What to see in Gran Canaria in 7 days: an itinerary around the whole island

Gran Canaria changes its landscape every few kilometres: dune beaches, Canary pine forests, cliffs, deep ravines and mountain villages all sit within an island that can be explored in full over an unhurried week. This seven-day itinerary combines coast and interior to get to know both sides of the island, the touristy one and the lesser-known one.

Day 1: arrival and the capital

The first day is best kept for Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Vegueta, the old town, holds onto cobbled streets, houses with wooden balconies and the Catedral de Santa Ana, witnesses to the city's origins. The day can end at Las Canteras, an urban beach of almost three kilometres with room for a swim, a stroll along the promenade and dinner with views over the Atlantic.

Day 2: the Dunas de Maspalomas

The Dunas de Maspalomas are Gran Canaria's most recognisable postcard image and deserve an unhurried visit, ideally at sunrise or late afternoon, when the light softens the contours of the sand. The rest of the day can be split between Meloneras and Playa del Inglés, two areas with a seafront promenade, restaurants and plenty of things to do.

Day 3: Puerto de Mogán

The road to the south-west crosses ravines and viewpoints on its way to Puerto de Mogán, a fishing village of white houses, canals and bougainvillea that many call the little Canarian Venice. Its marina, its market and its nearby beaches are enough for a relaxed day, with no rush to move from one spot to the next.

Day 4: the summit and Roque Nublo

The centre of the island offers scenery a world away from what you see on the coast. The climb up to Roque Nublo crosses pine forests and viewpoints with views of Teide on clear days, and the final stretch of path to the base of the monolith is short but calls for proper footwear. It's worth setting off with plenty of time, as access can require booking ahead depending on the season.

Day 5: highland villages

Teror, Tejeda and Artenara sum up the less coastal side of Gran Canaria. Teror stands out for its basilica and its Sunday market; Tejeda, for its views of Roque Nublo and its almond sweets; Artenara, the island's highest municipality, still has cave dwellings carved into the rock. It's a day for unhurried driving, stopping at any viewpoint along the way.

Day 6: a beach route

Amadores, Anfi del Mar or Las Canteras again all allow a full day devoted to the sea, each with its own character: calm waters and fine sand in the south, a more local atmosphere in the capital. The choice depends on whether you're after nearby amenities, gentle waves, or simply scenery different from the rest of the itinerary.

Day 7: a close of your choosing

The last day is a good time to return to the beach you liked most, climb to the viewpoint you missed, or stroll around Las Palmas again before catching the flight. Gran Canaria has enough corners left to always leave something for a return visit.