Gran Canaria Escapades: 5 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun

Experience sun-soaked paradise on a shoestring budget in Gran Canaria, Spain.

14 October 2023

A trip to Gran Canaria on a limited budget offers breathtaking natural beauty and a diverse range of activities. Explore the stunning Maspalomas sand dunes, relax on picturesque beaches, and hike through the lush valleys of the island's interior. Budget-friendly accommodation options and affordable local cuisine make this destination perfect for those seeking an unforgettable yet economical holiday.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Vegueta's Vibrant Streets

  • Begin your day by diving into Vegueta, Gran Canaria's historic heart, where vibrant streets and ancient buildings will transport you through time.
  • Marvel at the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Ana, a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
  • Wander through the picturesque Canarian Plaza de Santa Ana, sip on a cortado at a local café, and soak up the island's unique atmosphere.
  • Discover the Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus, offering fascinating insights into the explorer's life and discoveries.
  • Indulge in traditional tapas at La Tasquita de Vegueta, where local flavors blend with charming authenticity.
Day 2

Oasis in the Dunes

  • Venture to Maspalomas, a coastal paradise with sprawling golden sand dunes reminiscent of the Sahara.
  • Take a camel ride across the dunes, feeling like Lawrence of Arabia in the middle of the desert (well, almost!).
  • Dip your toes in the refreshing Atlantic waters at Maspalomas Beach, basking in the glorious sunshine.
  • Explore the Maspalomas Oasis, a lush nature reserve teeming with exotic flora and fauna.
  • Enjoy a delectable seafood dinner at Restaurante El Senador, where the catch of the day steals the show.
Day 3

Roaming the Caldera de Bandama

  • Embark on an outdoor adventure to the Caldera de Bandama, a jaw-dropping volcanic crater formed thousands of years ago.
  • Hike to the rim of the caldera for panoramic views of the vibrant greenery and surrounding landscapes.
  • Descend into the crater, where vineyards thrive in the volcanic soil, and taste delicious wines at a local bodega.
  • Challenge yourself with a round of golf at the picturesque Real Golf Club de Las Palmas, nestled in the island's stunning nature.
  • Savor a delightful Canarian feast at Restaurante El Herreno, where traditional dishes will leave you longing for more.
Day 4

Coastal Charm in Puerto de Mogan

  • Head to the quaint fishing village of Puerto de Mogan, affectionately known as "Little Venice" due to its canals and colorful houses.
  • Stroll along the marina, admiring the luxurious yachts and boats bobbing lazily in the turquoise waters.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture at the vibrant Puerto de Mogan Market, where handcrafted treasures and local delicacies await.
  • Hop on a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline, stopping for refreshing swims in hidden coves.
  • Treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood dinner at the acclaimed Restaurante Los Canarios, overlooking the picturesque harbor.
Day 5

Mesmerizing Maspalomas Lighthouse

  • Conclude your adventure by visiting the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse, a symbol of the island standing proudly amidst epic sand dunes.
  • Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding natural beauty.
  • Indulge in retail therapy at the nearby Faro 2 Shopping Center, where local boutiques and international brands provide endless shopping options.
  • Head to Playa del Inglés for a relaxing beach day, sunbathing and savoring the last moments of your Gran Canaria getaway.
  • Feast on delectable tapas at Restaurante El Arenal, bidding farewell to the island with a flavorful explosion in your mouth.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Gran Canaria by plane is to fly into Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) which is the main international airport serving the island. There are direct flights available from various major cities in Europe such as London, Madrid, and Amsterdam. Airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Iberia operate regular flights to Gran Canaria.

Car

To get to Gran Canaria by car, you would need to drive to one of the ports in Spain where ferries operate to the island. One popular route is to drive to the port of Cádiz and take a ferry to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express are two companies that offer ferry services to Gran Canaria.

Train

There are no train services available to Gran Canaria as it is an island and trains do not run directly to the island.

Boat

There are ferry services available to Gran Canaria. One option is to take a ferry from the port of Huelva in Spain to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Trasmediterránea is a company that operates this route. Another option is to take a ferry from the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Fred. Olsen Express offers this service.

Bus

To get to Gran Canaria by bus, you would need to take a bus to one of the major Spanish cities such as Madrid or Barcelona, and from there, you can find long-distance buses that operate to Las Palmas, the capital city of Gran Canaria. Companies such as ALSA and Guaguas Municipales provide bus services to Gran Canaria.

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