This experience made our article of Gran Canaria’s 12 Best City Tours.
Discovering Las Palmas: Tapas and Drinks in the Old City
If you’re looking to explore Las Palmas’ culinary scene beyond the usual tourist spots, this 2-hour tapas tour offers an authentic taste of local life. For $63 per person, you’ll visit hidden bars and traditional eateries with a private guide, experiencing a lively mix of food, drinks, and local stories. The tour is flexible, with options for private events like birthdays or family gatherings, making it a personalized gourmet adventure.
What we love about this experience? First, the personalized attention and insider access to spots locals cherish—places that rarely see travelers. Second, the genuine local flavor that comes from eating in unpretentious, real tapas bars that serve authentic Canarian dishes along with local wines. The tour is perfect for those who want to skip the tourist traps, dive into Las Palmas’ vibrant atmosphere, and come away with both delicious memories and great tips for enjoying more of the city afterwards.
One potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include transportation or hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot near San Telmo Church. Also, the tour is small and relaxed, which might mean you’ll want to plan a little extra time afterward if you’re eager to explore more on your own.
This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventurers who enjoy discovering hidden gems and engaging in lively conversations with locals. If you’re after genuine flavors, relaxed vibes, and insider knowledge in a scenic old town setting, this tour fits the bill.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Local Experience: Visit hidden, non-touristy tapas bars favored by locals.
- Personalized and Flexible: Small group or private options tailored to your preferences.
- Genuine Food & Drinks: Taste at least two tapas and enjoy local wines or beverages at each stop.
- Informative Guides: Guides share stories, dishes’ origins, and city anecdotes for a richer experience.
- Lively Atmosphere: Soak in the vibrant scenes and meet bar owners and staff.
- End with Recommendations: Guides suggest other venues to explore, extending your night.
For broader city exploration in Gran Canaria, we've covered these other tours
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at San Telmo Church, a convenient spot near the main bus station, making it easy to reach from other parts of the island. The meeting point—under the only wooden balcony—is close to tourist information, so you’ll get oriented quickly. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a relaxed way to enjoy the evening, with the possibility for a later extension at a local pub.
One of the advantages of meeting here is that it’s a central, accessible location. If you’re staying in Las Palmas or arriving by bus, this spot offers logistical comfort. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the tour’s design suits those who prefer to explore on foot afterward or arrange a private transfer if desired.
The Itinerary and Venues
The tour visits two different tapas bars—two distinctive spots that showcase the local flavors and atmospheres. Unlike tourist-heavy restaurants, these places are authentic, unpretentious, and off the beaten path.
What makes each place special? The guides select venues known for their original dishes, local wines, and genuine ambiance. Expect to chat with Spanish-speaking staff and owners, gaining insight into the cultural significance of the foods you enjoy.
You’ll sample at least two tapas per stop, which could include classic options like canarian papas arrugadas or local cheeses, accompanied by a glass of wine, beer, or soft drink at each venue. These small, flavorful bites are designed to leave you craving more, and guides often suggest additional places for your own explorations afterward.
More Great Tours NearbyFood and Drink
The quality and authenticity of the food are what set this tour apart. Guests frequently mention that the tapas are delicious and not touristy. Since the restaurants are not fancy or commercialized, the focus is on real flavors and local ingredients, providing a genuine taste of Canarian cuisine.
On top of that, the choice of beverages adds to the experience. Each venue offers a local wine or beer, chosen to complement the food, enhancing the tasting journey. If you prefer, soft drinks or water are available, giving options for all tastes.
Atmosphere and Interaction
One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the interaction with guides and locals. Guides like Artemis are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories, making the experience both educational and fun. Travelers love the chance to chat with bar staff and owners, which adds a personal touch that makes the evening memorable.
Many reviews highlight how relaxed and informal the tour is—no rushing, just going with the flow, enjoying lively scenes and unexpected surprises. You might find yourself joining in at different times or discovering hidden corners of the old district that you wouldn’t stumble upon alone.
The Hidden Gems and Surprises
The tour’s strength is its dynamic itinerary—it’s not fixed and varies based on the scene and your preferences. This flexibility ensures each experience is unique. It might include a hidden alleyway bar, a local wine cellar, or a lively corner with great music. Guides often share anecdotes about Las Palmas’ history and traditions, enriching the tasting experience.
End of the Tour and Recommendations
The tour concludes back at the starting point, but the guides happily offer additional suggestions for extending your night or exploring other neighborhoods. Many guests appreciate this, as it helps them continue the fun beyond the scheduled two hours.
If you wish to continue exploring on your own, guides can recommend two more venues or local pubs to visit later, making this experience a great gateway into Las Palmas’ nightlife.
Value for Money
At $63, the tour offers excellent value for its personalized approach, authentic food, local drinks, and expert guide insights. Compared to typical group tours, the small size ensures more attention and better interaction, and the inclusion of multiple stops provides a well-rounded taste of the local scene.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you’re eager to skip touristy restaurants and dive into local culture with genuine flavors. Food lovers, history buffs, and those wanting to meet locals and learn stories behind the dishes will find it especially rewarding. It’s suited for all ages, accessible, and offers a relaxed pace that lets you soak in the atmosphere comfortably.
If you’re curious about Canarian cuisine and enjoy casual, lively settings, this tour will deliver memorable moments. Plus, if you’re planning a private event, the possibility to customize the experience makes it a versatile choice.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
While the tour primarily features traditional tapas, it’s best to contact the provider beforehand if you have specific dietary restrictions. They offer a flexible, tailor-made experience, so accommodations might be possible.
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the standard tour begins at San Telmo Church. However, the location is convenient, and private pickup can be arranged on request with an additional fee.
How many people typically join?
The tour is designed to be small and intimate, often with a limited capacity, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed group atmosphere.
Can I end the tour at a pub or continue after?
Yes, the guide can suggest additional venues to extend your evening, and you’re welcome to keep exploring the vibrant nightlife on your own.
Are the venues wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all visitors.
What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share stories in clear, understandable language.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely—it’s suitable for all ages. Kids often enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and tasting small bites.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
The Sum Up
This Las Palmas tapas and drinks tour offers an authentic glimpse into local culinary traditions wrapped in a lively, friendly setting. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture, taste delicious dishes, and learn stories behind the food from knowledgeable guides. The small-group, private approach ensures a personalized experience that feels both intimate and genuine.
Perfect for foodies, culture seekers, or anyone wanting to experience Las Palmas like a local, this tour combines great value with authenticity. If you’re eager to explore hidden bars, enjoy local wines, and share conversations with friendly locals, this experience is likely to become a highlight of your trip.
In essence, it’s a delightful way to spend an evening in Las Palmas—eating, drinking, chatting, and enjoying the city’s vibrant, authentic atmosphere.
📍 This experience made our list of the 12 best City Tours in Gran Canaria
More City Tours in Gran Canaria
- E-Bike City Tour included Camel Tour inside Maspalomas Dunes
- Las Palmas: Private Old City Guided Walking Tour with Tapas
- City Sightseeing Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- Las Palmas: Private City Highlights & Northern Villages Tour
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Guided City Tour by Bike
- Maspalomas: E-Scooter or E-Bike Tour+Western Town Sioux City
More Tour Reviews in Gran Canaria
- 1 hour relaxing horse riding tour in Gran Canaria
- Gran Canaria: Vía Ferrata Tour for Beginners
- Playa del Inglés Maspalomas: High Quality Surf Classes
- Gran Canaria: Sunset Tour with Champagne & Optional Dinner.
- Gran Canaria: Green Witchcraft in the Magic Island
- Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling
More Gran Canaria experiences we've covered
- 1 hour relaxing horse riding tour in Gran Canaria
- Gran Canaria: Vía Ferrata Tour for Beginners
- Playa del Inglés Maspalomas: High Quality Surf Classes
- Gran Canaria: Sunset Tour with Champagne & Optional Dinner.
- Gran Canaria: Green Witchcraft in the Magic Island
- Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling
- Gran Canaria: Convertible Beetle Tour
- Gran CanariaPrivate Catamaran Trip All-Inclusive Luxury
- La Palma: North Island Bus Tour with Ron Aldea Distillery
- Anfi beach: Guided Buggy Tour.
- Gran Canaria: 1 to 3 Person Parasail over Anfi Beach
- Las Palmas, Gran Canaria: Canyoning Adventure