Las Palmas
Las Palmas: The Vibrant Capital of Gran Canaria
Introduction
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, commonly known as Las Palmas, is the capital of Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the city is a dynamic hub of culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes. With its year-round warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a blend of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences, Las Palmas is a favorite destination for both tourists and locals. The city offers a unique combination of urban energy and seaside relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for all types of travelers.
Founded in 1478, Las Palmas boasts a rich history that is reflected in its well-preserved architecture, historic neighborhoods, and cultural traditions. The city’s historic center, Vegueta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate and is home to stunning colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and landmarks such as the Santa Ana Cathedral. Beyond its historical sites, Las Palmas is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, and bustling markets, making it a lively destination for visitors of all ages.
As the largest city in the Canary Islands, Las Palmas is an important economic and cultural center. It serves as a gateway to exploring the rest of Gran Canaria, which offers everything from volcanic landscapes to lush forests and golden sand dunes. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or relaxation, Las Palmas has something for everyone.
How to Get to Las Palmas
Las Palmas is well connected to both mainland Spain and international destinations, making it an easily accessible city. The main entry point is Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), located about 18 kilometers south of the city center. The airport serves as a hub for several major airlines, offering direct flights to cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, London, Berlin, and Paris. Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling also provide affordable options for travelers.
For those traveling from mainland Spain, ferries are another option. Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express operate ferry routes between Las Palmas and Cádiz, Tenerife, and Fuerteventura. While ferry travel is slower than flying, it allows visitors to bring their cars and enjoy a scenic journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
Once you arrive, getting from the airport to the city is easy. The Global Bus Company operates a regular bus service (line 60) from the airport to Santa Catalina Park and San Telmo Station in Las Palmas. Taxis and car rental services are also available, providing convenient options for reaching your accommodation.
Where to Stay in Las Palmas
Las Palmas offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. The best area to stay depends on your preferences, whether you’re looking for beachside relaxation, cultural exploration, or a lively nightlife scene.
For those who want to stay near the beach, Las Canteras Beach is the best choice. This area is home to high-end hotels, boutique apartments, and seaside resorts, offering breathtaking ocean views and easy access to one of the best urban beaches in the world. Hotels like Reina Isabel Hotel and AC Hotel Gran Canaria provide luxurious stays with rooftop pools, spa services, and beach access.
If you prefer a more cultural experience, the Vegueta and Triana districts are excellent options. These historic neighborhoods offer charming boutique hotels and guesthouses surrounded by colonial architecture, museums, and vibrant markets. Staying here allows visitors to explore Las Palmas’ rich history while being close to local restaurants, cafes, and nightlife spots.
Budget travelers will find plenty of hostels and budget hotels in Santa Catalina and La Isleta, which offer affordable accommodations with a lively atmosphere. These areas are also well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
Places of Interest in Las Palmas
Las Palmas is full of must-see attractions, from historic landmarks to stunning natural wonders. One of the city’s most famous sites is Las Canteras Beach, a three-kilometer-long urban beach with golden sands, clear waters, and a natural barrier reef. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
The historic quarter of Vegueta is another highlight, featuring colonial-era architecture, cobbled streets, and important cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the Santa Ana Cathedral, one of the most iconic buildings in Las Palmas, and the Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his voyages to the Americas.
For nature lovers, Caldera de Bandama offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes just outside the city. This crater, formed by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago, is a great spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of Gran Canaria.
Hotels in Las Palmas
Las Palmas has a diverse selection of hotels, catering to different budgets and travel styles. Whether you prefer luxury, mid-range, or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices available.
For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Reina Isabel & Spa, which offers beachfront views, an infinity pool, and a relaxing spa experience. Another high-end option is the Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, which features elegant rooms, lush gardens, and top-class dining.
Mid-range travelers will enjoy hotels like AC Hotel Gran Canaria, which boasts modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and a prime location near the beach. NH Imperial Playa is another excellent option, offering great value with stunning sea views and easy access to Las Canteras Beach.
For budget-friendly stays, hostels such as Lua Lua Hostel and Tropical House Hostel provide affordable accommodations with a friendly, social atmosphere. These options are perfect for backpackers and solo travelers looking to meet new people.
Culture and Events in Las Palmas
Las Palmas has a rich cultural scene, with a calendar full of exciting events and festivals. The most famous celebration is the Las Palmas Carnival, held each year in February or March. This event is one of the biggest and most colorful carnivals in Spain, featuring parades, live music, costume contests, and dance performances.
Another important event is the Fiestas de San Juan, celebrated in June to mark the founding of Las Palmas. The festival includes fireworks, beach bonfires, and live concerts, creating a magical atmosphere by the sea.
For art and music lovers, Las Palmas hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Canary Islands Music Festival, which attracts world-class musicians and orchestras. The city also has several museums and art galleries, such as the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM), showcasing contemporary art from the Canary Islands and beyond.
History of Las Palmas
Las Palmas was founded in 1478 by Juan Rejón, a Spanish captain who led the conquest of Gran Canaria. The city quickly became an important port and a major center for trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Christopher Columbus even stopped in Las Palmas on his way to the New World, and his former residence, Casa de Colón, is now a museum dedicated to his travels.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Las Palmas faced several pirate attacks, including an infamous raid by the English privateer Francis Drake. Despite these threats, the city continued to grow and prosper, becoming a key trading hub for Spain.
Today, Las Palmas is a modern city that still retains its historical charm. Its rich past is reflected in the architecture of Vegueta, its colonial buildings, and its cultural heritage, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Districts of Las Palmas
- Vegueta – The historic old town, filled with colonial buildings and cultural landmarks.
- Triana – A lively shopping and entertainment district.
- Las Canteras – The beachfront area, known for its famous beach and resorts.
- La Isleta – A traditional neighborhood with local markets and authentic cuisine.
- Santa Catalina – The tourist hub, home to nightlife, bars, and restaurants.
Las Palmas is a city that offers history, culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it one of the most exciting destinations in the Canary Islands.
Food in Las Palmas
Las Palmas is a culinary paradise, offering a mix of traditional Canarian dishes and international flavors. The city’s coastal location means that fresh seafood is a staple of the local diet. One of the most famous dishes is sancocho canario, a delicious fish stew typically made with salted fish, potatoes, and mojo sauce—a flavorful blend of olive oil, garlic, vinegar, and spices. Another popular seafood dish is vieja a la espalda, a grilled parrotfish served with Canarian-style wrinkled potatoes (papas arrugadas).
Beyond seafood, Las Palmas boasts a rich variety of meat-based dishes and tapas. One must-try specialty is ropa vieja, a hearty stew made from shredded beef or chicken, chickpeas, and potatoes, slow-cooked with vegetables and spices. Tapas culture is strong in the city, with bars offering small plates of queso de flor (local cheese), chorizo de Teror (spicy sausage), and puntillas de calamar (baby squid). The city’s markets, such as Mercado de Vegueta and Mercado del Puerto, are excellent places to sample authentic Canarian flavors.
For those with a sweet tooth, Las Palmas is known for its traditional desserts. Bienmesabe, an almond-based sweet cream, is often served with ice cream or cakes. Truchas de batata, a Christmas specialty, are small pastries filled with sweet potato and almond paste. The city is also home to excellent bakeries and cafés, where visitors can enjoy quesadilla canaria and a cup of locally grown coffee from the Agaete Valley.
Weather in Las Palmas
Las Palmas enjoys a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for travelers looking for sunshine. The city experiences an average annual temperature of around 22°C (72°F), with warm summers and mild winters.
Summers in Las Palmas are warm but not excessively hot, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 30°C (75°F – 86°F). Thanks to the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean, the city rarely experiences extreme heatwaves. This makes Las Palmas a great place to visit in summer without the intense heat found in other Mediterranean destinations. The beaches, especially Las Canteras Beach, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Winters in Las Palmas are mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures hovering around 18°C to 22°C (64°F – 72°F). While other parts of Europe face cold and snow, Las Palmas remains warm, making it a popular winter sun destination. Rainfall is minimal, and the city enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round, allowing for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and water sports in any season.
Sports in Las Palmas
Las Palmas is a sports-loving city, offering a wide range of activities for both locals and tourists. The most popular sport is football, with UD Las Palmas, the city’s main football club, competing in La Liga. Matches at the Estadio Gran Canaria attract passionate fans and provide an exciting experience for visitors.
Water sports are also a major attraction, thanks to the city’s location along the Atlantic Ocean. Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are particularly popular, with Las Canteras Beach and Pozo Izquierdo being top spots for these activities. Pozo Izquierdo is even home to international windsurfing competitions, attracting professional athletes from around the world. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also fantastic options, with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life waiting to be explored.
Cycling is another well-loved sport in Las Palmas, with the city offering both scenic coastal routes and challenging mountain climbs. Many professional cyclists come to Gran Canaria to train due to its varied terrain and excellent road conditions. The nearby Caldera de Bandama provides one of the best cycling and hiking routes, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
Hotels in Las Palmas
Las Palmas has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront retreat, a city-center hotel, or a boutique guesthouse, the city has something for everyone.
For those looking for luxury, the Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel is a top choice. This five-star hotel offers elegant rooms, a stunning rooftop pool, a spa, and fine dining options. Another high-end option is the Hotel Cristina by Tigotan, located right on Las Canteras Beach, offering breathtaking ocean views and excellent service.
Mid-range travelers will find excellent value in hotels like AC Hotel Gran Canaria by Marriott, which features modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and a convenient location near the city center. NH Imperial Playa is another great choice, offering comfortable accommodations with sea views at an affordable price.
Budget travelers can choose from several hostels and guesthouses. Lua Lua Hostel Las Palmas and Tropical House provide budget-friendly accommodation with a friendly, social atmosphere. These options are great for solo travelers and backpackers looking to meet new people.
Local Public Transport in Las Palmas
Las Palmas has an efficient and affordable public transport system, making it easy to get around the city and explore the island. The primary mode of public transportation is the bus network, operated by Guaguas Municipales. The buses run frequently and cover all major areas, including Vegueta, Las Canteras, and Santa Catalina. A single bus ticket costs around €1.40, while a rechargeable travel card offers discounts for frequent travelers.
For those traveling beyond the city, Global Bus Company operates intercity routes that connect Las Palmas to other parts of Gran Canaria, including Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and Agaete. These buses are comfortable and provide a convenient way to explore the island without renting a car.
Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable, especially for short distances. Many visitors also choose to rent bicycles or electric scooters, as Las Palmas has several bike-friendly paths, particularly along the coastline. Walking is another great way to explore the city, especially in Vegueta and Triana, where many attractions are within walking distance.
Cheap Flights to Las Palmas
Las Palmas is served by Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), one of the busiest airports in Spain. The airport offers a wide range of low-cost flights, making it easy to find affordable options for travel. Budget airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, easyJet, and Wizz Air operate frequent flights between Las Palmas and major European cities like London, Madrid, Barcelona, Berlin, and Milan.
For travelers looking for the cheapest flights, booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help secure the best deals. The off-season (October to April) generally offers the lowest prices, while summer and holiday periods tend to be more expensive. Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak are useful tools for comparing fares and finding the best deals.
Another budget-friendly option is flying from mainland Spain. Airlines such as Iberia Express and Air Europa often have competitive prices for flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Additionally, some travelers opt for ferry services from Cádiz and Tenerife, which can be more affordable if booked in advance and are ideal for those bringing cars or extra luggage.
Conclusion
Las Palmas is a diverse and exciting destination, offering everything from delicious food and outdoor adventures to rich culture and history. Whether you’re looking to relax on Las Canteras Beach, explore the historic streets of Vegueta, or enjoy world-class sports and entertainment, the city has something for everyone. With affordable flights, excellent public transport, and a wide range of accommodations, Las Palmas is a must-visit destination in the Canary Islands.
By Bengt Nyman from Vaxholm, Sweden – Canteras EM1B2907, CC BY 2.0, Link