The perfect holiday in Gran Canaria, the Atlantic's year-round island of adventure
With a gilt-edged southern coast, a capital city sculpted by conquests, and a dramatic interior that sets the heart racing both visually and physically, this 'continent in miniature' offers a veritable pick-n-mix of climates, attractions and activities to keep four million or so annual visitors returning year after year.
Relaxation is the number one draw, and there's plenty of that to be had on the sandy beaches and undulating dunes of Gran Canaria 's south, as well as in the picnic and barbecue areas of the mountains, or the sleepy fishing villages of the north.
Of course, there's a faster side to the island too. Clubbers are drawn to the 120-bpm pulse of the island's nightlife in Maspalomas and Las Palmas, while bikers, hikers and others of a more salubrious nature wheel and walk between gorgeous hillside villages like Teror and Tejeda.
For more Gran Canaria inspiration, see our guides to the island's best hotels, restaurants, things to do and beaches.
How to spend your weekend
Day one: morning
Grab a granola bowl and a speciality coffee at the Cool Beans café in Las Palmas's Plaza de Abad then stroll over to the Casa de Colón museum for opening time at 10am. At this hour you'll have plenty of space to yourself to get clued up on the history of the city and find out how Christopher Columbus spent his time in Gran Canaria before he hit the high seas on his voyage of discovery.
Afternoon
Leave time to browse (and taste) the local wines, cheeses and honey at Vegueta Market (closes at 2pm), a tantalising amuse-bouche before a lunch of gourmet Canarian tapas at the excellent Piscos y Buches restaurant within the Mercado de Puerto (port market).
Boost the energy levels after a post-lunch slump with a dip in the Atlantic off the almost two-mile-long Playa de Las Canteras, one of four urban beaches in the capital. After drying off, appreciate the marine life without getting wet at the tremendous Poema del Mar aquarium.
Head out of town for a visit to the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park in Gáldar. Excavations in 1987 revealed a village dating back to the sixth century that housed the original inhabitants of Gran Canaria. The showpiece is a beautifully preserved cave house complete with ancient wall paintings.
Late
For one of the most spectacular sunset views on the island, book a table at the Rooftop & Terrace Aloe bar back in Las Palmas for an aperitif (they do a mean house cocktail – the Aloe Fizz).
Opt for a tasting menu at one of the city's three Michelin-starred restaurants; the trendy Tabaiba and the classically elegant Restaurante Poemas add flamboyant spins to Canarian dishes, while the contemporary Bevir serves up seafood stunners.
For a nightcap, the Dissareli Club is one of the more sophisticated late-night hangouts featuring shishas and comfy seating. It's also conveniently adjacent to Las Palmas Casino if a flutter floats your boat. There are also bars aplenty along the Playa de Las Canteras boardwalk and around Plaza Farray in the Guanarteme district. Aficionados of the amber nectar might want to head to Te lo Dije Pérez with its range of over 250 beers.
There aren't too many nightclubs in the capital, but the two-storey Chester Las Palmas is one of the hottest right now. Bear in mind club life in Gran Canaria doesn't really get going until after midnight, so if you and your partner head out too early you could be the only couple in a two-person rave.
Day two: morning
Drive along the scenic GC-15 road through the interior of the island to the sugar-cube village of Tejeda. Take in the views of the sacred Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga monoliths with a coffee and an artisan almond biscuit or palmera chocolate (chocolate palm tree) from the naughty-but-nice Dulceria Nublo patisserie. After a walk around the historic centre, drive 10 minutes to the Bentayga Interpretation Centre to learn more about this hallowed area.
Take a detour (and a jumper) through the pine forest to the Picos de las Nieves, the second highest point on the island at 1,949 metres (6,394ft). On a clear day you can see Mount Teide poking above Tenerife.
Afternoon
Head south to Fataga in the 'Valley of a Thousand Palms', another traditional hillside hamlet with narrow lanes, stupendous views and a handful of shops selling crafts, jars of homemade marmalade, and aloe vera.
Visit the cave hamlet within the Guayadeque Ravine, then onto the Maspalomas Dunes, a 1,000-acre area of constantly shifting sands, palms and ponds that form the southern tip of the island. Take a dip in the ocean or hop on a camel for a lollop through the sand before wetting your whistle at one of the promenade bars. For lunch, try the award-winning tuna tacos at El Senador beach bar next to the 19th-century lighthouse.
Late
Explore the beach and harbour town of Puerto de Mogán, arguably the island's prettiest and classiest resort area. In what is known as 'Little Venice', wooden bridges span narrow canals, while bougainvillea arches over the walkways and weaves mauve threads through the balconies of colourful waterfront houses. Here, families huddle around the menus of quayside eateries as yachts and excursion boats jingle in the modern marina.
Spot whales and dolphins on a sunset boat cruise from Puerto de Mogán or Puerto Rico harbour, then bag yourself a waterfront table for fresh seafood at locals' favourite La Cofradia de Pescadores or share the renowned paella at Patio Canario.
If you're up for pushing the boat out further, you can party till late at Café del Mar or Chester Meloneras, or hit the late bars and gay haunts of the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas.
How to get there and how to get around
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is served by a whole host of airlines including British Airways, Jet2, Ryanair and EasyJet. All offer direct flights from most major UK hubs. The airport is a 20-minute drive from the capital, Las Palmas. Taxis are widely available, but for exploring the island, hiring a car is recommended. The island is also well-connected by buses if driving on the right fills you with dread.
When to go
Gran Canaria has two peak seasons – December to February, thanks to north Europeans fleeing the cold; summer when the sun worshippers and nightlife crowds arrive in July and August.
Prices start decreasing in March and April, and the ocean remains warm during the early autumn months of September and October, when many local festivals take place.
May and June are best for bargains and more elbow room. This is when the interior is at its prettiest and most floral, so great for hikers.
Get to know the destination
Las Palmas and the north: the capital does all that capitals are meant to do, plus some. Yes, you get the culture, the history and the major shopping areas, but you can also take advantage of one of the nicest urban beaches in Europe.
The interior: like a cosy mystery, the island's interior entices with the drama of cave homes and canyonesque scenery, the mysteries of ancient monuments, and the picturesque settings of hillside hamlets.
The south: Gran Canaria's pop star of beach resorts, including – from east to west – Maspalomas for beach buffs, Arguineguin for that local vibe, brash Puerto Rico, and stylish Puerto de Mogán.
Where to stay
Luxury living
A gentle colonial elegance rules Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia, a verdant oasis of sophistication in Maspalomas. Handsome gardens surround a saltwater pool and a serene spa and massage area caters for those seeking hands-on indulgence. The food is as spectacular as the flora while exquisite rooms in two-storey villas ooze tropical refinement.
Designer digs
Bohemia Suites & Spa is a trendy property overlooking Playa de Inglés beach is a beacon of boutique amongst a swathe of more traditional hotels. The jazzy striped exterior is just a hint of the hip that lies within, where rich purples and reds rule from the basement spa to the rooftop restaurant. Think cool, contemporary and very, very friendly.
Budget bolthole
If you've ever been to Scotland, you'll understand there's a trade off for all that natural beauty – rain. Much like one of the wettest areas of Gran Canaria, Vega de San Mateo, which is also home to one of Gran Canaria's original boutique hotels, Hotel Rural Las Calas.
Know before you go
British Embassy/Consulate: C Luis Morote 6, Las Palmas; 0034 928 262508
Tourist office: Calle León y Castillo 17, Las Palmas; grancanaria.com
Emergency services: 112
Currency: Euro (€)
Telephone code from abroad: +34
Time difference: GMT+0
Travel time from London: approximately 4.5 hours by plane
Local laws and etiquette: dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Don't drive in flip-flops.
Accessibility: Gran Canaria is very accessible, with many hotels and attractions offering facilities for travellers with disabilities.
About our expert
Author and travel writer Joe Cawley lives in the Canarian hills with his family and other wildlife. He moved there from Bolton in 1991, when, for want of anything else to do, he bought a bar and restaurant before becoming a full-time author and travel writer. He loses no sleep over this.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Inside Georgia Kousoulou and Tommy Mallet's lavish wedding in Majorca as couple say 'I do' with their 'dream' ceremony
Georgia Kousoulou and Tommy Mallet spared no expense for their 'dream' second wedding in sun-drenched Majorca, Spain, on Friday. The couple and their friends shared a first look at their picture-perfect day on Instagram, with Georgia dazzling in a breathtaking white gown and Tommy cutting a stylish figure in a tailored beige suit. They wrote: '20.06.2025. Our Dream wedding finally happened... 'Best day of our lives. Surrounded by so much love. Can not wait to get all of our pictures & videos back to show you how incredible it was.' With sun-soaked backdrops, designer touches and a guest list full of familiar faces, the celebration oozed glamour – and fans won't have to miss out, as the couple teased: '& you'll be able to watch it all.' To top it all off, the big day fell on Georgia's birthday, making the luxurious celebration all the more unforgettable. The couple were joined by their adorable children, Brody, four, and Gigi, just seven months, as they celebrated their big day surrounded by loved ones. TOWIE stars Chloe Ross, Sam Mucklow, and Danielle Armstrong were also among those on the star-studded guest list. Wedding guests including Shelby Tribble took to Instagram to share photographs from the special day as they gave an insight into the party. She shared photos of the extravagant outdoor dinner setup, revealing a sprawling U-shaped table draped in crisp white linens and adorned with an array of pink-hued flowers in varying shades. Adding to the luxury, several chandeliers hung overhead the table, creating a breathtaking canopy of glamour. She also posted a snap of their wedding 'newspaper', which featured a glamorous photo of the couple on the front page. Adding a playful touch, each guest received a 'But Did You Die?' recovery kit - the perfect remedy for any sore heads the morning after the lavish celebrations. The newlyweds certainly pulled out all the stops for the special day and also provided guests with small bottles reading: 'We've tied the knot so take a shot!' Shelby also shared a gorgeous snap of her posing alongside bride Georgia as well as photographs of her posing with her partner Sam Mucklow. She looked as glamorous as ever in a frilled blue dress while Sam looked suave in a sand suit as they soaked up the sun on the big day. Cara De La Hoyde also posted a sweet video of herself and her husband Nathan Massey cuddling up to one another as they celebrated their friends' union. For the day, Cara cut a glamorous figure in a show-stopping yellow sequin gown with a plunging back design, while Nathan looked suave in a grey suit. Taking to Instagram, she penned in a caption: 'The most beautiful day to celebrate the most beautiful couple. ThankYou & for letting us be part of it.' Georgia stressed that the wedding was very much the product of her own imagination and her husband had minimal involvement. She told OK!: 'I ask him for his opinions, but honestly, I don't want him to get involved. It's my thing. I want him to be shocked, like, 'Wow, this is amazing!''. The couple's first official wedding in December 2023 was a much more low-key affair and ended with a humble Chinese takeaway. Georgia told The Sun about the nuptials at the time: 'We came back to mine and had a Chinese. It was unreal. It is so me and Tommy. 'I literally got back, got my PJs on straight away and we had a Chinese. 'The best bit about it was that we hired tables. So we had a top table…And we all just stuffed our faces with Chinese … it was actually brilliant. So good.' Ahead of her second wedding, Georgia enjoyed a wild, fun-filled hen party in Ibiza at Wayne Lineker's O Club. The star poked fun at the end of her single days by having her and her girlfriends dress in black. The star was joined by longtime pals including Amber Dowding and Lydia Bright as they got into the partying spirit at the celebrity hotspot. The happy couple's romance first blossomed in 2014 when Tommy became a TOWIE cast member. Georgia and Tommy met a few months before filming TOWIE at the gym, with Tommy experiencing an instant attraction to his now wife. After going from strength to strength over the next six years, they revealed they were expecting their first child in December 2020. Tommy wrote at the time that his life felt 'complete' and they went on to welcome a son, Brody Fordham, in May 2021. Then, in 2022, Tommy finally popped the question in Mexico, preparing a lavish beach surprise with rose petals and candles. The couple, who famously enjoyed an early date at a pie and mash shop, announced that they were engaged in February of that year before making it official the following December. Their family then grew to four when they welcomed their second child, a baby girl, Gigi Fordham, in November 2024. Gigi's birth came after they bravely opened up about experiencing a miscarriage and undergoing IVF as they attempted to grow their family.
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Lioness captain Leah Williamson warms up for the Euros by jetting off on sunshine break to Majorca with former Miss USA
She will be leading the Lionesses at the Euros in three weeks but Leah Williamson has made the most of her summer by jetting off to Majorca with close friend, and former Miss USA, Elle Smith. The two women beamed as they soaked up the sun, went paddle boarding and dined out at high-end restaurants after growing close in recent months. Ms Williamson and Ms Smith have been sharing photographs of one another – including one where they celebrated the England star's Champions League win with Arsenal three weeks ago. Since then, Ms Smith, 26, has also posted on her TikTok, showing them doing various challenges and showing off their holiday outfits. Ms Williamson also posted snaps from their trip in which her pal commented: 'Same time next year?' to which Ms Williamson replied: 'Yes.' Although it's unclear how they were introduced, they seem to have known each other for some months as Ms Smith posted a video of Ms Williamson's 28th birthday on March 29 saying 'Happy Birthday my love x'. It showed them floating on a platform in the sea on another holiday. Ms Smith is based in New York City and London and is signed to the Wilhelmina Models agency. With over seven million views on TikTok and 122,000 followers on Instagram, she has worked with brands including Kim Kardashian's Skims, Adidas and Sol De Janeiro. Elle Smith struts down the catwalk during the Adore Me fashion show at New York Fashion Week last year Williamson. pictured in action here for England against Portugal in May 2025, played a major part in England's Euro 2022 success but was devastated when she ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament during a match in April 2023 She studied journalism at the University of Kentucky College and in 2021 was crowned Miss USA, going on to represent the US at Miss Universe 2021, where she was placed in the top ten. Ms Williamson played a major part in England's Euro 2022 success but was devastated when she ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament during a match in April 2023. It ruled her out of the World Cup that summer where the Lionesses reached the final, only to lose to Spain. But she is back to lead the team when it plays its first game in the tournament against France in Switzerland on July 5.
Daily Mail
4 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Pictured: Conor McGregor gets frisky with partner Dee Devlin as UFC star sports bruised eye in first sighting since horror Ibiza nightclub attack
Conor McGregor has been seen for the first time since flooring a party goer at the infamous Pacha nightclub in Ibiza on Tuesday morning. The disgraced fighter was seen hitting the reveller on the Spanish party island as he boozed until the early hours. McGregor, 36, was seen in conversation with a man before putting his arm around his shoulders and lashing out on the dance floor at 5:53am as music continued to loudly blare. He could be seen speaking to the man for a few seconds before hitting him with his left hand while holding a glass of alcohol in his right. McGregor, a former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion, then landed another blow just seconds later to leave the reveller on the floor. The Irishman, who was wearing tight white pants and a black and white shirt, has not fought since 2021 and was protected from his victim by his entourage after flooring him. Now, he has been seen relaxing with fiance Dee Devlin on a yacht in Ibiza - but appearing to don a marked eye. McGregor kisses the mother of his children during a getaway on a yacht in Ibiza The former UFC star and political hopeful made headlines when he knocked out a partygoer McGregor was seen shirtless but appearing to have a mark by his left eye MCGregor and Devlin got engaged in August 2020, with the MMA star proposing while he celebrated his 32rd birthday in the south of France. They have been together since 2008. And, this week, their love was on full display as the Irishman was seen grabbing his fiance and kissing her neck. They also shared a kiss and danced in the marina, with a shirtless McGregor appearing to have a red mark on his face following the midweek incident. McGregor was then reportedly allowed to continue partying while the man punched by him was booted out of the venue. One party-goer told The Sun: 'Clearly something's been said to annoy him and he's reacted very badly. 'The guy seemed to fall to the floor, and his mates came to pick him up and get him away. 'There [didn't appear to be any] consequences for Conor, but the guy he punched was taken away and I didn't see him again.' The violent scrap came just hours after McGregor was seen partying with Katie Price at Wayne Lineker's famous O Beach club. McGregor sported red shorts, a cap and sun glasses while puffing on a cigar and playing up to the crowds at a wild day time party. Price shared a picture of the pair on her Instagram page with the caption: 'You legend,' after McGregor tagged her in his own story and said: 'Forever'. Tottenham defender Kevin Danso also posted a picture with the former fighter on his Instagram. Lineker, meanwhile, expressed his disappointment with McGregor over the incident, having revealed the identity of the man involved - someone called Joe Gomez. He wrote: 'This is my very close friend who has worked at Ocean for eight years, he has the most special heart and in all of the years that I've known him he has never raised his voice once. 'He took two punches from Conor McGregor in Pacha for absolutely no reason. 'Let me introduce you to Joe Gooomez (sic). He took the punches like a champion.' He continued: 'I've since deleted my post of Conor at Ocean on Sunday. To say I'm disappointed is an understatement. 'We at Ocean Beach Ibiza will always put our family first #wearefamily.'
