Car Hire in Las Palmas, Spain

Las Palmas

A commercial port and thriving industrial centre, Las Palmas doesn't sound immediately appealing. But despite being the largest city in The Canaries, the capital of Gran Canaria has definite appeal. Away from the docking ships, an arc of golden sand extends for 3km along the Playa de las Canteras, lined with bars and restaurants. The older quarters of the town retain the fine architecture of the Spanish colonial era. Many houses are colourfully painted, while the faded grandeur of the larger residences and palaces simply adds to their charm. Visit the cathedral of Santa Ana, which lies at the heart of the old quarter close to several interesting museums and galleries. One is devoted entirely to Christopher Columbus – a key figure in the maritime story of Las Palmas. The leafy squares invite you to enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee or a glass of sweet Canarian wine, while you adjust to the languid rhythms of this heat-soaked island.

Attractions

Start your exploration deep in the Barrio Vegueta at the Catedral de Santa Ana, built by the Spaniards in the early 16th century. Adjacent is the Museo Diocesano de Arte Sacro, which houses beautiful works of church art. Continue the religious theme by visiting the nearby Bishop's Palace, or simply enjoy the narrow alleyways and the fine vernacular architecture in this area. If modern art is more your scene, head for the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno where you will find a surprisingly large collection of contemporary pieces.

Step through the beautiful doorway of the Casa de Colón and you will be following in the footsteps of Christopher Columbus. The museum is housed in a former governor's residence, and the exhibits chronicle the great explorer's journeys. The Museo Canario, meanwhile, tells the story of the island's indigenous inhabitants, the Guanche, who settled in The Canaries at least a millennium before the Spanish.

Shopping

As the largest city in The Canaries, Las Palmas is a major centre for shopping. Anywhere in the city, you won't be far from shops! The Pueblo Canario is a good place to head for - not only is this area packed with gift stalls, galleries and craft shops, but traditional dancing takes place here regularly, so you can hunt for souvenirs and take in some culture at the same time. Look out for local liqueurs flavoured with coffee or banana, as well as work by local artists. Other handicrafts include ceramics, lacework, banana-leaf baskets and soft felt caps. An artesan's “guild” exists to ensure high levels of craftmanship – look out for vendors who are members of FEDAC.

In the old town, the Calle Mayor de Triana is packed with shops, many of them tiny one-room affairs specialising in lace, tobacco or liqueurs. Meanwhile, El Muelle is a newly built shopping arcade. Though less atmospheric, it has everything you need in terms of shops and eateries. There are even cinemas, bars and a nightclub here.

It's worth remembering that The Canary Islands have stricter export regulations than many other EU destinations. Current limits allow you to bring home one litre of spirits, two litres of wine and 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars).

Nightlife and Eating Out

The Playa de las Canteras is backed by a long strip of bars and restaurants, where you'll find plenty of cuisines on offer. Choose seafood if you like your dinner fresh - menus will change depending on the catch of the day. In the old town, head for El Cucharón restaurant. Situated in the Barrio Vegueta, this beautifully decorated eatery serves up good local cuisine and has an extensive winelist. Italian, Japanese and French are just some of the other cuisines on offer – there's something to suit every taste.

When the sun goes down in Las Palmas, some serious Spanish partying begins. Head to Santa Catalina, where the bars and nightclubs are concentrated, including Pacha. Though the nightlife is lively here, it retains more of an authentic feel than the mega-resorts, so you won't forget you're in Gran Canaria while you dance the night away.

Tourist Information

Calle Leon y Castillo, 17 - 35003
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
(Gran Canary)
Tel. +34 928219600
Fax +34 928219601
email: dpromoc@grancanaria.com
www.grancanaria.com

A tourist information point is also located in the EU Arrivals hall at the airport.

Airport

Las Palmas is just over four hours flying time from the UK, with charter services operating from most regional airports in addition to BA's scheduled flight several times a week from Gatwick. A number budget airlines (primarily low-cost offshoots of the major package holiday companies) now fly to the Canaries.

The airport lies 20km from Las Palmas, accessible via the island’s main north-south motorway and well-signed on the approach. Taxis are available outside but are expensive, while frequent buses run to the capital.

Airport facilities are excellent with an on-site bank and several bureaux de change, post office, internet café and pharmacy. For any food needs, you'll find a mini-supermarket, numerous bars and fast-food outlets, and a 24-hour deli. Duty-free and gift shops are also located here.