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Las Palmas car hire tips
Where to pick up your car
The most popular car hire location is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is around 20 mins’ drive from the centre (about 25km).
Top car rental brands
The most popular car rental brands in Las Palmas are Goldcar, Orlando, Interrent, Thrifty and Budget.
Local currency
Euro (EUR)
Average temperatures
Warmest month: August (25°C)
Coldest month: January (18°C)
Side of road
Right
Hire a car in Las Palmas
Beach loversand city explorerswill appreciate thebest of both worlds inexuberant Las Palmas.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, or Las Palmas as it’s better known, is the capital city of the Canary Islands. The feel of Las Palmas can be best described as ‘eclectic’. Its bustling atmosphere is partly down to the natural spirit any port city has, with its constant comings and goings from across the ocean. As a beach city, the nightlife is also very lively.
The centre of Las Palmas is approximately 20 minutes’ drive from the airport on a largely coastal route, so you’ll be enjoying sea views long before you even reach your final destination.
Local knowledge
The best beaches in Las Palmas
The numerous sandy beaches in Las Palmas have made the city one of the most popular seaside resorts in the world. Here are some of the best stretches of sand to soak up the Las Palmas atmosphere.
Las Canteras
This beach is the largest in the city and the most popular with tourists and locals alike. With long stretches of flawless sand and an offshore lava reef that maintains calm waters, it’s easy to see why.
Las Alcaravaneras
The promenade that makes up this beach makes it ideal for running, cycling and playing sports –as well as for taking leisurely strolls.
Confital
This beach is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre and has plenty of parking on offer. Rock pools and sheltered inlets provide good conditions for swimmers.
La Laja
La Laja beach is more low-key than the others and is therefore something of a hidden gem. You’re more likely to spot locals than tourists here – as well as the iconic giant statue of Triton.
Driving tips
Get used to the car
Drivers stick to right-hand side of the road in Las Palmas, with steering wheels fitted on the left side of the vehicle. Familiarise yourself with your car before heading out on any long journeys.
Know where you are going
Motorways are known as superhighways in Gran Canaria and there are only two on the island. Las Palmas is connected to both – you can use the GC1 to reach Arguineguín and the GC2 to drive to Agaete.
Get to know the roads
Be sure to take extra time and care if you are planning on driving into more mountainous locations – such as the village of Artenara in the central mountains. Roads can be extremely steep, winding and have narrow bends.
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Get to know Las Palmas
Discover the past
The old town is known as Vegueta and is home to one of the most important religious buildings in Spain.
Cathedral of Santa Ana
The first church built on the Canaries, this cathedral has been a dramatic point of focus in Las Palmas since its creation in 1500. Enjoy views over the city from the top of either of the two towers.
When to visit
Weather
Spring and summer are the best months to visit, due to the hot and sunny conditions. Late spring is the ideal time for exploring the city without overheating, as temperatures have not yet hit their peak.
Festivals
Carnival of Las Palmas – famed throughout Spain, this festival is held every February and consists of a colourful series of parades, Carnival Queen competitions, Latin American music and dance.
A taste of Spain
Fish and seafood dishes are prevalent within Las Palmas restaurants, thanks to the fruitful bounty of fresh produce from the sea. Sancocho Canario is a popular local dish that includes salted fish and a combination of sweet and regular potatoes.
