Canary Islands
Most visitors only see the south coast of Gran Canaria. With a car you can head up into the mountains, to Roque Nublo and the villages tourists rarely reach. Here is what to know before you pick up the keys.
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In short: do you need a hire car on Gran Canaria?
If you only plan to lie by the pool, taxis and buses will do. To see the mountains, the north coast and Las Palmas, a hire car is easiest. Collect it at the airport on the east coast, and allow around half an hour to Maspalomas.
Car hire on Gran Canaria: Check car hire and prices
Picolo has driven on Gran Canaria many times, and the advice below draws on our own trips.
Driving times from the airport
Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés: around half an hour south on the motorway.
Puerto Rico and Mogán: around 45 minutes, further along the south coast.
Las Palmas: around 20 minutes north.
The mountains and Roque Nublo: around an hour and a quarter from the south coast, on winding mountain roads.
Collect your car at the airport: Check car hire and prices
Trips that need a car
The mountain villages of Tejeda and Artenara: high in the mountains, with views of Roque Nublo and, on clear days, Teide on Tenerife.
The north coast: Agaete and its natural sea pools.
A day in Las Palmas: the Vegueta old town and Las Canteras city beach.
Amadores
Above Amadores you look straight out over the Atlantic from the edge of the pool.
What to know about driving on Gran Canaria
Mountain roads are narrow and winding: drive slowly, and allow more time than the map suggests.
Parking: blue markings mean paid parking, especially in Las Palmas and by the beaches.
Fuel: petrol is usually cheaper in the Canary Islands than on mainland Spain.
Insurance: check the excess before you book, and photograph the car when you collect it.
Where to stay with a car: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa
Mogán is a good base for driving up into the mountains on the west side of Gran Canaria. Cordial sits close to the beach, and nearly a thousand guests rate it 9.4.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
More hotels, area by area, in our guide to Gran Canaria hotels.
Frequently asked questions about car hire on Gran Canaria
Do you need a hire car on Gran Canaria?
Not if you only plan to stay by the beach. To see the mountains and the north coast, a hire car is easiest.
How long does it take from the airport to Maspalomas?
Around half an hour on the motorway.
Is it difficult to drive on Gran Canaria?
The motorways are good. The mountain roads are narrow and winding, so drive slowly and in daylight.
Can you drive on Gran Canaria with a UK licence?
Yes, a UK photocard licence is accepted for visitors to Spain. Check age and credit card requirements with the rental company.
When should you book car hire for Gran Canaria?
Book at the same time as your flight for Christmas and February half-term, when demand is highest.