Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the largest city in the Canary Islands and combines beaches, historic architecture and modern city life more successfully than many visitors expect. Located on the northeastern coast of Gran Canaria, the city is often overlooked by tourists heading directly to the southern resorts, yet it contains some of the island’s most interesting cultural and historical attractions.
The historic district of Vegueta forms the oldest part of the city and contains narrow cobbled streets, colonial buildings and shaded plazas dating back to the fifteenth century. This was one of the first major Spanish settlements in the Atlantic and played an important role during the early exploration of the Americas. Christopher Columbus reportedly stopped here during his voyages across the Atlantic, and the Casa de Colón museum explores this connection.
In contrast, the district around Las Canteras Beach feels modern and energetic. The long sandy beach stretches beside restaurants, cafés and hotels and is considered one of the best urban beaches in Europe. A volcanic reef offshore helps protect the bay from strong waves, creating calmer swimming conditions.
Las Palmas also offers excellent shopping, museums, nightlife and a more local Canarian atmosphere than many purpose-built resort towns elsewhere on Gran Canaria. The combination of history, beach life and city culture makes it one of the island’s most varied destinations and an ideal place to experience a different side of Gran Canaria beyond the main tourist resorts.
Official tourism website:
https://www.grancanaria.com – Las Canteras Beach
Google map (City)
The Best Things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Vegueta
Vegueta is the historic district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, reflecting the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Established in the late 15th century, Vegueta features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Canarian buildings, and important landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón. A visit to Vegueta offers a unique insight into the origins of Las Palmas and the opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant past through its well-preserved architecture.
Las Canteras Beach
Las Canteras Beach is a stunning urban shoreline known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and natural reef barrier. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, the beach offers an array of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. With ample amenities and a lively promenade, Las Canteras Beach is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Google map (Las Canteras Beach) 4.7/5
Plaza de Santa Ana
Plaza de Santa Ana is a historic square located in the Vegueta district of the city. The square is surrounded by important buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Cabildo Insular de Gran Canaria. Its charming atmosphere and architectural beauty make Plaza de Santa Ana a must-visit destination in the city.
Google map (Plaza de Santa Ana) 4.6/5
Cathedral of Santa Ana
Cathedral of Santa Ana is a prominent religious landmark situated in the city’s Vegueta district. The cathedral, built between the 15th and 19th centuries, showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Neoclassical, and Baroque. The cathedral’s interior houses important works of art, and visitors can climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
Google map (Catedral de Santa Ana de Canarias) 4.5/5
Casa de Colón
Casa de Colón is a historical museum in the Vegueta district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, dedicated to the life and voyages of Christopher Columbus. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 15th-century building, which is believed to have been visited by Columbus during his travels. Exhibits include navigational instruments, maps, and artwork, providing an engaging insight into the Age of Exploration.
Google map (Casa de Colón) 4.5/5
Museo Canario (Canary Museum)
Museo Canario (Canary Museum) is a cultural institution in the Vegueta district of the city, dedicated to the history, archaeology, and ethnography of the Canary Islands. Established in 1879, the museum boasts an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, offering a comprehensive overview of the indigenous Guanche people and their way of life before the arrival of European settlers.
Google map (Museo Canario) 4.4/5
Poema del Mar Aquarium
Poema del Mar Aquarium is a state-of-the-art marine life center situated near the Parque de Santa Catalina. Opened in 2017, the aquarium features an array of exhibits, showcasing diverse aquatic ecosystems and species, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The facility’s immersive tunnel provides an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to observe marine life up close.
Google map (Poema del Mar Aquarium) 4.6/5
Parque de Santa Catalina
Parque de Santa Catalina is a lively public square located in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The park serves as a central hub for cultural events, such as the city’s annual Carnival celebration, and is surrounded by cafes, shops, and the city’s main bus station. The nearby Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología and Poema del Mar Aquarium make Parque de Santa Catalina an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
Parque Doramas
Parque Doramas is a lush urban park featuring a variety of subtropical plants, fountains, and ornamental ponds. The park’s serene atmosphere provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and offers recreational areas, children’s playgrounds, and the historic Pueblo Canario complex. Parque Doramas is an ideal destination for relaxation and leisurely strolls, showcasing the city’s beautiful flora and fauna.
Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo
Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo is a vast botanical garden situated in the outskirts of the city. Spanning over 27 acres, the garden is home to a diverse collection of indigenous and exotic plant species, including many endemic to the Canary Islands. Established in 1952, the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo serves as a vital center for research, conservation, and education, as well as a tranquil oasis for nature enthusiasts.
Mercado de Vegueta
Mercado de Vegueta is a bustling market located in the historic district of Vegueta in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, fish, and artisanal products, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the Canary Islands. Visitors can sample local delicacies and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, making Mercado de Vegueta a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología
Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología is an interactive science and technology museum situated near Parque de Santa Catalina. The museum features a range of hands-on exhibits and displays, covering topics such as physics, astronomy, and natural history. With engaging activities for all ages, the Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología provides an entertaining and educational experience for visitors.
Auditorio Alfredo Kraus
Auditorio Alfredo Kraus is an iconic concert hall and cultural center located on the waterfront near Las Canteras Beach. Designed by architect Óscar Tusquets, the building’s striking architecture is a symbol of the city’s modernity. The auditorium hosts a variety of events, including concerts, theater performances, and conferences, making it a significant venue for the city’s cultural scene.
Pico de Bandama
Pico de Bandama is a volcanic crater and viewpoint located on the northeastern part of Gran Canaria, just a short drive from Las Palmas. The peak offers panoramic views of the island’s diverse landscapes, including the Bandama Crater, the coast, and the city of Las Palmas. Visitors can explore the area’s unique geology and flora through various hiking trails, making Pico de Bandama an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.