Gran Canaria had long been on my travel bucket list. Known for its fantastic climate, especially during Northern Europe’s cold winter months, this Canary Island offers the perfect escape. Rather than enduring a lengthy flight to Asia or Central America, I found affordable direct flights to Gran Canaria — a winning combination for a memorable getaway.
Upon arriving at Gran Canaria Airport, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the car rental process was. Booking our car in advance made pickup quick and seamless — we were on the road within 15 minutes. For just €80 over four days, we had the flexibility to explore this beautiful island at our own pace.
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Where to Stay in Gran Canaria
Accommodation options in Gran Canaria vary greatly depending on the kind of vacation you’re looking for. The southern part of the island, around Maspalomas and Puerto Rico, is popular for its beach resorts and lively nightlife. Meanwhile, Las Palmas offers a more urban experience with great dining and cultural sites. For those seeking tranquility and authenticity, the island’s interior is dotted with charming villages and rural guesthouses.
We chose Agüimes as our base, a peaceful town that provided excellent value for money. It offered free parking (a major plus) and easy access to the southern parts of the island by car. Our stay at Finca Falcon Cresta was one of the highlights. This cozy guesthouse, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rustic charm, felt like a true home away from home. The hosts were warm and welcoming, and we loved starting our mornings with breakfast on their sunlit terrace.
Itinerary for 4 Days in Gran Canaria
Day 1: Exploring Maspalomas
On our first day, we headed to Maspalomas and rented e-bikes to explore the area. The kind owner of the bike shop gave us a map and detailed directions, which made the experience even smoother. With our bikes, we visited several key spots:
- Dunes Viewing Platforms – These golden sand dunes stretched endlessly, creating a stunning desert-like landscape right by the coast.
- Botanical Garden – A peaceful stop full of exotic plants and shaded pathways.
- Pond Promenade – This quiet walk along the water was perfect for relaxing.
- Maspalomas Lighthouse – A historic landmark offering fantastic views of the coast.
For lunch, we stopped at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views. By 5 PM, we returned our bikes and made our way back to the hotel, stopping at a local grocery store to pick up some snacks and drinks for the evening.
Day 2: Sioux City Park and Puerto de Mogán
Day two began with a visit to Sioux City Park, a quirky Wild West-themed park where you can watch entertaining cowboy shows and enjoy immersive western-style scenery. I decided to try horseback riding, which cost just €10 and was well worth it. The ride was enjoyable and added a fun twist to the day. The park also has a charming country-style restaurant with daily shows. What made it even more special was that the restaurant staff doubled as actors in the performances. We particularly enjoyed the interactive Indians vs. Cowboys show, where they even invited participants from the audience to join in—great fun for families and groups.
In the afternoon, we drove to Puerto de Mogán, a charming coastal town known as “Little Venice.” The colorful houses, canals, and flower-filled streets made this a picturesque place to wander. I took a quick swim at the beach, but the water was surprisingly cold! Despite that, Puerto de Mogán’s laid-back vibe made it a relaxing stop. For lunch, we dined at a delightful Middle Eastern restaurant, where I had a delicious kebab and tender lamb that left a lasting impression.
Day 3: Road Trip Through the Mountains
We dedicated our third day to exploring Gran Canaria’s rugged interior. Driving along winding mountain roads, we stopped at several memorable spots:
- Mirador de la Goleta – A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the dramatic landscape.
- Parador of Cruz de Tejeda – A historic hotel and restaurant with panoramic mountain views.
- Cenobio de Valerón – An impressive archaeological site showcasing ancient cave dwellings.
- Gáldar – A small yet charming town perfect for a short stroll.
We ended the day in Sardina, watching the sun dip below the horizon at a peaceful beach—a perfect way to wrap up a day full of sightseeing.
Day 4: Discovering Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Our final day was spent exploring the island’s vibrant capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The city is one of the largest in the Canary Islands, home to nearly 400,000 residents. Founded in 1478 by Juan Rejón, Las Palmas played a crucial role as a stopping point for ships sailing between Europe and the Americas. Today, it remains a lively hub for commerce, culture, and tourism.
Some must-see places in Las Palmas include:
- Las Canteras Beach – A long golden beach perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying a seaside stroll.
- Vegueta District – The city’s charming old town filled with cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and cozy cafes.
- Casa de Colón – A fascinating museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus’ voyages, housed in a beautiful historic building.
- Parque Santa Catalina – A bustling plaza surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Las Palmas perfectly balances its historic charm with a modern, vibrant energy. Whether exploring the colorful streets or relaxing on the beach, the city offers something for every traveler.
Final Thoughts
Having visited both Gran Canaria and Tenerife before, I found Gran Canaria to be a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island feels a bit less touristy than Tenerife’s busier spots, yet offers plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re a beach lover, hiker, or just someone looking to unwind, Gran Canaria delivers—and we’re already thinking about returning to explore even more!
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