Las Palmas

Las Palmas the island’s capital , dates back to the 15th century and with a population of nearly 400,000 it is the biggest city in the Canary Islands. It’s unquestionably the hub of the island and a place where many tourists prefer to spend most of their time. There isnt much that you could need that isn’t available here. Las Palmas is also known for its annual carnival between the months of January and February people come from all around to witness this spectacular event. It is also not a city lacking in historical heritage it was the first stop of Christopher Columbus’ expedition on his way back from the Americas and has many exhibitions and museums to visit.

Shops and Markets

Triana is a neighboring area of Las Palmas, there is a diverse assortment of boutique style shops just waiting for you to explore, ranging from tiny fabric stores to old-fashioned tobacconists, international franchise outlets and food establishments . Another area worth checking out is Las Areanas shopping centre which is full of famous brand names shops in a shopping centre setting comparable to British shopping centres. Another place which should be near the top of every shoppers places to go list is Avenida Mesa y Lopez in the Santa Catalina district  where you will find Spain’s leading department store El Corte Ingles, along with some familiar UK stores.

Bars and Clubs

Gran Canaria’s nightlife has something for everyone . There are selections of family bars and restaurants as well as large nightclubs which are open until the early hours . Las Palmas presents all kinds of shows including dance, live music, theatre and comedy . The area around Parque Santa Catalina comes alive with music and street artists from early evening right through to the early hours . Playa del Ingles is without doubt Gran Canaria’s party capital with all manner of bars and nightclubs. The island’s capital, Las Palmas is also a popular evening destination, considered to be the most more sophisticated and cosmopolitan area in the Canary Islands

Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

One of the highlights of the year in Gran Canaria is the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria  which takes place around January and Febuary every year. The carnival starts with lots of street parties, known as verbenas del mogollon, in which thousands of people in fancy dress take to the streets and dance to salsa and merengue music late into the night. There are three main contests during the carnival; the first for the election of the carnival queen and the children’s queen. Secondly is the spectacular Drag Queen contest. Each year, the contestants seek to best the previous year’s performances leading to more outrageous displays and themes. The carnival attracts many thousands of visitors year after year to its spectacular displays and vibrant atmosphere.

Water sports

Just one look at the golden beaches and you wont want to leave . A natural by-product of having such wonderful coastlines is the abundant opportunities for water sports. Sailing is a particular favourite past time on the island; however there is also the opportunity to wind surf, kite surf, water ski and more.