Las Palmas de Gran Canaria stands as an essential stop for anyone visiting Gran Canaria. If you are planning your next trip, the city should undoubtedly feature on your itinerary given its proximity - a mere hour's drive from our hotel!

As the capital of the island and the eastern province of Las Palmas, as well as the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands, shared alongside Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this vibrant city located in the north of Gran Canaria, home to 380,000 inhabitants, holds the distinction of being the most populated in the Canarian Archipielago. It also ranks among the 10 largest cities in Spain.

Historically speaking, the city's roots date back to 1478, marking it as the first city founded by the Crown of Castile on the Atlantic, just a few years before Christopher Columbus' epic discovery of America.

A visit to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria brings you to a lively cosmopolitan city. Its streets will allow you to soak up all its history as well as discover a multitude of exciting tourist attractions. Furthermore, the city hosts one of the most important ports in Spain and the European Union: El Puerto de la Luz y de Las Palmas. 

Your journey through the city will take you along streets steeped in history to urban beaches of unparalleled beauty, allowing you to uncover the unique essence of each neighbourhood. Exploring the streets of Vegueta feels like a stroll through a time capsule, where Calle de los Balcones as a reference of the Canary Islands' architectural evolution, displaying a blend of Gothic Renaissance and Neoclassical elements. The oldest buildings preserve historical treasures such as the traditional Canarian wooden balconies which still remain on some of the facades, representing the original urban layout's historic charm. The district of Triana stands out for its commercial character, as does the Fishermen's Quarter, two charming places worth visiting. 

The neighbourhood of Vegueta, a cultural area of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 

This neighbourhood is without a doubt one of the must-see areas when travelling to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This part of the city has a genuine wondrous old-world charm with its cobbled streets and Spanish colonial buildings dating back to the time of the conquest of the Canary Islands in the 15th century. Along its historic streets you will encounter some of the most significant architectural works commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs outside the Spanish mainland: the Santa Iglesia Catedral-Basílica de Canarias, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of Santa Ana, nestled within the Square of Santa Ana. 

Comprising three barrel-vaulted naves, the Cathedral Basilica of Santa Ana stands over 20 metres tall and bears a distinct neoclassical design and facade. At this point, and after a pleasant first impression of its exterior, you must not miss the opportunity to discover what these walls hold within Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, one of the most significant pieces by the religious artist José Luján Pérez. 

Today, the Cathedral Basilica of Santa Ana stands as one of the two cathedrals in the archipelago and is considered to be the main Catholic place of worship in the Canary Islands. You may also climb to the top of the Cathedral's south tower to enjoy breath-taking views of the city and the port. 

But this is not the only treasure hidden in the neighbourhood of Vegueta. Within its streets lie other emblematic landmarks such as the Pérez Galdós Theatre, which is now the permanent venue for the Alfredo Kraus Opera Festival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, or Casa de Colón, one of the most distinguished and beautiful buildings in Las Palmas. This edifice, which would translate to Columbus’ House, is over 500 years old and now serves as a museum dedicated to the study and dissemination of the history of the city and its relations with America.

Opposite the Casa de Colón, you will be met with a view-of the Cathedral's rear and the square known as Plaza del Pilar Nuevo, which historically served as a gathering space for women who collected water from the central pillar. 

The neighbourhood of Triana, the commercial district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 

Triana is another neighbourhoods you simply can't miss when visiting Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Its historical charm is an added value, yet this area stands out above all for the beauty of its streets, the diverse array of culinary delights and its wide range of shops. If you are looking for renowned shops where you can enjoy the latest trends and entertainment, don't forget to visit Mesa y López Street. 

Many describe Triana as a unique way of seeing the world. Its name originates from the desire of the early Andalusian merchants to evoke its namesake neighbourhood in Seville. It was precisely these merchants, along with the English and Danish settling in the neighbourhood, who contributed to infusing Triana with a special nuance, carrying that distinct Atlantic concept of the city. 

Puerto-Canteras Area, La Isleta and San Cristóbal, other must-sees in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 

The city prides itself on other very popular and captivating neighbourhoods. If you have heard of Playa de Las Canteras, Guanarteme is a must-visit on your itinerary. This place holds an extensive history and in the last twenty years has become one of the most popular areas of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Undoubtedly, its renowned Playa de las Canteras is one of the city's greatest attractions. You can expect magazine-worthy bliss on this fabulous beach, rated as one of the best urban beaches in Europe. Its extensive golden sand and crystal-clear waters will steal your heart. What’s more, a natural reef protects part of the bay from the waves; while on the opposite side, you can enjoy watching the regular surfers on the stretch known as "La Cícer". 

At the opposite end of the beach, you can discover another part of the Puerto-Canteras area known as La Puntilla. Just a stone’s throw away, you will find the Elder Museum (a science museum), the Poema del Mar aquarium, the port market and the Puerto de la Luz, one of the most significant docks in Spain.

In this privileged location, you cannot end your route without stopping by the Parque Santa Catalina: the gateway to the city for all those travellers arriving by sea at the Puerto de la Luz, which has become a reference point for tourist gatherings and vibrant street life. 

Last but not least, we cannot fail to mention the charms of La Isleta and San Cristóbal, two of the city's oldest neighbourhoods. If you are a sports enthusiast, the existence of Playa del Confital, a beach located in the area of La Isleta, is likely familiar. San Cristóbal, on the other hand, will surprise you with its magical fusion of urban and coastal elements. An old fishermen neighbourhood where you can stroll along the main avenue while breathing in the fresh sea breeze.

RESTAURANTS TO TASTE TYPICAL CANARIAN FOOD AND LOCAL GASTRONOMY

Canarian cuisine is a delicious expression of the rich culinary culture of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. The local gastronomy is characterized by a blend of African, European, and Latin American influences, making it unique and diverse. Some of the most common ingredients in Canarian cuisine include "papas arrugadas" (wrinkled potatoes boiled in saltwater and served with "mojo" sauce), fresh fish, bananas, "gofio" (roasted grain flour), and "mojo" (a spicy sauce made with garlic, oil, and other seasonings).

• Bodegón Las Lagunetas Restaurant: located in the neighbourthood of Triana, this restaurant is widely known for offering a highly appreciated culinary specialty in the Canary Islands: roasted pork leg served with the famous "papas arrugadas" and "mojo" sauce. Diners can enjoy authentic Canarian flavors in a cozy, typical regional setting.
   
• La Marinera Restaurant: specializing in fresh seafood. The geographical location of the Canary Islands also results in an abundant supply of fresh fish and seafood, prepared in various ways, including "vieja sancochada" or "cherne a la espalda."
   
• Casa Carmelo Grill Restaurant: Located on Las Canteras Beach, offering the best views to savor local cuisine. Their specialty lies in grilling meats, with a focus on using fresh, top-quality local products. This restaurant has become an iconic spot for grilled meat enthusiasts, providing a unique gastronomic experience in a spectacular coastal setting. Their dishes stand out for the freshness and authenticity of local ingredients, enhancing the flavour in every bite.

Restaurants, bars and cafés in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 

Great cuisine is the perfect complement to get to know the culture and tradition of any place, which is why your experience in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will not be complete until you savour one of its luxury gastronomic offerings. Tabaiba Restaurant and Poemas by Hermanos Padrón, both holding Michelin stars, are fantastic options to round off your city break.

• Tabaiba Restaurant: run by chef Abraham Ortega, this restaurant named after a typical Canarian plant has held a Michelin Star since 2023. Tabaiba also proudly holds a 1-Sun award granted by the Spanish Repsol Guide since 2022. Alongisde the chef, the team comprised by Aser Martín and the maître and sommelier José Pérez, offers an avant-garde version of authentic Canarian cuisine.

• Poemas by Hermanos Padrón. ‘Things always come in threes', a motto that represents the philosophy of 'Poemas', the restaurant owned by the Padrón brothers, who have managed to triple their number of Michelin stars. At the helm of the kitchen, Icíar Pérez, head chef, is responsible for bringing to the table the essence that the Padrón brothers pass on to her. Her expertise has been acknowledged by the red guide.

Gran Canaria offers an infinite number of experiences to get to know the island. The capital of the island is, without a doubt, must-visit during your stay at the Grand Hotel Residencia ***** GL. This also applies to the iconic dunes of Maspalomas. You cannot miss out on the stunning scenery of this nature reserve located just a few metres from the hotel. It is the perfect complement to a unique experience in our villa which effortlessly blends comfort and excellence thanks to its top-notch service, exquisite cuisine and sublime decoration.