Last updated:: 8:00 PM ET, Wed October 7, 2026
The dynamic island of Gran Canaria will be more accessible from North America this winter season, as Air Transat begins direct flights from Toronto and Montreal, starting December 12, 2026. Often described as a “continent in miniature,” even a single trip is enough to hook travelers. From golden beaches to dramatic volcanic landscapes to peaceful pine forests, the land here offers so many different kinds of escapes.
The Maspalomas Dunes, a protected nature reserve on Gran Canaria's southern coast.
Gran Canaria also offers visitors the opportunity to visit two different areas of the island, which serve as tourist hubs. The first, in the south, is Maspalomas, which has most of the island’s hotel capacity and is centered around the magical protected sand dune field. It also boasts the Playa del Inglés beach area and Meloneras. Many visitors come here to relax and stroll the seafront promenade, while others choose to focus on the lively nightlife options, the dunes themselves, or a round of golf.
Sunset at Playa de Las Canteras, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, with the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium.
On the northern side of the island, the capital of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, has a totally separate, more urban vibe. It is famous for Playa de Las Canarias, said to be one of the finest urban beaches in all of Europe. There’s also Vegueta, a historic center that dates back some 500 years. While there’s definitely a relaxed feeling here, too, the capital city also runs on a quite active cultural calendar year-round, making it an ideal spot for couples or families.
However, the island’s interior should certainly not be missed, with its wealth of landscapes. UNESCO recognized the importance of this area, declaring it a Biosphere Reserve in 2005; the designation covers an incredible 43% of the island. And the awards keep coming, with 2026 bringing five coveted Michelin Guide stars to five restaurants here, thanks to inspired chefs who are reinterpreting the traditional Canarian cooking with modern techniques and using locally sourced food.
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