Las Palmas

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of Spain’s most surprising cities. Sitting on an island in the Atlantic Ocean, it is actually closer to the sands of the Sahara Desert than to the Spanish mainland — which gives it a wonderfully exotic feel. The city enjoys sunshine almost all year round, and its relaxed, friendly atmosphere draws visitors from across the world.

The city has something for everyone. Las Canteras is a magnificent beach right in the heart of the city, where a natural reef keeps the water calm and safe for swimming. Meanwhile, the ancient neighbourhood of Vegueta takes you back in time with its cobbled streets and colonial buildings that have stood since the 1400s. You can even visit the very mansion where Christopher Columbus is believed to have rested before sailing off to discover the Americas!

Las Palmas is a place where history, ocean, and culture mix together beautifully — a city that truly feels like nowhere else on Earth.

Las Palmas Puzzle Set

City illustration + map puzzle, shipped to your door.

Available in 110, 252, 520 and 1,014 pcs

From $44.99

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Quick fact

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of Gran Canaria island and, along with Santa Cruz de Tenerife, shares the status of joint capital of the Canary Islands.

Fun fact

Although Las Palmas is part of Spain, it is actually closer to the west coast of Africa than it is to mainland Spain — the Sahara Desert is only about 100 kilometres away!

Landmarks

Las Canteras Beach

This stunning three-kilometre urban beach protected by a natural reef is considered one of the best city beaches in the world, with calm, clear water perfect for swimming.

Vegueta Old Town

Vegueta is the historic heart of Las Palmas, where cobbled streets and colonial buildings date back to the 1400s when the Spanish first settled the Canary Islands.

Casa de Colón

Christopher Columbus is said to have stayed in this beautiful historic mansion before setting off on his voyages to the Americas, and today it is a fascinating museum about exploration.

Las Palmas Cathedral

This grand cathedral took nearly 400 years to complete, which is why it mixes Gothic, Renaissance, and neoclassical styles all together in one amazing building.

Pueblo Canario

This charming open-air complex celebrates traditional Canarian culture with folk music, dancing, and colourful architecture that shows off the unique heritage of the islands.