Las Palmas

The lively capital of Gran Canaria and a great place to start exploring the Canary Islands. If you have limited time, this quick guide helps you pick the best sights, food, and transport options so you make the most of your visit.

Start your day at Las Canteras, a long city beach with calm water and local cafes. Walk the seawall for views and stop at a beachside terrace for coffee. If you like snorkeling, head to the natural pools near La Cicer for clear water and fish.

History and culture live in Vegueta, the old town. Stroll narrow streets to find the cathedral, Casa de Colón, and small museums. Nearby Triana is great for shopping and tapas bars; try local specialties like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce and fresh seafood.

Need practical tips? Buses, called guaguas, cover the island well and cost little. Buy a rechargeable travel card at kiosks or the main bus station to save on fares. Walking works fine in the city center, but rent a car if you plan day trips to the mountains or Maspalomas dunes. Parking is limited near busy beaches, so arrive early.

If you follow football, catch a match at Estadio Gran Canaria to see UD Las Palmas play. Tickets sell out for big matches, so book ahead. For nightlife, the area around Calle Mayor de Triana and Las Canteras has bars and live music without the big-club scene.

Weather is mild year-round. Expect warm winters and hot summers; June through September brings the most sun and tourists. For quieter streets and lower prices, visit in spring or autumn. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket for evenings in the hills.

Money and language: Spain uses the euro. People speak Spanish but many locals in tourism areas speak English. ATMs and card payments are widely accepted. Tip roughly 5–10% in restaurants when service is good, though it’s not mandatory.

Day trips worth planning: drive to Roque Nublo for short hikes and dramatic views, explore Maspalomas' sand dunes, or ferry to Tenerife for a longer adventure. Each spot is under two hours by car or ferry, depending on traffic and schedules.

Safety is straightforward: standard city caution works—watch belongings on crowded beaches and public transport. Emergency number is 112.

Pack comfortable shoes for cobblestones, swimwear, and a reusable water bottle. With easy transport, tasty food, and a mix of beach and culture, Las Palmas makes a balanced getaway whether you want relaxation or exploration.

Two-day sample plan: Day one—morning on Las Canteras, lunch at Mercado de Vegueta, afternoon in Vegueta visiting the cathedral and museums, evening tapas in Triana. Day two—rent a car and drive to Roque Nublo for sunrise, stop at a mountain village for coffee, return via Maspalomas to walk the dunes at sunset. Budget-wise, expect around €60–€100 per day if you eat modestly, use buses, and stay in a mid-range guesthouse. Book ahead in summer to lock better rates.

Ready your bags and enjoy sunny Las Palmas.