Where to Stay in Gran Canaria: Best Areas in 2026

Resorts, quiet villages and city stays — the complete guide to choosing where to base yourself in Gran Canaria.

8 min read

Maspalomas & Playa del Inglés

The southern resort belt is where most visitors stay. Maspalomas is upmarket with golf courses and the famous dunes. Playa del Inglés is livelier with shops, restaurants and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Both offer direct beach access and year-round sunshine. If most days will be spent in the resort, compare a short Maspalomas car rental with keeping an airport car parked for the entire holiday.

Puerto Rico & Puerto de Mogán

These purpose-built resorts are quieter and more family-oriented. Puerto de Mogán is one of the prettiest harbour towns in the Canaries — often called 'Little Venice'. Both are excellent bases for boat trips, dolphin watching and watersports.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The capital offers the best mix of city life and beach — Playa de las Canteras is a world-class urban beach. Vegueta old town has museums, historic architecture and great tapas bars. Gran Canaria Airport is outside the city: line 60 connects it with Las Palmas, while a taxi or pre-booked transfer is more direct. Check accommodation parking before keeping a rental car in the city.

Compare recommended experiences

We select these options for relevance and traveller fit. Some booking links are affiliate links, so we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How our recommendations work.