Gran Canaria is the second most populated island of the Canary Islands and has an important cultural and historical heritage. Apart from its large and paradisiacal beaches, the sun and the partying, it offers many more attractions for those who do not like to sit still in a sunbed. Therefore, it is good to know what to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days and to discover its most important corners.
Although it may seem that 3 days is not much time, the truth is far from that. Going around every corner, from north to south and from east to west, observing and getting to know its villages, its most emblematic corners, its culture and its history it’s totally possible. This is why we have prepared a short itinerary so that you know what to see in 3 days in Gran Canaria to not miss anything.
First day: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and north of the island
The first day of your stay on the island will be to get to know its capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and to discover its important cultural and historical heritage and a tour of the two most important towns in the northern region.
Vegueta
There's a lot to see in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, so the first stop of the day will take us to the mythical capital city neighborhood of Vegueta. The neighbourhood has historical places like Santa Ana Square, the Cathedral, the Santo Domingo Chapel or the Canarian Museum.
Las Canteras
If we go to the other end of the city, we will find Las Canteras Beach. The most important beach not only of the island, but of all the Canary Islands, with a promenade of 3.5 kilometers and spectacular views. If you do not know what to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days, you can cross the streets near the beach and go into the Santa Catalina Park.
Gáldar
We leave the city and head north, more specifically to the most important and historic town in the region, Gáldar. There you will find, apart from history, tradition and customs that remain intact in every corner. You can't miss a walk along its "long street" that leads to the main square, guarded by the Santiago de Gáldar Basilica. You should also visit one of the most important sites on the island and the first town on the island, the Cueva Pintada (literally, Painted Cave).
Agaete
If we follow the road further north we will find one of the most emblematic villages of the island, Agaete. A fishing village with great traditions, an incredible natural monument such as the Dedo de Dios, a small port (Puerto de las Nieves) and a promenade that will take you to discover the largest natural pools on the island: Las Salinas.
Second day: centre of the island
The second day on the island will be to go deep into it and get to know the centre of Gran Canaria. It is undoubtedly one of the areas to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days and discover its natural heritage and landscapes that will not leave you indifferent.
Cruz de Tejeda
The first stop on the tour is the Cruz de Tejeda. A must place for those people who are heading towards Tejeda, Artenara, the southern part of the island or the Pico de las Nieves. It has a majestic view of the entire central and northern area, and the famous greenhouses of the La Aldea de San Nicolás and Roque Nublo can be seen.
Tejeda
One of the most beautiful villages in Spain, picturesque, small and very welcoming. It can be visited and enjoyed in a very short time, with privileged views of the Roque Bentayga and its small square that provides shelter and shade on hot days. You cannot leave the village without tasting its traditional sweets and marzipan.
Roque Nublo
The natural giant that watches over the island. To visit the Roque Nublo is to visit the essence of Gran Canaria. You can see it from the road or go into the different paths that lead to it. Without a doubt, it is a great experience to walk along them and reach the top, where you can expect views of the whole island that are simply amazing.
Pico de las Nieves
The highest point on the island is, undoubtedly, one of the places to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days. Reaching it and crowning it is synonymous with reaching the summit of Gran Canaria and enjoying spectacular views of the entire central and southern region. If you want to get a little higher, at the very base there is a small path that goes up a little further and you can see the views even better.
Third day: south of the island
The third and last day on the island is reserved for the southern area, the most touristic, the sun and beach area and the most recreational areas of the island.
Maspalomas
The epicentre of sun and beach tourism on the island. The neighbouring Playa del Inglés beach is undoubtedly the most iconic in the area, and you can find other smaller and less crowded beaches such as San Agustín or Las Burras. The main attraction of the area is the Maspalomas Dunes, a historical and natural heritage of the island. Walking around the dunes and its famous pond is a gift for the senses.
Mogán
Another of the most charming villages on the island is Mogan. Walking through its streets, observing its picturesque white-painted houses with blue trim, its gardens and the pier is a must. It is a place to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days because it is known for having the best fish of the whole island. So if you are hungry, don't hesitate to stop by the fishermen's guild and taste their variety of fish.
Gran Canaria is an island that offers many diverse plans to enjoy. It isn’t an island of only beach and sun, as there is much more to discover inside. Three days may seem like few, but they are certainly enough to discover the charm and the wonders, both natural, gastronomic and historical, that Gran Canaria has to offer.
In conclusion, there are many things to see in Gran Canaria in 3 days, not only beaches and festivals, as the island is a haven of peace and landscapes that will leave you with your mouth open, nearby villages with charm and a gastronomy that keeps the traditions with care.
