Narrowing down the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria isn’t easy. Like all of the Canary Islands, it’s 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. The island’s 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 on offer for thrill-seekers.
No matter how you like to relax, everyone can plan their perfect Gran Canaria holiday. Many attractions are easily accessible by car from Gran Canaria’s capital, Las Palmas, making it easy to explore the island on day trips. Ready to explore? Pick up your car at SIXT’s Gran Canaria airport branch, and head off on a Canary Islands road trip in no time!
1. Relax on some famous beaches
The island’s pristine beaches would make it onto any list of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria. They’re often located just steps from major towns, so there’s plenty to do and see nearby. For example, Playa de Las Canteras separates Gran Canaria’s 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.
Playa de Maspalomas
One of Gran Canaria’s most iconic beaches is also one of its finest natural wonders: the Playa de Maspalomas and the adjoining Maspalomas Dunes. The dunes themselves stretch across 1,000 acres, with five miles of walking trails where you can take in the area’s 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.
Handily, SIXT’s Gran Canaria Meloneras branch is very close to the beach, so you could easily pick up your car rental here to continue your journey.
Playa del Inglés
Playa de Maspalomas sits on one side of the Maspalomas Dunes and on the other you’ll find the popular Playa del Inglés. This beach is a particular favourite with families, boasting calm waters near some of Maspalomas’ best resorts. If you head further north, towards the iconic Maspalomas lighthouse, you’ll encounter wilder surf and some well-known nudist areas.
2. Travel back in time at Roque Nublo
Roque Nublo, or ‘Cloud Rock’, 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. Found in the heart of Gran Canaria, the closest trailhead with parking is Degollada de La Goleta.
Only a car will get you there, so jump in your car hire in Gran Canaria from SIXT’s Las Palmas branch and take the scenic GC-600 road up the mountains. Degollada de La Goleta is a stunning lookout point in its own right, but make your way to Roque Nublo – it takes roughly an hour – and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable 360-degree views of the island’s sloping mountains.
3. Adventure-seekers ahoy: rock climbing in Tamadaba
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. Plus, you can find climbing programs with friendly guides that can tailor the program to your skill level and preferences.
The park is around a 90 minute drive from Maspalomas, and you can camp nearby – you just need to get permission using these contact details around a week in advance.
4. Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal in Las Palmas
A list of the top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria wouldn’t be complete without an excellent meal. If you love flavour-packed, creative cuisine, consider making a booking at one of Gran Canaria’s Michelin-starred restaurants while you’re in Las Palmas. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer.
Poemas by Hermanos Padrón
If you happen to be staying in the historic Santa Catalina Hotel, you need to pay a visit to Poemas by Hermanos Padrón, which serves up local cuisine with a delicate touch. The tasting menus are the perfect way to immerse yourself in this curated culinary experience, where you’ll 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’s list of things to do in Gran Canaria.
Tabaiba
Another must-visit spot, Tabaiba is located just steps from Las Canteras beach. Here, chef Abraham Ortega creates dishes that combine imagination and decadence, 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’ll remember long after you’ve left the island.
5. Uncover history and culture at Teror Old Town and the Basilica
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. Window shop along La Real or head out to the Finca de Osorio park. One of the main attractions is the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, otherwise known as Our Lady of the Pine. Its picturesque white exterior, silhouetted against the backdrop of rolling green hills, opens into an interior full of intricate displays and decorations. If you’re interested in similar towns on Spain’s mainland, our guide to the top five historic small towns in Spain will show you the way.
Enjoy a local market
On weekends, Teror’s main square near the Basilica fills with vendors selling artisanal handicrafts, chorizo (not the sausage, the chorizo of the Canary Islands is a type of spicy pork spread) and fresh produce. Don’t forget to visit the Císter convent for the town’s signature shortbread and marzipan delicacies.
6. Discover Macaronesian plant life at Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo
The Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo 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 to the bamboo of the Hidden Garden, you’ll be able to spot plenty of interesting plants. Whether you’re an avid botanist or just want to immerse yourself in nature, a relaxed walk along the paths and over the bridges of Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo is the perfect way to spend a few hours in Gran Canaria.
7. Uncover ancient history at the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park
Drive up to Galdar in north Gran Canaria and visit Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park for an up-close look at Gran Canaria’s 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. 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.
8. Wander around Vegueta Old Town in Las Palmas
A visit to Las Palmas tends to make it onto most people’s lists of things to do in Gran Canaria – just make sure you don’t miss its charming historic quarter, which has plenty of cobbled streets to get lost down. There are also a number of historic squares, interesting buildings and a week-long market to explore. Keep an eye out for the colourful exterior of the Atlantic Centre of Modern Art (CAAM), a free gallery that hosts contemporary art from Africa, America and Europe.
9. The Gothic beauty of Cathedral Santa Ana
Overlooking Vegueta is the Cathedral of Santa Ana, otherwise known as the Las Palmas Cathedral. 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.
10. There’s something for everyone at the Guayadeque Ravine
The Guayadeque Ravine stretches just over nine miles between Inguenio and Agüimes 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’t want to miss the valley’s blooming native plants, 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 Canarian meal in a cave restaurant.
Hiking enthusiasts are also in for a treat, with multiple marked trails to explore in the valley. Be sure to check in at the visitors centre for all the best information on the ravine’s historic sites. And of course, always remember to leave the trails as you found them.
If you’re interested in more ecotourism in Spain and the Canary Islands, we’ve got you covered. Just don’t forget to brush up on the local road rules with our handy guide to driving in Spain.
