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Gran Canaria
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Gran Canaria

Mini continent of landscapes

Gran Canaria is often called 'a continent in miniature': desert dunes, green mountain villages and a lively capital, all within an hour's drive. The southern coast is a winter-sun magnet, while Las Palmas has one of the best city beaches in Europe.

Maspalomas dunesRoque NubloLas PalmasPuerto de Mogán

Top experiences in Gran Canaria

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Hand-picked tours & activities, bookable today.

Know before you go

Best for

Beach, city and nature without long drives; winter sun; and a welcoming, LGBTQ+-friendly scene around Maspalomas.Maybe skip if: anyone seeking a remote, untouched island.

When to go

Superb for winter sun (Nov–Mar) on the south coast, and pleasant all year round.

Getting around

A good bus network (Global) covers the coast; add a car for the mountainous interior.

💡 Local tip

Playa de las Canteras in Las Palmas is a world-class urban beach almost no resort tourist visits — and the interior villages hold the island's real soul.

Plan the rest of your Gran Canaria trip

Everything else you'll need — car hire, a place to stay, and ferries between islands.

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Planning your trip?

Read our in-depth Canary Islands guides — best time to visit, island hopping, and more.

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