Las Palmas, Spain

Full Transcript

Intro

Welcome aboard the TSJ CruisePod - your journey beyond the waves.

I’m your host, Thomas Sebastian Jensen.

Today, we’re visiting Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, a city where golden beaches meet colonial charm and everyday island life unfolds under the warm Atlantic sun.

City Overview

Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, and together with Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it shares the title of capital of the entire archipelago.

With more than three hundred eighty thousand inhabitants, it’s one of the largest cities in Spain outside the mainland.

Founded in 1478, Las Palmas quickly became an important center for trade and shipping.

Even today, its port connects Europe, Africa, and the Americas, making it one of the most significant harbors in the Atlantic.

The city offers a fascinating mix of history and modern life - from the cobblestone streets of the old district Vegueta, to shopping centers, lively boulevards, and the famous Playa de las Canteras, one of Spain’s most beautiful city beaches.

Our Day in Port

On the morning of January 19th, 2024, our ship, the MSC Euribia, docked at the port of Las Palmas around ten o’clock.

Next to us was the enormous P&O Iona, another impressive cruise ship.

With thousands of passengers disembarking at the same time, long queues quickly formed in front of the hop-on hop-off buses.

We decided to skip the crowds and explore the city on foot instead.

Our first stop was a large shopping center located right next to the harbor.

Inside, we found countless stores, cafés, and restaurants - a perfect place to start the day and get a feel for the city’s atmosphere.

From there, we wandered into the smaller streets of Las Palmas, where colorful facades, balconies, and boutique shops gave the city a warm, local character.

Eventually, we reached Playa de las Canteras, the city’s famous beach.

Even though it was January, the weather felt almost like summer.

We took off our shoes, dipped our feet in the Atlantic, and enjoyed the sunshine reflecting off the gentle waves.

It was one of those simple, joyful travel moments that stay with you long after the trip.

On the way back, we visited the Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología, located right in the city center near Parque Santa Catalina.

For just six euros, it turned out to be an absolute gem - an interactive science museum with exhibits about physics, energy, astronomy, and medicine.

The highlight stands right outside: a full-scale model of an Ariane rocket, a striking reminder of Europe’s achievements in space exploration.

Inside, visitors can touch, experiment, and play - making it a fantastic stop for families and anyone curious about science.

After leaving the museum, we made a quick stop at a local supermarket to stock up on water and soft drinks for the next leg of our cruise.

Even this small errand gave us a glimpse of local life - shelves filled with tropical fruit, regional products, and unfamiliar brands that reminded us how far we’d come from home.

As we walked back toward the harbor, children played in the plazas, locals chatted outside cafés, and the city buzzed with the easy rhythm of island life.

It was a simple yet perfect day.

Travel Tips

Las Palmas is one of the most convenient ports in the Canary Islands.

Right next to the harbor, you’ll find a large shopping center with fashion stores, restaurants, and a supermarket - ideal for picking up essentials before returning to the ship.

Just a short walk away lies the Elder Museum of Science and Technology, which features a 3D cinema, a planetarium, and even a replica space station.

It’s an excellent option if you’re traveling with family or simply want a break from traditional sightseeing.

For a broader view of the city, the hop-on hop-off bus is a great choice.

It stops at major attractions, including the Santa Ana Cathedral in Vegueta, the Las Canteras promenade, and the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium.

If you prefer walking, explore the Vegueta district - the city’s historic heart.

Here, cobblestone streets lead to the Casa de Colón, the so-called Columbus House, and several museums that tell the story of Gran Canaria’s past.

And of course, don’t miss Playa de las Canteras, perfect for a stroll, a quick swim, or simply a coffee by the sea.

The long promenade is lined with cafés, restaurants, and beach bars, making it one of the most vibrant spots on the island.

If you have more time, consider an excursion inland.

The mountain region around Roque Nublo offers breathtaking landscapes, while the village of Teror charms visitors with its traditional wooden balconies.

Further south, the dunes of Maspalomas are also a must-see - a natural wonder that feels like a slice of the Sahara transported to the ocean’s edge.

Outro

That’s all for today’s episode of the TSJ CruisePod.

I hope you enjoyed our visit to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - a city that captures the essence of the Canary Islands with its sunshine, culture, and seaside spirit.

Join me next time as we sail to another exciting destination on our cruise.

Until then - stay curious, and keep your heart open to the sea.