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Las Palmas

Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain

Las Palmas: Sun-Drenched History and Urban Buzz on Gran Canaria Escape to Las Palmas, the vibrant capital of Gran Canaria, where golden beaches meet a fascinating history and a lively urban scene. Bathed in year-round su…

#Las Palmas#Canary Islands#Spain#beach destination#tropical climate

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Las Palmas.

Top Hotels in Las Palmas

Top Flights to Las Palmas

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Las Palmas.

Tours

Explore the Old Town of Vegueta

A guided tour through the historic quarter of Las Palmas, exploring its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and significant landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping at Las Arenas

Visit Las Arenas, a popular shopping center offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

An Evening at El Muelle

A vibrant shopping and entertainment district offering boutiques, dining, and nightlife with ocean views.

Outdoor

Beach Day at Las Canteras

Enjoy a day at one of the best urban beaches in the world, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and outdoor sports.

Roque Nublo Hike

Hike to the iconic Roque Nublo, a natural rock formation offering breathtaking views of the island.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Las Palmas.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain is '0.4 million'.

Languages

Spanish, Spanish, English

Average weather

Las Palmas

Jan

20°15°

Feb

20°15°

Mar

21°16°

Apr

22°16°

May

23°17°

Jun

25°19°

Jul

27°21°

Aug

28°22°

Sep

27°22°

Oct

26°20°

Nov

24°18°

Dec

22°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Las Palmas.

What people love

Las Palmas, located in the Canary Islands of Spain, offers numerous benefits for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Las Palmas include:

Beautiful Beaches: Las Palmas is home to stunning beaches such as Las Canteras Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Mild Climate: The Canary Islands are known for their year-round mild climate, making Las Palmas an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine and warmth.
Rich Culture: Las Palmas has a rich history and culture, with attractions such as the historic Vegueta district, Columbus House Museum, and Cathedral of Santa Ana.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The city has a lively atmosphere with bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of restaurants serving delicious Canarian cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in Las Palmas, including hiking in the nearby mountains, surfing, diving, and exploring the natural beauty of the island.

Overall, traveling to Las Palmas offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and outdoor adventures in a beautiful island setting.

Enjoy your trip!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, Spain could include:

Weather: Las Palmas can experience strong winds, especially during certain times of the year. This may affect outdoor activities and make the beach less enjoyable.
Crowds: Las Palmas is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, making it harder to find peace and quiet.
Language barrier: While many locals in Las Palmas speak English and other languages, there may still be some communication challenges for travelers who do not speak Spanish.
Cost: Like many tourist destinations, Las Palmas can be expensive, especially in terms of accommodation, dining, and activities. Travelers on a budget may find it challenging to stick to their financial limitations.
Safety concerns: While Las Palmas is generally a safe destination, like any other city, travelers should still be cautious of pickpocketing and other petty crimes, particularly in crowded areas.

These are just some potential cons to consider when traveling to Las Palmas. It's always a good idea to research further and plan accordingly based on your individual preferences and needs.

Las Palmas, officially known as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the capital city of Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands, which are part of Spain. It has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the late 15th century.

Founding and Early History

1478: Las Palmas was founded on June 24, 1478, by Juan Rejón, a captain of the Castilian forces. This marked the beginning of the Castilian conquest of the island, which was inhabited by the indigenous Canarii people.
1483: The city became a base for the Spanish conquistadors, and the island was fully conquered by the Crown of Castile.

Colonial Period

1492: Christopher Columbus stopped in Las Palmas on his way to the Americas, making it an important stopover in transatlantic navigation. The city houses the Casa de Colón (Columbus House), a museum dedicated to his voyages and the history of the Canary Islands.
16th Century: Las Palmas grew in importance as a maritime and trade hub due to its strategic location on the route to the New World.

Economic and Cultural Development

17th-19th Centuries: The city flourished economically, despite occasional pirate attacks, by strengthening its defenses and promoting trade.
1852: The Canary Islands were declared a free port, significantly boosting trade and economic activity in Las Palmas.

20th Century to Present

1936-1939: During the Spanish Civil War, the Canary Islands, including Las Palmas, were under the control of the Nationalist forces.
1960s-1970s: The city experienced a tourism boom, which contributed to rapid urban development and economic growth.
1982: The Canary Islands were granted autonomy, and Las Palmas became co-capital of the autonomous community alongside Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Significant Landmarks

Vegueta: The historical quarter of Las Palmas, known for its narrow streets and colonial architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Santa Ana Cathedral: A significant religious site that began construction in 1500 and showcases Gothic and Neoclassical styles.
Canarian Museum: Offers insights into the pre-Hispanic history of the islands and the Canarii people.
Alfredo Kraus Auditorium: A modern cultural landmark named after the famous tenor Alfredo Kraus, used for concerts and events.

Historical Figures

Juan Rejón: The founder of Las Palmas and a key figure in the Castilian conquest of the Canary Islands.
Christopher Columbus: Though not a resident, his visits to the city are a notable part of its history.

Las Palmas continues to be a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, playing a significant role in the tourism and economy of the Canary Islands.