I love to explore places without a car, and on my website, I cover many topics for car-free travelers. In this article, I will help you find the best places to stay in Gran Canaria without a car.
I will share my recommendations for the top areas to stay in Gran Canaria without a car, along with a helpful map. I’ll also tell you where I stayed in Gran Canaria and suggest the best hotels in Gran Canaria for all budgets.
Gran Canaria is the third-largest and second-most populous island in the Canary Islands. It is close to Tenerife and Fuerteventura.
The island is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, ravines, and beaches. The central part of the island is characterized by mountainous terrain, while the coastline features sandy beaches and cliffs.
The island is a popular tourist destination. The capital city, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is located in the northeast and is known for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.
One of the notable natural attractions on the island is the Maspalomas Dunes, a large area of sand dunes located along the southern coast. This area is popular for its unique desert-like landscapes.
Can you get around Gran Canaria without a car?
Yes, it’s possible to get around Gran Canaria without a car, especially between the major tourist areas. Without a car, you can use buses, taxis, and walking.
Public Buses connect most towns and tourist areas, making it a cost-effective way to travel around the island. The main bus station in Las Palmas, called San Telmo, is a central hub.
You can also find taxi stands in major towns and tourist areas. Taxis are more expensive than buses but provide a convenient and efficient way to travel, especially if you’re in a hurry or with a group.
You can rent bicycles to explore specific regions. Keep in mind that the island has varying terrain, so consider your fitness level and the specific areas you want to explore.
In certain areas, especially in towns and tourist spots, walking is a great way to explore. Las Palmas, for example, has a pedestrian-friendly zone in its historic district, Vegueta.
Some hotels and tourist areas offer shuttle services to popular attractions. You can check with your accommodation to see if they provide such services.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria without a car?
The best areas to stay in Gran Canaria without a car are Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico, Arguineguin, and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. These are popular tourist areas, so you will have easy access to attractions and amenities by walking, bus, and taxi.
Maspalomas is a resort area in the south of the island that is famous for its sand dunes and upscale resorts. If you’re looking for a more relaxed beach vacation, Maspalomas is a great choice.
Playa del Inglés, adjacent to Maspalomas, is another popular resort town with a lively nightlife, shopping centers, and beautiful beaches. It’s a great choice for entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere.
Puerto Rico is a family-friendly resort destination with a marina and a beach. It offers various water activities and has a commercial center with shops and restaurants.
Arguineguin is a quieter fishing village, less touristy compared to Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. It’s a good choice if you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.
Las Palmas is the capital city located in the northeast of the island and offers a more urban experience. Las Canteras Beach is a major attraction, and the Vegueta district offers historic charm.
During my trip to Gran Canaria, I stayed for 5 nights at the BULL Vital Suites & Spa. It was a great hotel located close to the Maspalomas Dunes, Yumbo center, restaurants and supermarkets. I stayed in a clean spacious room with good storage and wardrobes. The breakfast was great.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Gran Canaria for car-free travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Gran Canaria, especially for travelers without a car. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Gran Canaria have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
5 Best areas to stay in Gran Canaria without a car:
1. Maspalomas
Maspalomas is one of the best areas to stay in Gran Canaria without a car. It is a popular tourist destination on the southern coast of the island that is known for its stunning sand dunes, long beaches, and vibrant atmosphere.
You can consider staying in accommodations close to the Maspalomas Dunes and the Playa de Maspalomas for convenient access to the beach.
Maspalomas is a short taxi ride from the nightlife areas of Playa del Inglés area where you can find Yumbo Centrum, as well as numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants for evening entertainment.
You will also be close to the Meloneras, a neighboring resort area with a more upscale atmosphere. Meloneras is known for its luxury hotels, upscale shopping centers, and a variety of restaurants offering international cuisine.
This area is home to the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse, aka Faro de Maspalomas. It has been guiding ships since it was built in the late 19th century.
Maspalomas offers various activities, including water sports, camel rides in the dunes, and golf at the Maspalomas Golf Course. The nearby Aqualand Maspalomas can be reached by public transport.
Best places to stay in Gran Canaria in Maspalomas without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa, great 5-star hotel located in Meloneras, within easy walking distance to the Maspalomas Lighthouse, Maspalomas Dunes. It has Fabulous breakfast, a casino, 6 swimming pools, and free shuttle service to Meloneras Golf Course.
- Mid-range ($$): Kumara Serenoa By Lopesan Hotels, popular 4-star resort located in Maspalomas, the location is a bit far away from the beach and city center, but the hotel offers shuttle transports to these areas. You can also use a taxi which is around 5 euros/ ride to get to Faro or Yumbo. It has a children’s playground, Very good breakfast, and an airport shuttle.
- Budget ($): Palm Oasis Maspalomas, 3-star hotel, situated in a quiet area, with the views of Maspalomas Dunes or the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel has a free shuttle bus to the meloneras/beach every day. You can catch a taxi to Playa del Ingles/Meloneras to avoid the heat.
2. Playa del Inglés
Playa del Inglés is a popular tourist destination on the southern coast of the island of Gran Canaria. It is a great base for car-free travelers, beach lovers, and party-goers.
Playa del Inglés is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, stretching for several kilometers along the coastline. The beaches are well-maintained and offer a variety of water sports and recreational activities.
The area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs. The Yumbo Centrum is a popular nightlife and shopping center, offering a wide range of options to enjoy the evenings.
Yumbo Centrum is not only known for its nightlife but also for its shopping opportunities. You’ll find a variety of shops, from fashion boutiques to souvenir stores, making it a great place to explore during the day as well.
You can enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and jet skiing, as well as activities like camel rides and jeep safaris for those who want to explore the island’s interior.
Just south of Playa del Inglés, you’ll find the famous Maspalomas Dunes. This natural reserve is a unique ecosystem with large sand dunes that lead to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great place for a walk and offers a different landscape compared to the beaches.
Gran Canaria, including Playa del Inglés, enjoys a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year. The island is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its consistently warm temperatures.
Playa del Inglés provides a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury resorts. You can choose accommodations based on their preferences and budget.
Best places to stay in Playa del Inglés without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas – Adults Only, popular 5-star hotel located close to Playa del Ingles Beach, Yumbo Centre and Cita Shopping Center. It has an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour front desk, and fabulous breakfast.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Caserio, 5-star hotel, conveniently located in the lively and popular resort Playa del Ingles, with a vibrant nightlife scene and a variety of pubs and live entertainment.
- Budget ($): Bungalows Vistaflor, great 3-star hotel located right next to Maspalomas Golf Club and a shopping plaza, offering a free beach shuttle service. It has a 24-hour reception and swimming pools. You can find a bus station right in front of the hotel.
3. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a resort town located on the south-west coast of Gran Canaria that is renowned for its two artificial beaches, Amadores and Puerto Rico Beach. These beaches offer golden sand and clear waters, providing an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Puerto Rico has a marina that offers opportunities for various water activities, including boat trips, fishing, and sailing. The marina area also features shops, restaurants, and bars.
The town has a commercial center with a variety of shops, boutiques, and supermarkets. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, providing a vibrant nightlife for visitors.
Anfi del Mar is a nearby resort area known for its white sand beach and luxury accommodations. It’s a short drive from Puerto Rico and offers a different atmosphere for those seeking upscale amenities.
Puerto Rico has developed a robust tourist infrastructure with a range of accommodation options. The town is well-connected by roads and is easily accessible from the Gran Canaria airport.
Best places to stay in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Holiday Club Playa Amadores, 5-star hotel located in Amadores, close to Amadores Beach, Playa de Tauro and Playa de Puerto Rico. It provides a paid airport shuttle service, luggage storage space and currency exchange. Easy walk to bus and taxi stops.
- Mid-range ($$): Gloria Palace Royal Hotel & Spa, great 4-star hotel located within a short distance from Amadores Beach, on the Costa de Mogan. It is 15 mins walk from the popular resort of Puerto Rico where you can find lots of shops, bars and restaurants.
- Budget ($): Apartamentos Río Piedras, 3-star accommodation situated an easy distance from Puerto Rico Beach and Puerto Comercial Shopping Centre, in southern Gran Canaria. 10 mins walk from the harbor with many restaurants, cafes, and bars.
4. Arguineguin
Arguineguín is a town on the south coast of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of Mogán, which is known for its beautiful beaches and a pleasant climate throughout the year. The town is located approximately 15 kilometers west of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés.
Historically, Arguineguín was a small fishing village, and its harbor still plays a role in the local fishing industry. The town has retained some of its traditional charm, with a mix of old and new buildings.
The coastline around Arguineguín offers several beaches, including Playa de Arguineguín and Playa Anfi del Mar. These beaches are known for their golden sands and clear waters.
Arguineguín has a pleasant seaside promenade where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast. The promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
The town hosts a weekly market, known as the Arguineguín Market, where locals and visitors can browse through stalls selling a variety of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports. The pleasant climate and natural beauty make it a suitable destination for those looking to explore the outdoors.
Arguineguín has a diverse culinary scene, with a range of restaurants offering local Canarian dishes as well as international cuisine. Seafood is a highlight due to the town’s fishing heritage.
The town is well-connected by road to other parts of Gran Canaria, making it accessible for those exploring the island. There is also public transportation available.
Best places to stay in Gran Canaria in Arguineguin without a car:
- Budget ($): Sunset Ocean View
- Budget ($): BULL Dorado Beach & SPA
- Budget ($): Vista Puerto Arguineguín Deporte y Relax
5. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of the province of Las Palmas, located on the northeastern coast of the island. The city is known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.
You can explore the Vegueta historic district, known for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and significant historical sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón (Columbus House).
Playa de Las Canteras is the main beach of the city, stretching along the coastline. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering golden sands and a lively atmosphere.
Parque de Santa Catalina is a central park in the city, often hosting events, festivals, and cultural activities. The park is surrounded by various shops, restaurants, and cafes.
This city is home to Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, a modern architectural landmark named after the renowned Spanish tenor Alfredo Kraus. It hosts concerts, operas, and festivals.
Las Palmas hosts the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It is one of the most significant and lively carnival celebrations in Spain, attracting participants and visitors from around the world.
Best places to stay in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, great 5-star hotel, located in the capital city of Gran Canaria, 5 min walk from Las Palmas Marina. Short taxi ride at reasonable prices to the Cathedral and the beach.
- Mid-range ($$): Silken Saaj Las Palmas, 4-star hotel, easy distance from restaurants and shops. Close to the bus station. A short taxi or bus ride to the old town.
- Budget ($): Bed and Chic, 3-star accommodation, next to Santa Catalina Park, close to the port, where you can take boats to get to other islands.
In conclusion, Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico, Arguineguin, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria are the best places to stay in Gran Canaria without a car. While staying in these towns, you can easily use the combination of taxi, bus, and foot to get around.
You can also continue reading other islands in Spain:
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas that you can stay during your car-free trip to Gran Canaria. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.