Gran Canaria, also Grand Canary Island, is the second most populous of the Canary Islands, an archipelago off the Atlantic coast of Northwest Africa which is part of Spain.
20 pictures of Gran Canaria from Alona B, Dell RG, Krisjanis Mezulis and other travelers
To get to Gran Canaria, you can fly directly to the island's main airport, Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is well-connected to major cities in Europe. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Spain or other Canary Islands, such as Tenerife and Fuerteventura.
It is highly recommended to book your accommodation and rental car in advance, especially during the peak season (December to February and June to August). Also, if you plan to visit any popular attractions, such as Palmitos Park or Aqualand, booking your tickets online beforehand can save you time and money.
The costs of visiting Gran Canaria can vary depending on your preferences and budget. Accommodation prices range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to local restaurants and tapas bars. Car rental, public transport, and admission fees to attractions are generally reasonable.
Some of the best things to do in Gran Canaria include:
1. Exploring the stunning Maspalomas Dunes.
2. Taking a hike through the lush forests of the Tamadaba Natural Park.
3. Visiting the charming towns of Teror and Arucas, known for their beautiful architecture and historical sites.
4. Enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Las Palmas, the island's capital, and strolling along its picturesque promenade.
5. Discovering the unique landscapes of Roque Nublo and Pico de las Nieves, the island's highest points.
When it comes to dining, there are plenty of delicious options in Gran Canaria. Some popular choices include:
1. Restaurante La Aquarela, which offers exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood.
2. El Churrasco, a well-known steakhouse in Las Palmas that serves delicious Argentine-style grilled meats.
3. Bodegón Pueblo Canario, a traditional Canarian restaurant that offers tasty local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
For accommodation, consider the following options:
1. Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort, a luxurious hotel with a fantastic location near the Maspalomas Dunes.
2. Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, a classic and elegant option in Las Palmas.
3. Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Gran Canaria Mogan, a modern and stylish resort perfect for families and couples.
Off the beaten path:
For an unusual travel experience in Gran Canaria, consider exploring the island's mysterious network of caves. The Cueva de los Candiles, for example, is a fascinating cave system filled with amazing geological formations, ancient aboriginal paintings, and traces of the island's prehistoric past. To visit these caves, it's best to join a guided tour led by experienced professionals who can ensure your safety while providing valuable insights into the history and geology of this unique attraction.
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View Gran Canaria on a map with the the closest popular places nearby
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Discover more travel spots to explore around Gran Canaria
⛰️ Hill station spots ⛰️ Hill spots 🏖️ Beach spots ⛰️ Mountain spots 🛣️ Road trip spots 🏘️ Town spots 🏖️ Shore spots 🐾 Wildlife spots ⛰️ Cliff spots ️🏜️ Desert spots Mountain pass spots ⛰️ Mountain range spots 🌲 Nature reserve spotsThe island has many hotels with swimming pools near the beaches, but you can also be tempted by a nice flat in the city of Las Palmas.
The beach of Las Canteras in Las Palmas, located in the heart of the city, is beautiful. There is also the beach of Maspalomas which is bordered by sand dunes. And also the beach of Gui Gui which is difficult to reach, it is necessary to walk for 2h30 or to reach it by boat but it offers a wild setting with volcanic rock and brown sand.
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22 km (13.5 miles) away from Gran Canaria