About 150km away from the western coast of Africa, Gran Canaria is in the center of the Canaries archipelago. Year-round warm temperatures and regular air and ferry connections make it a preferred destination among global travelers in search of a paradisiacal escape.

Ferry tickets to Gran Canaria from Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are easily bookable via Ferryscanner. Prices start from €50 and go up depending on sailing time and distance. Most of Gran Canaria’s attractions are along its coast. Therefore, upon arriving consider planning a helicopter ride that takes you over the island’s pastoral interiors and past Roque Nublo, a volcanic formation known as ‘Clouded Rock’. If still feeling adventurous, drive to the village of Artenaras and enjoy a vegan lunch at the family-run cozy restaurant Biocreperia RiscoCaido.

Even though Gran Canaria has several quaint corners worth exploring, its capital, Las Palmas, is the island’s energy source. Ferry tickets to Gran Canaria are often booked specifically for Las Palmas, located in the northeast. The city is world-famous for hosting the Canary Island’s International Jazz Festival and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria International Film Festival. Adding to the international appeal are Triana and Siete Palmas, neighborhoods with excellent shopping options.

Nature, food, and beaches are the trifecta of any vacation on Gran Canaria, and Las Palmas has them all. Time flies when you have fun at Las Canteras, the city’s sandy strip, and its promenade full of cafes that regularly attracts casual walkers and joggers. Canarian culture gets a spotlight in Pueblo Canario. This traditional village replica in the city has music and dance performances every Thursday and Sunday.

Mercado del Puerto is the liveliest foodie destination in Las Palmas. During the day, you can shop for local produce here. Come evening, the atmosphere changes as tapas bars entice gourmands with delectable Canarian creations and concoctions. However, nothing prepares offbeat travelers for a 30-minute hike down Caldera de Bandama, a 200-meter-deep volcanic crater full of lush vegetation.