1. Go to the beach
Las Palmas has not just one but three beaches! Las Canteras is the main one, bigger and more crowded than the other two. My favourite one is El Confital - it is just a 15-minute walk away from Las Canteras but it feels like another world. There are no bars or restaurants here, just small stretches of sand between the rocks. It is truly a unique place to relax and forget that you are in a big touristic city.
2. Walk around Vegueta (the Old Town)
This is where the history of Las Palmas began more than 500 years ago! You can step back in time and explore these beautiful streets with colorful old houses. The cathedral of Santa Ana.is one of the most important landmarks here.
3. Go to the fishing village of San Cristobal
This one is far from the touristic areas but you can reach it by bus, or better yet, rent a bike and ride it along the sea shore until you get there. If you are looking for an authentic experience, you will love this neighborhood. You can have a walk along the coast where you can see some fishermen and their houses just one step away from the ocean. You can also see the remains of the old castle of San Cristobal here. There is a nice seafood restaurant recommended by locals - Los Botes.
4. Go to the botanical garden "Jardin Canario"
This is my favorite place on the entire island! It is not actually in Las Palmas but it is very near (in Tafira), and you can get there by bus or by car in less than half an hour. To me, “botanical garden” doesn’t do justice to this place - it is more like a natural park. It is huge, super green, and there is even a canyon inside it! Here you can see tons of plants native to the Canary islands. And the entrance is free, which is another bonus.
5. Go to a free concert
There are a lot of events throughout the year in Las Palmas, which is a great way to experience the local culture. If you want to listen to some local bands, there are free outdoor concerts on Saturdays at Plaza del Pilar (in the center, near the Auditorium).