What to see in Gran Canaria in three days
This short break includes everything from the oldest parts of the capital city to the busy beaches along the southern coast and the quaint inland towns… seventy-two hours, a car and an unbeatable location. Use our suggested route to ensure that you don’t go wrong. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll make the most of your trip and know exactly what to see and do on a three-day break in Gran Canaria. Ready, steady, go! There’s no time to lose.
Itinerary day 1
10 a.m -1 p.m
Vegueta
Day one of your three-day break in Gran Canaria begins in the very heart of the capital city. The colourful homes in this historical neighbourhood are truly striking and Santa Ana Cathedral, just 200 metres inland, is a sight to see. There are also some important cultural institutions here. For example, CAAM contemporary art centre, the Canary Islands Museum and Casa de Colón where you can learn all about the islands’ historical relationship with the Americas.
1.30 a.m - 4.30 p.m.
A stroll and tapas in Triana
Next to Vegueta, the Triana district is renowned for its busy shopping streets and for being a great place for tapas. Don’t forget to take in the beautiful Gabinete Literario building and step inside author Pérez Galdós’ home (Casa-Museo de Pérez Galdós). The modernist gazebo in San Telmo park is also well worth a visit.
5 p.m. - 7.30 p.m.
Canteras beach
Now that you’ve had your cultural fix for the day, head over to the other side of the city and make the most of Gran Canaria’s wonderful climate. Take a walk along Paseo de las Canteras and stop off at one of the many restaurants and cafés.
9 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Bodega 1890
A relaxed and open space to the city, perfect to enjoy a delicious lunch or an informal dinner, with a gastronomic offer whose central axis is a varied offer of local and Spanish tapas of first quality.
Itinerary day 2
10 a.m. - 11.30 a.m
Arucas
Arucas is the starting point for day two of your three-day trip. It is only twenty minutes by car from the capital city and it is very well known for its honey rum. San Juan Bautista Church is a truly impressive building and often mistakenly called a cathedral.
12.30 a.m. -2.30 p.m.
Trip to Roque Nublo
This very pleasant hiking route will take you straight to one of the largest natural crags in the world. It stands almost ninety meters tall. The route begins at the main road and, as you walk, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views of Artenara and Acusa.
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Tejeda
The highest point on the island is Tejeda, a charming village with small, whitewashed homes and spectacular views. You simply cannot leave without tasting the delicious local almond treats such as marzipan and bienmesabe.
6 p.m. - 8.30 p.m.
Teror
Teror is a great little town where you will find the traditional wooden balconies and colourful façades that are typical of the local architecture on the islands. Nuestra Señora del Pino Basilica is in the old quarter. It is on Spain’s list of heritage sites.
9 p.m. - 11 p.m.
El Encuentro restaurant
Right next to the basilica, there is a restaurant that does not disappoint. Taste some of the Canary Islands’ most classic dishes including fried octopus (pulpito frito), potatoes with dips (papas arrugadas con mojo) and the ever-present side dish gofio escaldado.
Itinerary day 3
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Inglés and Maspalomas beaches
Use day three of your trip to visit the southern part of Gran Canaria where you will find the island’s main tourist spots. Playa del Inglés is very popular with both families and surfers. Maspalomas beach, with its impressive lighthouse and protected sand dunes, is also very popular.
2 p.m. - 3.30 p.m.
Casa Serafin restaurant
Choose Maspalomas’ most classic restaurant for the next stop on your journey. Enjoy a tasty paella or rice that has been coloured with squid ink right next to Meloneras beach.
4 p.m. - 6.30 p.m.
Dolphin spotting
Head to Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and take a boat trip out onto the Atlantic Ocean where you can spot dolphins (and up to thirty types of cetaceans). Some companies can arrange longer trips so that you can combine dolphin spotting with a dip in the ocean.
7.15 p.m. - 8.30 p.m.
Puerto de Mogán
This town is known as the Canarian Venice and it is absolutely ideal for an evening walk. Enjoy a stroll next to moored boats and whitewashed homes with colourful borders and blossoming flowers on the balconies.
9 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Los Guayres restaurant
Los Guayres restaurant is a great way to end your three-day break in Gran Canaria. Enjoy one of the delicious tasting menus prepared by head chef Alexis Álvarez. Dishes are made using local produce with a signature cuisine twist.