Things to Do in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean that really stands out for its huge variety of landscapes within a relatively small area. Its mild climate all year round and the excellent preservation of its natural spaces make it one of the best destinations to travel to in Spain.

On the island, you’ll find golden sandy beaches, mysterious ravines, charming villages and mountainous areas that rise to almost two thousand metres above sea level. This mix is exactly why Gran Canaria is often described as a miniature continent.

1. Dunas de Maspalomas

Covering more than four hundred hectares, the Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas is one of the most beautiful places to see in Gran Canaria.

It’s made up of a vast stretch of sand dunes, rich vegetation and a lagoon of water that locals affectionately call “La Charca”.

Step inside and explore — always sticking to the marked paths — one of the most visited spots in Gran Canaria with this camel ride excursion.

2. Roque Nublo

Located right in the centre of the island, within the Parque Rural del Nublo, Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga are two of the absolute must-see places in Gran Canaria. From here, especially at sunset, you can witness a stunning natural phenomenon known as the “sea of clouds”.

If you don’t want to miss it, add this day trip to Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo to your list of things to do in Gran Canaria.

3. Vegueta

With the old town hall buildings at one end and the impressive cathedral at the other, the Vegueta district is one of the must-see areas in Gran Canaria.

This is where the capital was born and began to grow, and you can still feel that history in every street today. Discover it with this free walking tour, which will take you back in time.

Without a doubt, wandering through its streets and getting to know the history of the island more deeply is a real treat.

4. Playa de Las Canteras

Staying in the capital and looking for a beach close by? Stretching for around three kilometres and covered in golden sand, Las Canteras is considered one of the best beaches in Europe.

It’s a huge source of pride for the people of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Along the seafront promenade, you’ll find parking areas, bars and plenty of restaurants where you can stop for a meal or a drink.

5. Barranco de Guayadeque

With over five hundred years of history, the Barranco de Guayadeque is one of the most spectacular places to explore inland in Gran Canaria.

It’s famous for its inhabited caves and its curious restaurants carved into the rock, which once served as homes and burial sites for the island’s first inhabitants.

Without a doubt, this is one of the places where you’ll eat best in Gran Canaria, all surrounded by an exceptional natural setting.

6. Puerto de Mogán

Nicknamed the “Little Venice”, Puerto de Mogán, in the south of Gran Canaria, is one of those places you simply can’t leave off your itinerary.

Its unique, colourful architecture, along with the boats resting in the marina, creates a picture-perfect scene of beautifully kept houses and charming canals.

Here you can snap one of the most beautiful postcards in Gran Canaria or dive into its underwater world.

7. El Pico de las Nieves

Did you know that Pico de las Nieves, at over 1,949 metres, is the highest point on the island of Gran Canaria?

Its name comes from the old snow wells where locals once stored blocks of ice, which were later transported down to the capital.

If the weather is clear, you’ll be able to spot Teide in the distance on this sunset excursion.

8. Agaete

Located in the north of the island, Agaete is a charming seaside village, known for its elegant rows of whitewashed houses.
Close to the village, you’ll find the Charco Azul, the Tamadaba Natural Park and the famous natural swimming pools that share its name.

9. Caldera de Bandama

Love hiking? Then you really shouldn’t miss the Caldera de Bandama, which you can reach via well-marked walking trails.

With a depth of over 220 metres, the Caldera de Bandama is a stunning volcanic crater offering panoramic views over the north-eastern part of Gran Canaria.

This stop will help you understand the volcanic origins of the island. Without a doubt, it’s another of the absolute must-see places in Gran Canaria.

10. Arucas

Arucas is best known for its impressive Parish Church of San Juan Bautista, a striking neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece built from local stone by craftsmen from the area.

Arucas is also famous for being home to the historic Arehucas rum distillery and museum, founded in 1884 and a true symbol of the Canary Islands. Just one more great reason to add it to your list of things to do in Gran Canaria.

Map of Places and Things to Do in Gran Canaria

In conclusion

Visiting Gran Canaria means discovering an island where almost any place — even the most spontaneous stop — turns into a postcard-worthy memory.

The legacy of its first inhabitants, together with the cultural mix the island has absorbed over the centuries, is still very much alive in everyday life.

Gran Canaria is so much more than relaxation, resorts and beaches. It’s the perfect blend of nature and great weather, all within a short distance. So take it at your own pace and discover the best of each area with this Top 10 things to do in Gran Canaria.