Forget what you think you know about Gran Canaria. This isn't just a sun-soaked haven for package holidays; it's an island of astonishing contrasts, where dramatic volcanic landscapes meet ancient traditions and sophisticated city life.
From the sweeping Sahara-like dunes of Maspalomas to the verdant peaks of its interior, Gran Canaria offers far more than just a tan. Let Ashdub Flights guide you through its genuine character, ensuring your next Canary Islands adventure is anything but ordinary.
Flights to Gran Canaria
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Clever things to do in Gran Canaria
Wander the Dunas de Maspalomas
Feel the Sahara beneath your feet as you traverse these magnificent golden dunes, a natural reserve stretching to the ocean. Don't forget to climb the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse for panoramic views of this otherworldly landscape.
Hike to Roque Nublo
Conquer the trail to Roque Nublo, an impressive volcanic rock formation that's a spiritual symbol of the island. The views from the summit, particularly at sunset, across the Caldera de Tejeda are truly breathtaking.
Explore Vegueta, Las Palmas
Lose yourself in the cobbled streets of Vegueta, Las Palmas's historic quarter, where Christopher Columbus once walked. Admire the Catedral de Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to the explorer's voyages.
Stroll through Puerto de Mogán
Discover the charming 'Little Venice of the Canaries', Puerto de Mogán, with its canals, bridges, and flower-draped white buildings. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterside restaurants or browse the Friday market for local crafts.
Visit the Cenobio de Valerón
Step back in time at Cenobio de Valerón, an ancient aboriginal granary complex carved into the rock face near Santa María de Guía. Marvel at the hundreds of caves used for storing grains by the pre-Hispanic Canarians.
Experience Teror's Sunday Market
Immerse yourself in local life at Teror's popular Sunday market, one of the oldest and most authentic on the island. Sample local cheeses, chorizos, and the famous 'dulces de Teror' before admiring the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino.
Relax on Playa de Amadores
Enjoy the calm, turquoise waters and golden sands of Playa de Amadores, a man-made beach designed for tranquility. Its breakwaters ensure minimal waves, making it ideal for families and serene sunbathing.
Discover Jardín Botánico Canario
Wander through the sprawling Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo, Europe's largest botanical garden dedicated to Macaronesian flora. It's a peaceful oasis showcasing indigenous plants, including dragon trees and cacti, all free to enter.
Know before you go
The beauty of Gran Canaria is its year-round sunshine, making it perfect any time. For hiking and exploring the cooler interior, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is gloriously hot, especially in the south.
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is well-connected. Public buses (Global buses) are frequent and affordable, linking directly to Las Palmas and major southern resorts like Maspalomas and Puerto Rico for a few quid. Taxis are readily available but significantly pricier.
Head to Las Palmas's Vegueta district for authentic Canarian fare, or explore the Triana area for more modern gastronomic delights. Seek out 'papas arrugadas' with 'mojo picón' and 'mojo verde' – these wrinkled potatoes are a delicious local staple.
Embrace the 'menu del día' for lunch in local eateries outside the main tourist strips. For around €10-€15, you'll often get a starter, main, dessert, and a drink, offering fantastic value and a genuine taste of local life.
Escape the south coast crowds by visiting the pretty, traditional village of Tejeda in the central mountains. Its almond trees bloom spectacularly in January/February, and the local 'bienmesabe' (an almond and honey dessert) is heavenly.
Weather in Gran Canaria, month by month
Gran Canaria experiences a subtropical desert climate, characterized by warm, consistent temperatures year-round and very little rainfall.
Average daily high / low · sea temperature · typical climate for Gran Canaria.
