PLAN

How to Get Around Gran Canaria

Find out what transport options are available in Gran Canaria, and the best ways to get around the island of Gran Canaria
What’s the best way to get around Gran Canaria? Well, this depends on your travel preferences, budget, and the places you plan to visit. Here’s a breakdown of your options.

Public Buses (Guaguas)

Gran Canaria’s extensive bus network, operated by Global, links major towns, cities, and attractions.

These affordable and dependable buses, known as Guaguas, offer a safe and budget-friendly travel option.

No tourist-targeted travel cards are available, so you must buy a single fare for each trip, which can be easily purchased onboard with contactless payment.

In Las Palmas, Guaguas Municipales manages the local bus system, which is equally economical and reliable, with tickets also available onboard.

While 24-hour or 72-hour travel cards are available here, they’re best suited for those taking at least four daily bus rides to make them worthwhile.

Guaguas Global Bus in San Bartolomé de Tirajana
Guaguas Municipales Bus in Las Palmas

Taxis

Taxis in Gran Canaria are relatively affordable, easy to find, and well-regulated.

They’re a reliable door-to-door option for getting around, particularly if you’re heading to places not well-served by buses.

It’s common to find taxis waiting at popular tourist spots, hotels, and transportation hubs like airports and ferry terminals.

Just ensure the meter is activated at the start of your journey to avoid any fare misunderstandings.

Taxis in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Car Rentals

Renting a car is perfect for off-the-beaten-path adventures, offering flexibility and affordability for exploring all areas of the island.

At the time of recording, just three of the over twenty major car hire companies offer electric cars in Gran Canaria, which is disappointing as the island’s size, great road network, and the growing number of charging stations make it an ideal way to cut our carbon footprint while exploring. However, many companies do offer hybrid car options.

Rental Cars in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria Driving Tips
  • Gran Canaria’s network of roads is extensive and well-maintained, and parking is ample and affordable (except in Las Palmas, where walking, taking public transport, or a taxi is likely best).
  • If you’re driving in the hills, take it easy and stay sharp—those twisty roads, steep slopes, and changing weather conditions can catch you off guard.
  • Canarian’s are generally calm and considerate drivers who drive unhurriedly outside the main cities. However, most winding roads have many places to pull over and stop to let other road users by if those behind you are in a rush. Chances are the views from there will be incredible, so definitely make the most of those.
  • Cycling is a hugely popular and growing activity here, and local drivers are very aware and thoughtful of giving cyclists plenty of space, especially on smaller roads.

Ferries

Gran Canaria is, of course, an island, and so getting around by boat may be an option, depending on where you’re travelling.

Unfortunately, though, ferry routes around Gran Canaria are limited to the just south of the island, where two companies offer regular timetabled sailings between Puerto de Mogán, Puerto Rico, Anfi del Mar, and Arguineguín:

They’re affordable and reliable, but of course, weather dependent.

Lineas Salmon Ferry

Cycling

Cycling is a fantastic way to get around and soak up the beauty of Gran Canaria. With its ideal climate, varied terrain, well-kept roads and paths, and abundance of cafes and restaurants, there is something for everyone here.

For seasoned riders, the challenging terrain of the mountains promises breathtaking views and cosy rest stops in the many charming towns and villages scattered across the island.

Those looking for a more leisurely ride can enjoy the sights from one of its flatter roads and dedicated cycle paths. For example, the coastal paths in the south are hugely popular for relaxed rides, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the beautiful ocean views and grab a refreshing drink.

Cyclist in Barranco de Guayadeque
Cyclists Resting in Mountains of Gran Canaria

Walking & Hiking

Walking is the best way to explore the island’s more compact areas, such as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Agüimes, and Puerto de Mogán. Many attractions are within a short distance of each other and often within pedestrian-friendly zones.

Hiking is a big draw for visitors to the island and is a great alternative way to get around. There are countless incredible trails to enjoy throughout Gran Canaria for all levels. It’s a fantastic way to get up close to nature and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Hiking Route Signs around Roque Nublo

Organised Tours

If you’d rather not stress about getting around, organised tours in Gran Canaria are hassle-free and often unlock some of the island’s hidden natural and cultural gems.

Gran Canaria’s vibrant, organised tour scene caters to every taste. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of a jeep safari or buggy drive, the allure of a catamaran voyage, the charm of historic town walks, the delight of local food and wine tours, the serenity of hiking and cycling through nature, or the adventure of diving into the sea or learning to surf, there really is something for everyone here.

Roque Nublo Hiking Trail