Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour

Discovering Las Palmas: An Authentic Day in the Canary Islands

Planning a day trip to Las Palmas can feel overwhelming given the city’s mix of history, natural beauty, and lively urban spots. This Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into the city’s vibrant personality without rushing from one site to another. For just $34 per person, it promises a full eight hours of exploring, guided by friendly professionals who bring the city’s stories to life.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its thoughtful blend of guided visits and free time—perfect if you love learning about history but also want moments to explore on your own. One small caveat is that the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges, as it involves quite a bit of walking. Still, if you’re after an authentic experience that balances sights, nature, and leisure, this one could be a great fit.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of local life. It works well for travelers who prefer not to organize transport or worry about navigating on their own, all while staying within a reasonable budget.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines guided tours with free time, allowing personal exploration.
• Natural Highlights: Includes a visit to the impressive Bandama Volcano and a beautiful botanical garden.
• Cultural Insights: Explores Vegueta, the historic old town, with its charming streets and highlights.
• Relaxation and Shopping: End the day with free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center or Las Canteras Beach.
• Comfortable Group Size: The tour offers a professional guide and transportation from several key areas.
• Value for Money: At just $34, it covers diverse experiences that highlight the city’s essence.

A Deep Dive into the Day in Las Palmas

Starting the Day: Pickup and Overview

The tour begins with a pickup from various locations around Gran Canaria, including popular resorts like Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and Arguineguín. If you’re staying in Santa Brígida, pickup is available from your accommodation, which is a nice convenience. This door-to-door service saves you the hassle of finding your way and sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Once onboard, the guide—fluent in German, English, and Spanish—sets the expectations and shares some local insights, giving a warm, friendly vibe that travelers appreciated, as one reviewer noted, describing the guide as “very informative and friendly.”

Exploring Vegueta: The Historic Heart

Your first stop is Vegueta, the oldest part of Las Palmas, filled with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and lively plazas. A guided walking tour here allows you to see key sites like the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón, which hints at Columbus’s visits.

The guide’s storytelling adds depth—highlighting the area’s importance in the city’s history—and you’ll get a sense of the city’s roots. Reviewers mention that the guide made history engaging, with one noting the experience was “very informative.” During the walk, you’ll have some free time, perfect for snapping photos or grabbing a quick coffee in one of the cozy cafes.

The Volcanic Wonder: Bandama Crater

Next is Bandama Volcano, a striking geological feature. The volcano is about a kilometer in diameter and 216 meters deep, offering stunning views from the rim. It’s a quick drive from the city, but the impact of the landscape is worth it.

Travelers love this stop because it’s a chance to see nature’s raw power and get some fresh air. The walk around the rim isn’t strenuous, but good shoes are recommended. The experience offers a tangible connection to the island’s volcanic origins, and some reviews mention that standing atop the crater gives a feeling of being truly in a different world—a highlight for many.

Botanical Garden: A Sanctuary of Plants

Following the volcano, the tour visits the Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden, created to showcase Macaronesian flora. Designed by Sventenius, the garden is extensive and showcases plants adapted to the island’s climate.

This stop is perfect for plant lovers and those wanting a serene break from walking. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the volcanic landscape and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Reviewers have appreciated the opportunity to see rare and protected species, noting that the gardens highlight the island’s ecological diversity.

Free Time at Las Arenas or Las Canteras

The final stretch of the tour allows for free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center, where you can shop for souvenirs or enjoy a quick bite. Alternatively, many prefer to walk over to Las Canteras Beach, a sprawling urban beach with golden sands and the iconic Alfredo Kraus Auditorium.

The beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll or just relaxing by the sea. Some reviews mention how the beach’s lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The proximity of both options makes it easy to choose depending on your mood—whether shopping or soaking up the sun.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $34, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of guided visits, transportation, and free time means you’re getting a comprehensive taste of Las Palmas without the hassle of planning each element yourself. The inclusion of key sites like Vegueta, Bandama Volcano, and the botanical garden ensures you experience both the city’s history and its natural beauty.

The guided elements are well-received, with many noting the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. The mention of a “very informative, friendly guide” reflects the overall positive tone. Plus, the tour’s duration of 8 hours balances a full day of exploration with enough downtime, making it suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, yet full, experience.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour is limited to pickup within certain areas, if you’re staying outside these zones, you may need to arrange your own transportation. Also, because it involves a fair amount of walking, comfortable shoes and clothing are advised. It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as one review pointed out.

Timing is flexible, with starting times available for check-in, so you can select a slot that suits your schedule. The tour is available in multiple languages, including German, which is great for international visitors.

What You Might Miss

While the tour covers a broad range of highlights, it doesn’t include in-depth visits to places like the Casa de Colón or specific museums—if you’re a history buff or want a more detailed cultural experience, you may want to explore those sites on your own later.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Las Palmas, especially if they prefer guided excursions with some free time to explore independently. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who value convenience and affordability.

Travelers interested in geology and botany will appreciate the volcanic crater and botanical gardens, while those looking for a relaxed day by the beach will find the final free time at Las Canteras a perfect ending.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, authentic slice of Las Palmas—from historic streets to volcanic landscapes, and lush gardens to urban beaches. For just over thirty dollars, it’s a compelling choice for travelers wanting to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

The combination of guided insights and free time makes it flexible enough to suit different interests, whether you’re after history, nature, or simply a relaxing beachside afternoon. The overall positive reviews reflect a dependable, friendly experience that balances value and adventure.

If you’re after a practical, engaging way to explore Las Palmas on a budget, this tour ticks most boxes—especially if you appreciate a friendly guide and a mix of guided and independent moments. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera to capture those volcanic vistas and vibrant streets.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, pickup from designated areas like Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and others is included. If you’re staying within those zones, just be ready at the designated pickup point.

What languages are available for the tour guide? The tour is offered in German, English, and Spanish, so you can choose the language that suits you best.

How much free time do I get at Las Arenas Shopping Center or Las Canteras Beach? You’ll have ample free time at either location to shop, grab a snack, or relax on the beach—exact durations depend on your personal pace.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, this tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.

What should I bring for the trip? Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential, especially since you’ll be walking around various sites. A hat, sunscreen, and water are also good ideas.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, providing a full day’s worth of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

What’s the overall value of this tour? For $34, it provides a balanced mix of cultural, natural, and leisure experiences—a budget-friendly way to enjoy Las Palmas’ highlights without sacrificing depth or comfort.