Looking for an exciting and diverse holiday destination? Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s most popular Canary Islands, offers a great mix of cultural and geographical diversity with something for every type of traveller. With its sunny weather all year round, there’s no bad time to pack your bags for this island paradise!

Planning your holiday to the island is pretty easy too. Whether you are looking for affordable guest houses, luxury resorts or holiday rentals Gran Canaria has many options available to suit different budgets. The island is often praised for its welcoming atmosphere and outstanding hospitality, making it a particularly friendly destination for anyone. But, most importantly, Gran Canaria is brimming with fun activities perfect for families, friend groups or even solo travellers. So, without further ado, here are some of the must-do things on this amazing island! 

Enjoy the sun and the sea

Gran Canaria boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. From the bustling Playa del Ingles to the tranquil Playa de Maspalomas with its stunning sand dunes, there’s a beach for every mood. Moreover, the warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for a wide range of adventurous water sports, including surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. If you’re lucky, you might even run into the diverse marine life that the island is home to!

Taste the delicious local cuisine

No visit to Gran Canaria would be complete without sampling its delicious local cuisine. The island’s dishes are a fusion of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. Don’t miss the chance to try “papas arrugadas”, a traditional Canarian dish of wrinkly potatoes served with a spicy sauce, amongst many other mouth-watering local dishes and wines. 

Recharge your batteries in the nature

Nature lovers will find a haven in Gran Canaria. With its diverse landscape ranging from desert dunes to lush mountains, the island offers countless hiking trails. A hike to Roque Nublo, one of the tallest rocks in the world, will reward you with stunning views of the island. However, if hiking is not your forte, there are many other easily-accessible nature spots and viewpoints that can be accessed easily, including the Maspalomas Dunes, the Palmitos Park or the Jardín Canario. 

Learn about the rich local culture and heritage

If you are looking for what to do in Gran Canaria that would teach you a bit more about its culture, then the best place to start would be one of the many historical sites the island has to offer. The Cueva Pintada archeological park, also known as the “Painted Cave”, offers insights into the lives of the indigenous people before Spanish colonization. Additionally, Gran Canaria is home to a variety of interesting museums that will teach you more about the island’s heritage, including the Casa de Colón (Columbus House), Museo Canario (Canarian Museum) and the Arucas Municipal Museum.

Stroll around the charming towns

Exploring the charming towns of Gran Canaria offers a different glimpse into the unique and vibrant culture of the island. Stroll through Teror’s cobblestone streets lined with traditional Canarian homes and visit its majestic Basilica. In Vegueta, Las Palmas, admire the beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Don’t miss the “Little Venice,” Puerto de Mogán, with its picturesque canals and houses.

Final words

All in all, Gran Canaria is an island full of experiences and adventures! With its unique blend of beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and culturally significant sites, there is certainly no shortage of things to do here!