Gran Canaria is a food lover’s paradise, offering an impressive variety of lunch experiences that go beyond just eating. The island’s unique blend of volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and rich local traditions makes every meal an opportunity for discovery. We particularly like the Gran Canaria: Food Tour with Distillery Visit & Lunch for its in-depth local flavors and engaging visits. It’s a great way to taste genuine Canarian cuisine while exploring the island’s historic distilleries and farms.
For travelers interested in a more comprehensive day out that combines stunning scenery with a taste of local life, the Gran Canaria: Market, Landscapes, Archaeology & Local Lunch offers an immersive experience. It features visits to vibrant markets, volcanic landscapes, and scenic spots, all topped off with a hearty local meal. Below, we explore both tours in detail to help you decide which best suits your interests and travel style.
1. Gran Canaria: Food Tour with Distillery Visit & Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this food tour with a distillery visit and local lunch offers an 8-hour deep dive into Canarian flavors. The tour kicks off at La Laja farm, where you’ll sample local cheeses, honey, and other farm-produced specialties. From there, it moves to a historic distillery in Arucas, famous for its oak barrel-aged rum—an experience that educates your palate and your curiosity.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural insights and authentic tastes. An expert local guide shares stories of Canarian traditions, while you stroll through the streets of Arucas and visit the traditional Salt Flats. The highlight is a family-owned restaurant where you’ll enjoy a traditional Canarian lunch—think hearty stews, fresh seafood, and local vegetables. With reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the food, this tour scores highly for its intimate, authentic vibe and comprehensive taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a mix of farm-to-table eating, island history, and distillery tastings. It’s a full day of hearty food, local culture, and scenic countryside.
2. Gran Canaria: Market, Landscapes, Archaeology & Local Lunch
Ranking second, this full-day adventure offers 10 hours of exploring Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites. The tour starts with pick-up from your accommodation, making logistics hassle-free. It includes a visit to the Vega de San Mateo food market, where you can see and sample local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on geology and archaeology, with stops at volcanic landscapes, caves, and the Guayadeque Ravine. As part of the experience, you’ll enjoy a generous local restaurant lunch that highlights traditional Canarian dishes, often complemented by fresh regional ingredients. The itinerary’s flexibility and small group feel allow for personalized attention and spontaneous photos.
Reviewers appreciate the variety—“a perfect mix of scenery, culture, and food,” one notes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a broad taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and authentic flavors in one day.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a mix of landscapes, archaeology, and local food, this tour delivers a comprehensive look at the island’s soul, coupled with a relaxed pace and personalized service.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two lunch experiences, consider your priorities. The Food Tour with Distillery Visit is best for those who want a focused culinary immersion, especially if you love learning about local drinks and traditional farming. It’s a bit more specialized and ideal for foodies craving a deep dive into Canarian cuisine. You can explore more about it here.
On the other hand, the Market, Landscapes, and Archaeology tour suits travelers who want a broader experience that combines scenic views, archaeological sites, and a genuine taste of local markets. Its longer duration and varied stops make it perfect for those who prefer a full-day adventure with diverse highlights. Find more details here.
Both tours include lunch and water, and they cater to small groups for a more personalized experience. Think about your interests—are you more into food and drink or into exploring scenery and history? Either way, booking early is wise, especially in peak season.
Gran Canaria offers more than just beaches; its food and landscapes provide memorable ways to experience the island. The food tour with distillery visit is perfect for culinary buffs, while the landscape and archaeology tour appeals to those wanting a scenic, cultural journey. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a flavorful and scenic day. Now’s the time to book your spot and enjoy a true taste of Gran Canaria.