Looking for the perfect holiday spot? Gran Canaria's got you covered with endless sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and a laid-back vibe that makes relaxing a breeze. Adventure, chill, or party—this island has it all!

Good to know:

Fun Fact: Gran Canaria is often called a "miniature continent" thanks to its wildly diverse landscapes—from deserts to forests, all in one place!

Best Beach: Maspalomas Beach is a must-visit, famous for its golden sand dunes that stretch right down to the ocean.

Price of a Pint: You can grab a cold pint of local beer for around €2.50 to €3.50 at most beach bars. Cheers!

Destination Highlights

• Year-round scorchio weather – proper sunbathing territory!

• Vibrant nightlife – from beach bars to clubs, it’s always popping off

• Top-tier hiking trails with views that’ll blow your mind (and your Insta)

• Whopping markets for all your holiday shopping needs

• Delish Canarian cuisine – papas arrugadas and mojo sauce? Yes, please!

The Low-Down on the Gran Can

Get ready to sprinkle a bit of magic dust on your jollies because holidays to Gran Canaria are popping off, and trust us, that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Imagine lounging on mahoosive sand dunes by day and hitting the wildest party spots by night, all while the sun is giving you that top-tier golden glow 365 days a year. Sounds bangin', right?

Picture yourself chilling out big time on one of the island’s dazzling beaches for a whole week. Or maybe meandering through the cute-as-a-button, narrow streets of those peaceful harbourside villages is more your vibe? And let’s not even get started on the Canarian cuisine – it’s delish to the max!

So, whether you’re hunting for a proper good deal that won’t break the bank, an all-in banger of a resort or you’re after something a bit more boujee for a secluded, lovey-dovey adults-only escape, Gran Canaria holidays have got your back. You’re bound to find that swanky spot that’s just right for you!

Talk Like a Local

Hola – Hello

Adiós - Bye

¿Cómo estás? – How are you?

Gracias – Thank you

Por favor – Please

De nada - You’re welcome

¿Dónde está la playa? – Where is the beach?

Una cerveza, por favor – A beer, please

Una copa de vino (tinto/blanco), por favor - A glass of (red/white) wine, please

¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?

La cuenta, por favor – The bill, please

¿Hablas inglés? – Do you speak English?

Quiero una mesa para dos – I’d like a table for two

Getting around in Gran Canaria

🚘 Car Rental -Renting a car is the best way to fully explore Gran Canaria, offering freedom and flexibility to visit everything from hidden beaches to mountain villages. The island’s roads are in great condition, and you can easily drive between coastal areas and inland attractions in under an hour. Car rental is affordable and widely available at the airport and major tourist areas.

🚌Buses (Guaguas) - Gran Canaria’s public bus system, known as 'guaguas', is a cost-effective and reliable way to get around. The buses are comfortable, run regularly, and connect most of the island’s key destinations, from the beaches in the south to the bustling capital, Las Palmas. You can grab a bus almost anywhere, and tickets are reasonably priced, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

🚕Taxis - Taxis are plentiful, especially in popular tourist areas like Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. They’re a convenient option for short trips or when you want to avoid parking in busier areas. Fares are metered and generally affordable, though prices can vary depending on the time of day.

🚲Bike Rentals - For a more active and eco-friendly way to get around, consider renting a bike. Many areas of the island, particularly the flat coastal routes, are ideal for cycling. Several rental shops are available in tourist hotspots, and biking is a fun way to discover scenic paths and local spots at a leisurely pace.

Where's the best area to stay in Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria offers a wide variety of areas to suit different holiday styles, from vibrant beach resorts to peaceful mountain retreats. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends, there’s a perfect spot for every type of getaway. Here are some top recommendations based on what kind of holiday you’re after:

• For Families: Maspalomas - Known for its golden sand dunes and family-friendly atmosphere, Maspalomas has a great mix of beaches, parks, and restaurants that cater to all ages. Plus, attractions like Palmitos Park and Aqualand are perfect for a fun family day out.

• For Couples: Puerto de Mogán - Often called “Little Venice” due to its charming canals and picturesque marina, Puerto de Mogán is a romantic seaside town perfect for couples. Its quiet atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and waterfront restaurants create the ideal setting for a relaxed, intimate holiday.

• For Friends: Playa del Inglés - If you’re looking for fun and excitement, Playa del Inglés is the place to be. It’s famous for its buzzing nightlife, lively beach bars, and a wide variety of activities. Whether you’re hitting the clubs or soaking up the sun, this spot guarantees good times with friends.

• For Nature Lovers: Tejeda - If you prefer a more peaceful escape surrounded by nature, head to Tejeda, nestled in the island’s mountainous interior. This charming village offers incredible hiking opportunities and jaw-dropping views of Gran Canaria’s rugged landscape. Perfect for those who want to explore the island’s natural beauty.

What are the best beaches to hit up on your Gran Canaria holidays 2025?

Gran Canaria is the perfect blend of golden sands, turquoise waters, and that sizzling sunshine - beach goals. Whether you're after a cheeky last-minute getaway or you're craving a winter break in the sun to keep the good vibes rolling, we've got you. From secluded coves to whopping stretches of sand, this Canary Island gem has got the goods. Get your towel ready:

• Maspalomas Beach - Where the dunes are as epic as your last night out, and the horizon stretches forever. It's like stepping onto another planet, but with better beach bars.

• Playa de Amadores - Picture-perfect turquoise waters, white sands, and a vibe so chill, you’ll forget what day it is. It's the ultimate spot to whip out your beach towel and relax.

• Las Canteras Beach - City beach chic meets crystal-clear waters. This is where you go to strut your stuff, paddleboard like a pro, and sip something cold as you watch the world go by.

• Puerto Rico Beach - Sun-soaked and sheltered, this beach is a haven for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike. There's a ton of activities for the kiddos, too.

• Playa de Mogán - Tucked away in a picturesque port town, this beach is all about those laid-back, seaside vibes. It's perfect for a day of sunning and funning on your holidays to Gran Canaria.

• San Agustín Beach - A quieter, more serene spot for those looking to escape the crowds. The dark sands and peaceful atmosphere make it a proper good choice for a relaxed day.

• Playa del Inglés - Buzzing with energy, this beach is a hotspot for nightlife and daytime fun. It’s where the party keeps on giving, from dawn till dusk.

• Playa de Güi Güi - A hidden gem accessible by a hike or boat. It’s your go-to for breathtaking, untouched beauty and a solid adventure.

• Playa de Las Burras - Family-friendly and fabulously sheltered, with calm waters perfect for a paddle. It's a great choice for a mellow beach day on your Gran Canaria holidays.

• Anfi del Mar - Think Caribbean vibes in the Canary Islands. Powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a swanky resort backdrop. It’s 10/10 for a day of luxe lounging.

What are the best hotels to stay at on your Gran Canaria holidays?

Ready to swap your daily grind for some top-tier, sun-kissed luxury? Gran Canaria rolls out the red carpet with some of the swankiest spots to lay your head, kick back, and live it up, island style. From waterpark wonders to cliff-top paradises, we've scoped out the crème de la crème of stays that'll have you living that boujee holiday dream. Here's the lowdown on where to crash in style:

• Servatur Waikiki - This is not just a hotel; it's a vibe. With activities galore and vibes that scream "holiday mode," it’s perfect for families and fun-seekers alike.

• Hotel GF Gran Costa Adeje - Talk about swish! This hotel's got luxe rooms, drool-worthy dining, and pools so sleek you’ll never want to leave. It's a slice of paradise for those who like their holidays with a side of glam.

• Gloria Palace Amadores - Perched on a clifftop with jaw-dropping sea views, this spot is all about those chill, sunset cocktails and infinity pool dreams. For a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, it's spot on.

• LIVVO Lago Taurito & Waterpark - Splash into fun at this family-friendly resort where the waterpark is the star of the show. If you’re looking to keep the kiddos entertained while you soak up some rays, this is the place.

• Colina Mar - With stunning views and all the essentials for a comfy stay, this spot is a bangin’ choice for budget-savvy travelers who still want a slice of the action. It’s proper good value without skimping on the fun.

• Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa - This gorge hotel has earned bragging rights with a gastro buffet of over 13 different food stands, an on-site cinema and a lush spa complete with ice grottos, salt caves and a Finnish Sauna for ultimate relaxation.

Gran Canaria travel guide

🍻 Gran Canaria all inclusive holidays

Golden sands, breezy vibes, and temps that have the mercury sizzling – sounds like paradise, right? But wait, it gets even better. Our All-Inclusive holidays to Gran Canaria are about to skyrocket your beach getaway into the stratosphere. Imagine this: all your nosh and bevvies sorted, so you can kiss goodbye to stress (and your wallet) the moment you step off the plane.

Feast on breakfast spreads that are nothing short of bountiful, stay hydrated with unlimited poolside drinks, and watch the kiddos go to town on ice cream – and yeah, they can have as much as they want, because why not? Going all-inclusive is like hitting the holiday jackpot: chillax to the max, save some quid, and bask in the glory of a truly carefree break. Absolute win-win, if you ask us!

💎 Luxury holidays in Gran Canaria

Fancy a slice of the high life for your next jollies? Well, buckle up, because Gran Canaria is about to serve it up on a silver platter, Meloneras style. This is where luxury isn’t just a word; it’s the lifestyle, with swanky 5-star hotels strutting their stuff along palm-lined boulevards that are as posh as they sound.

Imagine dining under the stars at chic waterside spots, splashing the cash in designer boutiques, or swinging away on an 18-hole golf course that boasts views so lush, you might just forget to keep score. Meloneras is the trendsetting hub of the island, where lavish is the norm and first class is the expectation.

Get ready to be spoilt for choice with opulent hotels offering spa retreats worthy of royalty, pools you’d happily spend eternity in, and gastronomic delights that’ll have you dining like a celeb. Luxury holidays in Gran Canaria? Yeah, they’re pretty unforgettable.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do for families on Gran Canaria holidays

Gran Canaria is a veritable playground paradise for the kiddos (and the young at heart, too)! From beaches with sands begging for castles to be built, to water parks where the slides are as epic as a weekend lie-in, there's no chance of hearing "I'm bored" here.

• Beach Bumming: First up, Playa del Faro and Maspalomas are where it's at. Think vast golden sands, safe waters, and enough room to tire out even the most energetic of little legs. And for the budding surfers? Surf Maspalomas has got you covered with kid-friendly courses.

• Water Park Wonders: Aqualand Maspalomas is like the mecca for water slide enthusiasts of all ages, while Parque Acuático Oasis Lago Taurito packs enough fun to ensure the kids will be zonked by sundown.

• Animal Adventures: Palmitos Park is a wild day out for the whole family! From jaw-dropping dolphin shows to colorful parrots and cheeky meerkats, this zoo-meets-botanical-garden is packed with fun. 

• Crocodile Crazy: Ready to meet some real-life dinosaurs? Cocodrilo Park is home to loads of crocs, monkeys, and parrots – all rescued and living their best life. It’s not just a fun day out but also a great chance to teach the little ones about animal rescue and conservation!

• Whale of a Time: Fancy meeting some marine giants? Whale watching around this island is as magical as it sounds. It's a must-do for a dose of awe-inspiring nature.

• Evening Escapades: Holidayworld Maspalomas Center is your go-to for theme park thrills, bowling, and a bit of karaoke action to round off the day. Plus, the seafront promenade is buzzing with family-friendly spots to grab a bite or enjoy some entertainment.

• Dive Deep: Got teens or tweens? Dive into the underwater world with Gran Canaria Divers, or for the littles, the Submarine Adventure by Atlántida Submarine is a journey into the deep blue they won't forget.

In short, holidays in Gran Canaria are a total win-win. Whether you're all about the adrenaline rush or just keen to chillax to the max, this island's got the goods. And with hotels that hit the sweet spot between fun-filled and chill-out heaven, it's a no-brainer for a mega family getaway.

❤️ Things to do in Gran Canaria for couples

Planning a cheeky getaway for two? Gran Canaria is your dreamy backdrop, where love stories aren’t just written; they’re lived. Whether you’re all about that buzzing resort life in Maspalomas or Las Palmas, or craving the quiet charm of Puerto de Mogan (our very own slice of Little Venice), this island is a match made in heaven for lovebirds.

• Puerto de Mogan: Stroll hand in hand by the seafront, marvel at the views from the mirador, or just kick back on a sun lounger and bask in the glow of each other's company (and the sun, of course).

• Las Palmas Vibes: Dive into the Old Town of Vegueta, where the romance of quaint cobbled streets meets the thrill of discovery. Shops, bars, and hidden gems await, and a walking tour here is like stepping into the pages of a local love story.

• Arehucas Rum Distillery: Wondering where the rum's gone? Not an issue here, with over 4,308 oak barrels full of the stuff. Take a little road trip or excursion from Las Palmas for a tour and tasting that’ll spice up your holiday memories. Don’t forget to grab a bottle (or two) from the gift shop – because nothing says “we had a bangin' time” quite like bringing back a taste of the trip.

• Boat Trip Along the Coast: Set sail along the island’s coast on a private boat tour or join a dolphin-watching cruise. There's something magical about being on the water, soaking up the views and enjoying the tranquility together.

Holidays to Gran Canaria are where romance comes alive, folks. Whether it's lounging, exploring, or sipping on some exquisite rum, this island has all the ingredients for a love story that’s proper good.

👯👯‍♂️Things to do for groups in Gran Canaria

• Escape Room in Las Palmas: Put your group’s problem-solving skills to the test in one of Gran Canaria’s exciting escape rooms. Work together to crack codes, solve puzzles, and escape before time runs out – a fun challenge that guarantees lots of laughs!

• Surfing Lessons in Las Canteras: If your group is up for some adventure, try a group surfing lesson at Las Canteras Beach. Whether you’re pros or complete beginners, catching waves together is an unforgettable experience.

• Go-Karting in Gran Karting Club: For an adrenaline-fueled day, race your friends around the tracks at the Gran Karting Club. It’s one of the island’s most exciting go-karting spots, perfect for friendly competition and high-speed fun.

• Wine Tasting Tour: Take a group wine-tasting tour to explore Gran Canaria’s unique vineyards. Sample local wines while enjoying beautiful countryside views, perfect for a more laid-back day time sesh.

• Jeep Safari Adventure: Hop in a jeep and take your group on an off-road safari across Gran Canaria’s rugged terrain. It’s an exhilarating way to explore and have a blast with your crew out in nature.

💰 How to do Gran Canaria on a budget

On the hunt for some top-notch fun in Gran Canaria that won’t have you rummaging through your pockets for spare change? You’re in luck because this island is brimming with freebies that’ll keep your jollies popping without costing a dime. That’s right, free! With an island this gorgeous, who needs to splash the cash to have a good time?

Hit the beaches – they’re open to all and don’t cost a penny. Imagine a day of sun, sea, and sand, with nothing but a picnic and the sound of waves for company. Blissful, and super-easy on the wallet. As for those evenings when splurging on drinks and dinner feels a bit much, Gran Canaria’s sunsets come to the rescue. They’re stunning, unforgettable, and absolutely free. And if you’re all about that sparkle and spirit, the Gran Canaria carnivals are your go-to. Sure, some bits might need a ticket, but the street parades and electric atmosphere? Totally free and utterly fabulous. Aim for mid-February to early March to join the party.

While we can’t offer you a free stay (we wish!), we’ve got the inside scoop on budget-friendly hotels that’ll make your Gran Canaria holidays a proper good deal. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of the island, all without breaking the bank!

If you couldn't tell, we really do love it here and we're sure you will too. In fact we're so confident, we wrote a whole blog about the 10 ways you'll lose your heart to Gran Canaria.

Other Canary Island holidays:

• Tenerife

• Lanzarote

• Fuerteventura

• La Palma