Gran Canaria itinerary: what to see and do in 7 days
Where every adventure begins with a sunrise!If you think you know what the Canaries are all about, then Gran Canaria is here to flip the script. One moment you’re walking barefoot on a golden beach, the next you’re winding through green ravines and volcanic peaks or gazing at the stars from a mountain village.
Simply put, this is a place where every sunrise feels like the start of something new. Whether you’re looking to chill, explore, or do a bit of both, every day comes with a healthy dose of wow.
Here’s how to make every day count on your 7-day Gran Canaria trip.
- Why visit Gran Canaria
- How to get to Gran Canaria by ferry
- Day 1: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Day 2: Arucas and Teror
- Day 3: Roque Nublo and the mountain villages
- Day 4: Artenara and Agaete
- Day 5: Maspalomas Dunes
- Day 6: Puerto de Mogán and the southwest coast
- Day 7: a relaxing farewell
- Useful tips for your Gran Canaria trip
Why visit Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of those destinations that surprises even the most seasoned travelers. Often described as a “miniature continent,” the island offers a rare mix of landscapes and experiences within just a few hours’ drive. From golden beaches and dramatic cliffs to pine-covered mountains and desert-like dunes, every corner of Gran Canaria feels like a different world.
The island’s year-round mild climate makes it a perfect escape at any time of the year. Whether you visit in winter for some much-needed sunshine or in summer for endless beach days, the weather rarely disappoints. Beyond its natural beauty, Gran Canaria is also rich in history and culture. Its charming old towns, colonial architecture, and lively markets reflect centuries of island life shaped by both Europe and Africa.
Food lovers will be delighted by the island’s gastronomy; think fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Canarian specialties like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can hike through volcanic landscapes, surf world-class waves, or cycle along scenic mountain roads.
What truly makes Gran Canaria special, however, is its balance: you can wake up in a tranquil mountain village, swim in turquoise waters by afternoon, and end the day dining under the stars on a beach promenade. It’s an island that invites you to slow down, explore, and experience the essence of the Canary Islands at its most authentic.
Welcome to Las Palmas!
How to get to Gran Canaria by ferry
Getting to Gran Canaria by ferry is an easy, scenic, and eco-friendly way to start your island adventure. You can travel to Gran Canaria from Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and even mainland Spain (Huelva and Cádiz).
Popular ferry routes include:
- Tenerife - Gran Canaria: several daily crossings between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Agaete or Las Palmas, which take from as little as 1.5 hours.
- Fuerteventura - Gran Canaria: there are daily ferries Morro Jable and Puerto del Rosario that take around 2 to 6 hours for the trip.
- Lanzarote - Gran Canaria: the ferry trip from Arrecife to Las Palmas usually lasts 6.5 hours.
- Cádiz - Gran Canaria: a long-distance route (around 32 hours), ideal for traveling with your car or camper van.
For more details, you can check out the Ferryhopper guide on how to get to Gran Canaria.
Day 1: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Start your adventure in the island’s lively capital, Las Palmas, where culture meets beach life. Get your bearings with a wander through Vegueta, the historic old town with cobbled streets and the stunning Santa Ana Cathedral. Next up, pay a visit to Casa de Colón (Christopher Columbus House), where you can learn about Gran Canaria’s maritime history.
Spend the afternoon at Las Canteras, one of Europe’s best urban beaches, which is captivating all year round. Swim, surf, or simply kick back with a cocktail and enjoy the view at sunset. End your first day on the island with tapas at Mercado del Puerto or dinner by the marina.
Top tip: if you plan on spending the Christmas holidays in the Canaries, don’t miss the impressive nativity scene and sand sculptures in Las Palmas.
The impressive Santa Ana Cathedral in Vegueta
Day 2: Arucas and Teror
As soon as you wake up and have breakfast, it’s time to head north, where you’ll discover Gran Canaria’s green heart and traditional charm. The day begins with a visit to Arucas, known for its impressive neo-Gothic church and hosting some of Spain’s oldest rum distilleries.
From there, you continue to Teror, a postcard-perfect village with colorful Canarian balconies and a peaceful vibe. Come lunchtime, make sure you try the local chorizo de Teror, a soft, spreadable sausage. You can either spend the night in or near Teror or return to Las Palmas.
Day 3: Roque Nublo and the mountain villages
Day 3 is all about nature and views, so make sure you bring along your hiking shoes! The day starts with a drive further inland, where you’ll get to explore some of Gran Canaria’s most awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes.
Hike to Roque Nublo, one of Gran Canaria’s most famous landmarks, where you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views. Don’t forget to charge your camera! Afterward, you can visit Tejeda, often ranked among Spain’s most beautiful villages. This is a great opportunity to sample bienmesabe, an almond sweet that is easily one of the tastiest Canarian desserts.
Enjoy a peaceful evening in the mountains, a perfect spot for stargazing, before driving back to your hotel.
The view from Roque Nublo is nothing short of spectacular!
Day 4: Artenara and Agaete
On day 4, your Gran Canaria adventure continues through to the rugged west of the island. You first stop is at Artenara, the highest village on Gran Canaria, known for its cave houses and stunning lookouts.
Head down to the Agaete Valley, a green oasis with coffee and tropical fruit plantations. End the day in Puerto de las Nieves, where you can swim in natural pools and dine on grilled fish and papas arrugadas with mojo sauce.
Day 5: Maspalomas Dunes
It’s time to enjoy Gran Canaria’s sunny south coast, where you will find some of the finest beaches on the island! The day begins with a trip to the Maspalomas Dunes, a protected natural area that feels like a mini desert by the sea.
Make sure you also visit the Maspalomas Lighthouse and the nearby lagoon, where you will often spot migratory birds. Bring along a pair of binoculars to get a better view. After exploring, you can relax on Playa del Inglés, one of the liveliest beaches on Gran Canaria, which is lined with bars and restaurants.
Tip: if you stay overnight in Maspalomas, you can enjoy both the calm beaches and the nightlife.
The Maspalomas dunes are one of the many highlights on the southern coast
Day 6: Puerto de Mogán and the southwest coast
The penultimate day of your week-long adventure is dedicated to Gran Canaria’s western side, and more specifically, Puerto de Mogán, one of the island’s most picturesque spots. As soon as you get there, you will be amazed by the town’s colorful canals and narrow alleys.
After strolling through “Little Venice”, spend the day relaxing on the beach or take a boat trip to Puerto Rico or Arguineguín. If you opt to take to the seas, you can go snorkeling or join a dolphin-watching cruise, as the waters here are teeming with life.
Day 7: a relaxing farewell
Spend the final day of your 7-day tour of Gran Canaria soaking up the peaceful vibes. This will be the best time to explore Las Palmas, shop for souvenirs and enjoy a long seaside lunch.
If time permits, you can revisit your favorite beach on the island, or even explore the Fataga Valley, on the southern side of Gran Canaria. Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Palms”, this is the perfect place to cap off your trip with a sunset toast overlooking the Atlantic.
The mesmerizing Barranco de las Vacas is a short drive from Las Palmas
Useful tips for your Gran Canaria trip
- Bringing your own car on the ferry or renting gives you the freedom to explore hidden villages and natural areas. Check out our 7-day road trip in Gran Canaria for more tips and recommendations.
- Gran Canaria is great year-round, but the best time to visit the Canaries is generally spring to early autumn (April-October) is perfect for beach days and hikes. You can find more details in our guide on the weather in Gran Canaria.
- Did you know that you can treat your four-legged buddy to an action-packed adventure in Gran Canaria? Our guides on planning a dog-friendly vacation in the Canary Islands and traveling by ferry with pets in Spain have all the details.
- Gran Canaria is one of the most budget-friendly Canary Islands. For more ideas, take a look at our blog on how to explore the wonders of Gran Canaria on a budget.
- Ferries to Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote make it easy to extend your Canary Islands adventure. You can find more details and inspiration in our guide on island-hopping in the Canaries.
Book your ferry to Gran Canaria
Ready to set sail for your Gran Canaria getaway? Then start planning your 7-day excursion to the island of eternal spring and discover all its treasures by sea!
To visualize and plan your trip, check out our Map of Ferries, where you will find all ferry connections in the Canary Islands and beyond! On Ferryhopper, you can compare routes, check real-time schedules, and book your Gran Canaria ferry tickets in just a few clicks.