Things to do in Gran Canaria based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Loro Parque, Gran Canaria
Overview: Loro Parque is a world-famous animal and adventure park known for its extensive parrot collection, dolphin and orca shows, and lush tropical gardens.
History: Originally opened as a small parrot sanctuary in 1972, it has grown into one of Europe’s leading zoological parks.
Since When: Established in 1972 in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, but a popular attraction for Gran Canaria visitors via excursions.
Review: Guests praise its family-friendly environment, impressive animal shows, and conservation focus.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings to enjoy cooler weather and smaller crowds.
How to Go: Accessible from Gran Canaria via organized day tours, ferries to Tenerife, or by car once on the island.
What to Do: Watch marine shows, visit the aquarium, explore animal habitats, and enjoy botanical gardens.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket packages available.
Siam Park, Gran Canaria
Overview: Siam Park is a Thai-themed waterpark recognized as one of the best in the world, featuring thrilling slides, a wave pool, and family attractions.
History: It was built by Wolfgang Kiessling, also the founder of Loro Parque, to create a unique cultural and recreational park.
Since When: Opened in 2008 in Costa Adeje, Tenerife, and visited by Gran Canaria tourists via tours.
Review: Visitors highlight its clean facilities, unique theming, and exhilarating rides.
When to Go: Ideal during warmer months (April to October) for the best waterpark experience.
How to Go: Reachable by ferry from Gran Canaria to Tenerife, followed by shuttle buses to the park.
What to Do: Experience water rides, float along the lazy river, surf in the giant wave pool, and relax on artificial beaches.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with various ticket options.
Parque Nacional del Teide, Gran Canaria
Overview: Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site centered around Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and a striking volcanic landscape.
History: Declared a national park in 1954 to protect its unique volcanic ecosystem.
Since When: Gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 2007.
Review: Visitors admire its dramatic scenery, hiking trails, and breathtaking stargazing opportunities.
When to Go: Best visited in spring and autumn for mild weather and clear skies.
How to Go: Accessible by car, guided tours, or buses from Tenerife, with excursions available from Gran Canaria.
What to Do: Hike trails, take photos of volcanic landscapes, ride the cable car, and enjoy astronomy tours.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free, but guided tours and activities may have fees.
Complejo Turístico Municipal Costa Martiánez, Gran Canaria
Overview: Costa Martiánez is a seaside complex featuring saltwater swimming pools, gardens, and artistic designs by architect César Manrique.
History: Developed in the 1970s to combine natural beauty with artistic elements, turning the seafront into a leisure attraction.
Since When: Officially opened in 1977 in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, but remains a popular excursion for Gran Canaria travelers.
Review: Tourists enjoy its relaxing pools, scenic views, and artistic atmosphere.
When to Go: Best visited during sunny months, especially between May and September.
How to Go: Accessible by ferry from Gran Canaria to Tenerife, then by bus or car to Puerto de la Cruz.
What to Do: Swim in seawater pools, enjoy landscaped gardens, and dine at on-site restaurants.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with affordable day passes.
Teide Cable Car, Gran Canaria
Overview: The Teide Cable Car offers an exhilarating ride up Mount Teide, providing panoramic views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes.
History: Built to make Mount Teide’s summit area more accessible to visitors without long hikes.
Since When: Opened in 1971 and modernized over the years for safety and comfort.
Review: Visitors love the breathtaking views and quick access to near the summit, though tickets sell out fast.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to avoid strong winds and ensure ticket availability.
How to Go: Accessible via car, bus, or guided tour from Tenerife, with Gran Canaria visitors arriving via ferry or flight.
What to Do: Ride the cable car, hike summit trails, and capture stunning photos of volcanic terrain.
Free or Paid: Paid tickets required for the cable car ride.
Yumbo Centre, Gran Canaria
Overview: Yumbo Centre is a vibrant shopping and entertainment complex in Playa del Inglés, known for its mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
History: Built in the early 1980s, it became a central hub for both daytime shopping and the island’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
Since When: Officially opened in 1982 as a commercial and leisure space.
Review: Visitors praise its lively atmosphere, diverse dining options, and famous drag and cabaret shows.
When to Go: Best visited in the evenings for nightlife or daytime for relaxed shopping.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car, taxi, or local bus services within Maspalomas.
What to Do: Shop, enjoy international cuisine, attend drag shows, and experience the nightlife.
Free or Paid: Free entry, but shopping, dining, and shows are paid.
Parque de Santa Catalina, Gran Canaria
Overview: Parque de Santa Catalina is a lively square and cultural hub in Las Palmas, often hosting festivals, markets, and concerts.
History: Established as a community gathering spot, it grew into the city’s main event and leisure square.
Since When: Active since the mid-20th century as an open social and cultural space.
Review: Tourists enjoy its vibrant energy, proximity to the cruise port, and regular live events.
When to Go: Best visited during festivals like Carnival or in the evenings for a lively atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in central Las Palmas, easily reached by bus, taxi, or on foot from nearby attractions.
What to Do: Attend concerts, shop at markets, relax in cafés, and join cultural festivities.
Free or Paid: Free entry with optional paid activities during events.
Poema del Mar Aquarium, Gran Canaria
Overview: Poema del Mar is a modern aquarium showcasing marine life from around the world with immersive tanks and exhibits.
History: Inspired by artist Néstor Martín-Fernández de la Torre’s “Poem of the Sea” artworks, it was created as part of a vision to combine art and marine conservation.
Since When: Opened to the public in 2017 near Las Palmas’ cruise port.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the giant curved viewing window, diverse marine species, and conservation efforts.
When to Go: Best visited during mornings or weekdays to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by bus, car, or on foot from Las Palmas city center and cruise port.
What to Do: Explore themed marine zones, admire sharks and rays, and learn about marine ecosystems.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket purchase required.
Botanical Garden, Gran Canaria
Overview: The Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo is Spain’s largest botanical garden, showcasing native and exotic plant species.
History: Founded by Swedish-Spanish botanist Eric Sventenius to protect and display Canarian flora.
Since When: Officially opened in 1952 in Tafira Alta, near Las Palmas.
Review: Guests appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, rich biodiversity, and educational value.
When to Go: Best visited in spring when flowers are in bloom or mornings for cooler weather.
How to Go: Easily reachable by bus or car from Las Palmas city center.
What to Do: Walk through themed plant sections, photograph exotic flora, and enjoy scenic views.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the gardens.
Dunas de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Overview: Dunas de Maspalomas is a natural reserve featuring vast golden sand dunes, palm groves, and a lagoon by the Atlantic Ocean.
History: Formed thousands of years ago by oceanic and wind activity, the dunes were later protected as a natural reserve.
Since When: Declared a nature reserve in 1987 to preserve its unique ecosystem.
Review: Travelers describe it as breathtaking, offering desert-like landscapes by the sea.
When to Go: Best visited at sunrise or sunset for stunning views and cooler temperatures.
How to Go: Accessible on foot from Maspalomas or by bus, taxi, or car from other parts of Gran Canaria.
What to Do: Walk across dunes, visit the lagoon, birdwatch, and enjoy beach access.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the natural reserve.
Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria
Overview: Palmitos Park is a botanical and zoological park in Gran Canaria featuring exotic birds, dolphins, reptiles, and lush tropical gardens.
History: Opened to promote wildlife conservation and education while providing family-friendly entertainment.
Since When: Established in 1984 in Maspalomas.
Review: Visitors praise its diverse animal collection, dolphin shows, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
How to Go: Accessible by car or taxi from Maspalomas and nearby resorts.
What to Do: Watch dolphin and bird shows, explore plant gardens, and see reptiles and exotic birds up close.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with tickets required.
Faro de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Overview: Faro de Maspalomas is a historic lighthouse located on the southern tip of Gran Canaria, offering ocean views and a scenic promenade.
History: Built to guide maritime traffic along the southern coast of Gran Canaria.
Since When: Completed in 1890 and still operational as a navigational aid.
Review: Visitors enjoy its iconic architecture, coastal views, and proximity to the Maspalomas dunes.
When to Go: Best visited at sunrise or sunset for optimal photography and cooler temperatures.
How to Go: Located in Maspalomas, accessible on foot, by bike, or via car from nearby resorts.
What to Do: Walk along the promenade, take photos, and explore nearby shops and cafes.
Free or Paid: Free to visit the surrounding area; lighthouse interior may have limited access or fees.
Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, Gran Canaria
Overview: The Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria is a prominent Catholic church dedicated to the patron saint of the Canary Islands.
History: Built to honor the Virgin of Candelaria, an important figure in Canarian religious culture.
Since When: Original church established in the 16th century; the current structure dates to 1959.
Review: Visitors admire its impressive architecture, religious significance, and beautiful interior mosaics.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings or during religious festivals for a culturally rich experience.
How to Go: Located in Candelaria, accessible by car, taxi, or bus from other parts of Tenerife.
What to Do: Attend religious services, explore the basilica, and learn about local traditions.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
El Mirador Shopping, Gran Canaria
Overview: El Mirador Shopping is a modern shopping center in Gran Canaria offering retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
History: Developed to serve as a central commercial hub for locals and tourists.
Since When: Opened in the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy its variety of shops, dining options, and convenient location.
When to Go: Best visited during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or public transport in Las Palmas and surrounding areas.
What to Do: Shop for local and international brands, dine in restaurants, and watch movies at the cinema.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; shopping and entertainment are paid.
Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park, Gran Canaria
Overview: Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park is a small wildlife park featuring primates, exotic animals, and interactive experiences for families.
History: Established to educate visitors about animal conservation and offer hands-on interaction with wildlife.
Since When: Opened in the early 2000s in Tenerife, visited by Gran Canaria tourists via excursions.
Review: Guests enjoy the close encounters with animals and family-friendly activities.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings for cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or guided tour from Tenerife; reachable from Gran Canaria via ferry or day trip excursions.
What to Do: Interact with monkeys, feed animals, and explore exhibits with educational information.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Aqualand Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Overview: Aqualand Maspalomas is a large waterpark featuring slides, wave pools, and children’s play areas, making it a popular family destination.
History: Developed to provide a fun and safe aquatic environment for tourists and locals visiting southern Gran Canaria.
Since When: Opened in the 1980s.
Review: Visitors enjoy its variety of slides, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings or weekdays to avoid peak crowds and heat.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or local bus from Maspalomas and surrounding resorts.
What to Do: Swim, slide, relax in pools, and enjoy water attractions for all ages.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket purchase required.
Holidayworld Maspalomas Center, Gran Canaria
Overview: Holidayworld Maspalomas Center is an amusement park offering rides, games, and entertainment for children and families.
History: Established to complement the tourist offerings of Maspalomas and enhance family leisure activities.
Since When: Opened in the 1990s.
Review: Visitors appreciate its lively atmosphere, variety of rides, and entertainment for younger children.
When to Go: Best visited in the afternoons or early evenings when the park is lively but not overcrowded.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or on foot from nearby hotels and resorts in Maspalomas.
What to Do: Enjoy amusement rides, play games, and take part in family-friendly entertainment activities.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with additional costs for individual rides.
Mirador de Masca, Gran Canaria
Overview: Mirador de Masca is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and coastline.
History: Developed as part of Tenerife’s effort to promote natural tourism and showcase the dramatic landscape of the Masca area.
Since When: Officially established as a viewpoint in the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors praise its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for photography and nature appreciation.
When to Go: Best visited at sunrise or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting.
How to Go: Accessible by car or guided tour from surrounding towns, with limited parking at the viewpoint.
What to Do: Take photos, enjoy the landscape, and hike nearby trails.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Jungle Park, Gran Canaria
Overview: Jungle Park is a zoological and botanical park featuring exotic animals, birds, and tropical gardens with live shows.
History: Created to combine wildlife conservation, education, and family entertainment on the island.
Since When: Opened in 1988 in the southern region of Gran Canaria.
Review: Visitors enjoy interactive animal shows, walking trails, and the lush jungle setting.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings to see shows and avoid the midday heat.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or organized tours from Maspalomas and other tourist areas.
What to Do: Watch animal shows, explore gardens, and interact with certain animals.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket purchase required.
Plaza de Santa Ana, Gran Canaria
Overview: Plaza de Santa Ana is a historic square in Las Palmas known for its colonial architecture, lively cafes, and surrounding cultural landmarks.
History: Established during the 16th century as the city’s main square, hosting significant buildings like the Cathedral of Santa Ana.
Since When: Dates back to the 1500s as the social and religious center of Las Palmas.
Review: Visitors enjoy its charming architecture, cultural significance, and vibrant street life.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings or early evenings for sightseeing and photography.
How to Go: Located in central Las Palmas, accessible on foot, by bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore historic buildings, dine at nearby cafes, and take photos of the colonial architecture.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo, Gran Canaria
Overview: Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo is the largest botanical garden in Spain, showcasing native Canarian plants and exotic species from around the world.
History: Founded by Swedish-Spanish botanist Eric Sventenius to preserve Canarian flora and promote botanical research.
Since When: Officially opened in 1952 in Tafira Alta, near Las Palmas.
Review: Visitors praise its peaceful atmosphere, diverse plant collections, and educational value.
When to Go: Best visited in spring when flowers are in full bloom or mornings to avoid the heat.
How to Go: Accessible by car or bus from Las Palmas city center.
What to Do: Walk through thematic plant areas, take photographs, and learn about Canarian biodiversity.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Aqualand Costa Adeje, Gran Canaria
Overview: Aqualand Costa Adeje is a waterpark offering slides, wave pools, and aquatic attractions for families and thrill-seekers.
History: Developed to provide a fun, family-friendly destination and complement Tenerife’s tourism offerings.
Since When: Opened in 1985, with expansions and upgrades over the years.
Review: Visitors enjoy the variety of water rides, clean facilities, and friendly staff.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings or weekdays to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or guided tours from surrounding areas.
What to Do: Swim in pools, enjoy slides and wave pools, and relax in shaded areas.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket options.
Parque San Telmo, Gran Canaria
Overview: Parque San Telmo is a popular urban park in Las Palmas featuring fountains, sculptures, and shaded walkways.
History: Developed as a public leisure space to offer city residents a peaceful retreat in the heart of Las Palmas.
Since When: Established in the 19th century and renovated in the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy its artistic elements, tranquil atmosphere, and proximity to shops and cafes.
When to Go: Best visited during mornings or late afternoons to enjoy cooler temperatures.
How to Go: Located in central Las Palmas, accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Stroll through gardens, relax on benches, view fountains and sculptures, and enjoy nearby cafés.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Overview: Playa de Maspalomas is a famous beach known for its golden sand, dunes, and calm Atlantic waters, attracting sunbathers and nature lovers.
History: Historically a natural dune ecosystem that became a major tourist attraction with the rise of southern Gran Canaria resorts.
Since When: Became popular with tourists in the mid-20th century.
Review: Visitors praise its wide sandy expanse, scenic dunes, and opportunities for sunbathing and walking.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or local buses from Maspalomas resorts.
What to Do: Sunbathe, swim, walk along dunes, and enjoy beachside restaurants and activities.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Pyramids of Güímar, Gran Canaria
Overview: The Pyramids of Güímar are stepped terraced structures with surrounding ethnographic gardens, exhibiting the island’s mysterious historical architecture.
History: Studied by Thor Heyerdahl who suggested possible ancient cultural significance and linked them to Polynesian traditions.
Since When: Opened as a cultural and educational site in 1998.
Review: Visitors appreciate the historical intrigue, informative exhibits, and surrounding gardens.
When to Go: Best visited during mornings or late afternoons for cooler weather and better lighting.
How to Go: Accessible by car or guided tour from southern and northern parts of Gran Canaria.
What to Do: Explore pyramids, visit the ethnographic museum, and walk through landscaped gardens.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Mercado De Vegueta, Gran Canaria
Overview: Mercado De Vegueta is a vibrant local market in Las Palmas offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and traditional Canarian products.
History: Established to provide a central hub for commerce and community interaction in the historic Vegueta district.
Since When: Operational since the early 20th century, evolving with modern market practices.
Review: Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, fresh food selections, and authentic local experience.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings when produce is freshest and the market is lively.
How to Go: Easily accessible on foot, by bus, or taxi from Las Palmas city center.
What to Do: Browse stalls, sample local foods, and purchase souvenirs and fresh produce.
Free or Paid: Free entry; products and food are paid.
Playa de Las Canteras, Gran Canaria
Overview: Playa de Las Canteras is a long urban beach in Las Palmas, famous for its golden sand, calm waters, and vibrant promenade.
History: Developed as a recreational area while maintaining natural coral reefs that protect its shoreline.
Since When: Popular as a city beach since the early 20th century.
Review: Visitors praise its clean sand, safe swimming conditions, and lively beachfront activities.
When to Go: Best visited during mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak sun and crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by foot from Las Palmas neighborhoods, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Sunbathe, swim, snorkel along the reef, stroll the promenade, and enjoy local cafes.
Free or Paid: Free access; amenities and rentals are paid.
La Ruleta Vista Point, Gran Canaria
Overview: La Ruleta Vista Point is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Gran Canaria’s coastline, mountains, and valleys.
History: Developed to provide tourists and locals a designated area to appreciate the island’s natural landscapes.
Since When: Established in the late 20th century as part of Gran Canaria’s tourism infrastructure.
Review: Visitors enjoy breathtaking views and photographic opportunities of the island’s diverse scenery.
When to Go: Best visited at sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures.
How to Go: Accessible by car or guided tour, with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Take photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax while observing the island’s landscapes.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Reserva Natural Especial de Las Dunas de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Overview: This natural reserve features expansive sand dunes, palm groves, and a lagoon, forming a unique desert-like ecosystem by the ocean.
History: Protected to preserve its ecological, geological, and scenic value as one of the Canary Islands’ most iconic natural sites.
Since When: Declared a protected area in 1987.
Review: Visitors admire its striking dune landscapes, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty.
When to Go: Best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by foot, car, taxi, or bus from Maspalomas and nearby resorts.
What to Do: Walk across dunes, birdwatch at the lagoon, and enjoy scenic photography.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, Gran Canaria
Overview: Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino is a historic Catholic church in Teror, dedicated to the patron saint of Gran Canaria.
History: Built to honor the Virgin of the Pine, an important figure in local religious and cultural traditions.
Since When: Original chapel dates back to the 16th century; current basilica completed in 1767.
Review: Visitors praise its stunning architecture, religious significance, and serene interior.
When to Go: Best visited during morning hours or on religious festival days for cultural insight.
How to Go: Accessible by car, bus, or guided tour from Las Palmas and other areas.
What to Do: Attend services, admire the interior, and explore the historic town of Teror.
Free or Paid: Free entry.