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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Public Transportation

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria mainly relies on an extensive and efficient bus network. The city does not have metro or tram systems. Guaguas Municipales operates the urban bus network within Las Palmas. It covers the entire city, connecting all major districts, attractions, and residential areas. Buses are modern, clean, and generally punctual.

Global (Guaguas Global) operates the intercity bus network. It connects Las Palmas to other towns, villages, and major tourist resorts across Gran Canaria. This is your main option for day trips outside the city. Route maps are available online and at bus stations. Google Maps provides accurate bus routes and real-time tracking.

Hubs & Ticketing

  • San Telmo Bus Station: Major central hub near Vegueta. Interchanges urban and intercity buses.
  • Santa Catalina Bus Station: Major hub in the port area, serving Las Canteras.
  • Single Ticket: Approx. €1.40 from driver (cash, exact change).
  • Tarjeta Bono Fácil: Contactless card (€1.50) for cheaper urban trips (€0.85-€0.95). Tap for each passenger.

Hours of Operation

Urban bus lines run from early morning (5-6 AM) to late evening (11 PM-12 AM). Some major lines have reduced night services.

Frequency

Frequency varies by line and time of day, generally every 10-20 minutes during peak hours for urban buses. Intercity schedules vary.

Accessibility

Most modern Guaguas Municipales and Global buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated spaces.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

App & Card Use
  • Download official bus apps or Google Maps for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
  • If using urban buses frequently, the Tarjeta Bono Fácil saves money.
  • Always tap your travel card on the reader when boarding the bus to validate your trip.
Planning & Navigation
  • Google Maps is accurate for bus routes and timings in Las Palmas.
  • For less frequent intercity routes, check schedules on the Global website or app in advance.
  • Have exact change ready if paying with cash on the bus.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Hailing

Hailing on street if green light is on. Taxi stands at hubs. Call local company.

Taxi Fares

Metered fares, different tariffs for day/night/holidays. Confirm meter is running.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Cabify and Bolt operate in Las Palmas. Offers upfront pricing.

Safety Tips

Use licensed taxis/official apps. Verify driver/vehicle. Avoid unregistered rides.

Rental Options

Rental vehicles offer independence to explore beyond the city. Cars are common, but motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles are also available. Understand local driving laws and parking conditions.

Car & Motorcycle Rental

  • Car Rental: Requires valid license (IDP if non-EU/EEA), passport, credit card (for deposit). Minimum age 21 (sometimes 23-25).
  • Companies: Major international brands (Avis, Hertz) and local ones (Cicar, AutoReisen). Book in advance.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: From specialized shops. Requires valid motorcycle license for motorcycles. Car license for smaller scooters. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Consider full comprehensive insurance for peace of mind, especially on winding mountain roads.

Bicycle & Driving Laws

  • Bicycle Rentals: Sítycleta (public bike sharing) requires registration. Private shops rent various bike types (road, mountain, electric).
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. No mobile phone use while driving (unless hands-free). Speed limits enforced.
  • Parking: Challenging in central areas. Use underground public car parks (San Telmo, El Muelle) or paid street parking (Blue Zones).
  • Road Conditions: Generally good. Mountain roads are winding and steep, requiring careful driving.

Walking & Cycling

  • Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Playa de Las Canteras Promenade (flat, scenic). Vegueta & Triana (pedestrianized, cobblestone streets, historic).
  • Parque Doramas & Pueblo Canario are pleasant for walks. Santa Catalina Park for people-watching.
  • Walking Tours: Guided (tip-based) in Vegueta. Paid historical/culinary tours. Self-guided with tourist maps/Google Maps.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Expanding network of dedicated bike lanes, especially along the coast.
  • Safety: Always wear a Helmet when cycling. Be aware of pedestrians and traffic. Consider reflective gear for night cycling.
  • No-Go Areas: Generally none during the day. Exercise caution in poorly lit/isolated areas at night. Some steep/unpaved paths may not work for casual walking/cycling.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

City Sightseeing Las Palmas offers hop-on-hop-off tours. Covers major attractions like Vegueta, Triana, Parque Santa Catalina, Las Canteras. A good way to overview the city.

Water Transport

Boat taxis are not common within the city for regular transport. Various boat tours or excursions depart from Puerto de la Luz marina (coastal sightseeing, fishing, dolphin watching).

Accessibility Services

Las Palmas improved accessibility with ramps/elevators in main streets, promenades, newer buildings. Buses are accessible. Specialized accessible taxis are available (pre-booking good). Older areas (Vegueta) may pose challenges.

Navigating Las Palmas

Public transport, taxis, ride-sharing, and rentals offer many options. The city is walkable, especially along the promenade and in historic areas. Plan your routes and choose transport based on your itinerary.

Enjoy your movement around this beautiful city!