Plaza de Santa Ana, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Historic Building, Historic Site and Square in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Main Square of Santa Ana Las Palmas
Main Square of Santa Ana Las Palmas
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Bengt Nyman

Plaza de Santa Ana is the ceremonial heart of Vegueta, the historic old town of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Framed by the Catedral de Santa Ana and other landmark civic buildings, it's one of the city's most photogenic and atmospheric places to pause.

Come for the architecture and people-watching, stay for the calm, palm-lined setting and the sense of history that radiates from every façade. It’s also a practical launch point for wandering Vegueta’s lanes, museums, and nearby shopping streets.

History and Significance of the Plaza de Santa Ana

Plaza de Santa Ana was conceived as the main square of Vegueta, the earliest urban core of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Like many Spanish colonial-era city plans, the central plaza anchored religious power (the cathedral) and civic authority (municipal buildings) in one prominent, public space.

Over time, the square became a stage for everyday life as well as ceremonies: a place where locals meet, visitors orient themselves, and the city’s layered history is visible at a glance. The surrounding architecture, from ecclesiastical to administrative, helps explain why this plaza feels more “capital city” than “beach town.”

Today, its significance is as much cultural as historical: it’s a symbol of Vegueta’s identity and one of the most recognizable postcard scenes in Gran Canaria’s capital.

Things to See and Do in the Plaza de Santa Ana

Start by taking in the grand façade and towers of the Catedral de Santa Ana, which dominate the square and set the tone for the whole neighborhood. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior details and shifting light across the stonework make it worth lingering.

Walk the perimeter to appreciate the ensemble of historic buildings that frame the plaza, then head to the famous bronze dog sculptures for a classic photo stop. The square’s open layout also makes it ideal for a slow circuit: sit on a bench under the palms, watch street life, and listen to the city’s old-town rhythm.

If you want to turn your visit into a mini-itinerary, use the plaza as your starting point for exploring Vegueta on foot: small museums, traditional streets, and café terraces are all close enough to dip in and out without planning a strict route.

How to Get to the Plaza de Santa Ana

The nearest airport is Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), with frequent bus and taxi connections into Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Booking.com.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria does not have mainland-style intercity rail service, so most travelers arrive by bus, car, or ferry rather than train. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio..

By car, aim for parking options around Vegueta and then continue on foot, as the oldest streets can be narrow and traffic-restricted in places. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Plaza de Santa Ana

  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Opening hours: 24 hours
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon into early evening is ideal for softer light on the cathedral and a lively-but-not-hectic atmosphere.
  • How long to spend: Plan 20-40 minutes for the square itself, or 1.5-3 hours if you’re using it as a base to explore Vegueta.
  • Accessibility: The plaza is generally flat and easy to navigate, though some surrounding streets may have uneven paving typical of historic districts.
  • Facilities: Benches and cafés are nearby; public services are easiest to find around the cathedral area and within the wider Vegueta neighborhood.

Where to Stay Close to the Plaza de Santa Ana

Base yourself in Vegueta (or the adjacent Triana area) for the most walkable access to historic sights, cafés, and evening strolls.

Boutique Hotel Cordial La Peregrina A stylish boutique option in the old-town orbit, great if you want character and a short walk to the plaza.

Hotel Boutique The Cathedral Chosen for its location right by the cathedral area, making sunrise and late-evening visits to the square especially easy.

VEINTIUNO Emblematic Hotels A design-forward stay with a more intimate feel, ideal for travelers who want a quieter base in historic Vegueta.

Hotel Parque A practical mid-range pick with good transport links, useful if you’re balancing old-town time with other parts of the city.

AC Hotel Iberia Las Palmas Included for reliable comfort and amenities, a solid choice if you prefer a larger hotel while still staying within easy reach of Vegueta.

Is the Plaza de Santa Ana Worth Visiting?

Yes. Plaza de Santa Ana is one of the most rewarding quick stops in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: it's beautiful, historically meaningful, and effortlessly pairs with a wider Vegueta walk. Even if you're not a “museum person,” the architecture, atmosphere, and photo opportunities make it a high-value visit.

Honest Pivot: If you only care about beaches, modern nightlife, or shopping malls, the square may feel like a brief look-and-leave rather than a destination. In that case, consider visiting at golden hour for a short stroll, then spend the rest of your time along the coast.

For Different Travelers

Plaza de Santa Ana works well as a flexible stop: you can treat it as a quick photo break, a relaxing café moment, or the start of a deeper old-town itinerary. How much you'll enjoy it depends on whether you like architecture, history, and slow travel.

Families with Kids

Kids usually enjoy the open space and the chance to spot the bronze dog sculptures, which make an easy “treasure hunt” moment. The square is also a low-stress place to reset between more structured activities.

To keep it fun, pair the plaza with a short loop through Vegueta’s streets and a snack stop rather than a long, lecture-style history walk. Strollers generally do fine in the plaza itself, though some nearby streets can be bumpier.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the plaza shines in the late afternoon when the light warms the cathedral stone and the terraces feel inviting. It’s a classic setting for slow wandering and unplanned detours into side streets.

Make it part of an evening in Vegueta: start with photos and a drink nearby, then continue to a relaxed dinner in the old town. The atmosphere is more charming than flashy, which suits a low-key romantic pace.

Budget Travelers

This is an excellent budget-friendly stop because the square itself costs nothing and delivers a “signature” Las Palmas scene. It’s also a great anchor for a self-guided walking route through Vegueta and toward Triana.

Save money by visiting during daylight, bringing water, and choosing a single café stop rather than multiple sit-down breaks. If you’re prioritizing free experiences, this is one of the city’s best.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how clearly the plaza expresses the old city’s power centers: religious, civic, and administrative buildings facing one another. It’s a compact place to understand Vegueta’s urban logic.

To deepen the visit, look for interpretive details in the architecture and then continue into nearby streets where the older fabric of the city becomes more intimate. The plaza is a strong starting point for connecting names, dates, and places across the district.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (9,801)

Google reviewers rate Plaza de Santa Ana very highly, praising it as a beautiful, well-kept historic square and an ideal starting point for exploring Vegueta. Common highlights include the impressive cathedral backdrop, relaxed café atmosphere, and the iconic bronze dog sculptures that make for memorable photos. A few visitors note that nearby paid add-ons (like towers/viewpoints or attached exhibits) can be tempting and good value, but the area can feel touristy at peak times and some find the cathedral's imposing look a bit intimidating.

Gary Williams
3 months ago
"Good value only 6 euros and could go to the top of the tower for the most amazing views of thebcity"
Patrik Krizek
8 months ago
"Plaza de Santa Ana is the historic heart of Vegueta in Las Palmas. Surrounded by key buildings like the cathedral, Casas Consistoriales, and thebishop’s palace, it’s a great starting point for exploring the old town. The plaza is wide, clean, and well kept, with palm trees, benches, and the famous bronze dog statues. It’s a calm space where locals and tourists gather, often with street performers or quiet cafés nearby. Good spot to sit, take photos, and soak in the historic atmosphere before heading into the cathedral or nearby museums...."
Saeed Mekdachi
5 months ago
"Very beautiful to walk around. You can see the architecture of the cathedral (kinda scary tbh and gives horror movie vibes) while also sitting at thecafe. You can enjoy the spanish architecture of the surrounding buildings and later on go shopping in the avenida. Definitely a nice place for tourists to go. North isn't too hot so the weather is enjoyable...."

FAQs for Visiting Plaza de Santa Ana

Getting There

  • Is Plaza de Santa Ana easy to reach without a car?
    Yes, it’s in central Vegueta and is straightforward to reach by city buses and taxi/ride-hail. Once you arrive, the area is best explored on foot.
  • What’s the best neighborhood to approach from on foot?
    Triana is a convenient approach with plenty of shops and pedestrian-friendly streets. From there, it’s an easy walk into Vegueta and the plaza.
  • Can I park close to the plaza?
    Parking exists in the wider area, but the immediate old-town streets can be tight and sometimes restricted. It’s usually easiest to park a bit farther out and walk in.

Tickets & Entry

  • Do I need a ticket to enter Plaza de Santa Ana?
    No, the plaza is a public square and you can enter freely. Costs only apply if you choose to visit paid attractions nearby.
  • Are there any paid viewpoints connected to the plaza?
    Some nearby landmarks may offer paid access to towers or viewpoints. Check the specific attraction you plan to enter, as the plaza itself is free.
  • Should I book anything in advance?
    For the square, no booking is needed. If you’re adding a guided tour or a specific museum visit nearby, booking can be helpful in peak season.

Visiting Experience

  • Is it mostly a quick stop or can it fill an afternoon?
    On its own it’s a quick stop, but it can easily anchor a longer Vegueta exploration. Combine it with nearby streets, museums, and café breaks.
  • Is it crowded?
    It often feels lively rather than packed, with the busiest moments typically in the late afternoon and early evening. Mornings tend to be calmer.
  • What’s the vibe like?
    Expect a relaxed historic-square atmosphere with people sitting, strolling, and taking photos. It’s more about ambience than “activities.”

Tours, Context & Itineraries

  • Is a guided tour worth it?
    A guided walk can add context to the buildings and the history of Vegueta. If you enjoy architecture and stories, it’s a good upgrade.
  • What’s a simple self-guided route from the plaza?
    Start at the cathedral, loop around the civic buildings, then wander through Vegueta toward Triana for shopping and cafés. Keep it flexible and follow the streets that look most interesting.
  • Can I combine this with a beach day?
    Yes, it pairs well with a split day: old town in the morning or late afternoon, beach time in between. Travel time across the city is manageable by bus or taxi.

Photography

  • Where are the best photo angles?
    Wide shots from the center of the square capture the cathedral and palms together. Closer angles near the sculptures and building façades add detail and texture.
  • When is the light best?
    Late afternoon generally gives the most flattering light on the stone architecture. Early morning is great for emptier scenes.
  • Are there any iconic photo subjects?
    Yes, the cathedral backdrop and the bronze dog sculptures are the classic combination. Architectural details around the edges of the plaza also photograph well.

Accessibility & Facilities

  • Is the plaza wheelchair-friendly?
    The square itself is generally accessible due to its open, flat layout. Some surrounding historic streets may have uneven paving.
  • Are there places to sit and rest?
    Yes, there are benches and plenty of spots to pause. Nearby cafés also provide a comfortable break option.
  • Are restrooms available nearby?
    Public restrooms aren’t guaranteed in the square itself, so plan to use facilities in nearby cafés or public buildings when available. It’s smart to time a café stop if you need a reliable option.

Food & Breaks Nearby

  • Are there cafés right on the plaza?
    Yes, you’ll find terraces and nearby cafés that are ideal for a coffee with a view. Prices can be a bit more tourist-oriented in the most central spots.
  • Is it good for a quick snack stop?
    Very much so, especially if you’re doing a walking loop through Vegueta. A short drink-and-snack break fits the pace of the area.
  • Any tips for choosing where to sit?
    Pick a table with a clear view of the cathedral if you want the classic experience. If you prefer quieter, choose a side street just off the square.

Safety & Timing

  • Is it safe to visit in the evening?
    It’s generally comfortable in the early evening when people are still out and cafés are active. As with any city, keep an eye on belongings in busy areas.
  • What time should I avoid?
    Midday can feel hot and less atmospheric, especially in strong sun. If you’re sensitive to heat, prioritize morning or late afternoon.
  • Does it feel too touristy?
    It’s a major landmark, so you’ll see visitors, but it still functions as a real civic square. Visiting outside peak hours helps it feel more local.

Nearby Attractions to the Plaza de Santa Ana

  • Catedral de Santa Ana: The landmark cathedral beside the square, central to Vegueta’s skyline and history.
  • Casa de Colón: A well-known museum focused on the Canary Islands' links with Atlantic exploration and Columbus-era routes.
  • Mercado de Vegueta: A local market area where you can browse produce and get a feel for everyday life in the old town.
  • Calle Triana: A popular shopping and strolling street connecting you from historic Vegueta into a more commercial, lively district.
  • Museo Canario: A key museum for understanding the Canary Islands' pre-Hispanic past and local archaeology.

The Plaza de Santa Ana appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Las Palmas de Gran Canaria!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 hours

Price:

Free

Address: Plaza Sta. Ana, 2, 35001 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 1 km

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