11 places, 8 of them free and 3 tours and activities. A continent in miniature: golden dunes, mountains and lively Las Palmas.
Maspalomas
A protected field of golden Saharan-style dunes that runs down to a long beach and a lighthouse.
Open all day; best in the morning or late afternoon
Las Palmas
The historic quarter of Las Palmas, with a cathedral, colonial houses and small museums around quiet squares.
Streets open all day; sights vary
Vegueta, Las Palmas
A museum in a beautiful Canarian-style mansion about the islands’ links with Christopher Columbus and the voyages to the Americas.
Daily; closed some Sundays
Las Palmas
A long urban beach, protected by a natural reef, with a lively promenade of cafés and surf schools.
Open-air; lifeguards in season
Central mountains
A dramatic 80-metre volcanic rock that is the symbol of the island, reached by a short walk with sweeping views.
Open all day; best early
Central mountains
The island’s highest point at almost 1,950 metres, with views across the interior and sometimes to Tenerife.
Open all day
Maspalomas
A zoo and botanical garden with tropical birds, a dolphin show, reptiles and a butterfly house.
Daily
Mogán
A pretty fishing harbour of low whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillea, often called Little Venice for its canals.
Open-air; the Friday market is popular
Planning Gran Canaria? 3 places to eat are one tap away.