If you are already packing your bags to spend 7 days in Gran Canaria, besides being equipped with your best swimwear and your favourite sunglasses, it’s time to have a basic itinerary at hand so you can get an idea of what to do on your one week island getaway.
Not that spontaneity is not part of the trip, but it is great to know Gran Canaria’s must-visits and must-dos so you can make the most out of your short stay. That’s why we’ve put together this mini activity guide, so that once you set foot on land, you can start enjoying this beautiful island to the fullest.
Are you ready for the adventure that awaits you on your 7 day trip to Gran Canaria? Then let’s jump right into it.
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Best things to do in Gran Canaria in one week
We propose some of the best things to do in Gran Canaria in 7 days to have a relaxing as well as active trip.
Visiting the capital: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria offers a thousand interesting destinations and activities and one of those key places to visit in your one-week holiday is the island’s capital, Las Palmas.
Start your island adventure touring the city and exploring its incredible historical past.
There are many neighbourhoods that are interesting to stroll around, such as Triana and Vegueta which stand out for their beautiful architecture. Of course the capital has plenty more to show for and many places that are worth to check out. Among the vast cultural offer we want to highlight the Colón Museum and the Pérez Galdós Theatre.
The marina and the harbour itself are also a must-see in the area. And if the late afternoon sun calls you, come and watch the sunset from Playa de las Canteras, one of the best beaches on the island.
Hiking at Ventana del Nublo
If you think that the island is only sand and sea you are mistaken and a trip to Ventana del Nublo in Tejeda will prove it to you. Don’t miss out on this amazing and fun excursion on your one week Gran Canaria holidays!
La Ventana del Nublo (the cloud window) is home to several rock formations that shape a natural arch, caused by erosion and the action of wind.
An excellent place to start the hike is Los Llanos de la Pez, which will take you from a main path, well signposted, through a wooded area to a rocky plain that leads to the arch.
The way up is not very difficult and the effort is well worth it as you will be rewarded by breathtaking views.
Loving the heights? How about a skydive!
Speaking of spectacular views of the island, you will have the most privileged views while jumping out of a plane ;-) Among the many things to do in Gran Canaria in a week, skydiving is one of the most euphoric and unique. Taking the road to the El Berriel Aerodrome, on the Carretera General del Sur, you’ll find iJump.
Doing a skydive will allow you to see the island and the ocean from a different perspective. Added to that is the jump itself, a 200 km/h free fall in which you will experience absolute freedom.
After this exhilarating fall, plummeting towards earth in high speeds, the parachute will open and you will enjoy a peaceful flight marvelling at the stunning landscapes before you safely land on the Dunes of Maspalomas.
And since we’re already at the Maspalomas Dunes…
Following this unique aerial adventure and with your feet already directly on the sand of these marvellous dunes, it only makes sense to include this magical place on your itinerary of what to do in your one-week Gran Canaria holiday. A visit to the area is a real ‘Sahara’ experience and you can even choose to explore the dunes riding on horses or camels.
Venturing through the dunes will make you appreciate the fauna of the region, such as native birds and lizards. While you are in the area take a cultural detour to the lighthouse, a 60-metre construction dating back to 1890.
Maspalomas has even more in store for you. Enjoy a good time swimming or doing water sports at Playa del Inglés, where you can also take advantage of all the restaurants, bars and a variety of excellent hotels to stay.
Explore the Archaeological Site at Cenobio de Valerón
Part of the island’s appeal is that you can go from a typical coastal village, to charming mountain landscapes, to exotic dunes, to mysterious archaeological sites… In the area between Santa María de Guía and Las Palmas you’ll find Cenobio de Valerón, an archaeological site like no other.
During your one week visit in Gran Canaria you should definitely take this archeological tour and let yourself be filled with awe by century old caves scattered along the volcanic rock wall.
The Island’s Spirit in Puerto de Mogán
Getting to know Gran Canaria in 7 days certainly entails visiting the island’s fishing villages and one that truly represents the spirit of Gran Canaria is Puerto de Mogán.
The sight of this coastal town is truly refreshing: white-walled houses framed with the colours of decorative stripes and flowers.
Puerto de Mogán is a visitor’s dream, especially if you appreciate a quiet, authentic place, perfect to wind down and relax. Very close to the area is the Taurito beach where you can spend a morning in the sun and have a swim in cooling waters.
At lunchtime, Puerto de Mogán awaits you with an excellent range of restaurants and terraces for you to enjoy the local gastronomy. Nothing feels better than a plate of fresh fish after sunbathing on golden sands.
Bar nights and partying until dawn
We end our list of suggestions for things to do in your one-week Gran Canaria holiday with an invitation to the island’s nightlife. After exploring the most beautiful areas, jumping out of a plane, eating fresh fish in coastal villages and getting your beach tan ready, a fun night out to the island’s best places sounds like the cherry on the cake, right?!
Near every urban beach there’s a pub, terrace or club waiting for you to have a great time. Raise your glass at sunset and let yourself be carried away by the island’s vibrant nightlife.
