The second largest of the Canary Islands by population and third largest in size, Gran Canaria is a versatile and inviting travel destination. Holidays in Gran Canaria are popular with a wide variety of travellers, from the all-night party crowd to those looking for a more tranquil getaway. The island has been described as being like a 'mini continent' such is the variation in the landscapes of Gran Canaria.

It is an island with more than enough glorious sandy beaches to accommodate the millions who holiday in the Canary Islands each year. British holidaymakers primarily travel to Gran Canaria for its superb year-round climate. However, there is also spectacular mountain terrain that is ideal for walking holidays, provided you can tear yourself away from the duty-free shopping arcades and the waterfront bars and cafes.

Not satisfied with a week or two of lazing on the beach, holidays in Gran Canaria can be equal parts fun and relaxation. There are countless bars and nightclubs in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Revellers can enjoy fine food of Spanish and international flavours, washed down by an equally fine selection of local and international tipples.

The capital of Gran Canaria, usually abbreviated to Las Palmas, is also the capital of the autonomous community of the Canary Islands. Las Palmas enjoys magnificent year-round weather, and in fact it was described by an American climatologist as having "the best climate in the world." Shopping is also high on the agenda for many visitors to Las Palmas, with its modern shopping malls and stylish boutiques.

The top resorts for a relaxing Gran Canaria holiday are Maspalomas, the oldest of the island's resorts, and the quiet suburb of Playa del Aguila. For more vibrant nightlife, a holiday in Playa del Ingles could be just up your street. This large purpose built resort boasts a whole host of bars and clubs, and a long wide sandy beach that provides the perfect place to wind down from the night before. Pack light for holidays in Playa del Ingles fill your bags with a whole host of bargains from the Yumbo Centre commercial district, which has an excellent selection of souvenir shops, perfumes, alcohol and duty free electrical goods.