Gran Canaria

Spain

Gran Canaria is a "miniature continent" offering incredible diversity from the famous Maspalomas sand dunes to verdant pine forests. The island is one of Europe's most LGBTQ-friendly destinations, home to iconic beaches, Spanish colonial cities, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and year-round sunshine.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$65/day
Mid-range$120/day
Luxury$280/day

Known For

gran_canariacanary_islandscanariasspainmaspalomasdunesbeacheslgbtq_friendlycarnivallas_palmasall_year_sun

🇪🇸 Country Information: Spain

CapitalMadrid
CurrencyEuro (€)
Language Spanish , Catalan, Galician, Basque, Valencian
Phone Code+34
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is generally not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
  • 10% in restaurants is common for good service, rounding up taxi fares, small change for baristas

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, but smaller establishments might prefer cash
  • It's good to have some cash for small purchases and less urban areas
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Meal times are typically later than in many other countries, with dinner often starting at 9 PM or later
  • Siesta is less common in major cities but still observed in smaller towns
  • Personal space can be closer than in some other cultures
  • Dress codes are generally casual but respectful, especially when visiting religious sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Spain is very LGBTQ+ friendly with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and legal same-sex marriage since 2005. There is strong societal acceptance.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are complex: private use and cultivation of cannabis are decriminalized, but public consumption and trafficking are illegal and carry severe penalties

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces
  • Nudity and topless sunbathing are allowed on some beaches but can be restricted in others

Common Phrases

HelloHola (OH-lah) Hola
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR) Por favor
Excuse mePerdón (per-DOHN) Perdón
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs) Gracias

Climate

Subtropical climate with minimal seasonal variation. South is drier (Maspalomas area). North more verdant. Temperature 20-28°C year-round. Rain rare, especially in south. Trade winds moderate heat. Mountains significantly cooler.

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Papas Arrugadas con Mojo must_try

Small Canarian potatoes boiled in salt water until wrinkled, served with red and green mojo sauces. The quintessential Canarian dish.

Ropa Vieja Canaria regional_speciality

Canarian version of the shredded meat stew using chickpeas instead of black beans, with chicken or beef, potatoes, and sofrito.

Fresh Fish must_try

Atlantic seafood is exceptional - try vieja (parrotfish), sancocho (salted fish stew), or fresh tuna grilled with mojo.

Queso de Flor regional_speciality

Unique Gran Canarian cheese curdled with cardoon thistle flowers. Creamy, slightly bitter, and unlike any other Spanish cheese.

Bienmesabe dessert

A traditional almond-based dessert with honey, egg yolks, and lemon. The name means 'tastes good to me' and it does.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Las Palmas Carnival (February) Accommodation
Book 2-4 months ahead

One of Spains largest carnivals. Hotels in Las Palmas book up months ahead.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Palmitos Park Attraction
Book online for discount

Popular botanical garden and zoo. Online booking offers discount.

Roque Nublo Hiking tour_or_activity
Book a few days ahead for guided tour

The iconic rock formation hike is free but guided tours recommended for context.

Submarine Safari tour_or_activity
Book 1-2 weeks ahead

Unique submarine tour from Puerto de Mogan to see marine life.

Fun Facts

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