Most people who visit Gran Canaria will stay in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Maspalomas. But this island is dotted with cute little towns with each their own ambiance. Below I’m listing my 5 favorite cute towns in Gran Canaria which you’ll want to visit during your stay in Gran Canaria.
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Table of Contents - 5 cute towns in Gran Canaria you’ll want to visit
1. Tejeda
Tejeda is one of those typical Canarian white towns in the mountains. It’s located in the Tejeda crater, in the middle of the island. So a visit to Tejeda is easily combined with a hike in the beautiful surroundings. But it’s not only this stunning location that makes this town special.
Tejeda is also known for its almond trees, or Almendros in Spanish. Locals traditionally grow almond trees here and make delicious sweets out of their nuts. There are a few bakeries in the center of town where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with one of these baked goods. A visit to Tejeda is not complete without trying an almond treat.
Almond blossom festival – Every first weekend of February, Tejeda celebrates its almond blossom festival. So if you happen to be on the island this time of year, make sure to check it out!
2.Teror
Teror is known for its colonial-style houses on the main street, with the typical balconies being their most iconic feature.
Every Sunday there is a market selling local produce and souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity to try the regional specialty: el chorizo. In Teror, they do chorizo a little differently, making it more like a spread. If you’re visiting another day of the week you can still try it at one of the cafés or restaurants in town.
The historical center of Teror is only small and strolling around won’t take up much of your time. So you can easily combine a visit of Teror with one of the other towns on this list, or a hike in the area. El Barranco de Alamo is the closest and easiest hike from Teror. Other great options are the estate of Osorio and the Pino Santo crater. And if you want to combine a visit to Teror with another town and a hike, you can hike to Firgas or Santa Brigada from here.
3. Arucas
The most recognizable building in Arucas is the cathedral which towers out over the surrounding houses. But the streets of the historical center are very pleasant for a stroll as well. You’ll also want to head up to the viewpoint Montaña de Arucas for a different view of this cute little town in Gran Canaria.
Rum lovers should not miss a visit to the Arehucas Distillery. The distillery offers interesting tours in multiple languages with a tasting at the end.
And those looking for a little more greenery and love strolling around gardens should head over to the Jardin de la Marquesa. The entrance fee of € 6 is a little steep, especially considering that many other gardens in Gran Canaria are free, including the Jardín Canario close to Las Palmas and Parque Tony Gallardo in Maspalomas.
4. Santa Brígida
Santa Brígida is another charming town in Gran Canaria. This town characterizes itself by its stone walls. During the weekend, there is a local market where nearby farmers come to the town to sell their local produce.
Hiking lovers should combine a visit to Santa Brígida with a hike to the Bandama Crater. Hike around the rim for beautiful views of both the crater and the island. It’s also possible to hike down to the crater.
5. Firgas
Water is the main attraction in Firgas, which is also called the city of water. The most iconic sight is the Paseo de Gran Canaria street, with the artificial waterfall running down it and the 3D models of the Canary Islands.
Another interesting place to visit in Firgas is the water mill, the oldest one still functioning in Gran Canaria. It can be visited for free in the mornings.
Make sure to head over to San Roque Square for nice views over the northern part of the island before heading off to the next place. Since Firgas is only small, you can easily combine it with visiting the nearby towns of Teror and/or Arucas or a hike. The hike from Firgas to Barranco de Azuaje is one of my favorite ones on the island since the scenery is so lush!
Other cute little towns in Gran Canaria worth a visit
If you’re familiar with Gran Canaria and it’s towns, you’re probably wondering why I left Puerto de Mogan out, since it’s one of the most iconic places in Gran Canaria. That’s because it’s not a traditional town, but more of a tourist attraction with a similar vibe as Playa de Ingles, just prettier. So I wouldn’t quite recommend it if you’re looking for nice little towns in Gran Canaria to visit.
If you want to visit more towns, I recommend heading over to Santa Lucia instead, or Fataga. Both are pretty and traditional white towns in Gran Canaria. Aguïmes feels a little bigger already, but is also interesting to visit. And if you’re looking for interesting cities to visit, try Telde or Galdar and also Las Palmas. Their historical centers are also pretty and nice to wander around.
This was 5 cute towns in Gran Canaria you’ll want to visit
