Gran Canaria: your 7-day itinerary
Consider yourself blessed if you have a whole week to spend in Gran Canaria. The climate, the people, the endless stretches of sand, the surreal volcanic landscapes… There is so much to experience on your trip. But before you set off, take note of the following itinerary. It will ensure you see everything there is to discover in Gran Canaria in an unforgettable seven days.
Itinerary day 1
10:00-13:30
Vegueta
Your route begins in the founding district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital of the island. Vegueta is home to Las Palmas Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Anne, and several interesting cultural institutions, including Casa de Colón, where Columbus stayed before setting out on his voyages; the Canary Islands Museum; and the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno, an intriguing art museum.
14:00-15:30
1890 La Bodeguita
Located in the Hotel Santa Catalina Royal Hideaway, this wine bar is the perfect place to try the best wines from the Canary Islands, accompanied by some sophisticated local and national tapas.
16:30-20:30
Playa de las Canteras
After a cultural morning, what better way to spend the afternoon than by relaxing on Las Palmas’ famous beach. As the heat of the day subsides, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and watch the sun go down.
21:00-23:00
El Novillo Precoz
This Uruguayan restaurant is a sure bet for meat lovers. Located just 40 metres from Playa de las Canteras, it prides itself on having created one of Gran Canaria’s most famous desserts: the polvito uruguayo, a delicious mixture of dulce de leche, whipped cream and merengue.
Itinerary day 2
10:00-13:00
Triana
The second day of your week-long tour of Gran Canaria begins in the neighbourhood of Triana, where we recommend you walk down Calle Triana, one of the main shopping streets in the city. If you are interested in architecture, check out the majestic Gabinete Literario building in Plaza de Cairasco, and the modernist bandstand in San Telmo park.
14:00-15:30
Jardín Canario
Located just ten kilometres from the capital city, this restaurant gives typical Canarian dishes an innovative twist. Savour the mouthwatering flavours as you enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the Viera y Clavijo Botanical Garden.
16:00-17:30
Viera y Clavijo Botanic Garden
The Guiniguada ravine, in the southeast of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is home to the largest botanical garden in Spain. Designed and created by the Swede Eric Sventenius, the garden comprises 27 hectares of exotic and endemic species, some of which are in danger of extiction.
18:00-19:00
Caldera de Bandama
Continue south to discover this monumental volcanic crater. Measuring one kilometre across and 216 metres deep, this incredible natural feature is awe-inspiring indeed. The peak of Bandama towers beside the crater, and we recommend you make your way to the top for spectacular views of the capital, the Atlantic Ocean and the inside of the crater itself.
21:00-23:00
Poemas by Hermanos Padrón
Back in Las Palmas, you can end your second day with a fascinating culinary experience at the hands of the Padrón brothers. Their innovative dishes use locally sourced market produce.
Itinerary day 3
10:00-13:00
Pico de las Nieves
The third day of your one-week route around Gran Canaria begins with a trip to the top of the island. Stop at the viewpoint of Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve (Snow-Pit Peak) to get a breathtaking view of Gran Canaria’s spectacular volcanic landscape.
14:00-15:00
El Encuentro
After you exertions up the mountain, you’ll be ready to replenish your energy with a hearty lunch at this restaurant in the historic town of Teror. El Encuentro is perfect if you would like to learn about Canarian cuisine, as it makes most typical local dishes, including the delicious gofio escaldado dip, fried baby octopus and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce.
15:00-16:30
A walk around Teror
Calle Real de Teror is lined with pretty coloured houses with quaint wooden balconies that showcase the traditional architecture of the archipelago. The small picturesque town is also home to the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino, where the image of the patron saint of the island is housed.
17:00-18:30
Roque Nublo
This volcanic rock is one of the largest natural crags in the world. It is also very symbolic for the island, as it was an important place of worship for the indigenous Canarian people.
19:30-23:00
Tejeda
Tejeda is another must-see town in inland Gran Canaria, which was added to the list of the prettiest towns in Spain in 2005. Another important reason to visit is the Texeda Brewery and Restaurant. Young chef Borja Marrero is making his mark with highly creative signature dishes.
Itinerary day 4
10:00-12:00
Arucas
Head north on your fourth day in Gran Canaria to discover the northern part of the island. Your first stop should be Arucas, famous for its honey rum and the enormous Church of San Juan Bautista (St. John the Baptist).
12:45-13:30
Cenobio de Valerón
In the northeast of Gran Canaria you’ll discover this unique historical site, declared a Monument of Cultural Interest in 1978. Cenobio de Valerón is an ancient grain store that was impressively dug into the side of the volcano in Pre-Hispanic times by the indigenous inhabitants of the Canary Islands.
14:00-15:30
La Trastienda de Chago
Almost a hundred years after it first opened, this restaurant in Gáldar is still hugely popular for sampling traditional Canarian cheeses and tasting some of the best wines the archipelago has to offer.
15:30-17:00
The Painted Cave Archaeological Museum and Park
Just a minute’s walk from the restuarant, the Painted Cave Archaeological Museum and Park is must-see if you are curious about about the history of the island. The cave paintings that have been preserved in the cave are fascinating to contemplate.
18:00-20:00
Agaete
Make your way now to Agaete, on the west coast. Here you can take a dip in the natural pools of Las Salinas, which are surprisingly interconnected with volcanic tubes.
21:00-23:00
El Dedo de Dios
Located right at the centre of Agaete’s port, El Dedo de Dios restaurant is a great option for dinner. The baked fish is a speciality, but the menu also includes paellas and meat dishes, so there is plenty to choose from. For such a quality meal, you will find it is surprisingly easy on the pocket.
Itinerary day 5
10:00-12:30
Scuba diving at El Cabrón marine reserve
This part of Gran Canaria’s east coast is one of the most popular diving spots on the island, thanks its wealth of sealife and diverse habitats. Beginners and advanced divers alike will fall in love with this marine reserve.
13:30-15:00
Nelson
After your dive, there is nothing better than tucking into a delicious lobster paella or silky rice dish in this restaurant located on the Arinaga Bay.
16:00-20:00
Maspalomas
In the afternoon, head back down to the south coast of the island to explore the golden Maspalomas Dunes and the town’s imposing lighthouse (reopened to the public in 2019).
21:00-23:00
Aloha 37
A day of diving and sightseeing deserves a good dinner to round it off. We suggest you try the amazing chargrilled meats of Aloha 37. But make sure you leave a bit of room as this restaurant serves up some sensational desserts.
Itinerary day 6
10:00-13:00
Hiking in Guayadeque ravine
You have probably realised by now that there is a huge amount you can see and do in Gran Canaria in seven days. Our suggestion for the morning of your sixth day is a 9-km hike from the Guayadeque ravine to Los Marteles volcanic crater (difficulty level: moderate).
14:00-15:30
Restaurante Vega
You will find this homely establishment with a friendly atmosphere nestled in one of the caves in the Guayadeque ravine. It prepares traditional Canary Island dishes, such as gofio escaldado and ropa vieja, a satisfying meat and vegetable stew. Its speciality, however, is suckling pig baked in a salt crust.
16:30-19:30
Surfing off Playa del Inglés
Along with Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés is one of the principal tourist destinations in the south of the island. It is also a favourite spot for surfers. In the area there are several surf schools with lessons for beginners and anyone who wants to improve their skills.
21:00-23:00
928 Aroma Atlántico
Round off your day of hiking and surfing by kicking back at this restaurant in the San Agustín district. 928 takes inspiration from the Atlantic for its delicious menu. It also has an interesting selection of cocktails to tempt you into making a night of it. You will love its original décor and attractive plating techniques.
Itinerary day 7
10:00-13:00
Maspalomas Beach
On the last day of your week in Gran Canaria you are going to stick to the south coast and say farewell to its incredible beaches. Maspalomas Beach with undulating golden dunes behind it and the azure Atlantic in front, is a real treat.
14:00-15:30
Fishermen’s Guild
Located in the port of Arguineguín, the Fishermen’s Guild restaurant is a must if you are after freshly caught fish at a great price. The menu also includes typical Canarian desserts such as polvito uruguayo.
16:00-18:00
Boat trip
After diving in El Cabrón Marine Reserve and surfing on Playa del Inglés, all that’s left is a boat trip in the Atlantic waters for a spot of dolphin and whale watching. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is offered by several companies in the town of Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria.
19:00-21:00
Puerto de Mogán
Known by locals as Venice of the Canaries, Puerto de Mogán proves it is possible to build on the coast without ruining the landscape. You will love the enchanting white houses with their coloured borders and bright bougainvillea. .
21:00-23:00
Los Guayres
What better way to bid your farewell to the island than by embarking on a culinary journey at Los Guayres restaurant. Chef Alexis Álvarez uses local produce to recreate traditional island dishes with a surprising innovative twist.