Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour

Discover Las Palmas’ Charms with a Guided Tour of Old Town and Beyond

If you’re heading to Gran Canaria and want to get a real taste of its capital, the “Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour” offers a solid introduction. For just $34 per person, this 7-hour journey takes you through the lively streets of Vegueta and Triana, up to the impressive Bandama Volcano, and into the lush surrounds of one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens. It’s a balanced mix of history, nature, and leisure—perfect for those who want more than just a quick glance.

What we especially appreciated about this tour includes the chance to walk through Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, with its cobblestone streets and colonial buildings. Another highlight is visiting Bandama Volcano, where the striking crater and panoramic views remind you of the island’s fiery origins. Plus, the visit to the Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape to see rare Macaronesian flora in a thoughtfully designed setting.

A potential consideration is the group size and pace—the tour involves walking and some uphill stretches, which might not suit those with mobility challenges. Also, since pickup is only offered from specific areas, travelers staying outside those zones may need to arrange additional transport.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, affordable experience that covers both cultural highlights and natural wonders, with enough free time to absorb the city’s lively vibe or do some shopping.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining history, natural sights, and leisure.
• Affordable price at $34 for a full day of exploration.
• Highlights include Vegueta, Bandama Volcano, and Botanical Garden.
• Includes transportation from specified areas and a professional guide.
• Free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center and Las Canteras Beach.
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Las Palmas Old Town and Surroundings Tour

When planning a trip to Gran Canaria, one of the most common questions is how to get a real sense of the city without feeling overwhelmed or missing key sights. This guided tour strikes a good balance, offering a comprehensive look at Las Palmas’ historical core, natural landmarks, and some leisure options—all for a reasonable price.

Starting with Las Palmas’ Old Town: Vegueta and Triana

The tour begins with a guided walk through Vegueta, the historic district that’s the soul of Las Palmas. Here, cobblestone streets wind past colonial architecture and quaint plazas, giving you a tangible sense of the city’s past. Your guide will likely point out key landmarks and share stories that bring the streets to life—something that makes wandering on your own less meaningful.

We loved the way this part of the tour connects the city’s history with its present-day vibrancy. The guide’s friendly manner and knowledge help you see beyond the surface, making the old buildings and narrow alleys fascinating rather than just picturesque. The optional free time here allows you to linger, explore shops, or grab a coffee at a local cafe.

Next, the tour moves to Triana, a bustling shopping and dining district. While the tour doesn’t specify detailed stops here, it’s a lively area worth exploring on your own, especially if you want to soak up local life or pick up souvenirs.

Visiting the Magnificent Bandama Volcano

From the historic zones, the journey shifts to Bandama Volcano, a real highlight of the tour. This volcanic crater measures about a kilometer across and plunges 216 meters deep, offering a striking reminder of Gran Canaria’s fiery birth. The drive there is scenic, and once at the crater, you’ll likely have a chance to walk around or simply take in the breathtaking views.

What makes this stop special is how accessible it is for most visitors and the opportunity to appreciate the island’s geological forces up close. The crater’s sheer size and the panoramic outlook make it a perfect photo opportunity—something that keeps travelers coming back for more.

Relaxing in the Botanical Garden

Next, you’ll visit Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden, a lush site created to showcase Macaronesian flora. Spread out over a generous space, the garden displays rare plants from the region, beautifully arranged to educate and delight visitors. It’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling city and a chance to get some fresh air while learning about the island’s unique vegetation.

Many reviews praise this stop, noting that it’s one of the most extensive botanical gardens in Europe. The garden’s careful design by Sventenius helps protect and exhibit native plants, making it a worthwhile visit for nature lovers.

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Free Time at Las Arenas Shopping Center and Las Canteras Beach

After the guided sightseeing, the tour concludes with free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center or a walk along Las Canteras Beach. The shopping center offers the chance to browse local shops or grab a snack, while the beach provides a relaxing setting next to the iconic Alfredo Kraus Auditorium.

Travelers have reported that this free time is particularly enjoyed because it lets you unwind, do some last-minute shopping, or just soak up the sun. The beach’s long stretch of golden sand and lively atmosphere are perfect for closing out your day.

Practical Details and Value

The entire experience is designed to be flexible and accessible—you’ll be picked up from various popular resorts like Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and Puerto Rico, making it convenient if you’re already on the island. The guide is described as professional and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, which is a good chunk of the day to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. At $34, it’s a budget-friendly way to cover many highlights with transportation and guiding included—something that adds value, especially for travelers who want a structured day without the hassle of planning every detail.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and leisure. It’s ideal for those who enjoy walking, want to avoid the expense or effort of exploring independently, and appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to enhance their understanding. Keep in mind, the terrain involves some walking and the group is not suited for mobility-impaired travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to Las Palmas, this tour offers a lot for the price. It covers the city’s historic core, volcanic landscape, and botanical richness, with enough free time to make it feel personalized rather than just a canned experience. The small highlights—like the impressive crater and the lush gardens—make it more memorable than a simple bus ride.

Travelers who want to get a sense of the city’s history, enjoy natural scenery, and have leisure options at the end of the day will find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly good if you prefer guided experiences that include transportation, expert commentary, and a relaxed pace.

On the flip side, if you’re someone who prefers independent exploration or has mobility issues, you might consider other options. But for most visitors seeking a balanced, affordable overview, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Does this tour include transportation? Yes, pickup from several popular resorts is included, making it easy to join without extra planning.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts about 7 hours, giving you a comprehensive but manageable day out.

What are the main sights visited? You’ll see Vegueta’s historic streets, Triana district, Bandama Volcano crater, Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden, and enjoy free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center and Las Canteras Beach.

Is the tour suitable for children or families? While it’s family-friendly, keep in mind the walking involved and terrain. The tour isn’t specifically designed for mobility-impaired guests.

Can I book last-minute? Yes, with a flexible reservation policy, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in multiple languages? Yes, guides speak German, English, and Spanish, accommodating various language preferences.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since there’s walking and some uphill parts.

Is there free time at multiple stops? Yes, you’ll have free time at the shopping center and the beach to relax or explore on your own.

How much does the tour cost? The price is $34 per person, which includes guided visits and transportation.

What do reviews say about this tour? Travelers find the guides very friendly and informative, with one noting, “Very informative, friendly guide.” It’s seen as a good value experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: