A fun fact for you, did you know that Gran Canaria is just 1 of 8 in this action-packed archipelago of Islands? And every single one of them is different to one another, offering a totally different experience.
We are here to tell you why Gran Canaria is so awesome! We have spent a total of 8 weeks on the island, and have compiled a list of the very best things to do in Gran Canaria.
You may think of Gran Canaria as a package holiday-only destination, staying in the resort all week and not venturing out into the wild. But did you know, Gran Canaria is PACKED with amazing things to do?!
There is so much wildlife, diverse landscapes and historical towns to explore that we thought we’d put our favourites into a list of amazing things to do in Gran Canaria!
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Popular Tours in Gran Canaria
Right off the bat, here are some fun experiences that can be booked in Gran Canaria. From adrenaline junkies to water lovers, we have you covered!
- Book your seat on a submarine experience in Puerto de Mogan
- Hop on a Catamaran to dolphin watch and snorkel
- Drive an ATV through the rugged terrain of Gran Canaria on a guided tour
- Love water parks? Booked your tickets for Aqualand in advance
25 Things To Do In Gran Canaria
On to the main event! As we previously mentioned, we have been lucky enough to spend a sunny 8 weeks here in Gran Canaria, and with such, we have been able to curate a list of 25 amazing things to do on this fantastic Canary Island!
Keep reading on to see what you can do here in Gran Canaria, it might just be your next favourite destination!
1. Museo del Plátano – Banana Plantation
Are bananas your favourite fruit? Or are you just interested to see how bananas are grown? This fantastic experience is not to be missed while visiting Gran Canaria. Museo del Plátano is a fully operational banana plantation that since 2023 has been welcoming visitors through their doors and offering paid tours.
Aside from the amazing staff and awesome information they have to share, you get to sample a fresh banana and other delicious banana-derived products, such as jams and liqueurs.
We won’t away give too many spoilers, but visiting Museo del Plátano is a great thing to do in Gran Canaria and should definitely be on your list! A visit costs €10 per person and can be booked on GetYourGuide and lasts around 30 minutes.
Once the tour has ended you can wander at your own free will! Our terrific tour guide J.C was incredibly knowledgeable and hilarious.
Book your Banana plantation experience in advance on GetYourGuide like we did!
2. Roque Nublo
Roque Nublo, translating to ‘Cloud Rock’, is a must when visiting Gran Canaria. Sitting at 1,813m above sea level, it’s one of the highest points on the island. From the free car park, take a 30-40 minute hike to reach the base of the rock, to witness truly breath-taking 360 panoramic views.
The smell of fresh pine with birds of prey swooping overhead in the wild is unforgettable. Roque Nublo is not only a tourist hotspot but also believed to be a sacred site to the indigenous Guanche people of the Canary Islands. Be prepared to be amazed!
3. Visit the Maspalomas Sand Dunes
One of the best things to do in Gran Canaria is to head south and visit the sand dunes in Maspalomas. Visiting here feels as if you’ve been transported to the infamous Sahara desert, rolling dunes heading into the sparkling blue sea.
There are a few ways you can visit the Maspalomas sand dunes, either set maps for Mirador de las Dunas, this main viewpoint is through the passage between the Riu Hotel.
Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can walk the full length of Maspalomas beach surrounding the dunes, starting from Playa del Ingles and ending at Playa de Maspalomas.
4. Swim in a natural pool
The Canary Islands has a multitude of natural swimming pools to offer, which are perfect for taking a refreshing dip on a hot day of exploring.
What is a natural pool you might ask? These are human-made structures in natural rock pools along the coast.
And even better, Gran Canaria has plenty of natural pools along its coast! Most natural pools on the island are maintained (cleaned) and have changing facilities on site, go and check one out! You may even see some fish! Here are a few we recommend:
5. Teror
Teror is a small historical Spanish town located in the Northern part of Gran Canaria, only a short drive away from Las Palmas, it’s another great thing to do in Gran Canaria! It’s most known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, typical Spanish design with dark wood balconies dressing the streets.
People visit here for its charming atmosphere and to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine (Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino), which is a major pilgrimage site for Canarians.
The town itself doesn’t require much time, so if you’re feeling adventurous why not head out into nature and embark on a trail. Through luscious sub-tropical greenery, you’ll reach incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
We recommend Barranco de Ojero – Peñón Chiquito trail. Moderate difficulty allowing roughly 3 hours to complete. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
6. Las Canteras Beach, Las Palmas
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital city of Gran Canaria is home to one of the most impressive urban beaches in the world, Las Canteras! We’ve spent so much time here during our stay!
Stretching a whopping 3km along the coast, there is more than enough beach for everyone to enjoy. Many people come to play volleyball, swim, snorkel, surf and sunbathe.
There is also a fantastic traffic-free promenade which runs the whole length of the beach, perfect for runners and walkers to enjoy. Rent a sunlounger or set up your blanket on the sand, you’re guaranteed to have a great day out here!
7. Go Surfing or Bodyboarding
Surfing is an extremely popular sport here in the Canary Islands, and must be tried at least once! The conditions are great here, guaranteeing rolling waves almost any day of the week. The island is scattered with beaches perfect for surfing, so why not pop into your local surf shop and rent some gear and ask for recommended spots.
If you’re new to surfing, be sure to book yourself in on a lesson to get started. We suggest giving surfing a go in Las Palmas, there are many surf shops and schools to offer here! We recommend surfing at the south end of Las Canteras beach as this is a popular spot.
Here are a few surf schools around the island worth checking out!
- MOJOSURF – Las Palmas
- OCEANSIDE – Las Palmas
- Surf Canaries Surf School – Maspalomas
8. Arucas
Next up on what to do in Gran Canaria, we have the historical town of Arucas. This small town packs a punch when it comes to activities. First up, we have Arehucas Rum Distillery, yep that’s correct, they make rum here! For a small fee of €3.50, you can take a tour around the distillery and even try a sample!
While visiting Arucas, be sure to pay a visit to Arucas Cathedral – San Juan Bautista Church, dating back to 1909 and built completely by hand. And lastly, walking the charming streets and peaceful plazas. Plaza de San Juan offers impressive views of the Cathedral!
9. Stargazing
The Canary Islands are known for having some of the clearest night skies for stargazing and astrophotography. And there’s a good reason too! Not only do they have a great geographical location, being islands out at sea, but they also fall under the ‘Sky Law’ limiting the amount of nighttime light pollution.
Fun fact; The Canary Islands have the clearest night skies in all of Europe!
Now you know why the skies are so clear, why not book yourself on to a Stargazing Tour or take yourself on a solo tour if you have access to a vehicle. Rent a car on Discover Cars.
Here are some good locations for star gazing in Gran Canaria, generally anywhere with altitude and low light pollution from neighbouring towns:
- Temisas Astronomical Observatory
- Pico de las Nieves viewpoint
- Viewpoint of the Presa de los Hornos
- Roque Nublo
We also did some stargazing in Tenerife on our 7 day road trip! The Canaries are amazing.
10. Caldera de Bandama
Have you seen a collapsed volcano (caldera) before? Chances are you haven’t, and what’s best you can take a leisurely hike around Caldera de Bandama too! This is a great way to spend an hour or two out in nature, away from the beaches and the cities and soak in some true nature. Hiking the trail around the caldera takes between 1-2 hours depending on pace.
Add on some extra time if you feel like venturing down into the crater itself. Buses from Las Palmas can be caught here with ease, or if travelling by car there is street parking available. Fun fact; Caldera de Bandama last erupted in the 1970s, and is also Gran Canaria’s last recorded volcanic eruption.
We’ve written a full guide on Caldera de Bandama, you won’t regret visiting this natural wonder!
11. Step back in time in Vegueta
In the south of Las Palmas, take a step back in history and visit Vegueta, Las Palmas’ old town. Here you will find streets upon streets of charming Spanish buildings, cobbled roads leading to landmarks and cosy cafes. You can’t miss a visit to Catedral Metropolitana de Santa Ana de Canarias and Plaza de Santa Ana.
The Cathedral was built in two stages, dating all the way back to 1497. Because of this, you might notice a mix of architectural styles! Plaza de Santa Ana is a tranquil square to soak in the best views of the cathedral while being surrounded by palm trees and the sun.
Casa de Colon is also worth an honourable mention, this former governor’s house is now an open museum showcasing Christopher Columbus’ voyages and ship life.
We visited the top of Plaza de Santa Ana and although there’s a small fee, it was lovely to see the surrounding area!
12. La Isleta Nature Reserve
On the north side of Las Palmas, there is an out-of-this-world nature reserve which is perfect for walking, hiking and swimming. You won’t believe your eyes as it feels like you take your first steps onto Mars. Expect to see volcanic rock formations, volcanos and huge crashing waves along the coast.
You can also head to the cross at the top of Mirador de la Cruz for breathtaking 360-degree views of Las Palmas and the surrounding area. You may encounter military helicopters overhead as there is a military base situated here.
➤ We’ve created a list of the Best Things To Do In Las Palmas!
13. Tejeda
While exploring the Nublo Rural Park, the small town of Tejeda is not to be missed! Similarly to Masca in Tenerife, the town of Tejeda sits peacefully in the peaks of Gran Canaria while offering jaw-dropping views of the astounding natural area.
Be sure to visit the Parish of Our Lady of Socorro and maybe even pop into a bakery for a sweet treat, they smelt irresistible! It’s also a great base to take up some hiking or even stargazing.
14. Firgas
If you enjoy quaint Spanish towns, we have another great place to visit in Gran Canaria for you! Near to Arucas but further up into the mountains we have the small town of Firgas. It’s most known for its water fountain steps and beautiful mosaics.
A keen eye will notice that above each tiled bench is a mosaic depicting a different town of Gran Canaria!
And to add to this, at the top of the street there are also 3D mosaics showcasing each Canary Island. Head on over to Paseo de Canarias to appreciate all Firgas has to offer. You won’t need much time here, 30-60 minutes should cover it.
Be sure to check out the view from Mirador Plaza De San Roque before heading off.
15. Puerto de Mogan
Labelled the ‘Little Venice’ of Gran Canaria, this is a must-see when searching for things to do in Gran Canaria. Crystal blue waters in the bay, you’re guaranteed to see fish swimming near the surface. Set up on the beach for sunbathing and a swim in the calm waters protected by the bay.
There are plenty of eateries and shops here to keep all types of travellers busy in this quaint and authentic seaside town.
Puerto de Mogan was one of our favourite places to visit in Gran Canaria, and we are sure it will be the highlight of your trip too!
16. Faro de Maspalomas
On the opposite end of the sand dunes in Maspalomas, you will find a lighthouse standing noble and tall. A landmark since the 1890s, here is a great spot for watching a sunset or shopping along the coastal promenade just next to the lighthouse.
17. Pico de las Nieves
Standing at a staggering 1,949m tall, Pico de las Nieves is the highest point in all of Gran Canaria! Come here to get fantastic views of Roque Nublo and take in the 360-degree panoramic natural beauty.
If you’re feeling up to the challenge, Pico de las Nieves is popular with cyclists as we saw many conquering Gran Canaria’s tallest peak on two wheels! You’ll also find a food truck at the top selling refreshments, such as juice, beer and fruit.
Come here for incredible sunsets, stargazing, hiking trails and the fresh smell of pine trees. A truly incredible nature spot in Gran Canaria.
18. Playa de Amadores
One of the most visited beaches in Gran Canaria, expect white sands and crystal blue waters for swimming. The waters here are very calm due to the shape of the horseshoe bay. Have fun in the inflatable water park floating in the sea or soak up the sun on this incredible beach.
There’s a large free car park to accommodate visitors and a wide variety of restaurants and shops to keep everyone occupied.
19. Barranco de Las Vacas
Be prepared to have your mind blown as you venture into the mini Grand Canyon of Gran Canaria – Barranco de las Vacas! A short walk from parking your car, this is one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria!
This impressive gorge has been thousands of years in the making, grooved out by the force of water wearing down the layers of rock. Arrive in the quieter parts of the day to get the best photos! (Early morning or late afternoon).
We visited around 11 am, not overly busy but enough people around. There are limited parking spaces, look out for laybys near the Google Maps pin to park. From parking the car, Barranco de las Vacas was under a 10 minute walk.
Exploring more of the Canaries? Here’s 22 Incredible Things to do in Tenerife!
20. Agüimes
Agüimes is a small, colourful historic town nestled up into the hills near Barranco de las Vacas and Cueva de Cuatro Puertas. This charming little town is great for afternoon strolls, quaint cafes and admiring the historical church, Parraoquia de San Sebastian.
Plaza de Rosario is also a lovely plaza just in front of the church, perfect for watching life go by and looking at the interesting metal statues of people (when we first arrived we thought there were lots of people standing still!).
21. Cueva de Cuatro Puertas (Cave of Four Doors)
Step back into ancient times and witness how life used to exist in Gran Canaria by visiting the Cueva de Cuatro Puertas. These well-preserved caves overlook the natural beauty of the surrounding area, offering amazing panoramic views and diverse flora and nearby Barrancos (canyons/ravines).
Admission is free with plenty of information boards dotted around to learn of its rich history. Be sure to make this stop while visiting Gran Canaria! Be sure to check the map at the beginning when you enter, so that you don’t miss anything exciting!
22. Diverse Botanical Gardens
As you can imagine, Gran Canaria has a diverse landscape offering unique plants and vegetation to grow on this adventurous island. As well as seeing all of the wild cacti and flora growing around the island, why not pay a visit to one of Gran Canaria’s beautifully kept botanical gardens?
We visited Jardin Canario and it was fantastic! It felt more like a small National Park with pine forests, Dragon trees, cacti gardens and ponds. It’s a huge botanical garden, you could easily spend hours here observing all of the different plants and wildlife. Dan was mesmerised by the sheer amount of Robins and even a few birds of prey! The entrance is free with plenty of parking.
23. Cenobio de Valerón
Cenobio de Valerón is a complex network of caves dating back to the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, known as the Guanches. Step back into a simpler time where you can witness first-hand how people lived, survived and stored food such as grain in the volcanic rock of this ravine.
This historic site dates back hundreds of years and is well worth the €3 entry.
24. Puerto de Sardina
A sleepy fishing village on the North East coast of Gran Canaria offering diving, black sand beaches and dramatic cliff views tapering off into the distance.
There is ample free parking here and a nice little promenade to walk along to take in the views this small village has to offer. Be sure to walk all the way to the end to see the small shack built into the beach wall!
25. Barranco de Guayadeque
As you follow GC-103 into this luscious green, overgrown Barranco (canyon/ravine) you’ll feel as though you have left Gran Canaria and entered a dense cloud forest.
What’s great about Guayadeque is that you can either adventure on foot or by car, with the winding trails leading you through rock, forest and cacti, or cruise along the smooth road on GC-103 in a car, it’s suited for all travellers.
Along the way, be sure to notice the unique homes built into the cliffside and restaurants nestled into the caves on the Barranco. Tall canyon faces will tower over you as you venture deeper into the gorge.
There’s a neat picnic area to enjoy your packed lunch around the halfway point, where better to eat than in the depths of nature! Come here to enjoy hikes, diverse nature and pure natural beauty!
Best Things to Do in Gran Canaria Overview
So that’s our complete list of the most amazing places to visit in Gran Canaria! The island is really easy to get around and you’ll be able to visit most of these places if you’re spending 7 days on the island. Here’s a quick overview of the things to do in Gran Canaria:
- Explore caves
- Visit banana plantations
- Go hiking
- Swim in natural pools
- Visit charming Canarian towns
- Relax on the beaches of Gran Canaria
Useful tips to Gran Canaria
- Currency – Euro € EUR (compare the currency here)
- Cuisine – Spanish (Tortilla, chorizo, papas arrugadas, gazpacho)
- Apps – Google Maps, SuperDino, Google Translate, GetYourGuide
- Sim cards – Check out Airlo e-sims, the best way to travel!
- Convenience stores – SuperDino, Suma, SPAR, Mercados
- Car rental companies – Autos Moreno, Autos Sansu, CICAR (Find more on Discover Cars)
- Official language – Spanish
Where to stay in Gran Canaria
While exploring Gran Canaria it might be handy to know where to stay. Here are a few recommendations to get you started on where to stay on the island.
We recommend basing yourself in either the North or South of the island, it’s easy to get around using the motorways or bus system from these locations.
Las Palmas – 💤 Hotel Aloe Canteras – Sea view private rooms in the heart of Las Canteras. Being only moments from the beach, you can swim and sunbathe anytime during your stay!
Maspalomas – 💤 Eden Meloneras by TAM Resorts – A tropical getaway only 350m from Maspalomas beach. Did we mention they also have a pool?!
Puerto de Mogan – 💤 Apartamentos LIVVO Puerto de Mogán – Stay in the heart of Little Venice in Puerto de Mogan. Titled the ‘Little Venice’ of Gran Canaria, you are guaranteed to have a romantic getaway here.
When is the best time to visit Gran Canaria?
The great thing about Gran Canaria, and the reason it is so popular with Europeans escaping the winter cold, is that it’s warm and sunny all year round! You can expect to see 18-22 degrees Celsius through the winter months and nearly 30 degrees Celsius in the summer months.
With that said, during our time here between February – April, we consistently saw temperatures 25 degrees Celsius and above. The bottom line is that Gran Canaria is great to visit any time of year!
What not to miss in Gran Canaria?
If you are short on time or only need a few suggestions on what to do in Gran Canaria, here are our top-tier recommendations on what not to miss in Gran Canaria!
- Museo del Plátano (Banana Plantation)
- Roque Nublo
- Barranco de Guayadeque
- Caldera de Bandama
- Puerto de Mogan
- Maspalomas Sand Dunes
Check out more Spain Travel Guides & the Canary Islands:
We hope you found this post useful for researching and planning your trip to Gran Canaria, take a look at our other posts in the Canary Islands below:
- Things To Do In Las Palmas (Itinerary)
- Hiking the Caldera de Bandama in Gran Canaria
- 7 Day Tenerife Itinerary: The Best Road Trip
- 22 Incredible Things to do in Tenerife
- Best Areas To Stay in Tenerife
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