Sunset through silhouetted palm tree fronds
A group of people standing on top of a beach next to a body of water
A crowded beach with many people and umbrellas
a tall building with a palm tree in front of it
a scenic view of mountains and trees on a sunny day
Photo by Philipp on Unsplash

Holiday in Gran Canaria

Island in Spain — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇪🇸

Country

Spain

Type

Island

Best time to travel

Year-round, ideal October–May

Budget/day

65–110 €

Getting there from Germany

Direct flights from many German cities in about 4.5 hours. The airport is located between Las Palmas and the south.

About Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria, the third largest of the Canary Islands, rightfully bears the nickname miniature continent: on just 1,560 square kilometers, it combines Sahara-like dune landscapes, subtropical laurel forests, rugged volcanic mountains, and kilometers of sandy beaches. The spring-like climate year-round with average temperatures between 20 and 26°C makes the island a perfect travel destination in any season. The dunes of Maspalomas in the south stretch over six kilometers in length and resemble a piece of desert by the Atlantic — a nature reserve with its own ecosystem of wandering dunes, an oasis, and a lighthouse from the 19th century. The Roque Nublo, an 80-meter-high basalt monolith at 1,813 meters altitude, is the island's landmark and offers a panorama over the entire island up to Teide on Tenerife after a one-hour hike. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the lively island capital, surprises with the historic district Vegüta, where Columbus stopped before his Atlantic crossing, the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Ana, and the Museo Canario. The city beach Las Canteras is considered one of the best city beaches in Europe. The mountain village of Teror with its pilgrimage church is the spiritual heart of the island, while the Cüva Pintada in Galdar fascinates with pre-Hispanic wall paintings of the indigenous people. The Canarian cuisine offers Papas Arrugadas with Mojo sauce, fresh fish, and local cheese.

Safety
85
Food
80
Relaxation
78
Beach
75
Families
75

Top 5 highlights in Gran Canaria

The places you absolutely must not miss.

1

Dunes of Maspalomas

The 404-hectare dune landscape at the southern end of the island resembles the Sahara and is a protected nature reserve.

2

Roque Nublo

The 80 m high basalt monolith in the center of the island is Gran Canaria's landmark and offers great panoramas during the hike.

3

Vegüta (Las Palmas)

The historic old town of Las Palmas with the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Columbus Museum is a UNESCO candidate.

4

Puerto de Mogán

The 'Venice of Gran Canaria' is a picturesque harbor with colorful houses, canals, and one of the island's most beautiful beaches.

5

Barranco de Guayadeque

The spectacular gorge still houses inhabited cave dwellings and cave restaurants – a unique experience.

Hotels in Gran Canaria

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Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen

Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie

Best time to travel for Gran Canaria

Recommended travel time

Year-round, ideal October–May

Summer

Warm, 24–30 °C, sunny in the south

Winter

Mild, 18–24 °C, perfect winter escape

How much does a holiday in Gran Canaria cost?

Average costs per person per day

🎒

Budget

35–50 €

Hostel, Street food, Public transport

🏨

Mid-range

65–110 €

Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions

🌟

Luxury

160–350 €

Boutique hotel, Fine dining

Book a package holiday to Gran Canaria

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5 travel tips for Gran Canaria

Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.

The dunes of Maspalomas are most beautiful at sunset – then the sand glows golden red.

The interior around Tejeda and Artenara is the 'other' Gran Canaria – mountain villages, almond blossoms, and tranquility.

The almond blossom in February transforms the mountains into a sea of pink and white flowers – an underrated spectacle.

Las Palmas has one of the best city beaches in Spain – Playa de las Canteras is 3 km long.

A cave restaurant in Barranco de Guayadeque is a unique culinary experience.

Food & drink in Gran Canaria

These specialties you must try!

Papas Arrugadas con Mojo
Sancocho Canario
Queso de Flor de Guía
Bienmesabe
Gofio escaldado
Ron Miel (Honey Rum)
Suitable for:CanariesDunesMiniature continentYear-roundBeachHikingWinter escapeDiversity

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