Sited just 130 miles from the coast of Africa, Gran Canaria is the third largest island in the Canaries. From stunning sand dunes and the stunning coastline, to magnificent mountainous terrain and volcanic craters, this land of diverse beauty meets with intense culture, mouth watering food and hospitality; making it a magnet for the majority of travellers wanting to stay in Gran Canaria all year round.

The lively resort of Playa del Ingles in Gran Canaria is well known for its endless things to do . You can always expect a entertaining night out as there are always plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. With wonderful shopping and a long sandy shore, it’s no wonder that this is a popular destination to be for families, couples and groups of friends. The best thing about a Holiday to Gran Canaria is the price. You can discover a holiday to Playa del Ingles at any time of the year and be assured beautiful weather. For those that love the hustle and bustle of a lively holiday town but would like to be a bit out of the thick of things, the neighbouring village of San Agustin is a lovely destination and a favourite place for visiting families. Costa Meloneras and Maspalomas are also really nice holiday resorts – with everything you want on a not too large scale!

As one of the two “big” islands of the Canaries, it is important that Gran Canaria has plenty to offer. It is a great place for culture vultures and sun lovers alike. The island of Gran Canaria really does have it all, it is viewed as a great place for western travellers to chill out and let go. If this is your favourite past time, than be sure to take in some of the idyllic scenery and laze away the days on the islands picturesque sandy beaches.

Be flexible. If you are willing to change either or both your departure and return flights, and the times of day that you are travelling, you will be able to snag the lowest fares. Most travel websites and airlines allow you to search for the best deal. Don’t make the mistake of thinking the first fare you see will be the lowest. Compare fares.

Gran Canaria has one airport, which is located between Las Palmas(the capital) and Maspalomas on the east coast. From there you can get flights to other islands in the Canaries.

Not all prices quoted are final. Both major and low fare airlines have various new fees ; they differ from one airline to another. Don’t forget to check last minute deals for charter flights. Tour operators will sell leftover seats at the last minute for cheap prices.

Whether you are staying in budget accommodation or a luxury hotel in Gran Canaria, there are always good deals on cheap flights to be found.

Hotel Concorde is perfect for those in town combining business with a family holiday. This 4-star hotel is located in central Las Palmas, in the middle of town, and only 50m from Las Canteras Beach . There are leisure areas, shopping centres, and restaurants all around it. On the top floor is an outdoor pool, the rooms have all the amenities, and they additionally provide organized excursions, car rental, currency exchange, medical service, laundry and dry cleaning.

The Gran Hotel Vecindario Aeropuerto is just 10km from the airport. and is just a short walk from Ventro Comercial Atlantico, the largest shopping centre on the island. The centre has over 100 shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and a cinema complex.

•  Hotel Riu Grand Palace Maspalomas Oasis – This 5-star hotel has artificial lakes, a huge garden full of palms, and is near El Faro and the Maspalomas dunes. It has direct access to the beach.

The following hotels are all 4-star:

• Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas – In Playa del Ingles these colonial-style villas are surrounded by gardens.
• Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras Resort – An elegant colonial- style building set in subtropical gardens.
• Hotel Riu Palmeras/Bungalows Riu Palmitos – Half-board, close to shopping, the beach and city centre.
• Hotel Riu Papayas – Half-board, with a heated pool, all the amenities you expect from Riu, excellent sports on site and beautiful gardens.
• Aparthotel Riu Flamingo – An apartment hotel with choice of room only or half-board, evening entertainment
• ClubHotel Riu Gran Canaria – Located in Costa Meloneras, near El Faro, on the seafront, this hotel has 3 pools, a kids pool, 2 whirlpools, 3 restaurants, 3 bars, and entertainment.
• ClubHotel Riu Vistamar – Panoramic views you won’t forget, this hotel is built on a cliff by the sea. Its all-inclusive system allows you to have fun and not carry a wallet.

If you are looking for ‘high end’ accommodation, it may be worth visiting the luxury hotels in the Canary Islands page.

• Abama Golf & Spa Resort – A 5-star private estate in Guía de Isora on Tenerife Island, with rooms, villas and suites with terrace views of the Atlantic, the golf course and the gardens. Eight pools and every amenity imaginable will make your stay wonderful.
• Hotel Occidental Royal Club Fuerteventura - This 5-star hotel is built on a cliff over Playa de Butihondo on the island of Fuerteventura. A gourmet restaurant, day and evening entertainment, and a luxurious spa will keep you happy when you aren’t enjoying your luxurious room
• Sol La Palma Hotel – A 4-star hotel on the quieter island of La Palma, overlooking Playa Puerto Naos and in the middle of a banana plantation. The 307 rooms have all the amenities, and you will enjoy the 2 pools, 3 bars, live music, and informal relaxed atmosphere.
• Parador Hotel de La Gomera – This luxury 4-star hotel, originally a manor house, is full of the history of the ships of Columbus. Gourmet dining, lovely rooms with all of the necessities, plus a visit to Garajonay National Park, will give you a trip to remember.
• Parador de el Hierro – A 4-star colonial style hotel in el Hierro, and bordered by Las Playas Bay and a long volcanic sand beach. If you are looking for amenities, peace and seclusion, this is your hotel.
• Riu Hotel Gran Canaria

Las Palmas International Airport is eleven miles south of the city of Las Palmas. All the island resorts can be reached by the main north/south motorway, so it makes sense to hire a car right at the airport, and not have to deal with taxis, buses, and transfers that have not been included with your tickets.

The car rentals desks are on the ground floor of the airport, in the walkway that connects EU and International arrivals. If transfers came with your travel package, you can rent your car at most of the larger hotels, or in the city centre.

Once you are settled in your hotel, plan a day trip with your Gran Canaria rental car to Sioux City, the Western theme park, or Guayadeque National Park, an ancient cave settlement that was the home of the Guanche race of aborigines, who were the first inhabitants of the island.