Essential Gran Canaria Travel Info: Money, Safety, Transport & Tips

Practical Travel Info for Gran Canaria (2025 Guide)
Planning a holiday to Gran Canaria? This guide gives you fast, helpful answers to common travel questions, including money tips, local transport, safety, and what to expect when you arrive.

Do I need a visa to visit Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria is part of Spain, which is in the EU and Schengen Area.
EU/EEA visitors: No visa needed, just a valid ID or passport.
UK citizens: No visa required for stays under 90 days in any 180 days.
Other nationalities: Check with your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.

What’s the local currency and can I use cards?
Gran Canaria uses the euro (€).
Debit and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Cash is useful for markets, buses, and rural areas.
ATMs are easy to find in towns and tourist resorts.

Is Gran Canaria safe for tourists?
Yes, Gran Canaria is generally very safe.
Use basic common sense with valuables in busy areas.
Emergency number: 112 (operators speak English).
Pharmacies are well stocked and open weekdays and Saturday mornings.
Bring an EHIC/GHIC card if you're from the EU or UK, plus travel insurance.

Can I drink the tap water in Gran Canaria?
Technically, yes. But most visitors prefer bottled water, which is affordable and easy to find.

What language is spoken in Gran Canaria?
The main language is Spanish.
English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas.
Learning a few Spanish phrases is always appreciated.

What’s the time zone?
Gran Canaria is in the Western European Time (WET) zone.
Same as the UK in winter (GMT).
One hour ahead in summer due to daylight saving (BST = GMT+1).

What plugs do I need?
The island uses European two-pin plugs (Type C & F, 230V).
UK visitors will need an adapter.

Can I drive in Gran Canaria?
Yes—roads are good and signposted.
Drive on the right.
Speed limits:
50 km/h in towns
90 km/h on rural roads
120 km/h on motorways
Use of seatbelts is mandatory.
Don’t use mobile phones unless hands-free.

What’s the public transport like?
Gran Canaria has excellent, cheap bus services run by Global.
Turquoise buses link airports, beaches, towns and villages.
Taxis are widely available and metered.

Should I tip in Gran Canaria?
Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated.
Restaurants: 5–10% if you’re happy with the service.
Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro.
Hotel staff: Small coins are fine.

What are shop and restaurant hours?
Shops: 10:00–20:00 (some take a siesta break).
Restaurants: Open from 19:00 for dinner.
Bars and clubs: Stay open late, especially in resort areas.
Supermarkets in tourist zones often open Sundays and holidays.

Quick tips for visiting Gran Canaria
Pack sun cream—UV levels are high year-round.
Bring both card and cash.
Don’t rely solely on Google Maps in mountain villages—download offline maps.
Consider renting a car if you plan to explore beyond the coast.

Need-to-know travel info made simple. Whether you’re heading for the dunes of Maspalomas or the cobbled streets of Teror, these practical tips will help you relax and enjoy your Gran Canaria getaway.