Gran Canaria Holidays

FROM€220

Gran Canaria, part of Spain’s Canary Islands, lies in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa. Known fort its year-round sunny weather, this island offers stunning beaches, like Playa del Ingles, ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Roque Nublo, hike through lush forests in Tamadaba Natural Park, or wander the charming streets of Las Palmas. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Gran Canaria is filled with exciting activities for all types of travellers. Visit the vibrant dunes of Maspalomas, where you can explore the vast golden sands by foot or camel ride. Discover the island’s rich history in the town of Teror, with its charming architecture and lively market. For an adrenaline rush, try a boat trip to see dolphins and whales off the coast, an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Gran Canaria is a versatile destination catering to all types of travellers. Families will love its safe, sandy beaches and attractions like Palmitos Park, a zoo and a botanical garden. Coupes can enjoy romantic sunsets over the Maspalomas dunes, spa retreats and quiet coastal towns. Solo travellers will find adventure in hiking trails, vibrant nightlife and cultural hubs like Las Palmas. Groups of friends can bond over water sports, lively beach bars abd thrilling boat excursions.

There are multiple weekly flights from Ireland to Gran Canaria, the flight is approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes.

 

 

 

Things to do in Gran Canaria

Attractions

• Maspalomas dunes are a stunning nature reserve with golden sand dunes, perfect for camel rides, walking trails and unique desert scenery.
• Roque Nublo is an iconic volcanic rock formation offering breathtaking views, ideal for hiking and exploring the island’s rugged landscape.
• Palmitos park is a family-friendly zoo and botanical garden featuring exotic animals, birds, dolphins and plants, as well as beautiful butterfly houses.
• Las Palmas Old Town (Vegueta) is a historic district with charming cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture and attractions like the Santa Ana Cathedral.

Nightlife

Gran Canaria boasts vibrant nightlife with something for everyone. The Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles areas are famous for bustling bars, nightclubs and beach parties, while Las Palmas offers fancy rooftop lounges and live music venues. Yumbo Centre caters to LGBTQ+ nightlife with lively drag shows and themed events, creating an inclusive atmosphere.

Dining Out

Dining out in Gran Canaria offers a mix of traditional Canarian cuisine and international dishes. Enjoy fresh seafood at coastal restaurants or try local dishes like papas arrugadas (boiled potatoes) with mojo sauce. The island’s cities, like Las Palmas and Maspalomas, boast vibrant dining scenes with tapas bars, Mediterranean restaurants and trendy eateries.

For Families

Gran Canaria offers fantastic Kids will love Aqualand Maspalomas, the island’s largest waterpark, and Palmitos Park, featuring animal shows and exotic plants. Families can explore the Maspalomas dunes or take a dolphin-watching boat trip along the coast. The beaches, like Playa Amadores, are family-friendly with calm waters, perfect for sage swimming and relaxation.

Shopping

Gran Canaria offers excellent shopping experiences. Las Palmas features trendy boutiques and large shopping centres like Las Arenas. For authentic finds, visit Teror’s Sunday market for local crafts and delicacies. The Yumbo Centre in Playa del Ingles combines shopping with entertainment, while the Faro de Maspalomas area provides high-end stores. From souvenirs to luxury goods, there’s something for every shopper.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Gran Canaria is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. These seasons offer fewer crowds and ideal conditions for outdoor activities, sightseeing and beach relaxation. Winter is also a great option for those seeking warm weather, while summer can be hotter and more crowded.

Local Info

Currency

The currency used in Gran Canaria is the Euro,

Time Zone 

Gran Canaria is in the same time zone as Ireland during winter, but in summer, it is one hour behind because Ireland moves to daylight saving time​

Getting around

Getting around Gran Canaria is easy with various transportation options. You can rent a car for flexibility or use buses that connect major towns and attractions. Taxis are widely available and bike rentals are perfect for exploring scenic areas. For coastal trips, consider taking boat rides, while popular tourist areas also offer convenient shuttle services.