What to see and do in Gran Canaria in 3, 5 and 7 days? Complete guide for your trip
Gran Canaria is a diverse tourist destination, perfect for a vacation at any time of the year. The island offers a variety of activities, from relaxing on the beaches to exploring the mountains. This article presents itineraries to enjoy Gran Canaria in 3, 5 and 7 days. Recommended sights, activities and accommodations are discussed depending on the time available.
Planning a trip to Gran Canaria is easy when you know where to start. The island offers a perfect combination of beaches, nature, charming villages and incredible routes that you can enjoy whether you travel 3, 5 or 7 days. Thanks to its good climate and the variety of landscapes, every day can become an unforgettable experience.
different experience: from exploring dunes and mountains to discovering viewpoints, trails and unique coastal corners. In this guide you will find the best itineraries to make the most of your stay and not miss anything of this jewel of the Atlantic.
1. What to visit in Gran Canaria in 3 days
Gran Canaria offers a perfect combination of history, nature and beaches in a three-day tour. Below is an itinerary that allows you to enjoy the main attractions of the island.
Day 1: History and beach in Las Palmas
The capital, Las Palmas, is the ideal place to start. Its rich history and beautiful beaches make this day an unforgettable experience.
Vegueta and Santa Ana Cathedral
Vegueta is the old town of Las Palmas, where you can appreciate the colonial architecture. The Cathedral of Santa Ana is the heart of the neighborhood, famous for its remarkable facade and impressive interior with works of art.
Columbus House
This museum is located near the cathedral. It offers a look at the history of colonization and the expeditions of Christopher Columbus, with interesting exhibits on the meeting of cultures.
Walk through Triana
Triana is a vibrant area full of stores, cafes and culture. The atmosphere is ideal for enjoying a coffee or strolling through its lively streets.
Las Canteras Beach
End the day at this famous beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Its length and beauty make it a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
Day 2: Nature and inland villages
The second day is dedicated to exploring the nature and charming villages of Gran Canaria. The mountains and natural landscapes offer a different experience.
Route to Roque Nublo
Roque Nublo is an icon of the island and an outstanding place for hiking. The hike to this monolith offers spectacular views of the surroundings, perfect for nature lovers.
Guayadeque ravine and cave houses
This ravine is famous for its cave houses and dramatic landscapes. It is a perfect place to enjoy a regional lunch, often in a restaurant serving traditional Canarian dishes.
Visit to Teror and the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino
Teror stands out for its wooden architecture and its peaceful atmosphere. The Basilica is a place of pilgrimage and an excellent example of the island’s religious heritage.
Day 3: Southern beaches and harbors
The last day focuses on the southern beaches and picturesque harbors, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the coastal environment.
Maspalomas dunes and beach
The Maspalomas Dunes are an impressive natural reserve. Strolling through the dunes and enjoying the nearby waters is a perfect plan for this day.
Mogán Pig
This charming port is known as “Little Venice”. Its picturesque atmosphere and canals invite for a vibrant stroll, as well as being a good place to have lunch while enjoying the views.
Sunset in Playa del Inglés
Finish the tour in Playa del Inglés, one of the most popular beach destinations. Its lively atmosphere and beautiful sunsets make this a perfect place to end the three days in Gran Canaria.
2. What to do in Gran Canaria in 5 days
The island offers an endless number of activities to enjoy in five days, combining culture, nature and fun. Below are detailed proposals for each day of the stay.
Day 1: Beach and culture in Las Palmas
The first day can be spent exploring the Canary Islands capital, combining relaxing moments on the beach with cultural visits.
Elder Museum of Science and Technology
This interactive museum allows visitors to learn about science and technology through dynamic exhibits, ideal for all ages.
Canary Island Museum
Located in Vegueta, this museum is essential to understand the aboriginal history of the island. It has a rich collection of artifacts representing the culture of the ancient Canary Islanders.
Day 2: Interior and mountain
The second day is reserved for enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery, starting with a visit to one of the most emblematic villages of Gran Canaria.
Tejeda and the Tejeda Cross
Tejeda, known for its natural beauty, is a good starting point to explore the Cruz de Tejeda, where you can admire the iconic Roque Nublo and taste the famous dulce de almendra.
Repetition and enlargement in Roque Nublo
Revisiting Roque Nublo allows you to enjoy its breathtaking views. You can opt for alternative paths to explore more of this extraordinary natural area.
Day 3: Activities in the south
On the third day, the focus is on recreational activities, starting with beaches and excursions.
Boat excursion in Puerto de Mogan
Enjoying a boat excursion from Puerto de Mogán offers the opportunity to explore the coast and possibly observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Day at Aqualand Maspalomas
This water park is perfect for a day full of fun, with slides and attractions for the whole family. An ideal place to cool off and enjoy the sun.
Day 4: Culture and coastal towns
The fourth day is dedicated to discovering the local culture and the picturesque coastal villages of Gran Canaria.
Visit to wineries in Tejeda
Tasting the local wines in a Tejeda winery is a rewarding experience, where you can taste unique varieties of the region along with local gastronomy.
Agaete walk and natural beach
Agaete, a charming coastal town, offers breathtaking views and a beautiful beach. It is an ideal place to enjoy the tranquility of the sea.
Day 5: Relaxation and nightlife
The last day combines water activities with a vibrant night on the town.
Water sports in Playa del Inglés
In Playa del Inglés you can practice various water sports, such as windsurfing or paddle surfing. It is perfect for those looking for adrenaline and fun.
Yumbo Shopping Center
Ending your stay in the Yumbo Shopping Center offers a wide variety of dining and nightlife options in a lively and diverse atmosphere.
3. Plan for Gran Canaria in 7 days
A seven-day itinerary allows you to fully explore the wonders of Gran Canaria. Over the course of a week, you can combine culture, nature and relaxation, enjoying the diversity that the island has to offer.
Day 1: Detailed exploration of Las Palmas
The first day focuses on the capital, where you can discover historical and cultural sites.
Day 2: Tamadaba Natural Park and trekking
The second day is dedicated to nature in the Tamadaba Natural Park. This area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts and offers breathtaking views.
Day 3: Charming villages
The day begins in the village of Teror, known for its traditional architecture and cozy atmosphere. Afterwards, you can visit Arucas, famous for its emblematic church and rum production.
Teror and Arucas
- Teror: It stands out for its Canarian balconies and the local market.
- Arucas: Here you will find the spectacular church of San Juan Bautista, in neo-Gothic style.
Palm honey and local architecture
In Teror it is possible to taste palm honey, a typical product of the area. You can visit a local store to buy handmade products related to honey.
Day 4: Quiet beaches
The fourth day is devoted to enjoy the tranquility of Amadores Beach. This place is ideal for relaxing and sunbathing in a family atmosphere.
Amadores Beach
- Crystal clear and calm waters, perfect for swimming.
- Restaurant options overlooking the sea to savor the local gastronomy.
Day 5: Cetacean watching
A unique experience in which you can combine adventure and nature. During this day, boat trips will be organized for whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat.
Day 6: Discover Gáldar and Agaete
This day is dedicated to visit Gáldar, where the famous Cueva Pintada, a fascinating archaeological site, is located. Afterwards, you can continue to Agaete, a picturesque coastal village.
Painted Cave
- This archaeological monument offers an insight into the life of the aboriginal people of the Canary Islands.
- Educational activities and exhibitions on the history of the island.
Natural pools in Agaete
Agaete is famous for its natural pools, perfect to refresh yourself in a natural environment. It is also a good place to enjoy the typical gastronomy in its coastal restaurants.
Day 7: Guayadeque Ravine and return to Las Palmas
The last day is reserved for a walk through the Barranco de Guayadeque, known for its natural beauty and its typical cave houses. It is an ideal place to enjoy the local gastronomy in one of its restaurants.
Cave houses and local gastronomy
- Houses that blend into the natural landscape and offer an authentic experience.
- Local gastronomy including traditional Canarian dishes.
Dinner with sea view
The week ends with a dinner in Las Palmas, where you can enjoy the ocean views and taste typical dishes, celebrating the end of a wonderful week on the island.