Gran Canaria is often called a continent in miniature, and it is true: in one day you can walk across golden dunes, drive through mountain villages above the clouds and finish with dinner in a real city by the sea. These are the things worth your time.
Quick answer: do not miss the dunes of Maspalomas, the mountains of the centre with Roque Nublo and Tejeda, the old quarter of Vegueta in Las Palmas, the beach of Las Canteras and the harbour of Puerto de Mogán. With more time, visit Agaete, Teror and the Bandama crater.
Top things to do in Gran Canaria at a glance
| What | Where | Time needed |
|---|---|---|
| Roque Nublo and Tejeda | Centre | Half a day to a full day |
| Maspalomas dunes | South | A few hours |
| Vegueta, Las Palmas | North-east | Half a day |
| Las Canteras beach | Las Palmas | A few hours |
| Puerto de Mogán | South-west | Half a day |
| Agaete and its valley | North-west | Half a day |
| Teror and Arucas | North | Half a day |
1. Roque Nublo and the mountains
Roque Nublo is a giant column of volcanic rock standing on a summit in the centre of the island, and the walk to it is one of the most popular short hikes in the Canaries. Nearby, Pico de las Nieves is the highest point of the island, with views across to Teide in Tenerife on clear days.
Local tip: go early. Parking near Roque Nublo is limited and fills up quickly, and access rules can change, so check before you go.
2. Tejeda and the mountain villages
Tejeda is a white village perched on the edge of a huge volcanic basin, with some of the best views on the island. It is known for its almond sweets, including bienmesabe. The drive through the centre, past villages like Artenara and Fataga, is one of the highlights of any trip.
3. The dunes of Maspalomas
A protected nature reserve of golden sand hills that run down to the sea. Walk across them at sunrise or sunset, when the light is softer and the sand is cooler, and stay on the marked paths. Read more in my guide to the best beaches in Gran Canaria.
4. Vegueta, the old quarter of Las Palmas
Vegueta is where Las Palmas was founded, with cobbled streets, colonial houses, the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón museum, linked to Christopher Columbus’s stops on the island. It is lovely for a slow walk and a coffee in one of its squares.
5. Las Canteras
One of the best city beaches in Europe, protected by a natural reef. Swim, snorkel, walk the promenade and watch the sunset with the locals.
6. Puerto de Mogán
A pretty harbour village in the sunny south-west, with white houses covered in flowers, little canals and bridges and a calm beach. It is especially popular on market day, so expect crowds.
7. Agaete and its valley
On the north-west coast, Agaete is a white village by the sea with natural pools, a small harbour and a green valley behind it where coffee, mangoes and other tropical fruit are grown. It is a great place for a long lunch of fresh fish.
8. Teror and Arucas
Teror is one of the most traditional towns on the island, with beautiful wooden balconies and the important Basilica of the Virgen del Pino. Nearby, Arucas has an impressive dark stone church and a historic rum distillery you can visit.
9. Bandama crater
Just outside Las Palmas, the Caldera de Bandama is a huge volcanic crater. You can drive to the viewpoint on the top for views over the crater and the coast, or hike down into it.
10. The sea
Surf at La Cícer in Las Palmas, windsurf at Pozo Izquierdo, snorkel at Sardina del Norte or take a boat trip along the south coast. See my surf guide for more.
Good to know before you go
- Rent a car: the mountains and villages are much easier to explore with your own car. Read my car rental tips.
- The weather changes with altitude: it can be hot on the coast and cool or misty in the mountains, so bring a jacket.
- South vs north: the south is sunnier, the north greener and more local.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Gran Canaria?
A week lets you combine beach days with the mountains and Las Palmas. In four or five days with a car you can see the main highlights.
Is Gran Canaria or Tenerife better?
Both are excellent and similar in variety. Gran Canaria has the dunes and a bigger city; Tenerife has Mount Teide and the Anaga forests. Read my comparison of which Canary Island is best for you.
What is Gran Canaria famous for?
The Maspalomas dunes, year-round sunshine in the south, the mountains around Roque Nublo and the lively city of Las Palmas.
Opening times, prices and access rules change. Check official information before you go.
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