Located on the island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, Las Palmas Spain is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a long history dating back to the early 15th century. As the capital of Gran Canaria and one of the two capitals of the autonomous community of the Canary Islands, Las Palmas is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests.
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History
The history of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria dates back to 1478 when the city was founded by the Spanish conqueror Juan Rejón. The city quickly became an important hub for trade and commerce and was heavily influenced by the various cultures that passed through, including the indigenous Guanche people, the Spanish, and the Portuguese.
During the 19th century, Las Palmas underwent a period of rapid modernization and expansion, and the city became an important port and transportation hub for the Spanish Empire. Today, the city is home to a rich mix of cultural influences and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse population.
Climate
Located in the subtropical zone, the weather in Las Palmas Spain is a warm and dry climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) in the winter to 28°C (82°F) in the summer. The city is also subject to occasional trade winds, which help to keep the weather mild and pleasant.
Things To Do In Las Palmas, Canary Islands
Visit the historic quarter of Vegueta
Located in the city of Las Palmas Gran Canaria, Vegueta is a historic quarter that dates back to 1478. It was founded by the Spanish conquerors and served as an important port for centuries.
The area is filled with beautiful colonial architecture from its time under Spanish rule, including churches such as Santa Ana Cathedral and San Francisco Church. Strolling through Vegueta’s cobblestone streets gives visitors a glimpse into its fascinating history; many of the buildings have been carefully preserved over time, giving them their original character and charm. Among these are numerous old mansions that were once home to wealthy merchants during Spain’s Golden Age of exploration in the 16th century.
Today, Vegueta remains one of Las Palmas’ most popular attractions due to its cultural heritage and picturesque setting near both mountainside parks and beaches on Gran Canaria’s south coast – making it perfect for those seeking a unique holiday experience!
Take a walk along the beach promenade
Taking a walk along the beach promenade in Las Palmas, Spain is an unforgettable experience. The beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and its crystal clear waters make it one of the most romantic places to take a stroll. As you wander down this enchanting path, you will come across many interesting sights and sounds from local street performers to small cafes that offer delicious tapas dishes. You can also find plenty of souvenir shops selling traditional items such as hand-crafted pottery or jewelry made with natural materials like shells or coral beads.
Along your journey, there are several public parks where you can relax under palm trees while listening to live music played by talented street musicians or simply enjoy watching people go about their day-to-day activities on this vibrant strip near Playa de las Canteras Beachfront Promenade.
The stunning sunsets over Las Palmas Bay are truly breathtaking and provide some great photo opportunities too! Taking a leisurely walk along this picturesque stretch is definitely worth doing when visiting the island of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, the capital city – it’s sure to be an enjoyable experience that won’t soon be forgotten!
Explore the Mercado del Puerto: Located in the heart of the city, the Mercado del Puerto is a popular market offering a wide range of local produce, seafood, and handicrafts.
Visit the Parque de Santa Catalina
The Parque de Santa Catalina is a popular park located in the heart of the city, offering a wide range of recreational activities and attractions, including a children’s playground, a fountain, and a bandstand.
Go hiking in the nearby Anfi del Mar
Located just a short drive from the city center, the Anfi del Mar is a popular destination for hikers, offering a wide range of trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This stunning hike offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush green landscapes. The trail winds around rocky cliffs and through a variety of terrains including forests, meadows, and scrubland. Along the way, you will find several lookout points offering spectacular panoramic vistas that stretch for miles in all directions. This moderate to challenging hike takes about two hours to complete but can be done at your own pace as there are plenty of rest stops along the way where you can take in nature’s beauty or even have a picnic lunch! With its diverse terrain and picturesque scenery, it’s no wonder why so many people come back year after year to explore Anfi del Mar near Las Palmas!
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Museums To Visit
Museo Canario
The Museo Canario is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Canary Islands, featuring a wide range of exhibits on topics such as archaeology, ethnography, and natural history. Check out their website here.
Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología
The Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología is a science and technology museum featuring a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. Visit their website here for more information.
Casa de Colón
The Casa de Colón is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Christopher Columbus, featuring a wide range of exhibits on topics such as navigation, exploration, and cultural exchange. Get more information from their website here.
Museo Arqueológico
The Museo Arqueológico is a museum dedicated to the archaeology of the Canary Islands, featuring a wide range of exhibits on topics such as the indigenous Guanche culture and the early settlement of the islands.
Monuments To See
Cathedral of Santa Ana
The Cathedral of Santa Ana is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, featuring a grand façade and a soaring interior. The cathedral is home to several important works of art and historical artifacts, including a 14th-century altarpiece and a 16th-century carved wood pulpit.
Casa de Colón
The Casa de Colón is a historic house museum dedicated to the life and work of Christopher Columbus. Located in the heart of the city, the museum features a wide range of exhibits on topics such as navigation, exploration, and cultural exchange.
Plaza de Santa Ana
The Plaza de Santa Ana is a popular square located in the historic quarter of Vegueta. Surrounded by a number of important landmarks and buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón, the square is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
Monasterio de la Concepción
The Monasterio de la Concepción is a beautiful monastery located in the heart of the city. Built in the 16th century, the monastery is home to many important works of art and historical artifacts, including a beautiful cloister and a chapel decorated with frescoes.
Parque de Santa Catalina
The Parque de Santa Catalina is a popular park located in the heart of the city, offering a wide range of recreational activities and attractions, including a children’s playground, a fountain, and a bandstand.
Festivals
These are just a few of the festivals that can be attended throughout the year. To find out about more festivals or ones during a specific time, it is best to contact the tourism board here, as dates may change annually.
Carnival of Las Palmas
The Carnival of Las Palmas is a popular annual festival celebrating the rich culture and history of the city. The festival features a wide range of activities and events, including parades, concerts, and street parties.
Fiestas de la Madre de la Tierra
The Fiestas de la Madre de la Tierra is an annual festival celebrating the indigenous culture of the Canary Islands. The festival features a wide range of activities and events, including traditional music and dance performances, craft markets, and food stalls.
Fiestas de San Juan
The Fiestas de San Juan is an annual festival celebrating the summer solstice. The festival features a wide range of activities and events, including bonfires, concerts, and beach parties.
Día de la Canarias
Día de la Canarias is a public holiday celebrating the autonomy of the Canary Islands. The holiday is marked by a wide range of activities and events, including parades, concerts, and cultural festivals.
Noche de San Juan
Noche de San Juan is a popular annual festival celebrating the summer solstice. The festival features a wide range of activities and events, including bonfires, concerts, and beach parties.
Day Trips from Las Palmas
Visit the Roque Nublo
The Roque Nublo is an iconic rock formation located on the island of Gran Canaria. Standing at a height of 1,813 meters (5,957 feet), the Roque Nublo offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours and activities for visitors to the Roque Nublo, including hiking tours, rock climbing, and photography workshops.
Garajonay National Park Forest Hike
The Garajonay National Park is a stunning natural reserve located on the island of La Gomera. Learn about the medicinal herbs and your informative guide Admire the stunning view of the Vallehermoso valley and Mt. Teide.
Explore the island of Tenerife.
Located just a short ferry ride from Las Palmas, the island of Tenerife is home to a wide range of attractions and activities, including the iconic Teide National Park, the Loro Parque, and the Playa de las Américas. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours and activities in Tenerife, including guided hikes, boat tours, and cultural experiences.
Visit the island of La Palma
The nearby island of La Palma is a popular destination for nature lovers, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions, including hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours and activities on La Palma, including guided hikes, boat tours, and cultural experiences.
Take a day trip to the island of El Hierro
Located just a short ferry ride from Las Palmas, the island of El Hierro is a stunning destination for nature lovers, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions, including hiking, diving, and birdwatching. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours and activities on El Hierro, including guided hikes, boat tours, and cultural experiences.
Explore the island of Fuerteventura
On another ferry ride from Las Palmas, the island of Fuerteventura is a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers, offering a wide range of activities and attractions, including water sports, golf, and horse riding. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours and activities on Fuerteventura, including boat tours, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Hotels in Las Palmas
Like every city, there are numerous places to stay at every price point and style of accommodation. Here are just a few for you that I recommend to help your decision-making.
Luxury hotels
Hotel Santa Catalina
The Hotel Santa Catalina is a luxurious 5-star hotel located a 5-minute walk from Las Palmas Marina and surrounded by extensive gardens. The hotel features a wide range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel’s guest rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated and feature a wide range of modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, minibars, and balconies with sea views.
Hotel Cristina
Set overlooking Las Canteras Beach, Hotel Cristina is an Adults Only hotel. It features an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. Massage and beauty treatments are also on offer. Most of its rooms have a balcony with views of the city and Las Canteras Beach. The Cristina Las Palmas is just 50 m from Puerto de La Luz Port, where ferries depart for Tenerife and the surrounding Canary Islands. The Cristina Las Palmas features bright, attractive décor.
Suites 1478
Set in the historic Vegueta district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Suites 1478 features a rooftop terrace with views of the Cathedral. Guests will find shops, bars, restaurants, and cultural landmarks within a short walk. Casa Museo Colon is 200 m from Suites 1478 while Calle Triana is 400 m from the property.
Mid-range hotels
Apartamentos Perdomo by Rustic Homes
Featuring city views, a terrace, and free WiFi, Apartamentos Perdomo by Rustic Homes features accommodation attractively set in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, within a short distance of Calle Triana, Perez Galdos House Museum, and Casa Museo Colon.
Lemon & Soul Las Palmas
Lemon & Soul Las Palmas is situated 50 m from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Playa de las Canteras, a Blue Flag beach. It boasts a lovely rooftop sun terrace and 3 restaurants located next to the hotel. The hotel is only 200 m from central Las Palmas. The Las Canteras Thalassotherapy Centre is located within 100 m.
Sercotel Puerto de la Luz
Set 500 m from Las Canteras Beach, Sercotel Puerto de la Luz offers 3-star accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and has an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a bar. This 3-star hotel offers a tour desk, luggage storage space, and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is located 1.4 km from Playa del Confital. A continental breakfast is available every morning.
Budget Hotels In Las Palmas
MHC Arenales Hotel
Located in the center of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, within a 5-minute walk of the Triana shopping area, MHC Arenales Hotel offers accommodation with free WiFi and a private bathroom. The Old Town area, Vegueta, is a 20-minute walk away. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Las Canteras Beach and from Parque de Santa Catalina. Gran Canaria Airport is 22 km away.
Mannix Urban Apartments
Situated in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Mannix Urban Apartments is 200 m from Parque de Santa Catalina. Las Canteras Beach is 300 m away. The property has a 24-hour reception.
Hotel Apartamento Bajamar
Hotel Apartamento Bajamar is just 100 m from Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas. The bright apartments and studios at Hotel Apartamento Bajamar have lightly colored décor and wooden furnishings. Supermarkets and a shopping center can be found within 10 minutes’ walk. Alfredo Kraus Auditorium and Santa Catalina Park are a short walk away. The port, where ferries leave for mainland Spain and the neighboring Canary Islands, is about 3 km away.
Drinking and Night Life
Las Palmas, the capital city of Gran Canaria, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a vibrant and lively nightlife scene. The city is home to a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Las Palmas is the historic neighborhood of Vegueta, which is home to a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood is known for its narrow streets and charming, historic buildings, which provide a unique and atmospheric setting for a night out. Some of the popular bars and clubs in Vegueta include the La Catedral, a trendy bar with live music and DJs; the Bar La Bañera, a popular spot for cocktails and dancing; and the Sala Maracaibo, a lively club with live music and DJs.
Another popular area for nightlife in Las Palmas is the district of Triana, which is home to a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of venues, including traditional Spanish tapas bars, trendy cocktail bars, and lively clubs. Some of the popular bars and clubs in Triana include the Bar Roxy, a popular spot for cocktails and dancing; the Café de Triana, a lively bar with live music and DJs; and the Sala Live, a popular club with live music and DJs.
For travelers seeking a more laid-back nightlife experience, Las Palmas also offers a wide range of pubs, bars, and restaurants that offer a more relaxed and casual atmosphere. Some of the popular pubs and bars in the city include the Pub Irlandés, a popular spot for live music and sporting events; the Pub Havana, a popular spot for live music and dancing; and the Bar La Cervecería, a popular spot for craft beer and tapas.
Overall, Las Palmas is a destination that offers a wide range of options for nightlife and entertainment, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for lively clubs and bars, traditional Spanish tapas bars, or relaxed pubs and bars, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and lively city.
How To Get There
There are several ways to get to Las Palmas, the capital city of Gran Canaria, located in the Canary Islands of Spain:
By Air
Aeroporto Las Palmas is served by the Gran Canaria Airport, which is located just a short drive from the city center. The airport is well-connected to a wide range of destinations, including major cities in Europe, the United States, and Latin America. There are several airlines that offer flights to Gran Canaria Airport, including EasyJet, Ryanair, and Vueling. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city center.
By Ferry
The Canary Islands capital, Las Palmas is also served by a port, which is located just a short drive from the city center. The port is well-connected to a wide range of destinations, including other islands in the Canary Islands and the mainland of Spain. Several ferry companies operate routes to and from Las Palmas, including Naviera Armas, Trasmediterránea, and Fred. Olsen.
By Bus
Las Palmas city is served by a wide network of bus routes, which connect the city to a wide range of destinations within Gran Canaria Island. Multiple bus companies operate routes to and from Las Palmas, including Global, Guaguas Municipales, and Intercity.