Las Palmas is a fantastic place for tours because it offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor. Whether you want to hike past volcanic craters, sip wine in age-old vineyards, explore colonial architecture, or taste traditional rums, this city has something for every traveler. We especially like the half-day tour to Volcano Bandama & Vineyard for its combination of nature and local wine culture, and the scenic walk through Vegueta and Arucas for a taste of historical Canary Islands life. Each experience gives you a different window into what makes this region unique, making it easy to plan your perfect day.
If you’re short on time but want a rich taste of Gran Canaria and Las Palmas, the Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages tour offers a well-rounded half-day trip. For more details, check out the full Gran Canaria Shore Excursion Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages experience. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours in detail.
1. From Las Palmas: Half day tour Volcano Bandama & Vineyard
This tour balances volcanic landscapes with wine tasting and a stroll through one of Spain’s largest botanical gardens. It lasts about 4.5 hours and is perfect if you want to see a natural wonder and taste local wine without committing to a full day. The journey starts with a visit to the Bandama volcano, a 570-meter-high crater offering impressive views of the island’s volcanic past. Then, you’ll visit an old vineyard, where you can walk among the vines and sample wines at the winery’s museum. The botanical garden is another highlight, showcasing a diverse collection of palms, dragon trees, and other native plants.
What makes this tour stand out is the small group size and the presence of an official guide who shares insights into the geology and winemaking traditions. The reviews are solid, with a 4.3/5 rating from four reviews, and many enjoy the intimate atmosphere. One reviewer notes, “The wine tasting was fantastic, and the guide was very knowledgeable.” This tour is best suited for those interested in nature, wine, and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick but enriching experience combining volcanic scenery, botanical beauty, and a wine tasting, this tour hits the mark.
2. Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour with Lunch
This full-day tour from Punta Cana takes you across the water to the historic capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo. It’s a great choice if you’re eager to explore colonial architecture and learn about the region’s past. The tour includes visits to Los Tres Ojos, an underground limestone cave system filled with crystal-clear lagoons, and the Faro a Colón, a lighthouse commemorating Christopher Columbus. You’ll walk through Zona Colonial, with its cobbled streets, lively plazas, and historic buildings, and enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch at Mugado.
While this experience is a bit longer at 9.5 hours, it offers a comprehensive look at Santo Domingo’s cultural and historical highlights. The reviews reflect an 4.1/5 rating, with many visitors appreciating the mix of sights and the authentic lunch. If you want to combine history, culture, and a bit of adventure, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want an educational experience and don’t mind a full day away from the beach.
Bottom Line: For those interested in history and local culture, this full-day excursion provides a deep dive into Santo Domingo’s colonial atmosphere, topped with a tasty lunch.
3. Gran Canaria Shore Excursion Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages
This half-day tour offers a concentrated experience of Gran Canaria’s scenic villages, especially Arucas and Vegueta, and introduces you to the island’s signature spirit—Canarian rum. You’ll start with a visit to the Destilerías Arehucas, where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample different varieties. Afterwards, the tour takes you to Arucas, a charming town known for its impressive neo-Gothic church and banana plantations, and to Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, for a walking tour of its cobbled streets and colorful buildings.
At just $282 per person, this tour offers good value for those who want a taste of local craftsmanship, history, and scenery in a short period. The highlight, according to reviews, is the rum tasting, which includes samples of the island’s best spirits. The walking tour of Vegueta is also appreciated for its insights into the city’s colonial past. The tour is best suited for those interested in local beverages, architecture, and small-town charm.
Bottom Line: If you want a balanced half-day of rum tasting and exploring picturesque villages, this tour gives you a well-rounded experience.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour in Las Palmas depends on your interests, time constraints, and budget. For a quick intro to volcanoes and vineyards, the Half-day Volcano & Vineyard tour is perfect. If you’re passionate about history and culture, the full-day Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour offers a deep dive. For those who want a taste of local spirits and scenic villages without leaving the island, the Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages provides a flavorful half-day.
Consider your budget—the rum tour is at a fixed price, while other tours vary with size and inclusions. Think about your interests—wine, history, nature, or local spirits—and your available time. Booking early is wise, especially during peak cruise seasons, to ensure you secure your preferred experience.
Final Thoughts
Las Palmas offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different interests. For a quick yet rich experience, the volcano and vineyard tour is ideal. History lovers will find the full-day Santo Domingo trip fascinating, while those craving a mix of local flavor and scenic exploration might prefer the rum tasting and village walk.
No matter which you choose, each tour provides a chance to see more of the Canary Islands’ natural beauty, history, and culture. Planning ahead and booking early will help ensure you get the experience that best fits your travel style. Enjoy your trip!