day 2: Enjoy the Beach Life – Las Canteras and Santa Catalina
Morning:
Head to Las Canteras Beach, one of the best urban beaches in Europe.
- Go for a morning swim or walk along the 3-kilometer promenade.
- Enjoy breakfast at one of the many beachfront cafés.
Afternoon:
Explore the Santa Catalina area, located just behind the beach.
- Visit Parque de Santa Catalina, a lively square surrounded by shops and restaurants.
- If you’re interested in science and technology, stop at the Museo Elder, an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits.
- For ocean lovers, the Poema del Mar Aquarium near the port is worth a visit (paid entry but highly recommended).
Evening:
Stay near the beach for sunset — Las Canteras is famous for its spectacular evening views.
- Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood or Canarian fish dishes.
- For a peaceful evening stroll, continue along the promenade to La Cícer, the beach’s surfing area.
Day 3: Nature and Views – Bandama Crater and Parque Doramas
Morning:
Take a short bus or taxi ride to the Caldera de Bandama, a volcanic crater about 20 minutes from the city.
- Visit the Bandama Viewpoint (Mirador de Bandama) for sweeping views of the crater and surrounding countryside.
- If you enjoy hiking, follow the trail around the rim or down into the crater (about 1 hour each way).
Afternoon:
Return to the city and head to Parque Doramas, one of the most beautiful green spaces in Las Palmas.
- Walk among the palm trees, ponds, and sculptures.
- Visit Pueblo Canario, a picturesque complex built in traditional Canarian style. On weekends, you might see free folk music and dance performances.
- Have lunch or coffee at Hotel Santa Catalina, a historic landmark next to the park.
Evening:
Spend your final evening relaxing at El Confital, a natural coastal area west of Las Canteras. It’s perfect for watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
5-Day Itinerary: Add Deeper Exploration
If you have 5 days in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you can go beyond the city and explore more of the island or enjoy a slower, more immersive experience.
Day 4: Day Trip to Arucas and Teror
Morning:
Take a Global bus or taxi to Arucas, about 20 minutes away.
- Visit the Church of San Juan Bautista, a striking neo-Gothic building made from local volcanic stone.
- Stroll through the town center and visit the Arehucas Rum Distillery, where you can tour the facilities and sample local rum.
Afternoon:
Continue to Teror, one of Gran Canaria’s most charming towns.
- Wander its narrow streets lined with colorful wooden balconies.
- Visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, an important pilgrimage site.
- Enjoy a traditional Canarian lunch in one of the town’s restaurants — local sausage (chorizo de Teror) is a specialty.
Return to Las Palmas in the late afternoon and relax at your hotel or on the beach.
Day 5: Leisure, Markets, and Local Culture
Morning:
Take it easy and spend your last morning enjoying the local vibe.
- Visit the Mercado de Vegueta or Mercado del Puerto to browse stalls selling Canarian produce, cheese, and spices.
- Alternatively, rent a bike and explore the Las Canteras promenade or ride toward Alcaravaneras Beach and the marina.
Afternoon:
If it’s a Sunday, head back to Pueblo Canario in Parque Doramas to enjoy live folk music and traditional dance.
Otherwise, visit one last museum such as the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM) in Vegueta, which often offers free exhibitions.
Evening:
Celebrate your final night with a special dinner overlooking the ocean at a restaurant on Las Canteras Beach. Try local wine or rum and savor a peaceful end to your trip.
Optional Add-Ons
If you have extra time or flexibility:
- Maspalomas Dunes: A 45-minute bus ride to the island’s south for a desert-meets-ocean experience.
- Roque Nublo: A full-day hiking trip to the island’s famous volcanic rock and panoramic mountain views.
- Boat Excursion: Short cruises or dolphin-watching trips depart from the port area.
Travel Tips
- Getting Around: Use Guaguas Municipales (yellow city buses) for easy travel between main districts. For day trips, Global (blue buses) connect you to nearby towns.
- Best Base: Staying near Las Canteras Beach is ideal — it’s central, safe, and within walking distance of most attractions.
- Timing: The city has a relaxed pace; locals eat lunch around 2–3 PM and dinner around 8–9 PM.
- Weather: The climate is mild year-round, so outdoor activities are always possible.
Summary
- 3 days: Perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights — history, beach, and nature.
- 5 days: Ideal for travelers who want a deeper experience — combining city life with day trips and local culture.
