Canary Islands City Guide

Food mixes Spanish, African, and Latin flavors. Try papas arrugadas, gofio, seafood, and stews. International options are plenty, with growing vegan and vegetarian availability. Many places stay open late.

Nightlife ranges from clubs in tourist resorts like Playa de las Américas to relaxed pubs and live music in cities like Las Palmas. Options include electronic music, karaoke, and Spanish taverns.

Developing coffee scene mixing traditional cafes and third-wave shops. Specialty roasters and local coffee drinks like barraquito are popular.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% tip or rounding up is common in restaurants. Small tips for taxis and services are welcome but optional.

SIM cards are sold at airports, mobile stores (Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, Yoigo), and some shops. Vodafone and Orange have good coverage. ID is required for purchase.

Generally clean, especially in tourist areas. Streets are regularly swept and recycling is common. Minor issues may occur in older areas.

Some pharmacies operate 24/7 on rotation. Convenience stores often stay open late. Emergency rooms are always open. Late-night food options exist mainly in cities and tourist areas.

Supermarkets like Mercadona, HiperDino, and Lidl offer international products. Fresh local produce is found at mercados. Most supermarkets open 9 AM–9 PM, Monday to Saturday, with limited Sunday hours.

Card payments work in most places, including supermarkets and restaurants. Carry some cash for small shops, markets, or remote areas without reliable card machines.

ATMs are common in towns and cities, located at banks, supermarkets, and malls. Major banks include CaixaBank, Santander, and BBVA. Withdrawals with non-Spanish cards may incur fees.

There are local Spanish and international schools, especially on Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Notable ones include The British School of Gran Canaria, Wingate School, and German School of Las Palmas. Languages vary, and enrollment follows the academic year.

Strong digital nomad scene with meetups, co-living, and active online groups mainly in Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Plenty of nomad-friendly cafes and community hubs like Las Canteras beach.

Good access to parks and natural areas within cities and along coasts. Options for shaded walks and diverse running terrain.

Good running routes along coasts, urban parks, and trails. Generally safe with running groups and annual races like Gran Canaria Marathon. Air quality good except during occasional calima dust.

Gyms range from budget centers to upscale clubs with pools. Hotels often have gyms too.

Tennis and padel courts are available at clubs and hotels. Booking is usually required. Equipment rentals and coaching are common.

Padel courts are popular and widespread, often alongside tennis facilities. Coaching and rentals are available.

Growing yoga and wellness scene with many studios offering various styles. Wellness retreats and spa centers are common, especially in tourist areas.

Various dojos and gyms offer disciplines like BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo, with English instructors and drop-in classes available.

No skiing due to subtropical climate and lack of snow.

A hub for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Equipment rental and schools are common, with best wind conditions in spring and summer.

Surfing is popular with many breaks accessible near towns. Water remains mild year-round. Both beginner and advanced spots exist, with many schools and rentals available.

Excellent diving spots around all islands with good visibility and diverse marine life. Dive centers offer courses and rentals. Suitable for all skill levels.

The islands have good public and private healthcare with English-speaking staff in major cities. EHIC covers EU citizens; private care is suggested for faster service or non-EU visitors. Pharmacies are common and offer advice.

Tap water is safe but often tastes mineral-heavy or desalinated. Many prefer bottled water for drinking.

Family-friendly with playgrounds, kid cafes, and parks. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Siam Park, Palmitos Park, zoos, and water parks.

Highly LGBTQ+ friendly with many safe spaces, events like Maspalomas Pride, and strong legal protections. Gran Canaria is a major LGBTQ+ hub.

Pet-friendly with many accommodations, pet supply stores, and veterinary clinics. Dog parks are becoming common. Public transport requires pets in carriers or muzzled.