The third-largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has long been a popular year-round holiday destination, with sunshine and beautiful beaches aplenty. The island’s northern portion is green and verdant, rising along forested valleys and towards a dramatic mountainous centre. The south, on the other hand, is dry and rocky, whilst the coastline promises expansive golden beaches as well as gorgeous dark pebbled bays framed by craggy cliffs. The best places to stay on Gran Canaria are similarly varied, with everything from rural fincas to glitzy beach resorts.

Some of our Gran Canaria hotel collections:

• 6 of the Best Beach Hotels on Gran Canaria
• 5 of the Best Family Hotels on Gran Canaria
• 4 of the Most Luxurious Hotels on Gran Canaria
• The 10 Best Rural Hotels on Gran Canaria
• 6 of the Best Hotels on Gran Canaria for Walking Holidays
• Gran Canaria’s Best B&Bs

For a lively buzz and a sense of the island’s rich history, base yourself in Las Palmas. A hive of activity on Gran Canaria’s north-eastern coast, the city is the ninth-largest in Spain, and the joint capital of the Canary Islands. Expect cobbled lanes lined with heritage architecture, marvellous museums, and a thriving food and nightlife scene. Playa de las Canteras, the city’s main beach, is at the heart of the action.

If you’re dreaming of hiking, horse riding and mountain biking adventures, on the other hand, look to picturesque Teror, or consider remote ochre- or red-painted fincas with wonderful regional restaurants and dazzling views of the hills and valleys of the interior. The tranquil northern towns of Agaete and Arucas will delight those looking to slow down and soak up Gran Canaria’s authentic charm. For upmarket beach resorts and a late-night party vibe, look no further than the southern town of Maspalomas —a handful of our picks of the best places to stay in Gran Canaria are located there.

The Best Places to stay on Gran Canaria

FOR BOUTIQUE CHIC

• La Casa de Vegueta is a charming little guesthouse with very pretty rooms set around a tiled inner courtyard in Las Palmas. Expect painted wooden beds, and framed botanical prints on whitewashed walls. Within walking distance of the beach and restaurants, this is a lovely, intimate choice for exploring Las Palmas.
• Bed & Chic Las Palmas has bright and airy modern rooms with smart bathrooms. Larger studios have kitchenettes and dining tables, perfect for longer stays. Head up to the rooftop bar for striking views, sunshine and cocktails. Very chic for a city stay.

For a Rural Retreat

• Hotel Rural Maipez, not far from Las Palmas, is surrounded by a network of scenic walking trails. A rustic choice with beamed ceilings and calming interiors with crisp white linens and antique furnishings, it's a very tempting choice for a rejuvenating escape. The restaurant specialises in Canarian cuisine — perfect for foodies.
• La Hacienda del Buen Suceso is a wonderfully elegant escape, set within 50 hectares of banana trees. A traditional hacienda with an ochre-painted exterior and arched walkways, this is a charming and romantic hotel. The 18 rooms and suites boast original features, the barn has been converted into a relaxed restaurant, and there's a swimming pool and spa. Lovely and peaceful.
• Hotel Rural Las Calas, has just six guest rooms. Intimate and tranquil, it's an idyllic mountain retreat for romantics and outdoorsy travellers. Explore quiet trails on foot, by bicycle or on horseback, before kicking back on shaded terraces or in laid-back rooms with exposed stone walls. A charming, timeless little haven.
• Parador Cruz de Tejeda is a much larger hotel, set on a hillside overlooking the lush valleys of Gran Canaria's interior. Many of the 86 classic rooms and suites offer stunning views from private balconies, plus there's an excellent restaurant and bar for feasting on regional specialities after hikes and cycle rides.

For Families

• Hotel el Mondalón is a traditional finca with 10 renovated bedrooms. Airy and chic, spaces have wooden ceilings, white-washed walls and warm red tones. The largest rooms offer space for families, who will also appreciate the heated pool and pretty gardens. Great value for outdoorsy family holidays.
• Fonda de La Tea, a laid-back hiker's haven near Tejeda, is made up of 11 rooms and villas — some of which have space for families. Stone walls, exposed wooden beams and beautiful valley views will delight relaxed adventurers — as will the El Nublo Natural Park setting. Cool off in the swimming pool after trekking and cycling.
• Finca Las Longueras, just two kilometres from the beach in Agaete, combines the magic of rural Gran Canaria with easy access to the coast. A beautiful red-painted finca, the hotel offers 10 guestrooms and a pool set within lush gardens. Tranquil and romantic, but also popular with families. The table d'hôte is fantastic.
• Lopesan Villa Del Conde Resort sits right on the coast in Maspalomas, offering uninterrupted ocean views from luxurious guest rooms, swimming pools and restaurants. A five-star spot, the resort has a fantastic kids club and playground, making it a brilliant family holiday base. The indulgent spa and acclaimed Basque eatery complete the picture.

For a Luxury Resort

• Grand Hotel Residencia is a gorgeous five-star resort within easy reach of the beach in Maspalomas. Airy, Alberto Pinto-designed rooms and suites have a classic feel, with wooden furnishings and pretty blue-and-white patterned textiles. Offering tennis courts, a gym, swimming pools and flower-filled gardens, it's a wonderful choice for a luxury island stay with top facilities.
• Hotel Santa Catalina is a striking contemporary hotel with swish, sea-facing rooms and suites set within a classic building in Las Palmas. Brilliant for holidaymakers of all ages, the resort has multiple swimming pools, gourmet restaurants, a soothing spa and leafy gardens, as well as access to the beach.
• Bohemia Suites & Spa is a funky, ultra-modern oasis overlooking the ocean on the island's southern coast. Rooms and suites are clad in warm, earthy tones, with lots of red and orange. Adults-only, the hotel has a lively bar, two excellent restaurants and a soothing spa. Life centres around the swimming pool, and the vibe is appealingly convivial and romantic.

For Great Value

• Hotel Escuela Santa Brigida is a simple and serene spot, just a few minutes' drive from Las Palmas. Appealingly affordable, the hotel has classic interiors, an excellent traditional restaurant and a leafy garden with refreshing swimming pool. The Bandama Caldera Natural Park is very nearby.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Gran Canaria Airport, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry to Gran Canaria from one of the other Canary Islands, or from the Iberian Peninsula. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or port pick up in advance.
• It's wonderful to explore Gran Canaria with the freedom of your own transport. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect warm summers, with temperatures hovering around 28°C between June and August. For fewer crowds and cooler weather, travel in April, May or late September, when you can still expect plenty of sunshine.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Canary Islands.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Gran Canaria