Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, also referred to as Las Palmas, is a beautiful city on the Gran Canaria Island, one of the many of Canary Islands. It is the capital of Gran Canaria Island, one of the biggest cities in
Spain, and one of the most populated autonomous communities on the Canary Islands.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is located on the Atlantic Ocean, to the northeastern part of the Gran Canaria Island, a spot that is said to have the best climate in the world. The city, founded in 1478, for a long time was considered the capital of the Canary Islands, and it is the reason it is the administrative hub of the region.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world and a very active cruise ship port. The city is widely loved for its duty-free goods and products. One of the beautiful spots to visit in the city is the Playas de Las Canteras, where visitors enjoy numerous water sports and activities under the scenic coral barrier that acts as a shelter for the swimmers. Beyond most beaches are sprawling well-manicured golf courses for more outdoor leisure.
A great blend of ancient and modern architecture is evident throughout the city, as featured in the Santa Ana Cathedral, dating back into gothic and neoclassical eras, and other structures like the iconic Perez Galdoz theater and the high lighthouse at the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Port.
Shopping is a regular activity, both by locals and visitors, because the city enjoys tax-free goods with all the cheaper options. Eating joints and cafeterias dot every part of the city, serving anything from regular local dishes to high-end international fusions and cuisines. Afterward, a vibrant nightlife can be enjoyed at the old town in the numerous bars and discos.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria experiences a desert climate of Köppen climate BWh, which may border closely on the tropical climate because of the warm winters. Generally, the weather features warm to hot summers that are dry and humid, and mild winters that are moderately wet.
Rainfall in the year averages 151.4mm (6"), and there are approximately twenty-two rainfall days all year. Much of the rain is received from autumn through spring, albeit in very minimal amounts.
The annual temperature is pleasant, with highs of no more than 31°C (87.8°F) and lows of not less than 15°C (59°F). The Canary Current primarily regulates the weather, making it the best weather in the world, according to studies.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a year-round destination for tourists. Still, most of them arrive during summer, specifically from
June to
August, and during winter, between
December and
February. Both seasons have great weather for outdoor fun and engagements, plus numerous events and festivities to be attended.
In June, the Fiesta de San Juan is held to celebrate Saint John, amid beautiful music, numerous water sports, and nights full of bonfires and firework displays. In December, the city has innumerable activities marked to celebrate Christmas and New Year festivals. Another event is the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival, held in February amid colorful decorations, numerous street parades, and other party activities.