Gran Canaria vs. Tenerife, which island is better?
Choosing between Gran Canaria and Tenerife can be a challenge for any traveller, as both islands, located in the heart of the Canary archipelago, offer unique experiences and unrivalled attractions.
In this article, we’ll explore the distinctive features of each island, from their beaches and natural landscapes to their cultural and entertainment offerings, to help you decide which of these Atlantic gems best suits your preferences and needs. Discover with us which island is better, Gran Canaria or Tenerife, and plan your next holiday with the certainty of having made the perfect choice.
Find out which Canary Island suits you best!
When travelling, there are two approaches: those who thoroughly research all the options and those who prefer to go for the adventure without much planning. Both styles have their charms and contribute to the diversity of travel experiences.
One thing these two groups have in common, though, is that they always do a bit of research into the destinations they want to travel to.
So let's have a look at what characterises each of the islands!
Gran Canaria: the miniature continent
Gran Canaria is one of the most popular islands in the whole archipelago, as its wide variety of contrasts, both in terms of landscapes and temperatures, make it a unique island. Because of this great variety of contrasts, it’s been given the name of “The miniature continent”.
You can visit one of the beaches in the south of the island, such as Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Playa de Anfi del Mar or Playa de Amadores, which can transform a warm experience into a more refreshing one. Or you can enjoy other beaches further north of the island, such as Playa de las Canteras, one of the best urban beaches in the world. All of these places also offer water attractions and sheltered waters to enjoy, as well as various restaurants and leisure facilities.
Tired of the beach and the heat? Do you want to get lost in nature? Don't worry, because Gran Canaria also has plenty of nature to explore! This island has numerous natural spaces that you can visit and enjoy relaxing in, such as the Tamadaba Nature Reserve or hiking in a wide variety of options such as the Roque Nublo.
On the other hand, don't forget to enjoy the incredible gastronomy that the island of Gran Canaria has to offer and delight your palate with a plate of papas arrugadas con mojo dulce or picón and accompany it with a good portion of gofio escaldado.
You can't leave without trying the remarkable dessert "Polvito Uruguayo" and sweeten your holidays. In addition, you can also enjoy a wide range of leisure and shopping centres.
Tenerife: The largest island of the archipelago
This island is the largest in the Canary archipelago. Measuring 2,034 km², Tenerife has a wide range of options for your holiday, although it isn’t very different from its neighbouring island, Gran Canaria.
Tenerife is endowed with numerous paradisiacal beaches that surround the island, allowing you to enjoy relaxing and refreshing swims. Beaches such as El Camisón, Las Américas or Playa de las Vistas... These shores have water activities and leisure and restaurant facilities. They’re also calm waters, thanks to the barriers that protect them from the strong currents.
On this island, you can also enjoy spectacular nature, where you can leave the heat behind and avoid the crowds. Delight in the incredible grandeur of the Teide Volcano by taking the cable car up the volcano, or enjoy a spectacular hiking route. We also recommend you visit the astounding enchanted forest and surround yourself with nature.
The gastronomy that Tenerife has to offer isn’t to be missed either, and you’ll definitely want to come back again and again. Enjoy typical dishes and the good atmosphere offered by the characteristic guachinches that you can find all over the island.
Where to stay in Tenerife and Gran Canaria
Have you decided on an island yet? Yes? Well, now it's time to book accommodation before you run out. That's why we'd like to show you some of the best options you can find in both Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria
In Gran Canaria there’s a very high quality hotel chain that offers accommodation at unbeatable prices. With two hotels, one in the north and one in the south, we have the HD Acuario Lifestyle, the best urban hotel in Las Palmas. Or also, located in the south, we can find HD Parque Cristóbal in Playa del Inglés, the best hotel for families in Gran Canaria.
Accommodations in Tenerife
Just like the neighbouring island, Tenerife also has this hotel chain that offers incredible accommodation at incredible prices. Finding ourselves with the hotel HD Parque Cristobal Tenerife, the best hotel for families in Tenerife.
Decide between Gran Canaria or Tenerife
Both Gran Canaria and Tenerife offer unforgettable experiences, but the choice between them depends on the type of tourist you are. If you're looking for scenic diversity, a vibrant nightlife and culture, and spectacular beaches, Gran Canaria is your ideal destination.
On the other hand, if you’re a lover of nature, outdoor activities and want to explore the majestic Teide, Tenerife will captivate you. Either way, consider your preferences and travel priorities to decide which of these wonderful Canary Islands best suits your desires. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable holiday on either of the two Canary Islands.
