Looking to make a sunny escape from London? Here’s how to do the perfect trip from London to Gran Canaria for the Spanish holiday of your dreams.
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Gran Canaria is the kind of destination that makes you question why you live in London altogether.
Drizzled in pristine beaches, fresh cuisine and everything that comes to mind when you think of Spanish hospitality — if you’ve been thinking about a London escape, the Canary Island of Gran Canaria is the perfect destination.
In this post I’ll be showing you exactly how to plan the perfect trip from London to Gran Canaria, including:
- The best way to travel to Gran Canaria from London — including the best London airports, airlines and ticket prices to fly to Gran Canaria from London
- Quick tips & fire questions for visiting Gran Canaria from London — the best time to visit, weather tips, how long to spend, and what to pack
- Where to stay in Gran Canaria — an up-close look at the best hotels to stay for trip
- Things to do in Gran Canaria — everything to get up to in the island for the perfect Spanish holiday
London to Gran Canaria: The Ultimate Spanish Holiday
Gran Canaria Q&A
When is the best time to visit Gran Canaria? (what’s the weather like?)
Unlike most summer destinations Gran Canaria has the unique privilege of beautiful weather year-round, never too hot and never too cold.
In winter, temperatures float from 20°C up to 25°C and is warmest in the South, but during the evening it can get down to 16°C or so so you’ll need to bring a light jacket (but more on packing soon!).
In the summer you won’t find too much difference, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 27°C.
So, whether you’re looking for a summer holiday or winter escape — anytime is a good time to make a trip Gran Canaria.
What should I pack for Gran Canaria?
- High SPF Sunscreen and After Sun
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Flip-flops
- Sandals
- Caps and sunhats
- Swim wear
- Beach cover-up
- Sundresses
- Towels
- Camera
- Charging Cables
- EU Adapter
- Cardigan/Light Jacket (especially if coming in winter)
How long should I stay in Gran Canaria?
For the full Gran Canaria experience I suggest at minimum a 3 day visit, but a 5-7 day visit will really give you a chance to see the island to the fullest (although if you work remote or can afford a longer holiday — you could easily spend a month here and still have places to see).
How to Get from London to Gran Canaria
For a trip from London to Gran Canaria you’ll need to get a direct flight from London Gatwick, London Stansted or London Heathrow Airport.
The cheapest flight options are usually about £110-£150 on Google Flights or Skyscanner. We flew from Gatwick on EasyJet and it takes about 4 hours each way.
Where to Stay in Gran Canaria
VEITIUNO Emblematic Hotel
To be in the heart of Las Palmas take a look at VEINTIUNO’s adult only hotel.
Just a short 2-minutes from Casa Museo Colon, Museo Canario and tons more Gran Canaria highlights it’s perfect if you’re looking for a chic stay in the city centre (swimming pool, continental and à la carte breakfast and cathedral terrace views included).
Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
The old stomping grounds of UK and Spanish elite lies at none other than Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel.
The luxurious 5-star property is home to spacious rooms, 3 restaurants (including the Michelin Star, 1890 La Bodeguita), a wellness centre and terrace rooftop views.
Occidental Roca Negra Hotel & Spa
The strikingly beautiful Occidental Roca Negra Hotel & Spa is 4-star luxury hotel just minutes from Gran Canaria’s best natural pools and the charming marine village of Agaete.
Amenities includes a state-of-the-art spa, rooftop bar on site gym and delicious views.
Parador Cruz de Tejeda
Bathed in mountains and forests the Parador Cruz de Tejeda is one of the most unique hotels Gran Canaria has to offer.
Just over 5 miles from Tejeda and 1.500m above the sea level, the hideaway hotel offers an infinity pool with miles of archaeological views, massive suites and an elegant restaurant serving classic Canarian cuisine.
Bohemia Suites & Spa
For an Instagrammable Gran Canaria stay the Bohemia Suites & Spa is the perfect option for living it up in the South.
The modern luxury hub boasts colourful rooms, a pool, spa, and rooftop restaurant & cocktail bar with the Maspalomas’ sand dunes just a 10 minute walk from the hotel.
Seaside Palm Beach
For a relaxing Spanish holiday consider a stay at Seaside Palm Beach.
The popular couple-stay hotel comes fit with 3 lagoon-style swimming pools covered in tropical gardens, a gourmet restaurant and buffet, beach-style rooms with furnished balconies and onsite wellness activities like yoga and tennis included with your stay.
Things to do in Gran Canaria
Explore the Capital: Las Palmas
Gran Canaria is filled with cobbled streets and historical buildings standing strong for over more than five centuries.
Exploring the historical quarter of Vegueta and Triana felt like walking back in time. Don’t forget to catch the views from the church tower of Santa Ana Cathedral!
You can also make a pit stop at the beautiful Las Canteras Beach if all that walking around leaves you in need of a swim.
Have Lunch at Mercado del Puerto
One thing you’ll need to get used to in Spain is trading your hearty English meals for just about the best word to exist in the Spanish language — tapas.
Piscos & Buches in the Gastronomical Market of Puerto serves a deliciously fresh menu of the best dishes Gran Canaria has to offer (this is also a very popular spot for locals to have an after work drink!.
Swim in Natural Pools at Puerto de Las Nieves (Agaete Piscina Natural)
Puerto de Las Nieves in Agaete is as picturesque as it comes. The local fishing village on the north coast of Gran Canaria is a bustling promenade filled cafes and the best bit, natural pools like Agaete Piscina Natural.
See Gran Canarian History at Maipés de Agaete Archeological Park
Learning about the history of Gran Canaria is key for deepening your appreciation for the island, and its original North African settlers.
A tour of Canarian history at Maipés de Agaete Archeological Park will take you back to the year of 500 B.C. and the Berber cultural heritage of the times.
Have a Local Meal at Finca La Laja & Los Berrazales Winery
Did you know Gran Canaria is the only place in Europe to grow coffee? And you can watch it all here.
The 200 year old farm is home to Finca La Laja & Los Berrazales winery, one of the best kept secrets of the island with everything from mouth-watering wine to avocado and oranges ready to taste and enjoy.
Hike through Tejeda
Tucked in the Las Palmas is the mountainous oasis of Tejeda.
The enchanting village is home to some of the best hikes and views in Gran Canaria, and a major contributor to its UNESCO status as a Biosphere Reserve.
Once you reach the top you’ll be awarded dramatic views of volcanic structures, landmarks, pine forests and glorious lakes. Here’s the best hiking routes to take while you’re there!
Relax at the Perchel Beach Club
New on the Gran Canaria scene is the Perchel Beach Club.
Merging straight into the Atlantic ocean the island hangout comes with an +24 °C heated infinity pool and sunset views you’d have to see to believe.
They’ve also got a delicious sushi restaurant and cocktail bar on site, so all you have to worry about is sunbathing (in their Bali-style sunbeds) and relaxing Gran Canaria style.
Visit the Banana Plantation at La ReKompensa
Visiting La ReKompensa in Gran Canaria is an experience like no other.
Led by the locals that bring the plantation to life, we dived into the history of bananas on the island and all that goes into running their business.
And the best part, the bananas of course! You’ll be pleased to know you’re more than privy to trying their delicious banana goods on site — from banana bread, to banana wine and everything inbetween!
Taste Gran Canarian Rum at the Arehucas Rum Distillery
With over 100 years in the making Arehucas Rum Distillery shares all the secrets behind the history, traditions and magic that goes behind creating the famous Destilerías Arehucas local rum of the island.
And of course, will all rum tours — comes the tasting! (and I’m pretty sure the Honey and Banana Rum will change your life).
Discover the Historic Town of Arucas
Although we only spent a limited amount of time here, Arucas is a beautiful neighbourhood to explore — bursting with colour and only a few minutes drive from the distillery.
Outside of being totally Instagrammable, here you can see the striking San Juan Bautista Church, Parroquia de San Juan Bautista de Arucas and get a taste of local cuisine at Arucas hotspots like De Enyesque Arucas and Restaurante Arucas.
Have a Local Meal Experience Like No Other at Bodega Señor de Cabrera
I don’t say this lightly, Bodega Señor de Cabrera is one of my favourite travel experiences to date (and I do this for a living!).
Inviting you warmly into their home for a family-style meal the husband-and-wife duo will take you on a tour of their vineyard where they make local wine only sold within Gran Canaria.
They’ll then cook you a traditional Spanish meal made with love for a travel experience like no other.
The best part is this isn’t a ‘touristy Gran Canaria’ activity. It’s a local family with a passion for hosting and no desire to make their business a big Trip Advisor activity.
They only host small private groups and make everything by hand for their guests. They just launched post-pandemic as well, so if you’re keen to support a local business while you’re here (and make a travel memory you’ll never forget) it’s a must-do in Gran Canaria.
Walk Along the Spectacular Maspalomas Dunes
You’d be easily forgiven for mistaking the Maspalomas Dunes with the Sahara Desert.
A point of fascination for all non Gran Canarians are the mystical dunes that sit just minutes from Seaside Palm Beach.
It’s over 400 hectares and a protected Nature Reserve for its unique sand dune, palm grove and lagoon. It’s an absolute must do for your trip.
Map of the Best Things to do & Places to Stay in Gran Canaria
Final Tips for Visiting Gran Canaria from London
Get travel insurance before you go:
Don’t forget to get travel insurance through World Nomads or SafetyWing before your trip so you’re covered for any accidents or incidents.
Avoid ATM withdrawls in Gran Canaria:
If you don’t already make sure you get a FREE Revolut card with 0 fees on ATM withdrawals and card payments worldwide. To get a Spanish bank account (i.e avoid conversion fees etc.) before you trip, get a Wise card.
Choose whether you’ll stay in the North or South of the island:
The North and South areas of Gran Canaria have completely different vibes. If you’re looking for a more quiet Spanish holiday and prefer nature, mountains and local culture — the North is calling your name.
But if you’re looking for sand, sun and fun you may prefer spending your time in the South.
Or get the best of both worlds and do both!
Once you’ve worked out what area you’re staying you can use the map of things to do in Gran Canaria above to plan out your activities.
Book your Gran Canaria activities in advance:
Make sure you avoid disappointment by booking all your activities before your trip! Above are a few I’d recommend.
Rent a car:
If you want to explore the island to the fullest you may consider renting a car. The most popular car rental services in Gran Canaria are Cicar, Autoreisen or Top Car.
Don’t drink the tap water:
When in Gran Canaria — stick to bottled water!
Happy travels,
