Holiday lettings & accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

There are a variety of accommodation options in Las Palmas that suit every budget. Each district has different positives. The Old Town, Vegueta, is located on the site of the original military encampment from which Las Palmas originated. There is some magnificent architecture in the Old Town and the elegant 19th-century Casa Consistoriales (Town Hall) is the pick, while the Plaza del Espiritu Santo (Square of the Holy Spirit) is bordered by other stately buildings. Another old neighbourhood in the city is Triana, however, due to bourgeoise settlement, the area is also a commercial hub. Different architectural styles from the 18th, 19th and 20th century are displayed here. Ciudad Jardin is a leafy district, characterised by the British influence on the city. Here, amongst the embassies, you will find elegant residential houses and tranquil parks. The main feature of the district is the Parque Dorames, which is a pretty park with a municipal swimming pool, statues and flower beds.

As an authentic Spanish working city, Las Palmas is an energetic and fun place to explore. Those interested in history should head to the Casa-Museo de Colón, a fascinating museum that charts Columbus’ voyages and the Canary Islands’ history as a hub for transatlantic shipping. If you are with children, they are sure to enjoy the model galleon on display. Another intriguing museum is Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología. This contemporary museum explores the 21st-century and is located in a fantastic revamped dockside warehouse, near Parque Santa Catalina. From a supersonic fighter plane, a space pod, to a ‘Robocoaster’; this is a fantastic place to spend a few hours. There is also a small theatre which screens 3D films. Playa de las Canteras is a 3km stretch of white sand and is ranked by many as one of the best city beaches in the world. At low tide, La Barra (the reef) becomes a snorkeler's playground. In addition, there is a pretty promenade, popular with cyclists and joggers.

Like the rest of Spain, Las Palmas cuisine is now feted the world over. A good place to start is the fantastic tapas bar on Paseo de las Cantera. The restaurant, El Charcón, does fantastic papas arrugadas (boiled potatoes) served with coriander and a spicy chilli relish. They also serve a winning salmorejo, which is a refreshing local version of gazpacho topped with shredded ham and egg. Further along Las Canteras promenade is La Marinera. This predominantly seafood restaurant is loved for its seabream. You can also order a three-course menu with a good bottle of Spanish wine. A fantastic fine-dining option, one that is often visited by King Juan Carlos when he is on a royal visit, is Casa Montesdeoca. This house from the 16th century was brought back from dereliction over 20 years’ ago. The tiny green courtyard and fantastic food make this a wonderfully romantic destination.

Gran Canaria airport is located on the east of Gran Canaria, by the Bay of Gando. It is approximately 20 km from the city of Las Palmas. There is a designated bus that serves the city and taxis are plentiful and cheap. Once you reach Las Palmas, there are a variety of public transport and tour operators. Within the city, yellow buses serve every corner. You can collect a route map from the tourist office or one of the many kiosks. A single is approximately €1.40, but if you plan on using multiple buses, it is probably best to invest in a 10-trip bono de guagua which costs €8.40. These tickets can also be shared amongst multiple travellers. The bus numbers 1, 12, 13 and 17 all run up from Triana to the port. While the majority of the city can be seen on foot, there is also a fantastic free bike service called LPA.