Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a tourist paradise. It has all you need to enjoy your holidays – the vast beaches with crystal clear water, a rich offer of water sports, marvelous architecture and numerous monuments, as well as plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs where you can party all night long. In Las Palmas, it's almost a sin to go to sleep!
The best time to fly there is at the turn of February and March. That’s when Las Palmas holds its annual carnival, during which you’ll see the whole city dancing till dawn in the streets to the hot Latin rhythms. The tradition dates back to the 16th century when the Spanish arrived at the island. One of the main events is the election of the Carnival Queen and Drag Queen. The dresses worn by the candidates are just masterpieces, dazzling with a riot of colors. Contrary to custom, the Queen is the owner of the most beautiful dress, not a smile.
All the beaches in Las Palmas, both urban and private, are sandy, with a gradual entry to the sea and exceptionally clear water. At every beach, you’ll find companies renting out sunbeds and parasols, as well as water sports equipment – from the scuba diving gear and water skis to windsurfing and kitesurfing equipment. If you have no experience but an appetite for adrenaline-filled sports, you’ll be provided there with all the instructions needed to try them out.
When you get tired of lying on the beach, take a stroll to the Vegueta Old Town. Pop by the Cathedral of Santa Ana – built more than four centuries ago, it’s the largest church on the island. You’ll be surprised by the interiors. Over the years, the gothic, renaissance, and baroque styles have blended together. Don’t forget to visit Casa de Colón (Christopher Columbus’ House). It preserves the typical local style of architecture – the whitewashed walls are decked with wooden doors, balconies, and window shutters guarded by gargoyles.
