{"id":4107,"date":"2024-07-24T09:17:35","date_gmt":"2024-07-24T09:17:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sixt.co.uk\/magazine\/?p=4107"},"modified":"2025-03-17T15:22:36","modified_gmt":"2025-03-17T15:22:36","slug":"top-10-things-to-do-in-gran-canaria","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sixt.co.uk\/magazine\/tips\/top-10-things-to-do-in-gran-canaria\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Narrowing down the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria isn\u2019t easy. Like all of the Canary Islands, it\u2019s packed with stunning natural wonders, vibrant culture and culinary delights<\/strong>. Explore unique historic quarters or hike through scenic landscapes before ending the day at a Michelin-starred restaurant. The island\u2019s beaches come with sun loungers for those looking to chill out and soak up some rays, plus there are plenty of fun activities like surfing or diving<\/strong> on offer for thrill-seekers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No matter how you like to relax, everyone can plan their perfect Gran Canaria holiday. Many attractions are easily accessible by car<\/strong> from Gran Canaria\u2019s capital, Las Palmas, making it easy to explore the island on day trips. Ready to explore? Pick up your car at SIXT\u2019s Gran Canaria airport branch<\/a>, and head off on a Canary Islands road trip in no time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Relax on some famous beaches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The island\u2019s pristine beaches would make it onto any list of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria. They\u2019re often located just steps from major towns, so there\u2019s plenty to do and see nearby. For example, Playa de Las Canteras<\/strong> separates Gran Canaria\u2019s capital, Las Palmas, from the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can rent a sunbed and simply relax, or try your hand at one of the many activities on offer, like volleyball or surfing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Playa de Maspalomas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of Gran Canaria\u2019s most iconic beaches is also one of its finest natural wonders: the Playa de Maspalomas and the adjoining Maspalomas Dunes<\/strong>. The dunes themselves stretch across 1,000 acres, with five miles of walking trails where you can take in the area\u2019s natural beauty. After your walk, head down to the water and grab a sunbed on Playa de Maspalomas. The water here is usually calm and the spectacular sunsets are not to be missed. Parking at the beach is limited, so try to arrive early if you want to grab a spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Handily, SIXT\u2019s Gran Canaria Meloneras branch<\/a> is very close to the beach, so you could easily pick up your car rental here to continue your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Playa del Ingl\u00e9s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Playa de Maspalomas sits on one side of the Maspalomas Dunes and on the other you\u2019ll find the popular Playa del Ingl\u00e9s. This beach is a particular favourite with families, boasting calm waters near some of Maspalomas\u2019 best resorts<\/strong>. If you head further north, towards the iconic Maspalomas lighthouse, you\u2019ll encounter wilder surf and some well-known nudist areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Travel back in time at Roque Nublo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Roque Nublo, or \u2018Cloud Rock\u2019, is one of the most popular sights on the Canary Islands, and is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria. Roughly 4.5 million years old and soaring 80 metres high, it sits 1,813 metres above sea level, making it the third highest point on the island<\/strong>. Found in the heart of Gran Canaria, the closest trailhead with parking is Degollada de La Goleta<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Only a car will get you there, so jump in your car hire in Gran Canaria from SIXT\u2019s Las Palmas branch<\/a> and take the scenic GC-600 road up the mountains<\/strong>. Degollada de La Goleta is a stunning lookout point in its own right, but make your way to Roque Nublo \u2013 it takes roughly an hour \u2013 and you\u2019ll be rewarded with unforgettable 360-degree views of the island\u2019s sloping mountains<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Adventure-seekers ahoy: rock climbing in Tamadaba<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock climbing in Gran Canaria is a must for active travellers. There are plenty of great climbing spots across the island, but Tamadaba Natural Park is the most popular. With a number of medium-difficulty climbing routes, this area is particularly good for more experienced climbers, but there also are a few beginner options<\/strong>. Plus, you can find climbing programs with friendly guides that can tailor the program to your skill level and preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park is around a 90 minute drive from Maspalomas<\/strong>, and you can camp nearby \u2013 you just need to get permission using these contact details<\/a> around a week in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal in Las Palmas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A list of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria wouldn\u2019t be complete without an excellent meal. If you love flavour-packed, creative cuisine, consider making a booking at one of Gran Canaria\u2019s Michelin-starred restaurants while you’re in Las Palmas. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Poemas by Hermanos Padr\u00f3n<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you happen to be staying in the historic Santa Catalina Hotel<\/a>, you need to pay a visit to Poemas by Hermanos Padr\u00f3n<\/a>, which serves up local cuisine with a delicate touch<\/strong>. The tasting menus are the perfect way to immerse yourself in this curated culinary experience, where you\u2019ll get the chance to taste unique dishes like black pudding nougat, roast pigeon, and yeast ice cream with a pork rind praline. No wonder a trip to this restaurant is on everyone\u2019s list of things to do in Gran Canaria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tabaiba<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another must-visit spot, Tabaiba<\/a> is located just steps from Las Canteras beach. Here, chef Abraham Ortega creates dishes that combine imagination and decadence<\/strong>, while staying true to the traditions of Canarian cuisine. Try local produce like the soft Canarian Flor cheese served with caviar or the spiced Mojo sauce served atop fluffy brioche. Each ingredient is carefully sourced to create seasonal dishes that you\u2019ll remember long after you\u2019ve left the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Uncover history and culture at Teror Old Town and the Basilica<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Founded in 1481, Teror is one of the oldest towns in the Canary Islands and is the perfect place to soak up some history and culture, making it one of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria. Leave yourself a few hours just to explore the historic streets here<\/strong>. Window shop along La Real<\/strong> or head out to the Finca de Osorio park<\/strong>. One of the main attractions is the Bas\u00edlica de Nuestra Se\u00f1ora del Pino, otherwise known as Our Lady of the Pine<\/strong>. Its picturesque white exterior, silhouetted against the backdrop of rolling green hills, opens into an interior full of intricate displays and decorations. If you\u2019re interested in similar towns on Spain\u2019s mainland, our guide to the top five historic small towns in Spain<\/a> will show you the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Enjoy a local market<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On weekends, Teror\u2019s main square near the Basilica fills with vendors selling artisanal handicrafts<\/strong>, chorizo (not the sausage, the chorizo of the Canary Islands is a type of spicy pork spread) and fresh produce. Don\u2019t forget to visit the C\u00edster convent for the town\u2019s signature shortbread and marzipan delicacies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Discover Macaronesian plant life at Jard\u00edn Bot\u00e1nico Viera y Clavijo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Jard\u00edn Bot\u00e1nico Viera y Clavijo<\/strong> sprawls across 25 acres of land just outside Las Palmas and is one of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria. Walk along its stone paths and discover hundreds of plant species local to the Canary Islands, nearby regions, and across the world. From Palm Tree Square<\/strong> to the bamboo of the Hidden Garden<\/strong>, you\u2019ll be able to spot plenty of interesting plants. Whether you\u2019re an avid botanist or just want to immerse yourself in nature, a relaxed walk along the paths and over the bridges of Jard\u00edn Bot\u00e1nico Viera y Clavijo<\/strong> is the perfect way to spend a few hours in Gran Canaria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Uncover ancient history at the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Drive up to Galdar in north Gran Canaria<\/strong> and visit Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park for an up-close look at Gran Canaria\u2019s pre-Hispanic history. Walk through an ancient settlement and into the museum, where a glass dome allows you to look at the geometric cave painting discovered in 1862<\/strong>. 3D technology is used to bring the excavated village to life and there are a number of workshops and activities for kids and adults alike to enjoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Wander around Vegueta Old Town in Las Palmas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A visit to Las Palmas<\/strong> tends to make it onto most people\u2019s lists of things to do in Gran Canaria \u2013 just make sure you don\u2019t miss its charming historic quarter<\/strong>, which has plenty of cobbled streets to get lost down. There are also a number of historic squares<\/strong>, interesting buildings and a week-long market<\/strong> to explore. Keep an eye out for the colourful exterior of the Atlantic Centre of Modern Art (CAAM)<\/strong>, a free gallery that hosts contemporary art from Africa, America and Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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9. The Gothic beauty of Cathedral Santa Ana<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Overlooking Vegueta is the Cathedral of Santa Ana, otherwise known as the Las Palmas Cathedral<\/strong>. Constructed in the 16th century, is considered to be the most important local monument. Its Gothic design and dark walls help it stand out amidst the sea of pale yellow and white buildings. The frescos and stained-glass windows alone make it well worth a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. There\u2019s something for everyone at the Guayadeque Ravine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Guayadeque Ravine stretches just over nine miles between Inguenio and Ag\u00fcimes<\/strong> in the southern part of Gran Canaria. History buffs will love visiting the caves and archaeological sites that provide a glimpse into the lives of the island’s early indigenous inhabitants. Nature lovers, meanwhile, won\u2019t want to miss the valley\u2019s blooming native plants<\/strong>, which create a home for reptiles and other animals. While you’re in the area, make sure to leave time for one of the most unique things to do in Gran Canaria: a<\/strong> Canarian meal in a cave restaurant.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking enthusiasts are also in for a treat, with multiple marked trails<\/strong> to explore in the valley. Be sure to check in at the visitors centre<\/a> for all the best information on the ravine\u2019s historic sites<\/strong>. And of course, always remember to leave the trails as you found them. Don\u2019t forget to brush up on the local road rules with our handy guide to driving in Spain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Narrowing down the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria isn\u2019t easy. Like all of the Canary Islands, it\u2019s packed with stunning natural wonders, vibrant culture and culinary delights. Explore unique historic quarters or hike through scenic landscapes before ending the day at a Michelin-starred restaurant. 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