To take a break from the winter grip, we packed our bags and jetted off to Spain for 2 weeks. After visiting the Canary Islands several times, this year we set our sights on Gran Canaria.
The best time to visit this island is usually in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasantly warm, but not too hot (see here for the average weather throughout the year). During these months, you will have comfortable temperatures to enjoy the endless activities this island has to offer, such as hiking, beach outings, and exploring the different attractions. In fact, Gran Canaria enjoys mild weather year-round, so even winter months can be a good time to visit if you seek a more peaceful atmosphere or a milder winter.
We visited Gran Canaria in late March and early April, and despite expectations of cooler weather, the strong Spanish sun made it feel warmer than it was. However, as the sun sets, the daytime warmth can fade quickly, so pack a light jacket to stay cozy. If hiking in the mountains is on your agenda, expect temperatures there to drop a few degrees further.
How to get there and get around
- Flights:
- From Germany, Europe, and Asia, you can reach Gran Canaria by flying into Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is well-connected to major cities in Germany, Europe, and some cities in Asia through various airlines. Direct flights are available from cities like Frankfurt, Berlin, London, Madrid, Amsterdam, and occasionally from cities in Asia with layovers in major European hubs.
- Within the Island:
- By Bus:
- Gran Canaria has an extensive public bus network offering convenient transportation between towns and popular tourist destinations. The bus system connects major cities/towns like Las Palmas, Maspalomas, and Puerto Rico, as well as smaller villages and attractions.
- Buses generally runs frequently, around every 15 – 30 min, between major destinations. It may be less frequent on less-traveled routes. Bus fares are relatively inexpensive, depending on distance traveled. The tickets can be easily purchased from the driver or at designated outlets.
- In general, it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the island. However, as the bus routes are fixed, you will need to plan your itinerary around the bus schedule, which limits spontaneity and flexibility. Especially if you want to explore more remote areas, renting a car may be a better option.
- By Car:
- Renting a car is a popular option for those who want flexibility and convenience in exploring the island. Several car rental companies operate at Gran Canaria Airport and in major tourist areas, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. For better availability and prices, we recommend booking rental cars online in advance.
- We opted for CICAR every time we visit Canary Islands. The service is a breeze, smooth and with no hidden fees. We can only recommend it. It cost us around 400 EUR for 2 weeks for an automatic, gas included. For non-automatic cars it’ll be less.
- Parking in Gran Canaria is usually easy and affordable, with rates averaging around 1-2 EUR per hour. Parking on the streets is usually free, but it’s important to watch out for possible unexpected costs/fines. Some parking spots painted in colors other than white may be reserved for specific guests or residents only. Accidentally parking in these spots could result in fines ranging from 40 to 80 EUR. The tricky part is that there may not be a universal “no parking” sign (a red circle with a diagonal line) next to it. But look out for Spanish signs painted on the street reading “solo Residentes” (meaning “residents only”), as they may indicate restricted parking areas.
- Other Ways:
- You can also explore Gran Canaria by taxi, although this can be more expensive than other options. Private transfers and organized tours are also available for those who prefer guided transportation or door-to-door service to attractions and accommodations.
- By Bus:
Where to stay?
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:
- The capital city offers a mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions such as the Vegueta district, Casa de Colón and the Cathedral of Santa Ana, and stunning beaches such as Las Canteras Beach.
- Here you will find a wide spectrum of stay options, from budget* to upscale***.
- Maspalomas:
- Known for its iconic sand dunes, Maspalomas offers upscale resorts, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to beautiful beaches. Aqualand Maspalomas or Palmitos Park are both popular attractions for families.
- This area generally caters to mid-range** to upscale*** travelers with a variety of resorts and hotels offering luxurious amenities.
- Puerto de Mogán:
- A picturesque fishing village with a charming marina, Puerto de Mogán is perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The charming streets of Puerto de Mogán are often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its network of canals and bridges.
- This area primarily features mid-range** to upscale*** accommodations, including boutique hotels and apartments with ocean views. It’s also known for its seafood restaurants and waterfront dining.
- Playa del Inglés:
- Ideal for beach lovers and party-goers, Playa del Inglés has a lively atmosphere, an array of restaurants and bars, and a vibrant nightlife scene, such as along the Yumbo Centrum and Kasbah shopping centers. Nearby attractions include the Sioux City Park, a Wild West-themed attraction, and Holiday World amusement park. It seems to be popular among those enjoying water sports such as windsurfing and jet skiing.
- This area offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets, including budget* hotels, apartments, and all-inclusive resorts. And it’s a bit more touristy than other areas.
- Puerto Rico:
- Nestled between dramatic cliffs, Puerto Rico is a family-friendly resort town with golden beaches, water sports, and dolphin-watching excursions.
- Here you will find many family-friendly resorts and self-catering apartments, spanning mid-range** to upscale***.
- Prices may vary depending on season and amenities, but generally –
- *Budget ranges from around 10 EUR to 30 EUR per night for a dormitory bed, and from around 30 EUR – 60 EUR for a private room.
- **Mid-range ranges from 60 EUR to 150 EUR per night for a double room or studio apartment.
- ***Upscale ranges from 150 EUR to 500 EUR per night for a luxury resort or hotel, and from 200 EUR to 1000 EUR per night for a private villa.
- All areas listed offer convenient access to supermarkets, shops, pharmacies and other amenities and boast a great mix of culinary options close-by, with plenty of restaurants offering local traditional Canarian foods, international (e.g. British, German, Swedish, Asian) cuisine, upscale dining as well as casual eateries.
In search of warmer climes, we stayed in the sunny south, Maspalomas. We chose a triplex, cozy and quaint. It greeted us with hues of gold tones that brightened every corner like the Spanish sun itself. With a kitchen included, we enjoyed homemade breakfasts almost every morning, dining with a view of the sea, a blissful moment to start the day.
Upon arrival, we didn’t have much time to explore, but luck was on our side as we stumbled upon one of the best paella spots on the island – Restaurante Los Angeles. Conveniently located near our accommodation, we didn’t hesitate to indulge our hungry stomachs after a long day of travel.
We kicked off with 2 popular Spanish appetizers – Padrón Peppers (Pimientos de Padrón) and Mushrooms Soaked in Garlic Oil (Champiñones al Ajillo).
The Padrón Peppers have a mild flavor with occasional bursts of heat. They are fried in olive oil until blistered and sprinkled with coarse sea salt. It’s a simple dish but has an addictive combination of slightly smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. The peppers are tender with a slight crispiness from the frying, making them incredibly delicious.
Mushrooms Soaked in Garlic Oil (Champiñones al Ajillo) is a classic Spanish dish of mushrooms sautéed in olive oil with garlic, parsley, and a splash of white wine. The mushrooms absorb the flavors of the garlic-infused oil, resulting in a rich, aromatic dish. The mushrooms are tender and juicy, with a meaty texture that contrasts beautifully with the silky garlic oil. It’s served piping hot, so be careful not to touch the plate. Paired with crusty bread for dipping into deep, savory garlicky oil, it’s a simple yet satisfying appetizer!
Now, onto the main course – paella with saffron rice, seafood, meat and vegetables. It looks very pretty with the rich golden color of the saffron. It gives the dish a distinct earthy and floral flavor. Served steaming hot, you can smell the oceanic aroma from the abundance of fresh seafood. Adding to the savoriness is the meat pieces, generously scattered throughout. The inclusion of vegetables like onions, beans, bell peppers and 2 orange slices is an interesting twist that we don’t often see in paella. But they add freshness and a subtle citrusy aroma that balance the richness of the meat and seafood. Overall, it’s a very robust, aromatic and deeply satisfying dish.
The paella here is about 14 EUR per person, nearly 30% below average in our experience. Served in generous portions, even with our voracious appetites after a day of travel, we still had to pack 30% as leftovers. Despite its touristy location, the restaurant has a charming local vibe with genuinely friendly staff. We highly recommend it to paella lovers!
This article is just the beginning! From hiking to swimming, golfing to massages, and thrilling adventures at entertainment and water parks, this island truly has something for everyone. From stunning landscapes to cultural experiences and delicious cuisine, we can’t wait to share our highlights from this trip with you. So stay tuned for our upcoming posts on Gran Canaria!
