Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour

If you’re heading to Gran Canaria and looking for a balanced taste of history, nature, and local life, this Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour offers a compelling option. Priced at just $34 per person, it provides a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s charm, from its historic core to impressive volcanic landscapes and lush gardens. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get both educational insights and plenty of free time to soak in the surroundings.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we appreciate the combination of guided exploration and relaxed free time — perfect for those who want a structured yet flexible experience. Second, the stop at Bandama Volcano offers a chance to see the island’s volcanic origins up close, and the visit to Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden provides a peaceful retreat among native flora. Finally, the opportunity to unwind at Las Canteras Beach or shop at Las Arenas Shopping Center adds a delightful finish to your day.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, due to walking and uneven terrain involved in some stops. This experience suits those interested in cultural history, scenic landscapes, and relaxed beach vibes, making it ideal for curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of Las Palmas.

Contents show

Key Points

Balanced itinerary: Combines guided tours with free time, giving you flexibility.
Affordable price: At $34, it offers good value for a full-day experience.
Diverse highlights: From historic Vegueta to volcanic Bandama and botanical gardens.
Convenient pickup: Offers pickup from major resort areas, simplifying logistics.
Limited accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Language options: Available in German, English, and Spanish, accommodating diverse travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Las Palmas: An Authentic and Varied Experience

The Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour manages to strike a practical balance between sightseeing, learning, and relaxation. For just over seven hours, you’ll visit some of the most iconic spots in the city while also enjoying options for shopping and beach strolls. This tour is perfect for visitors who want a comprehensive yet flexible day of exploration without feeling overwhelmed.

Looking for more options in Gran Canaria? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, you’ll wander through cobblestone streets that echo centuries of history. Your guide will point out key sites, sharing stories about the city’s origins and its colonial past. This part of the tour is especially rewarding for history buffs or those wanting to understand the city’s cultural fabric.

Next, you’ll venture to Bandama Volcano, a sight that immediately reminds you of Gran Canaria’s fiery geological past. The volcano, with a diameter of about a kilometer and a depth of 216 meters, offers dramatic views and photo opportunities. You might find that standing at the rim of this crater brings a sense of connection to the island’s volcanic roots, adding a rugged, natural dimension to your day.

Following that, the Vieira y Clavijo Botanical Garden provides a tranquil environment filled with native plants from Macaronesia. Designed by Sventenius, this extensive garden highlights the island’s unique flora and is a hit among nature lovers. The peaceful paths and lush greenery make it a great spot to relax and breathe in some fresh air.

Free Time and Additional Highlights

After a morning of guided exploration, you’ll enjoy free time at Las Arenas Shopping Center — a modern hub where you can shop for local crafts or grab a snack. Just nearby is Las Canteras Beach, one of the most famous urban beaches in Europe. A walk along the promenade here is an easy, enjoyable way to unwind after a busy morning. Many reviews praise the balance this tour strikes, with one traveler describing their guide as “very informative and friendly,” which made the experience even more enjoyable.

Practicalities and Comfort

The tour includes pickup from several popular resort areas, including Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, Bahía Feliz, Puerto Rico, Arguineguín, Taurito, and Puerto Mogán. This convenience is a real plus, especially if you’re based in one of these spots. The 7-hour duration offers a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed, and the inclusion of a professional guide ensures you get insightful commentary along the way.

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as the tour involves walking through old streets, volcanic terrain, and gardens. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to terrain and walking requirements, so keep that in mind if accessibility is a concern.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $34, this tour offers solid value considering the variety of sights covered and the inclusion of guided commentary. Entrance fees are not specified, but given the sites visited, it’s unlikely they are included, making the fixed price even more attractive. The chance to explore major sites with a guide, plus free time for shopping and beach strolls, makes it a cost-effective way to get to know Las Palmas beyond just passing through.

There's plenty more to explore in Gran Canaria

Reviews and Authentic Insights

While only two reviews are available, they paint a clear picture of what to expect. One traveler called it “very informative, friendly guide,” which suggests high-quality, engaging narration. The other review, though not detailed, hints at a positive overall experience, reinforcing that this tour is well-received by those who value a mix of education and leisure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a structured yet flexible day in Las Palmas. If you enjoy guided walks that explain the city’s history, scenic volcanic landscapes, and lush gardens, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also perfect for those who prefer to combine sightseeing with some downtime at the beach or shopping, especially since the tour makes it easy to do both without extra planning.

However, if you have mobility issues, you might want to explore other options, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate getting a local perspective, thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
The tour includes pickup from several resort areas, but it’s not clear whether transportation between sites is provided or if you’ll be walking. Expect some walking during the guided parts.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, especially for walking around old streets, gardens, and volcanic terrain.

Are meals included?
No, the price does not include meals. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during free time.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour’s walking nature and terrain suggest it’s best suited for older children or teens capable of walking comfortably.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in German, English, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, it is not suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking and terrain conditions.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, allowing ample time for visits and free time.

What’s the cost and what’s included?
The tour costs $34 per person and includes a professional guide along with pickup from designated resort areas.

What’s the best part of the tour?
Many find the visit to Bandama Volcano and botanical gardens especially memorable, as well as the opportunity to relax at Las Canteras Beach afterward.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a practical, well-balanced introduction to Las Palmas, this tour hits many key points without breaking the bank. It offers a nice mix of historic sights, natural beauty, and leisure time, all led by a friendly and knowledgeable guide. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who want to combine cultural insights with some relaxation, whether that’s shopping or beach strolling.

While not suited for everyone — particularly those with mobility challenges — it provides a genuine snapshot of what makes Las Palmas special. With a comfortable schedule, clear highlights, and excellent reviews, this tour can serve as a solid foundation for your exploration of Gran Canaria’s vibrant capital.

In summary: If you’re after an affordable, thoughtfully curated day that blends history, nature, and leisure, the Las Palmas: Old Town and Surrounding Area Tour offers good value. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a friendly guide to show them around, with enough free time to soak it all in at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: