The Canary Islands have always been a famous tourist spot and popular destination. However, Gran Canaria’s capital city Las Palmas has been gaining a lot of fame over recent years.
With a laid-back lifestyle and affordable cost of living, Las Palmas offers a great living experience and tons of facilities. Digital nomads, from all over the world, have been intrigued by this island’s beauty and tempted to move here.
This ultimate guide delves into numerous aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle in Las Palmas and discusses what it’s like to live there.
Where is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria located?
Located in the northeastern part of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas is the capital and largest city of this island. It is situated in the country of Spain.
Fact: Did you know that Las Palmas was founded in 1478 and named after the abundant palms there?
Why Choose Las Palmas de Gran Canaria as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Much like any other place this beautiful island also has its fair share of pros and cons. While some may find it a perfect place, others may face difficulty getting over the cons. Let’s delve into each and see if Las Palmas is the right place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibrant culture | Traffic concerns |
| Fast internet | Tourist crowds |
| Friendly people | Always windy |
| Beautiful beaches | |
| Low cost of living | |
| Natural beauty | |
| Warm weather |
Despite having some flaws, we like to believe that las palmas make up for it by offering other benefits. For instance, the affordable cost of living certainly attracts more nomads to come and settle here. Other than that, the great weather and warm temperatures all year round invite people to come and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.
If the natural beauty and beautiful beaches aren’t enough to compel you then the low cost of living will certainly work in your favor. All in all, Las Palmas has a lot to offer to those who are willing to look past its flaws.
How to Get to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?
The first step of getting to Las Palmas starts by making it to Gran Canaria. You can travel via air if you are coming from abroad or discover alternate options if you are already within the Canary Islands. Either way, once you have made it to the Gran Canaria International Airport, here’s how you can get to the city.
Airport taxi
Airport taxi is not only the easiest way of getting to Las Palmas but it’s also reliable. You can land at any time and expect airport taxis to be there. A 20-minute comfortable ride will get you to the city and drop you at your desired location.
Local taxi
You can also hail a local taxi outside the airport and get to the city. It’s a good option as long as you make sure the taxi meter is running. Local taxi drivers don’t charge fares in the city so make sure to avoid scams.
Bus
If you are on a tight budget, bus travel will be the perfect option for you. The global bus number 60 departs twice and takes you to the San Telmo bus station. Tickets can be bought inside the airport for a comfortable 30-minute ride.
Transportation and How to Get Around Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?
Once you have made it to the city and settled in, here’s how you can get around daily.
Walking
Las Palmas is very walkable and allows the public to travel on foot. Mostly everything is located within walking distance and streets are safe as well. However, please note that walking is not a sustainable option for long term stays.
Buses
Buses are the most popular and common way of getting around in Las Palmas. The yellow city buses, commonly known as Guaguas Municipales are the primary form of public transportation in the city. 42 lines make up a well-connected network that can take you anywhere you want and ensure convenience.
Bicycle
Moreover, you can also get around via cycling. You can either rent a bicycle or buy a second-hand one if you come to enjoy it. It is a cheap and fun way of traveling around the city on a day-to-day basis. One tip is to purchase a strong lock alongside it!
Taxis
Taxis are readily available and easily accessible in the city. You can hail local taxis on the main streets or contact taxi services. While Uber doesn’t operate in the city, local taxis are a great alternative. Beware of taxi scams and illegal drivers while making sure the taxi driver has a functional meter.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
There are plenty of good neighborhoods in Las Palmas that offer a great living experience. If you know what you are looking for, you can easily find accommodation in your preferred area.
Vegueta
If you want to be surrounded by rich culture, old-world charm, and historic beauty then Vagueta is the perfect place for you. This old town houses a ton of historical buildings and is packed with traditions. You can enjoy the artistic and creative side of the city while having a great time.
Triana
Triana is also the old town part of the city but it’s a little more developed. Digital nomads can find great cafes, bars, and restaurants here along with cultural attractions. Triana is home to important landmarks such as Benito Pérez Galdós House Museum and the Guiniguada Theatre. Please note that rent prices tend to be higher than other neighborhoods.
Las Canteras
Las Canteras is undoubtedly one of the best neighborhoods in all of Las Palmas. Digital nomads can have a great time here thanks to the convenient location and easy access to facilities. This cosmopolitan area accommodates a wide community of local entrepreneurs, business owners, and digital nomads.
Internet Connectivity in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The good news for remote workers is that Las Palmas has a great wifi connection. In fact, the government has highly invested in the internet infrastructure to enable reliable and high-speed Wi-Fi all over the region. Las Palmas experiences an average median download speed of 166.66 Mbps and a median upload speed of 101.88 Mbps which are great for remote work. Digital nomads can easily maintain a good work-life balance thanks to these.
Additionally, you can get local SIM cards at your nearest convenience store or an airport when you arrive. Most cafes and coworking spaces offer fast wifi for free.
E sim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| Unlimited | 7 days | 29$ (26.72€) |
| Unlimited | 10 days | 37$ (34€) |
| Unlimited | 15 days | 51$ (47€) |
| Unlimited | 20 days | 62$ (57.13€) |
| Unlimited | 30 days | 75$ (69.11€) |
Airalo
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.15€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.50$ (6.87€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 10.00$ (9.21€) |
| 5GB | 30 days | 14.00$ (12.82€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 23.00$ (21.06€) |
3 Best Places to Work from in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Remote workers and Dran Canaria digital nomads would be happy to learn that Las Palmas has a lot of good co-working spaces. Some of the best options include the following:
Black House
Black House is one of the best coworking spaces, located in the heart of Las Palmas. They offer various facilities and modern amenities including high-speed internet and a good working environment. Digital nomads will certainly appreciate its convenient location and affordable rates. You can work here comfortably and have a productive work day.
Hashtag WorkSpace
Another great option is the Hashtag Workspace which allows you to work seamlessly and achieve great results. They have everything from reliable internet and spacious layout to comfortable seating and complimentary tea/coffee. Hashtag workspace is a great place for meeting fellow digital nomads as well.
Soppa de Azul
Soppa de Azul is a good place for digital nomads and remote workers. The space is not only well-designed but it has a great ventilation system as well. Their creative interior and working environment allow digital nomads to work comfortably for hours.
Cost of Living in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas experiences an affordable cost of living that is perfect for digital nomads. While it is not the cheapest digital nomad destination out there, it’s certainly budget-friendly. A digital nomad can access various facilities and modern amenities at a cheap rate. Here is a rough breakdown of general expenses there.
| Meal | $10.82 (€9.91) |
| Coffee | $1.74 €1.59) |
| Beer | $2.56 (€2.34) |
| Apartment in the city center (one-bedroom apartment) | $782.83/month (€716.72) |
| Fitness club | $39.00/month (€35.71) |
| Utilities | $77.29/month (€70.76) |
| Internet | $53.68 (€49.15) |
| Local transport | $1.59/trip (€1.46) |
As you can see, Las Palmas is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas has a beautiful and rich culture with strong Spanish influence. Digital nomads can experience the extent of it by attending cultural activities and festivals. There are plenty of cultural attractions as well.
As for the natural beauty, the city is surrounded by beaches and mountains. There are a ton of stunning landscapes, surf spots, and a scope of outdoor activities for nature lovers. You can engage in hiking, surfing, and even snorkeling during your time here.
When it comes to food in Las Palmas, it is nothing short of exemplary. There is a lot of diversity in the local cuisine which means you can find Asian and Western food as well as traditional dishes. There is an abundance of restaurants and coffee shops in the city so you have a variety of options available. The street food scene is also pretty big and most servers still use traditional recipes.
Best Time to Visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas has pleasant weather all year round which means you can visit at any time and expect to have a good time!
Even though the Las Palmas location puts it in an oceanic subtropical climate, its geography (nearby mountains) makes it a desirable location. This slight change improves the weather and attracts more tourists.
Las Palmas doesn’t experience a rainy season. In fact, summer months are as dry as it gets. While there are low chances of rainfall in December and January, the city only has 22 days/per year of rainfall on average.
Apart from that, the best time to visit is between November and March. It’s a good time to explore the city, engage in outdoor activities, participate in water sports, and enjoy the beach.
12 Best Things to Do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
There is plenty to do and see in Las Palmas but here is a list of the 12 best things that every visitor must go through!
1. Tour the city
Las Palmas is the largest city in Gran Canaria but it’s still relatively smaller than other major cities. However, the city is filled with popular destinations and tourist attractions. If you want to make the best of your trip and explore properly, consider taking a guided tour of the city. You can learn all the major details and hang out with fellow new visitors.
2. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Las Palmas’ rich history, make sure to explore the historical museums and appreciate the beautiful heritage. You can take tours, learn about the historical artifacts, and see the stunning exhibitions. Some of the best historical museums include the Perez Galdos House Museum, Mata Castle Museum, Casa de Colon, El Museo Canario, and Museo Naval de Canarias.
3. Go to a beach
One of the best things to do in Las Palmas is go to a beach and cool off. You can lie down and tan under the sun, go swimming, walk on the white sand beaches, build sandcastles, or relax with a book. Las Palmas is home to a variety of beaches and each offers a unique experience.
- Playa de Las Canteras beach
- Playa del Confital
- Playa de las Alcaravaneras
- Playa Del Hombre
- Piscina Natural Roque Prieto
- Playa Dos Roques
- Piscinas Municipales de La Laja
- Playa de Tarajalillo
4. Go hiking
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, consider going hiking and spending some time in refreshing nature. Since this island is mountainous, there are plenty of good hiking spots and well-maintained trails. You can go to Tejeda, Bandama Caldera, or Pico de las Nieves. Hiking also allows you to see beautiful and scenic views once you have reached the top.
5. Go to the Mirador Paseo La Cornisa
The Mirador Paseo La Cornisa is an observation deck in Las Palmas that promises some of the best views in the entire city. You can go to the top right before sunset and experience truly mesmerizing views from here. The town and port look stunning from here!
6. Visit the Catedral Metropolitana de Santa Ana de Canarias
The Catedral Metropolitana de Santa Ana de Canarias is a beautiful landmark and one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city. Whether you are a religious person or not, make sure to visit this Gothic cathedral and admire its stunning architecture. Try to remain respectful during your visit.
7. Visit Las Palmas’ old town
If you want to delve into beautiful history and enjoy some historical charm, visit the old town areas of Las Palmas. Both Triana and Vagueta house colonial-style buildings, cute cafes, and some museums. You can walk around the streets while people watch and admire stunning architecture.
8. Engage in water sports
While you are on this island, it’s only fair to engage in watersports and make the best of your time. You can go snorkeling and swimming but you can also learn to surf on this island! Diving and windsurfing are also possible options so get ready for adventure-filled experiences.
9. Visit the Plaza De La Música
Plaza de La Musica is one of the must-visit places in the city. This square features various performances that can lift your spirits and guarantee a great time. You can also attend concerts here and have a fun night out. This place is one of the most famous weekend hang-out spots.
10. Go bar hopping
If you want to enjoy the Las Palmas nightlife, consider going bar hopping and enjoying a little bit of everything. You can try delicious drinks, dance the night away, and enjoy the bustling environment. Some of the best bars include NYC taxi bars, El Viajero Las Palmas, and La Buena Vida.
11. Attend the cultural festivals
If you want to experience Las Palmas’ rich culture to its very core, attend the local events and participate in the cultural festivities. This city houses friendly locals and welcoming people who make you feel right at home. You can blend in with them at such events. Some of the best ones include the Carnival of Las Palmas, the Carnival Queen Gala, and the Almond Blossom Fest.
12. Connect with fellow digital nomads
Since Las Palmas is known for its thriving digital nomad community, make sure to connect with like-minded individuals. You can meet remote workers and nomads at regular events, coworking spaces, coffee shops, social events, and networking hubs. Other than that, you can also join Facebook groups and WhatsApp communities.
Is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria safe?
Yes, Las Palmas is a safe place overall. The city is well known for its safety and low crime rate. Tourist crime is rare at best and the locals are very friendly. You’ll find it safe to walk alone, even at night but make sure to take the necessary precautions. As a foreigner in a new country, you are recommended to stay vigilant and alert at all times. If you feel any danger or threat at all, contact the relevant authorities as soon as possible. Other than that, take a look at some of the below-listed tips.
- Don’t go to isolated or shady areas
- Don’t carry big amounts of cash
- Don’t carry flashy items
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Be vigilant in overcrowded areas for pick-pockets
- Avoid walking alone at night
Visa Requirements in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
While Gran Canaria doesn’t have a Digital Nomad Visa per se, there are plenty of alternatives. The Island has specific visa requirements for each specialty but it’s generally an accommodating place with various options for everyone. EU citizens can enter and stay here without a visa but they must register their residency.
Since Spain and the Canary Islands are part of the Schengen agreement, United States citizens can enter the country for 90 days and enjoy visa-free visits. However, they can only do so once every 180 days. Other citizens can acquire a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival.
If you are here for a long-term stay, consider getting a non-lucrative visa or temporary residence permit. A consulate or embassy in your home country can guide you best regarding possible options and the application process.
Conclusion
Conclusively, we can see that Las Palmas is a great place for digital nomads and remote workers. This place has a lot to offer and visitors can have a splendid time here. You can enjoy this island’s social life, work remotely, and live around friendly people.
In fact, Gran Canaria was declared the most popular canary island for digital nomads in 2021. The title is well-deserved considering the growing expat and digital nomad community in this place.
We hope this article helped you understand what it’s like to live in Las Palmas as a digital nomad and different parts of that life. If you have any further doubts or queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help!
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