Las Palmas is one of the oldest cities in the Canaries and has its heart in Vegueta, the old city. There you’ll find the Catedral de Santa Ana which has watched over the city for centuries and is visible from every part of Las Palmas.
The interior of the cathedral is beautiful but through the many plaques and tombs, also tells the story of the island. When you’ve tired of history, head down to one of the island’s most famous beaches, Playa de Las Canteras which has miles of golden sand and plenty of water sports to keep you busy.
Las Palmas Mini Guide
What can you Tell me About Las Palmas?
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the largest cities in
Spain and joint capital with Santa Cruz, of the island of Gran Canaria. The islands lie 200km off Morocco but belong to Spain. The warm climate attracts visitors all year round, most commonly from the
UK and Germany in the winter months and is popular with the gay community.
How do I get There?
Gran Canaria Airport is well connected by flights from Europe and the mainland of Spain. You can also travel there via one of the other islands by plane or ferry. Once you are there you can take the 60 bus service from the airport to either bus station in the city of Las Palmas. There are plenty of bus routes to get you around the city too. If you would like to explore the island further, driving is a good option as there are just three highways that can take you to every part of Gran Canaria.
It is Famous for its Beaches, Right?
Playa de Las Canteras is the largest beach in the city and popular with tourists and locals alike. Walk along the beach avenue or just sunbathe and swim there or surf if you are feeling lucky! Playa de Las Alcaravaneras is a smaller beach with a promenade and more popular for water sports and sailing and has facilities for sports such as basketball and volleyball. Playa de la Laja is the favourite beach for surfers and during the summer every weekend a boat race is held.
What is There to see?
The Cathedral of Santa Ana is a huge landmark, as you can see it from all over the city. From there go to the Plaza del Pilar a small picturesque square with fountain and visit Casa de Colon Museum, a previous home of the explorer Christopher Columbus. You can also see Castillo de la Luz and Puerto de la Luz, the city castle and port, to get more of an understanding of the heritage of Las Palmas.
Anything Else to do?
Take a stroll around Parque Santa Catalina, by day it’s a pretty park but after dark it has a thriving nightlife – many festivals and special events are held there. Sit back in a bar with the locals and try the famous local rum.
I Feel Like Shopping…
Go ahead! The main shopping street is the Mayor Triana in the old town, near there you will find the department store El Corte Ingles they have almost everything you can think of. Bag a bargain at the Mercado Central, the central market and browse all the local produce the farmers have to offer. Don’t forget to buy some honey rum to take home, buy it at Hiperdino and try out some local ham while you’re there. Finally visit El Muelle Shopping Centre, even if it’s just for the spectacular views over the ocean.
Will I Like the Food?
You must try the mojo sauce – it is made with red or green peppers and spices but it doesn’t have to be spicy! It can be served in a number of ways, but you could try it as part of tapas with potatoes cooked in their skins, in sea salt.
Are There any Festivals?
It is party time in the city during January/February when the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is held, you can dance or watch the pageants, or marvel at the drag queen galas for something a little different! The WOMAD Festival in November attracts artists and visitors from all over the world.
Useful Links:
08/05/12 - Each year the city celebrates St John's Day with a carnival, the high point of which is the lighting of bonfires on the night of the 24th June. This year the carnival promises to be even bigger and better than ever with the island's tourist authority part funding the event to attract more tourists to the island out of the main tourist season.