Must-sees in Gran Canaria

Full-day Gran Canaria tour with Teror, Tejeda and typical lunch

Villages, viewpoints and volcanic rocks dot Gran Canaria's jagged spine. This tour weaves its way through some of the island's most dramatic landscapes, stopping along the way to visit gems such as Teror, Tejeda and Fataga. David, one of our local guides, says, ‘The legend of the apparition of the Virgin Mary in Teror still intrigues me. It was in 1481, amid the Castilian conquest of Gran Canaria, and it helped change the island's destiny.'After a visit to an aloe vera plantation to get the lowdown on its medicinal properties, you'll head into the Valley of a Thousand Palms for a wander around the cozy village of Fataga, all cobbled lanes, palm-fringed views and traditional Canarian architecture. There's a photo stop at Las Tirajanas viewpoint to admire a vast volcanic caldera, followed by a scenic mountain drive to Tejeda, which is a bit of a looker too – red-roofed, whitewashed houses sprinkled on the slope of a valley. David adds, ‘Every time there's a list of Spain's prettiest villages, Tejeda is near the top. Its setting is unbeatable.' Next up is a local lunch in a family-owned restaurant, before you continue to Teror, the last stop on your adventure. Strolling past the balconied townhouses of Calle Real de la Plaza towards the mountain-framed basilica of Our Lady of the Pine is one of the defining Gran Canaria experiences.

Rum Distillery Gran Canaria Ticket

Get to grips with Gran Canaria's history at the Arucas Rum Distillery – the oldest rum-producer in Europe. Enjoy a tour and tasting experience to learn all about the process of producing the spirit of choice for sailors, seamen and pirates throughout the ages. See the stills, taste different types, and find out how to make a perfect rum cocktail.

Private Gran Canaria tour with cave lunch and wine-tasting

Gran Canaria is known as a miniature continent. And as soon as you travel inland on this private tour, you'll discover just why. Journey through mountainous landscapes and savour a local lunch in Bascamao. There are also stops in Artenara and a wine cellar. Esteban, one of our local guides, says, ‘It's high after high on this tour, starting with lunch at a cave restaurant with views and then going to the island's highest village. At over 1,200m above sea level, Artenara finds itself nestled on a ridge surrounded by jagged peaks.'Heading north via the Mogan Valley, snake your way through gorges and gaps towards the very centre of the island. The views along the way are camera-grabbingly good, so there'll be an occasional pit stop to take some pics. Lunch in a family-owned ‘cave restaurant' in the remote hamlet of Bascamao is next. Savour dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, with a side of views over the surrounding countryside and the ocean. What's more, with this visit, you contribute to the local community and economy.Afterwards, head to the highest town on the island, Artenara. Explore on foot this tiny village clustered around a whitewashed church or stick your head into the famed cave dwellings museum. Next, you'll head to the Presas viewpoint, among others, for views of alpine landscapes and the northern coastline. Round off the day with a Bandama crater photo stop, stopping en route by a family-run wine cellar to sample its volcanic earth wines.

From Las Palmas: Guided tour of the Bandama Caldera and Roque Nublo

Book now this tour and discover some of the best volcanic areas of Gran Canaria. Admire the island from its highest viewpoints and see the majestic Roque Nublo.

Gastronomic tour of Gran Canaria with a local expert

For a taste of the real Gran Canaria, it's hard to beat this hat-trick of island favourites. On this TUI-exclusive tour, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at Canarian flavours and traditions. Your first stop is the Salinas of Tenefe, a historic salt flat which has been in action since the 18th century, using all the same traditional salt harvesting techniques.Then, you'll head over to Los Olivos, home to over 1,000 olive trees all grown using sustainable farming methods, for a tour and tasting of the award-winning liquid gold made here. Next, you'll visit an aloe vera farm to learn all about this well-known plant's healing properties. To round off the trip, it's over to Vegueta, where you'll have a couple of hours of free time to wander around the historic town centre. Check out its maze of cobbled streets, stop at a local café for a bite to eat or shop for trinkets in Calle Triana's shops.

The soul of Gran Canaria tour – villages, views and traditions

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Full-day Las Palmas cultural walking tour

Soak up the rich history and vibrant culture of Las Palmas' Old Town on this guided tour of Vegueta. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through cobblestone alleys and centuries-old architecture. Ana, one of our expert local guides, says, 'One of my favourite things to do is just to ‘get lost' in the old town, strolling through the lanes at your own pace. Vegueta is so fashionable and atmospheric, it's like being in a movie.'Begin your adventure with a guided exploration of Vegueta's charming streets. Learn fascinating stories and discover hidden gems as you wander through this historic district. Step into the past at the renowned Museo Canario, where ancient artifacts and insights into the island's pre-Hispanic heritage await. Ana adds, 'without the generosity of Dr. Gregorio Chil y Naranjo, who willed his home as a place to house the museum, these precious artifacts might not be available for public viewing today.'Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to the Diocesan Museum, showcasing Gran Canaria's religious and artistic heritage. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the Cathedral of Santa Ana before enjoying some free time to explore Vegueta at your own pace. Stroll along its bustling streets, browse through quaint shops and boutiques, and perhaps pick up souvenirs or local crafts to commemorate your visit.

Full-day tour of Gran Canaria’s mountains and salt flats

Discover Gran Canaria's best-kept secrets on this full day tour. Starting on the sun-kissed side of the island in Mogán, this adventure is all about uncovering hidden spots, landscapes, and culture. Luca, one of our expert, local guides, says, ‘Gran Canaria's landscapes are so diverse, it's like visiting different countries in one trip – deserts, mountains, and lush valleys all in one place. With some of the most scenic routes on the cards, this tour is pure road trip goals.'You'll kickstart with serious wow-factor views cruising through Barranco de Los Azulejos – also known as Rainbow Valley. These multi-coloured mountains are totally one-of-a-kind and guaranteed to blow your mind. Then, you'll dive deeper into the heart of the island, and arrive at La Aldea. Local guide Sam spills the beans, ‘this area is known as the island's pantry because it's bursting with goodies – from mangos and veggies to those famous La Aldea tomatoes. And don't miss the avocados – they're the creamiest you'll ever taste.' Get your camera ready for some Insta-gold pics and soak up the chill village charm.Next, you'll drive to Agaete where the zig-zag cliffs of Dragon's Tail and Faneque cliff are perfect backdrops for your camera roll – you might even spot Mount Teide on a clear day. In Agaete you'll have free time to check out the local scene and grab a bite to eat. Then, we'll hit the showstopper Balcón viewpoint – you'll feel on top of the world – before wrapping things up at Salinas de Tenefé. Be wowed by the pink salt flats on a guided tour of the site, followed by a unique tasting experience.

Maspalomas sand, sea and sunshine

Gran Canaria's south coast is home to one of the island's most precious natural attractions. You'll discover the sand dunes of Maspalomas which are rumoured to be formed from sand blown over from the Sahara. But in fact, the combination of a receding sea in the last ice age and plenty of wind have created the huge sweep of dunes. The wind still shifts them around three metres per year.Kick off with a visit to the Maspalomas sand dunes. There's time to take in the vast expanse of these natural sand hills from the viewpoint and snap some great pictures. Afterwards, we'll continue to Meloneras, where we'll stop at the Varadero Shopping Centre.Here, you'll have free time to explore the stylish promenade lined with shops, cafés and restaurants. It's a great spot to soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere, browse for souvenirs or enjoy a drink overlooking the sea. Whether you fancy a bit of shopping or simply unwinding by the waterfront, Meloneras offers a modern contrast to the island's natural landscapes.

Sightseeing bus tour of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with 1-day access

Book 1-day access to a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, create your itinery and learn about the city's past and present with the audioguide.