Las Palmas 3-Day Itinerary

A day-by-day plan for Las Palmas: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.

Day 1

Arrive & Explore the Highlights

Morning
Barrio de Vegueta

The old town district with cobbled streets, colonial-era balconies, and the Casa de Colón (Columbus museum) on its main square. Free to wander; the atmosphere comes from the quiet plazas and local sho

🕐 Open 24 hours

Free entry

💡 Start at Plaza de Santa Ana, then follow Calle Mendizábal north to see the oldest houses. Don't miss the tiny Calle de los Naranjos with its orange trees. Late afternoon light is perfect for photos. No entry fees required unless you go inside the museum.

Hotels near Barrio de Vegueta →
Afternoon
Playa de Las Canteras

The main city beach: a 3km stretch of golden sand with a natural reef that keeps the water calm for swimming. Good for a walk, a dip, or sitting on the promenade benches. The reef creates shallow pool

🕐 Open 24 hours

Free entry

💡 Walk to the far end near La Puntilla for quieter spots and fewer vendors. The sunset from here is excellent with views of Mount Teide on clear days.

Hotels near Playa de Las Canteras →
Evening
Where to eat

Marea Baja · ££

La Otra Punta · ££

Day 2

Deeper Into Las Palmas

Morning
Mercado del Puerto

Covered market hall near the port, built in 1920. A mix of fish stalls, local produce, and food counters. Free to walk through and look. The architecture – iron beams and a timber roof – is the draw.

🕐 Mon-Sat 08:00-14:00, Sun closed

💡 Visit late morning for the freshest fish display. If you want to eat, go for a cheap cana (small beer) and a plate of papas arrugadas from the bar at the back. Get there before 1pm to avoid the lunch rush.

Midday
Castillo de la Luz

A 16th-century fortress turned museum, surrounded by a small park. Free entry to the courtyard and upper terrace with views of the port. The interior has temporary art exhibitions.

🕐 Tue-Sat 10:00-14:00 & 16:00-19:00, Sun 11:00-14:00, Mon closed

💡 Go for the architectural detail: the star-shaped bastion and volcanic-stone walls. Best in morning light. Combines well with a walk through the adjacent Parque de la Luz. No queue, even at weekends.

Evening
Dining tonight

El Paseo

Vital

Day 3

Final Favourites & Departure

Morning
Museo Canario

Archaeological museum dedicated to the indigenous Canario people. Houses mummies, pottery, and tools dating back to pre-conquest times. Small but dense with exh

💡 Free entry on Saturdays from 4pm to 8pm. Otherwise, €4. The mummy room is the highlight – go early to avoid crowds. Plan an hour max.

Final meal

Los Muellitos

Quebeque

Getting Around Las Palmas

Guaguas Municipales Tram Line 1 From €1.50 15 min

Modern, efficient local transit. Get a rechargeable Tarjeta 10 card for discounts. Connects major attractions.

Global Bus Airport Shuttle From €13 50 min

Most economical option. Buy tickets at airport terminal. Direct route to city center near Hotel Madrid.

Future Metro Project (Light Rail) From €3 35 min

Opening late 2025. Will revolutionize airport access. Currently use bus/taxi alternatives until completion.

Airport Taxi Service From €35-45 30 min

Pre-book through your hotel for guaranteed rates. Avoid unmarked taxis; use official white taxis with meters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 days enough for Las Palmas?

Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Barrio de Vegueta and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.

What is the best time to visit Las Palmas?

See our full best time to visit Las Palmas guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.

Where should I stay for this itinerary?

A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Hotel Madrid, Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, Hotel Cristina by Tigotan Las Palmas. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.