Las Palmas Old Town private walking tour: Triana & Vegueta

Summary

Walking tour of Vegueta and Triana with local guide

You’ll walk through Las Palmas’ oldest neighborhoods with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story—from Columbus’ stay at Casa de Colón to hidden squares where locals hang out today. Expect real history, lively markets, unique architecture, and plenty of chances to ask questions or just soak up daily life in Gran Canaria’s heart.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked off our Las Palmas Old Town private walking tour right at the port—super easy if you’re coming off a cruise or staying nearby. Our guide, Marta, met us with a big smile and helped us grab a taxi to the historical quarters. The ride’s quick, maybe ten minutes tops, but you start to notice how the city shifts from busy modern streets to these quiet old lanes lined with pastel houses and tiny balconies. There’s this salty breeze in the air that mixes with the smell of fresh bread from a bakery near Plaza Cairasco—honestly, I nearly followed my nose inside.

First stop: Vegueta. This is where Las Palmas began back in the 15th century. Walking through here feels like stepping into another time—stone streets under your feet, echoes bouncing off old walls. Marta pointed out Casa de Colón (Columbus House), which has these carved wooden ceilings and ornate balconies. She told us Columbus actually stayed here in 1492 while his ship was being fixed—there’s even a little plaque about it by the door. You can peek into its courtyards if you’re curious.

Santa Ana Square is just around the corner. It’s huge and open, lined with palm trees and those famous Canarian dog statues sitting right in front of the cathedral steps. The cathedral itself took centuries to finish—started in 1497 but only wrapped up in the late 1900s—so you’ll spot all sorts of styles mixed together: gothic arches inside, neoclassical outside. We sat for a minute on one of the benches; locals were chatting nearby and pigeons kept swooping low over the square.

Marta led us down Balconies Street next (Calle de los Balcones). The name fits—the wooden balconies are everywhere, each one different. Some have flower pots dangling over the edge; others look like they haven’t changed since Columbus walked by. We passed by Gabinete Literario too—a fancy old club—and then ducked into Plaza de San Antonio Abad. There’s a tiny hermitage here where Columbus prayed before heading to America; it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

The Atlantic Center for Modern Art stands out among all this history—it’s got this modern vibe but keeps its old neoclassical façade. If you’re into art, it’s worth popping inside for a quick look (we didn’t have time this trip). Espíritu Santo Square is close by too; there’s an odd covered fountain under a stone dome, plus two big trees—a drago and an araucaria—that symbolize ties between the Canaries and America.

Santo Domingo Square was buzzing when we arrived—a few kids were chasing each other around the fountain while someone played guitar nearby. The church here kicks off the Rosario pilgrimage every October; Marta said it gets packed then.

Before heading back north toward Las Canteras beach, we wandered through Vegueta street market (it’s open most months except summer). Stalls had everything from bananas to handmade jewelry, and there was live music drifting through Plaza del Pilar Nuevo. I grabbed some small mangoes from an older vendor who insisted I try one before buying—they were sweet and messy but totally worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Las Palmas Old Town Highlights

• Meet guide and transfer to Old Town
• Explore Santa Ana Square and Cathedral surroundings
• Visit Balconies Street and Santa Ana Cathedral
• Pass by Casa de Colón (Columbus House)
• Visit Plaza of San Antonio Abad and hermitage
• Tour Atlantic Center for Modern Art
• See Espíritu Santo Square and hermitage
• Explore Santo Domingo Square and church
• Shop at Vegueta street market
• Taxi to Las Canteras beach and return to port

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for people who aren’t used to lots of walking?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and there are plenty of places to sit or stop for breaks along the way.

Can we choose where we get picked up?

You can meet your guide at your hotel or at the cruise port—just let them know what works best for you.

Are entrance fees included?

All tickets and fees are included in your booking price—no surprises on arrival.

What if we want recommendations for food after?

Your guide will be happy to suggest local spots for lunch or drinks before you say goodbye!

What’s included

Your private licensed guide covers all entrance fees and tickets during your Las Palmas Old Town walking tour. Pick-up and drop-off are included too—you’ll travel by taxi or public transport as needed. Just bring comfy shoes; everything else is sorted!