Whether you’re choosing a holiday, work or study location, why not consider Gran Canaria? One of the biggest Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is rich in history and a vibrant place to live as a student, professional or visiting tourist on a last minute holiday.
With a climate that rarely drops below 66F (19°), you’ll find everything you want, especially in the cosmopolitan city of Las Palmas. If you’re into sunbathing, exploring or partying, here are some of the best choices you can make while in Gran Canaria:
The beaches
The island has over 60km of coastline. This is means you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to amazing white sand beach locations. Different beaches cater to different needs – sunbathing, paragliding, surfing, jet-skiing, body boarding, golfing, sand dunes for hiking – it’s worth knowing where to go! Playa del Ingles is renowned for its fabulous white sand for sunbathing and fantastic jet-skiing.
There are also a plethora of restaurants and bars to make a day of it. Anti del Mar is a bit of an inside secret – filled with locals in the summer – thanks to its great boat rides, white sands and skating opportunities! Pozo Izquierdo is an extremely windy beach – go here for surfing, windsurfing and bodyboarding. Here you’ll find all the surf shops and water sports gear you’ll need.
The arts
Gran Canaria has a lot to offer in terms of art, culture and theatre. Casa de Colón (House of Columbus) is a 500 year old house, dedicated to Christopher Columbus’ travels and the role Canary Islands played in his transatlantic travels. Gran Canaria is a popular choice for last minute holidays and guides will often recommend a visit to this museum! Theatres Teatro Cuyás or Teatro Pérez Galdós offer terrific, entertaining shows for those seeking a more cultural experience. Organise a study trip or work event here and you will not be disappointed!
The nightlife
If it’s nightlife you’re after, remember that Gran Canaria is a late night party kind of island. Most bars don’t open until 10pm and stay open until 2am.
Students tend to gravitate to one of Las Palmas’ biggest, most varied club, The Paper Club, which plays everything from indie to house music. It also has a large terrace for those who want to a more chilled out vibe.
NYC Taxi Bar is a bustling place which offers a slice of New York life – great for blues and rock n roll music. El Gallinero Café Arte is always packed to the rafters with an eclectic mix of music, entertainment, shows, coffees and beer!
If you’re a more discerning bar-goer, head to The Mansion for refined cocktails and Fortini to rub shoulders with cool DJs and clubbers.
Whoever you are and whatever your reason for travelling, you’ll find Gran Canaria a grand, cosmopolitan choice – and at consistently warm temperatures, what’s not to like?
