The most beautiful villages of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a paradise of contrasts and beauty, not only for its spectacular beaches, but also for its villages that preserve the essence of Canarian culture. Would you like to visit the prettiest villages in Gran Canaria?

In this article we invite you to discover the most beautiful villages of Gran Canaria, full of tradition and natural landscapes. From small fishing villages to villages with pre-Hispanic architecture, Gran Canaria is the perfect destination to get lost and enjoy the authentic and the local.

How to get around the villages of Gran Canaria

Before you arrive in Gran Canaria, it’s important to plan how you’ll get around the island's most beautiful villages.

Although Gran Canaria has a reliable bus network, hiring a car is the best option if you want to make the most of your time on the island. With a car, you won’t have to wait for buses or worry about fixed timetables, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

To get the best deals on car hire in Gran Canaria, book through DoYouSpain—your leading car hire price comparison platform.

Which are the most beautiful villages in Gran Canaria?

Planning a trip to Gran Canaria and looking for its most beautiful villages? This guide is perfect for you!

We’ve created a list of six must-visit villages in Gran Canaria that are full of charm, culture, and stunning landscapes. With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore these incredible destinations at your own pace.

Teror: The Most beautiful village in Gran Canaria

Recently, the travel magazine Viajar named Teror as the most beautiful village in Gran Canaria—and it’s easy to see why. Teror is one of those enchanting places that leaves visitors captivated.

This small village is surrounded by lush nature, colorful houses, and charming squares that beautifully showcase its rich colonial heritage. One of the main highlights is the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino, a must-visit attraction in the area.

In addition to its cultural landmarks, Teror offers breathtaking landscapes filled with native flora and scenic hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for nature and history lovers alike.

Arucas: The city of rum and the Basilica of San Juan Bautista

Arucas is one of the most historic towns in Gran Canaria, located just 7 miles away from the island’s capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This village is best known for the Basilica of San Juan Bautista, a striking blue stone structure that has become an iconic symbol of the island.

Arucas is also famous for its rich rum-making tradition. A visit to the Arehucas Rum Factory is a must, where you can explore the history of this celebrated product and enjoy tasting its different varieties.

While in Arucas, don’t miss the Municipal Park, one of the most beautiful green spaces in Gran Canaria, perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst lush greenery.

Galdar: A journey to the pre-hispanic era

Visiting Galdar is easy, especially if you hire a car. Simply follow the Carretera del Norte, a scenic and easy-to-drive road along Gran Canaria’s northern coast.

As one of the oldest towns on the island, Galdar boasts a rich archaeological heritage. A must-visit is the Cueva Pintada Museum, where you can explore fascinating remnants of pre-Hispanic life. On the coast, don’t miss La Guancha, an archaeological site showcasing ancient burial practices of the island's early settlers.

Galdar is also famous for its unique architecture, blending colonial and aboriginal styles. Be sure to explore the old quarter, where you’ll find the Church of Santiago de Gáldar, the Town Hall, the Municipal Theatre, and the charming Plaza Grande.

For beach lovers, Gáldar offers beautiful coastal spots like Dos Roques, Punta de Gáldar, La Caleta, and Caleta de Abajo, perfect for relaxing or exploring.

Puerto de las Nieves: The closest port to Tenerife

Puerto de las Nieves, located in Agaete, is a charming fishing port that attracts both tourists and locals. One of its most iconic features is the Dedo de Dios ("Finger of God"), a beloved natural monument that, although partially destroyed, remains a symbol of the area.

Visitors to Puerto de las Nieves can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools of Las Salinas, perfect for those seeking a peaceful dip in a beautiful natural setting. The village is also renowned for its exceptional gastronomy, offering a variety of restaurants specialized in fresh fish and seafood.

Fataga: The valley of a thousand palm trees

Located in the south of Gran Canaria, Fataga, also known as the "Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees", is a picturesque village surrounded by lush greenery. Its streets are full of traditional whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs, creating a unique setting.

Fataga is perfect for those seeking an authentic Canarian experience in a natural environment. Visitors can explore the trails that wind through the valley or visit the Church of San Jose, renowned as one of the most beautiful churches on the island.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Gran Canaria’s rural culture and breathtaking scenery, Fataga is an unmissable destination.

Artenara: Viewpoints and canarian traditions

Artenara is one of the highest villages in Gran Canaria, offering breathtaking views of the island. This charming village is known for its unique architecture, featuring traditional cave houses that reflect the area’s rich heritage.

The viewpoints in Artenara, such as the Unamuno Viewpoint, are perfect for admiring the island’s volcanic landscapes. Be sure to visit the Church of San Matias, a must-see landmark in Artenara that showcases the village's cultural and historical significance.

Puerto de Mogan: Little Venice of Gran Canaria

Puerto de Mogan, often referred to as the "Little Venice" of Gran Canaria, is known for its charming canals, colorful houses, and bridges, creating a unique and beautiful atmosphere.

Puerto de Mogan features a peaceful beach, making it an ideal destination for a family day out or water sports enthusiasts. The marina is perfect for a relaxing evening stroll, especially at sunset, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the area.

Every Friday, Puerto de Mogan hosts a popular market where visitors can explore local products, handmade crafts, and traditional goods.

Tips for visiting the most beautiful villages of Gran Canaria with DoYouSpain

To explore the most beautiful villages of Gran Canaria and experience each of these charming places in depth, hiring a car is the best option. The island boasts an excellent road network, making it easy to travel comfortably from one village to another.

With DoYouSpain, you can find car hire options that fit your needs, offering you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.

Hiring a car also grants you access to lesser-known destinations and the opportunity to discover Gran Canaria's stunning natural landscapes. You can plan a route that includes the island’s most iconic villages while also stopping at viewpoints and beaches that might otherwise be overlooked.

Touring Gran Canaria's most beautiful villages is a unique experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the island’s essence: its history, traditions, and people. From the pre-Hispanic architecture of Galdar to the fishing charm of Puerto de las Nieves, having a hire car lets you explore freely and uncover all the hidden gems that make Gran Canaria an incomparable destination.

If you have any questions while booking your car hire, feel free to contact us through the Customer Area or by calling +34 964 830 995.