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There are an array of things to do in Spain, with Las Palmas sharing quite a few of those!
Las Palmas is a gem nestled amidst the azure waters of the Atlantic, beckoning you with its siren call to explore its bustling markets, indulge in its rich history, and bask in the warm embrace of its sun-kissed beaches.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, foodie, or beach bum, Las Palmas has something in store for everyone.
So, pack your bags, slip on your shades, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Welcome to Las Palmas, where excitement meets relaxation, and dreams turn into reality.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Las Palmas:
1. Playa de Las Canteras
Playa de Las Canteras is a stunning beach located in the heart of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, snorkeling, and diving in the clear and turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also several beachfront restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Spanish cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Don’t miss: The beach is home to a beautiful promenade that runs along the shoreline, offering fantastic views of the ocean. At dusk, the promenade becomes a lively hub of street performers, musicians, and vendors selling handmade crafts.
Insider travel tips: It is advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel as the beach can get pretty crowded during the day.
Visitors can explore the nearby Santa Catalina Park or take a walk to the La Isleta neighborhood for a more local experience.
The best time to visit the beach is during the off-season to avoid crowds.
2. Vegueta
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Don’t miss:
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3. Parque de Santa Catalina
Parque de Santa Catalina is a beautiful park located in the heart of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park admiring the lush greenery and the stunning sculptures.
The park is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Carnival of Las Palmas in February.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of the sea and the horizon from the park. Catch a glimpse of some of the sailboats and yachts anchored in the nearby marina.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the evenings to enjoy one of the many concerts or performances held in the outdoor auditorium.
The park is also surrounded by several restaurants and cafes, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the local cuisine.
4. Catedral de Santa Ana
The Catedral de Santa Ana is the main church of the city of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Gothic-style architecture and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Take a stroll through the peaceful gardens surrounding the cathedral.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the statue of Pope John Paul II located in the garden next to the entrance.
Insider travel tips: Check the cathedral’s schedule for mass times and events to plan your visit accordingly. Dress modestly when visiting as it is still an active church.
5. Puerto de Las Palmas
Puerto de Las Palmas is a port located on the north coast of Gran Canaria island in Spain.
What to see or do: With a number of marinas catering to both leisure and commercial vessels, Puerto de Las Palmas is a hub for maritime activity.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, such as sailing, yachting, fishing and scuba diving. Additionally, the port is surrounded by a number of beaches, restaurants and shops.
Don’t miss: The beautiful beaches surrounding Puerto de Las Palmas are a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. Playa de Las Canteras, a popular beach with calm waters, is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Also, don’t miss the chance to enjoy some of the local seafood at one of the many restaurants near the port.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Puerto de Las Palmas is between December and May when the weather is warm and sunny.
6. Castillo de la Luz
Castillo de la Luz is a historic castle located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, built in the 15th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s interiors and learn about the history of the city’s defensive system. The castle also houses a contemporary art exhibition.
Don’t miss: The castle’s bastions offer spectacular views of the city and the sea, making it the perfect spot for a photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting on a weekend, check for any special events or activities happening at the castle. It can get busy during peak tourist season, so plan accordingly.
7. Mercado de Vegueta
A historic market located in the heart of the old town of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: The market is made up of several different sections, including a meat market, fish market, fruit and vegetable market, and flower market.
Visitors can browse the stalls and sample a variety of fresh local produce, including tropical fruits and seafood. The market also has several small cafes and restaurants that offer traditional Canarian dishes.
Don’t miss: The market is particularly vibrant on Sunday mornings, when locals flock to the market to stock up on ingredients for the week ahead.
Insider travel tips: Haggle with the vendors to get the best prices, but be respectful and polite in your negotiations. Also, be sure to arrive early in the morning to see the market at its busiest and most lively.
8. Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo
The Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo is a botanical garden located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: The garden boasts an extensive collection of native Canary Islands flora, including rare and endangered species.
Walking through the lush greenery, you’ll encounter plants and trees from all over the world, including a large cactus garden, palm groves, and an enormous dragon tree.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the impressive collection of orchids and bromeliads housed in the orchidarium.
You can also explore the garden’s ethnobotanical trail, which showcases the ways in which the indigenous people of the Canary Islands used plants for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the garden, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
9. Acuario Poema del Mar
Acuario Poema del Mar is a world-class aquarium located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. It displays a huge variety of aquatic species from around the world in meticulously recreated habitats.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning exhibits that include a vast shark tunnel, a jellyfish room, and a huge penguin exhibit.
The aquarium also has a fascinating exhibition on the evolution of life on Earth.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Deep Sea zone where visitors can observe some of the most incredible and elusive creatures that inhabit the ocean’s depths.
Another must-see is the Coral Garden, a beautiful display of colorful and vibrant coral formations.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit for early in the day to avoid the crowds. Make sure to attend the daily feeding sessions to see the animals up close and learn more about their behaviors.
Also, be sure to take advantage of the stunning views of the harbor and the city from the rooftop deck.
10. Museo Canario
Museo Canario is a natural history museum in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, that showcases the pre-Hispanic culture of the Canary Islands.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the rich archaeological and cultural heritage of the Canary Islands by viewing the museum’s extensive collection of fossils, artifacts, pottery, and other prehistoric objects.
Works of art, traditional costumes, and photographs of the indigenous peoples are also on display.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive collections in the museum is the Guanche mummies, which are believed to be the best-preserved in the world.
These mummies help to shed light on the lives of the island’s original inhabitants.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and is located in the historic district of Vegueta.
Visitors can easily combine a trip to the museum with a stroll through the picturesque streets of one of the oldest parts of the city.
Admission is free on Sundays.
11. Casa de Colón
Former residence of Christopher Columbus and now a cultural museum.
What to see or do: Explore the rooms and exhibits detailing the history of the Canary Islands, the conquest of the Americas, and the life of Columbus himself.
Don’t miss: The beautiful courtyard with its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere is a highlight of the Casa de Colón, as well as the replica of Columbus’ quarters on one of his voyages.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for events and special exhibits. Be sure to take advantage of the audio guide for a more in-depth experience.
The nearby Vegueta neighborhood has charming streets and excellent restaurants, perfect for a post-museum stroll and dinner.
12. Parque Romano
Parque Romano is a beautiful park located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain.
What to see or do: The park features a man-made lake, a stunning botanical garden with over 500 plant species, and several sculptures and art installations.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or jog along the winding pathways, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax in the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Make sure you check out the stunning waterfall and the ornate bridge that crosses the lake. You’ll also want to see the lush palm grove and the Moorish-style pavilions that dot the park.
Insider travel tips: The park can get busy on weekends, so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience. Entrance to the park is free, and it’s open from sunrise to sunset.
Bring a camera and be sure to snap some photos of the breathtaking scenery.
13. Paseo de Las Canteras
A beautiful beach promenade in the heart of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. Relax on the golden sandy beach and take a dip in the clear blue water.
There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
Don’t miss: The sunset views from Paseo de Las Canteras are truly breathtaking and not to be missed. Make sure to stay until dusk to get some of the best views in town.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head to the north end of the beach where there are fewer crowds.
Also, be mindful of the tides as they can be strong at times, so make sure to follow the safety guidelines.
14. Teatro Pérez Galdós
A historic theater in the city of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria.
What to see or do: Watch a performance or show in one of the most iconic buildings in the city, known for its stunning architecture and excellent acoustics.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see some of the most talented artists and performers from around the world in a beautiful and intimate setting.
Insider travel tips: Arrive at the theater early to take in the beautiful surroundings and architecture before the show. Check the theater’s schedule in advance to see what performances are available during your visit.
Finally, be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion as this is a formal venue.
15. Plaza de España
The Plaza de España is the main square of Las Palmas, located in the heart of the city.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing walk and admire the beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the Museum of Science and Technology and enjoy the numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops around the plaza.
Don’t miss: The monument to Benito Pérez Galdós, a famous Canarian writer, and the spectacular light and sound show at night.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Plaza early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafes. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning view and the colorful façade of the surrounding buildings.