How do I get to Gran Canaria?
According to the official tourism website, Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is the island's main international gateway. Flight connections, terminals, parking and current operational information should be checked directly with AENA.
Gran Canaria is connected by ship to other Canary Islands and to mainland Spain. Timetables, vehicle transport and prices vary by season and ferry company. Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas provide binding information.
For bus connections and fares on the island, the relevant public transport operator is authoritative. Hire cars make trips into the island's interior easier. The main holiday resorts and towns are connected by bus routes.
Which towns and landscapes should I include?
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the island capital with the historic quarters of Vegueta and Triana and the city beach Las Canteras. Maspalomas is known for its dune landscape, the Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse and the adjacent coastline.
Puerto de Mogán is a harbour town in the south with canals, lanes and tourist infrastructure. Arucas lies in the north and is known for the neo-Gothic church of San Juan Bautista and traditional architecture. Teror is an important pilgrimage site with the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino and historic wooden balconies.
Tejeda is a mountain municipality in the centre of the island, in the landscape around Roque Nublo. Roque Nublo is one of Gran Canaria's best-known natural landmarks and viewpoints. Before visiting, current access requirements, reservation obligations and parking rules set by the responsible authorities must be checked.
The Barranco de Guayadeque is a ravine with cave settlements and designated walking routes. Tamadaba is a forested protected area in the northwest. Paths, access roads and entry can be restricted when there is a risk of forest fires or weather events.
Which beaches are there and what applies when swimming?
According to the official tourism website, well-known beaches include Las Canteras, Amadores, Puerto Rico, Anfi del Mar, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and San Agustín. Not every beach is supervised at all times. Flags, signs and instructions from lifeguards are binding.
Swimming is not permitted when the red flag is flying. Currents and waves should be taken seriously, especially on open Atlantic coasts. Children should never be left unattended in the water.
No rescue infrastructure should be assumed on remote stretches of coast. In emergencies, the number to call is 112.
When is the best time to visit Gran Canaria?
According to the official tourism website, Gran Canaria is generally suitable for holidays all year round. The official tourism website highlights mild conditions for outdoor activities in winter and summer. For reliable monthly values, only AEMET climate normals should be used.
In winter, the south is usually particularly popular for beach and activity holidays. In the mountains it is significantly cooler. Spring and autumn offer good conditions for walking, touring and sightseeing. In summer the coast is usually dry; in the island's interior and at higher altitudes, temperatures and wind can differ considerably.
Calima, dust-laden air from the Sahara, can occur at any time of year in principle, but is not a daily reliable seasonal event. During calima, current AEMET warnings and health advice should be followed. The north-east trade winds influence cloud, wind and regional differences: the south is often drier, while the north and higher areas can be cloudier.
Current values and warnings: CITA weather (cita.news/de/wetter.html) and AEMET.
What should I bear in mind when walking and in nature?
According to the Government of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has numerous protected areas. Walkers should use only marked paths and check route status, closures, forest fire alert level, weather and wind warnings, and water and food options in advance.
In extreme heat, strong winds, thunderstorms or when there is a risk of forest fires, authorities may close paths, access roads or natural areas. Fires, camping outside designated areas, litter and leaving marked paths may be prohibited or require permission. The publications of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria and the responsible protected area authority are authoritative.
Motor vehicles are generally not permitted to drive off authorised roads and tracks. According to the Government of the Canary Islands, a speed limit of 30 km/h applies on certain tracks. Litter, collecting plants or animals and unnecessary noise are prohibited.
The Canary Islands safety authorities recommend checking the route, weather and return time in advance and telling a contact person your destination. Sufficient water, sun protection, sturdy footwear and a charged phone should be carried. No visible valuables should be left in vehicles.
Which dates and prices apply in 2026?
According to the official tourism website, the Gran Canaria Walking Festival is scheduled for 15 to 18 October 2026. Event dates, admission prices, opening times, shuttle services and possible access restrictions can change. Before travelling, the official tourism website, the relevant municipality and the respective organiser should be checked again.
Specific hotel, flight and hire car prices vary greatly depending on season, holiday calendar and advance booking. Editorial price examples should always include the year, travel period and scope of services.