Tourism in Gran Canaria

Which towns should you visit in Gran Canaria?

Tourism has always been a significant contributor to the economy of Gran Canaria, and specifically, in its urban centers. With their beautiful sceneries, friendly locals, and numerous attractions, these centers continue to attract visitors from all over the world.

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• Gabinete Literario of Las Palmas de GC, next to Alameda de Colón

See Gabinete Literario on googlemap

Gran Canaria urban centers

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

One of the most popular urban centers in Gran Canaria is the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Located on the northeast coast of the island, Las Palmas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, such as Playa de las Canteras and Playa de Alcaravaneras. These beaches offer visitors a chance to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean.

The city's old town, Vegueta, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features colonial buildings dating back to the 15th century.

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• Typical street in Vegueta, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Visitors can also visit the Catedral de Santa Ana, a 16th-century cathedral.

See Catedral de Santa Ana on googlemap

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• Santa Ana cathedral, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

If you want to have a tour in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria from Maspalomas or Playa del Inglés, the best would be to rent a car. Still there are also regular buses. Please take into account that the bus line nº1 takes about one hour and half from Maspalomas to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, more than 2 hours from Puertorico, and 3 hours from Mogan. It will probably take the whole day to visit Vegueta and Las Canteras beach in Las Palmas.

Teror

Another urban center worth mentioning in Gran Canaria is Teror. Located in the north-central part of the island, Teror is a charming and historic town that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Gran Canaria. Teror is famous for its beautiful Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pino, which is dedicated to the patron saint of Gran Canaria. The basilica is an example of Canarian Baroque architecture, and it attracts many visitors and pilgrims every year.

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• Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, Teror, Gran Canaria

See Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino on googlemap

The surrounding plaza is also a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's especially lively on Sundays when the weekly market takes place. The market is a great place to buy local produce, crafts, and souvenirs, and to mingle with the friendly locals who are always happy to share their stories and traditions.

Another highlight of Teror is its historical quarter, which is full of beautiful old houses, cobbled streets, and small plazas. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back in time, and it's easy to imagine what life was like in Teror centuries ago. Some of the most interesting buildings to see include the Palacio Episcopal, and the Casa Museo de los Patronos.

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• Teror, Gran Canaria

To go from Maspalomas, Puertorico or Mogan to Teror is not easy if you have not rented a car. You have to take two buses, one to Las Palmas (bus station San Telmo) and another one to Teror. It is quite a long trip. It would be best to rent a car or have a company that can offer you a tour in the north of the island.

Telde

Finally, we cannot talk about tourism in urban centers in Gran Canaria without mentioning the city of Telde.

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• Telde, Gran Canaria

While not as popular as Las Palmas or Teror, Telde has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Hispanic era. Its most significant attraction is the Casa-Museo de León y Castillo, a museum housed in a 19th-century palace that showcases the life and works of two famous Spanish personalities, Fernando de León y Castillo and his brother Juan de León y Castillo.

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• Telde, Gran Canaria