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What to do in Gran Canaria?

4 min read

Gran Canaria is the third largest island in the archipelago in terms of area, with approximately 1,560 square kilometers, and the second most populated, after Tenerife.

Gran Canaria has an almost circular shape with a varied landscape that includes mountains, ravines, beaches, and dunes. The highest peak on the island is Pico de las Nieves, standing at 1,949 meters. The climate diversity is notable, with a predominant subtropical climate in the coastal areas and a cooler climate in the mountainous regions.

During your visit to the island, you can enjoy the beaches of Gran Canaria, which are one of its main tourist attractions. Highlights include Playa de las Canteras in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and the southern beaches such as Maspalomas, known for its impressive sand dunes, and Playa del Inglés, popular among tourists. The southern beaches are usually warmer and sunnier due to their more arid climate.

This island offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From water sports such as surfing and diving to hiking in its mountains and ravines. The island is also known for its vibrant nightlife in places like Meloneras, Puerto Rico, Playa del Inglés, Puerto de Mogán...

What are the main attractions of Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria is a very popular tourist destination due to its diverse landscapes and activities. Here is a list of the most touristic places and activities or excursions you can do on the island with the help of GetYourGuide:

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Playa de Las Canteras:

Known for being one of the most urban and famous beaches in Spain, where you can enjoy the sun and good weather all year round. You can stroll along its long promenade with over 3 kilometers filled with restaurants and bars of various kinds.

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Vegueta:

In its squares, you will find historic buildings such as the Casa de Colón, the Santa Ana Cathedral, the Canarian Museum, the Literary Cabinet, the City Hall, and the Atlantic Center of Modern Art. The wide commercial offer of the old town extends next to the Market, built in 1856, and along the commercial street of Triana.

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Alfredo Kraus Auditorium:

The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium is one of the most emblematic buildings in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Inaugurated in 1997 and designed by architect Óscar Tusquets, this auditorium has become a cultural and architectural reference on the island.

Maspalomas

Dunes of Maspalomas:

The Dunes of Maspalomas are a unique natural space in the Canary Islands. Protected by the Government of the Canary Islands as a natural reserve, its 400 hectares include an excellent beach, a field of living organic sand dunes, a palm forest, and a saltwater lagoon. The Dunes of Maspalomas are located on the southernmost coast of Gran Canaria and are surrounded by the famous hotel establishments of the large tourist area of Maspalomas.

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Maspalomas Lighthouse:

The Maspalomas Lighthouse is one of the most iconic monuments in Gran Canaria and a prominent tourist attraction in southern Gran Canaria. Construction of the lighthouse began in 1886 and was completed in 1890. It was designed by engineer Juan de León y Castillo. The lighthouse was built to serve as a guide for ships navigating the Atlantic waters near Gran Canaria. Guided tours are available to learn about the lighthouse's history and its role in maritime navigation.

Aqualand Maspalomas:

Located in the south of Gran Canaria, this water park spans over 90,000 square meters and features more than a dozen attractions and nearly 33 slides. It's perfect for groups of friends or families with children. For nature and animal lovers, there's the opportunity to swim with sea lions.

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Playa del Inglés

Gran Canaria is one of the most important LGTBI destinations in the world. A free and tolerant environment that hundreds of thousands of tourists visit each year to enjoy.

Yumbo Centrum

In Maspalomas, you will find Yumbo Centrum, the most famous LGTBI center in the Canary Islands, where you can find activities, nightclubs, accommodations, and other options.

During the day, it is a calm place, with an atmosphere suitable for all audiences, but at night this center transforms into an attraction for the LGTBI community with more than 20 nightclubs and pubs where you can enjoy Drag Queen shows, irreverent, innovative, and fun performances.