An urban gem with an enticing climate
Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria located 93 miles off the coast of Africa and 840 miles from Europe. A gleaming light surrounded by sea enjoys one of the warmest climates in the world. Las Palmas feels like Spain with a sprinkling of Africa: it is eclectic and atmospheric and offers visitors a chance to mix a beach holiday with an urban experience. It is a working city, which is authentic both in attitude and atmosphere. Mix your time on the city’s clean, sandy beach, Playa de las Canteras, with a spot of shopping. Browse trendy Vegueta, the oldest quarter and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Why Go?
Any time of year, Las Palmas offers a wonderful mix of sun, sea, sand and authenticity. Like some other Spanish cities Las Palmas is a stylish metropolis that embraces its privileged location and perfectly combines urbanity with its beach setting.
When to Go?
Sun seekers go to Gran Canaria throughout the year and are seldom disappointed as year-round average temperatures rarely drop below 17°C. Rainfall in the summer months is almost non-existent, but you may be caught in a shower between October and April. Sun worshipper will enjoy Las Palmas from April to October. But, if you like to feel the sand beneath your toes, without it burning, you may want to avoid May to September.
How to get there?
As a popular year-round destination, direct flights to Las Palmas are available from most UK airports on budget, charter or scheduled flights and take around 4.5 hours. Las Palmas Airport (LPA) is the only international airport on Gran Canaria and offers a quick and easy transfer into town.
Must see
Shopaholics should head to Calle Triana for the best boutiques. For a taste of sea-faring history tour the magnificent Casa de Colon, the 15th century mansion where Christopher Columbus stayed on his voyages of discovery. Las Palmas has a number of urban parks where locals relax and rest in the shade from the heat of the day. Visit the Parque Doramas and sit beneath the Dragon trees. Head outside to Pueblo Canario which borders the park offering a restaurant, craft shops and a children's playground. There is a free performance of Canarian folk music every Sunday.