Dune landscape by hotel, with mountains and sea in the sunrise behind.

Gran Canaria

Published: 05 April 2023, 17:30

Holiday, sun, sea

As the third largest Canary Island, Gran Canaria has a coastline of around 235 kilometres, therefore offering plenty of extensive sandy beaches – perfect for a beach holiday combined with water sports. However, the island, which is located about 200 kilometres west off the southern coast of Morocco, has much more to offer than just water fun: picturesque villages, grand volcanic landscapes as well as impressive cliffs, nature parks and dense forests.

Like all the other Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is also of volcanic origin. Therefore, it’s often referred to as an island of fire and water. Interesting volcanic cones are waiting to be discovered, especially in the hinterland of the capital Las Palmas. Like its sister islands in the archipelago, Gran Canaria is a year-round destination thanks to its pleasantly mild climate.

Numbers, Data, Facts

Time difference: - one hour
Population: 855.000
Official Language: Spanish
Currency: Euro

Gran Canaria’s highlights from north to south

Colorful hillside houses in Las Palmas with narrow alleys and churches.

Welcome to Las Palmas: the north of the island is the location of the enchanting capital with its colourful houses, narrow streets and pretty churches. © mimmi / AdobeStock

Valley in Santa Brígida with fruit trees, vineyards, and dragon trees.

The north of the island is green and fertile: the municipality of Santa Brígida is located in a valley with fruit trees, vineyards and ancient Dracaena trees. © Tupungato / AdobeStock

Neo-Gothic church made of volcanic stone in the town of Arucas, north of the island.

Also located in the north: the pretty town of Arucas is known for its neo-Gothic church, which is built from volcanic stone. © Balate Dorin / AdobeStock

The picturesque mountain village of Tejeda – awarded the title of “one of the most beautiful villages in Spain” – is located at the heart of the island. © Leslie Photographic / AdobeStock

Picturesque mountain village Tejeda with houses on green slopes.

At 1,949 metres, “Pico de las Nieves” (peak of the snows) is the highest mountain on Gran Canaria and offers a breathtaking view of the volcanic island. © inigolaitxu / AdobeStock

Mountain village Santa Lucia de Tirajana with houses and hiking trails in the east.

The east of the island is home to the mountain village of Santa Lucia de Tirajana – an ideal starting point for hikes through the mountains. © Iryna Shpulak / AdobeStock

Playa del Inglés with fine golden sand in the island’s south.

Pure sunbathing and swimming fun! Located in the south of the island, Playa de Ingles, with its fine, golden sand is one of the best beaches. © Kalin Eftimov / AdobeStock

Rolling dunes of Maspalomas with vast sandscape under blue sky.

Sand as far as the eye can see: the shifting sand dunes of Maspalomas are one of the most popular destinations on Gran Canaria. © Valery Bareta / AdobeStock

Playa de Agaete with black lava sand and sea view.

The west coast stands out thanks to its black lava sand: Playa de Agaete is a great place for snorkelling and watching the sun go down. © Elena Krivorotova / AdobeStock

Las Palmas

When it comes to holiday islands, capitals are often just a place to arrive and move on. It’s different in Gran Canaria. It’s well worth staying in Las Palmas as it’s a good mix of lively city life and gorgeous beaches. The capital even has one of the most beautiful sandy beaches: the golden, kilometre-long Playa Las Canteras. Las Palmas has plenty to offer: a picturesque old town, charming art nouveau buildings and exciting museums. A special highlight is the annual carnival, which transforms the city into a colourful dream world at the beginning of each year. Night owls will be in their element in Las Palmas and not only during carnival.

Excursion tips for Gran Canaria

Playa Las Canteras with golden sandy beach in Las Palmas.

The golden sandy beach of Las Palmas: Playa Las Canteras is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. © katatonia / AdobeStock

Picturesque alleys with historic buildings in Vegueta old town.

Picturesque narrow streets and pretty buildings: the old town of Vegueta is a great place to take a stroll. © Dieter Meyer / AdobeStock

Old town market hall with fresh fruit and vegetables at colorful stalls.

What a feast for the eyes: stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables at the old town’s market hall. © rudiernst / AdobeStock

15th-century Castillo de la Luz fortress in Las Palmas.

Originally a defensive structure, now a museum: built in the 15th-century, Castillo de la Luz is another of the island capital’s highlights. © crazydave1983 / AdobeStock