Hop On Hop Off Bus in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Is It Worth It?
If you want to see a lot of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in one relaxed day, without figuring out guaguas, walking routes, or Google Maps meltdowns, the hop on hop off bus is a solid option. It is touristy, yes. But sometimes touristy is exactly what you need.
I have to admit, it is one of the easiest ways to get your bearings in the city, especially if it is your first visit or you are short on time.
🚌 What Is the Hop On Hop Off Bus in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?
This is a panoramic, open-top, double-decker red bus that loops around the main sights of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. You can stay on for the full ride or hop off wherever something catches your eye.
You also get a multilingual audio guide, so you are not just staring at buildings wondering what they are.
Languages available:
Spanish, English, French, German, Norwegian, Japanese, Italian, Swedish
The full loop takes about 75 minutes if you stay on the bus the whole time.
📍 Main Stops Along the Route
The route covers most of the places people actually want to see:
• Parque Santa Catalina
• El Corte Inglés (Mesa y López)
• Auditorio Alfredo Kraus
• Paseo de la Cornisa
• Pueblo Canario
• Vegueta and Catedral de Santa Ana
• Estación de Guaguas San Telmo
• Muelle Deportivo
• Muelle Santa Catalina
• Poema del Mar Aquarium
• Playa de Las Canteras
You can start and finish at Parque Santa Catalina, which is convenient if you are staying near the beach or the harbour.
⏰ Practical Info You Should Know
Before you plan your day, here are the useful details:
• First bus: 10:10
• Last bus: 17:00
• Frequency: every 35 minutes
• Duration: around 75 minutes for the full loop
You can use your voucher any day within 12 months, which is handy if plans change.
🎟️ Ticket Options Explained (Without the Confusion)
There are three main ticket types, and this is where it gets interesting.
24-Hour Ticket
Good if you mainly want the bus ride plus some extras.
Includes:
• Vegueta guided walking tour
• Entry to San Antonio Abad Hermitage
• Free parking at El Corte Inglés
• Small gifts and discounts at selected shops and cafés
24-Hour Experience Ticket
This one adds a bit more fun.
Includes everything above, plus:
• Boat tour from Muelle Santa Catalina
• Entry to Museo Elder
• One tapa at partner locations
• Discounts on shopping and attractions
48-Hour Premium Experience Ticket
Best if you like museums and taking things slow.
Includes everything above, plus:
• Cathedral and Cathedral Tower
• Museo Canario
• Museum of Sacred Art
• Castillo de la Luz
• Mundo del Plátano
• One free drink
Honestly, if you enjoy museums, this ticket can pay for itself quickly.
🎧 Is the Audio Guide Any Good?
Yes, surprisingly. It is clear, informative, and easy to follow. It gives you enough context about the city without turning into a history lecture that makes you zone out halfway through.
It is especially useful in Vegueta and around Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, where there is a lot of background you would otherwise miss.
⭐ What Other Travelers Say
Reviews are generally very positive. People like the route, the explanations, and how easy everything is.
One thing worth mentioning: if something goes wrong, they seem to handle it well. There are reviews mentioning a bus breakdown that was resolved quickly with another bus arriving almost immediately.
That is reassuring when you are sitting on the top deck in the sun.
🤔 So, Is It Worth It?
My honest take:
It is worth it if:
• It is your first time in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• You want an overview before exploring on foot
• You are travelling with family or visitors
• You like combining transport with light sightseeing
It is probably not for you if:
• You already know the city well
• You prefer wandering aimlessly and getting lost
• You only want beach time
As a first-day activity, it works very well.
🔗 Where to Book
You can check availability, prices, and current offers here:
☀️ Final Thoughts
The hop on hop off bus in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is not meant to replace exploring on foot. It is meant to give you context, orientation, and a relaxed way to see the city.
Think of it as your moving balcony with commentary. Not a bad way to start getting to know the city at all.
If you try it and notice any changes in routes, stops, or timings, let us know so we can keep this guide up to date.
