Looking for where to stay in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria is the second most populated island in the Canary Islands, after Tenerife, and is the third-largest island of the Canary Islands.
Between its famous resorts and its amazing diversity of landscapes, Gran Canaria is an increasingly popular destination.
If the majority of foreign visitors base themselves in one of the seaside resorts of the south coast, it is quite possible to find very pleasant places to stay on the rest of the island.
It is possible to spend the week in a hotel club by the sea, to sleep in a youth hostel, or to rent a cottage in the mountains.
In this post, you will be able to find useful information to determine the place that will suit you best depending on the type of stay you want.
10 Best Cities to Stay in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is probably the Canary Island with the greatest variety of landscapes and landforms.
You will be able to enjoy the beach, the dunes, the mountains, discover volcanoes and unique natural landscapes, visit historical and cultural sites, and practice a wide range of activities.
The best place to put your bags will depend on what you want to do during your stay in Gran Canaria. Then you’ll have to choose the type of place you want to stay. Here are the different regions:
- Las Palmas – City center
- The north coast, heritage and nature
- The South, farniente and fiesta
- The center of the island, hiking and authenticity
The island is home to very family-friendly resorts, lively towns by day and night and quieter, more authentic villages.
Also the island of Tenerife is just next door, so if you are staying a few days in the Canaries, why not add it to your program and spend a few days on this equally beautiful island.
Las Palmas
Las Palmas is not only the capital of Gran Canaria, but it is also the city with the most inhabitants of the Canary Islands. It is also one of the 10 largest cities in Spain.
Las Palmas is a place that is at the center of the historical and contemporary culture of the Canary Islands.
Its Hispanic-Canadian, almost South American airs give it a face of a very active metropolis, with multiple influences.
This cosmopolitan capital of the island is known for its cultural richness and breathtaking views.
There is nothing more relaxing than strolling through its baroque Spanish squares and urban beaches.
It is an opportunity to admire beautiful cruise ships, yachts and to see dozens of surfers practicing their favorite sport.
Walking through the streets of Las Palmas, you will find many typical stores, bars and restaurants.
The most important museums of the island are also located here, such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Museo Canario, which exhibits many relics of the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the archipelago.
Don’t miss the famous Las Palmas Carnival where you can watch the election of the queen.
It takes place for a whole month between February and March, until the week of Shrove Tuesday.
Spend a day at the beach, at Las Canteras and at the Alcaravaneras. This municipality is also home to almost 4 km of beaches, including the Paseo de las Canteras, which runs the length of the city.
In the city, you can discover a surprisingly rich historical heritage, especially in the Vegueta neighborhood, a colonial district that houses the Cathedral of Saint Anne and the House of Christopher Columbus.
On the heights of the city, it is the district Las Coloradas which invites you for a small “colored” visit.
Las Palmas can be a great place to stay if you want to discover the history of the island and don’t mind staying in a busy place.
There are plenty of hotels, and you will be able to find a room, whatever your budget.
- Budget: medium to high.
- Highlights : the main port of the island is located here, which makes it an ideal base for visiting the rest of the archipelago.
Lively and close to the beaches, the capital will delight shopping enthusiasts and party people who like to be close to everything.
It is also one of the Canary cities with the richest history, which will not displease heritage lovers. - Weaknesses: there are a lot of tourists and the prices can be quite high.
Agaete – In the North
Less touristy than the Las Palmas area, the north coast offers both typical villages with a rich heritage and long excursions in the heart of a preserved nature.
Agaete is located in the northwest of the island, between the sea and the volcanic cliffs.
Unlike many other destinations in Gran Canaria, it is a quiet place and not very touristy, probably because it only has rocky beaches.
If you want to take advantage of your stay to discover preserved natural sites, Agaete is one of the destinations that could suit you.
In the streets of this traditional village, you will be able to admire the typical white houses and you will find restaurants that offer fresh fish dishes.
There are several green areas in this municipality, such as the Huerto de las Flores Botanical Garden, which houses a wide variety of flowers and tropical plants, and the Tamadaba Natural Park, one of the most preserved places in the archipelago.
In Agaete and its surroundings, you can find hotels or guesthouses where you can enjoy a relaxing stay in the middle of nature, while remaining quite close to the more touristic and lively sites.
Other cities in the north:
In Arucas, you will find the largest banana cultivation center on the north coast, with its Arehucas-labeled rum and its famous bluestone.
Looking for a little more peace and quiet?
Firgas is a small town perched at 1,400 m above sea level: it is famous for its mineral water and its beautiful fountain on the paseo of Gran Canaria, which is worth a visit!
- Budget : medium.
- Strong points : the region has a lot of natural and patrimonial wonders, while remaining less frequented than the South or the capital.
From Puerto de las Nieves, you can easily reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife. - Weaknesses: Traffic is difficult in high season and beaches are rare.
Tejeda – In the center
The center of the island is a concentrate of wild nature and small typical villages.
Tejeda is a small town located in the center of Gran Canaria, about 40 km from Las Palmas.
The town of Tejeda is full of culture and is a testament to Gran Canaria’s generous heritage.
Located in the mountains, it is the perfect place for a rural getaway in the heart of Spain to enjoy the unique scents of nature in its wild state.
If you are planning a cultural trip, Tejeda may be the best choice for a place to stay in Gran Canaria.
There are several natural and archaeological sites nearby, such as Roque Nublo.
Measuring 70 meters high, the Roque Nublo Rock tells of the volcanic eruption that took place in this area during the Pleistocene era; a must see.
There is also the Roque Bentayga or Las Cuevas del Rey, meaning Caves of the King, in Spanish.
A great number of hiking trails pass through this area.
In particular, the caminos reyales begin here, which will allow you to discover spectacular views of the entire region.
The city is also home to several very interesting museums, such as the Bentayga Archaeological Park Museum and the Museum of Traditions.
Among the museums we recommend you visit in Tejeda are the Abraham Carenes Sculpture Museum, the Ethnographic Museum and the Bentayga Ecomuseum or Archaeological Park.
Other cities in the center:
On the east coast, don’t miss Telde, the old Guanche capital of the island, as well as Agüimes, an unknown pearl of the region.
In the heart of the island, unforgettable hikes await you, between peaks and valleys, especially the one to the Pozo de las Nieves.
Further north, you can visit Teror, the religious capital, Vega de San Mateo where one of the biggest markets of the island is held every weekend, and Santa Brígida, famous for its great wines.
The western side of the island is more difficult to access, but it is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Gran Canaria, such as the volcanic lands of the Tamadaba Natural Park.
- Budget : medium.
- Strong points : breathtaking landscapes, numerous hikes to magical viewpoints, all preserved from mass tourism.
Far from the big concrete complexes, you will find a great number of rural casas, in particular near Santa Brígida.
The international airport of Gran Canaria is located on the east coast. - Weaknesses: the region is sometimes deserted and the roads to reach it are very winding. The west coast is particularly difficult to access. So be careful.
San Agustín – In the South
With its succession of seaside resorts, the south of the island is the most popular region for tourists.
You will find long stretches of white sand, restaurants and beach bars, nightclubs: everything for a festive vacation!
We recommend several cities to to stay in the south such as San Augustin. This beach will take you away from the hustle and bustle of Gran Canaria’s usual tourist circuits!
It’s a paradise that takes you to another dimension, full of adventure and the unexpected.
Miles of fine sand, incredible landscapes and sensational views await you in San Augustin.
This is where we recommend you stay during your trip to Gran Canaria!
Like everywhere else on the island, you can practice all kinds of sports, such as jet-skiing or surfing.
If you prefer snorkeling or diving, both activities are available on organized excursions in the open ocean.
In the city center, you can wander through its charming streets and stretch your legs to clear your mind!
For those who love to shop, the San Augustin shopping center is a veritable Ali Baba’s cave where you can find great gift ideas!
- Budget: cheap.
- Strong points : the southern region is ideal for sunny vacations at low prices.
Its seaside resorts, very well equipped, are often accessible in all-inclusive packages at very interesting rates. - Weaknesses: the large number of tourists and the lack of charm of most of the resorts.
Maspalomas – In the South
Maspalomas is the most important seaside resort of Gran Canaria. It is located in the extreme south of the island.
If you want to enjoy the sea and spend your vacations in a lively place with a very festive atmosphere, then Maspalomas is probably the right place to stay.
One of the major attractions of this resort is Playa del Inglès, the largest beach on the island.
Maspalomas offers a wide range of attractions and activities. It is distinguished by one of the most fabulous coasts.
It will seduce you as much by its pleasant climate as by its wide and welcoming beaches as well as by its luxury residences and its starred hotels.
In the area, you can also discover the splendid desert landscapes of the Maspalomas dunes, a protected natural area.
The latter includes several ecosystems, home to many species of birds such as plovers, snipes and herons
In this unique site, you can take a camel ride or sleep in a desert camp.
You will easily find hotels of all types, but as this destination is very popular, booking as early as possible will be even more important if you want to get the best opportunities.
Puerto Rico – In the South
One of the most attractive cities to stay in Gran Canaria is Puerto Rico. It stands out for its advantageous location in the middle of the mountains and its magnificent views.
How would you like to wake up in the ocean? Would you like the first sound you hear to be the waves crashing against the rocks? Look no further, Puerto Rico is the place to be.
This city was built directly on the side of the mountain, at the edge of the water.
Today, many modern buildings are located on this mountain that slopes down to the beach.
Puerto Rico is a family-friendly destination, which is perfect for those who love sea activities.
You will be able to practice diving, surfing, or jet skiing. It is also the best place to go out to sea to see dolphins.
In the downtown area, you’ll find bars and restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, and you’ll also have the opportunity to shop in many boutiques.
If you’re a fan of water activities, you can choose from diving, kayaking, surfing, jet skiing, fishing, and many more!
Take a nice boat ride and enjoy an unparalleled show given exclusively by very touching dolphins.
Discover the surroundings of Puerto Rico by participating in organized hikes in small groups; it’s much more convenient to avoid getting lost!
Puerto de Mogán – In the South
Just west of Puerto Rico is the small resort town of Puerto de Mogán, a former fishing port that now houses a marina.
With its peaceful atmosphere and small white houses wedged between the sea and the cliffs, Puerto de Mogán could be a good place to spend a more peaceful stay in the south of the island.
You will love the simple and graceful image of its buildings, which add incredible charm to the marina of the region.
Meloneras – In the South
Whether you like swimming, sunbathing or walking on the beach, you will enjoy the clear waters of Meloneras beach and its stretches of sand where it is good to lie down peacefully.
The shopping malls are full of handcrafted jewelry and the coast is beautiful to admire while sipping a cocktail.
Its particularity lies in its dynamism enhanced by numerous trendy bars and restaurants by the sea.
Playa del Inglés – In the South
We strongly recommend that you stay at Playa del Inglès, during your stay in Gran Canaria.
It is not a seaside resort but a true haven of peace where beauty rhymes with tranquility. No other place could offer you so many treasures and pleasure!
Playa del Inglés is one of the most beautiful beaches of Gran Canaria offering many activities:
Arguineguin – In the South
Are you looking for a place to stay as a couple? Arguineguin is the town for you!
Romantic, quiet and beautifully maintained, it is full of activities to do together and sites to visit as a couple!
As you stroll through the small streets along the sea, you will come across beautiful white houses that are really worth a visit!
Where is better Tenerife or Gran Canaria?
For those who love outdoor activities, for whom vacations rhyme with relaxation in the heart of nature, the choice is obvious: Tenerife.
If you are one of those for whom a vacation is not complete without a cultural discovery, then the choice will be difficult. The two islands are equal in terms of culture.
If you want shopping and lively nightlife, then the choice naturally goes to Gran Canaria.
If you come with your family, then you should choose the activities that you can do with your family. Gran Canaria is to be preferred for its various activities
Is Maspalomas better than Puerto Rico?
If you are looking for the excitement and festive atmosphere of the great Spanish seaside resorts, Maspalomas is the place for you.
On the contrary, if you are looking for more calm, prefer the charm and the intimacy of the very pretty Puerto de Mogan, nicknamed the small Venice of Gran Canaria.
What is the best month to go to the Canary Islands?
In order to enjoy optimal temperatures while avoiding too many tourists, we recommend that you leave from March to May and from September to November.
The summer months are less recommended, as well as December and February due to the end-of-year celebrations and the carnival.
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