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Time Zone Information for Gran Canaria


When planning a trip or coordinating with someone in Gran Canaria, understanding the local time zone is essential. Here, we provide detailed information on Gran Canaria's time zone and how it aligns with other regions, specifically the UK and GMT.


Understanding Gran Canaria's Time Zone

Gran Canaria, part of the Canary Islands, follows Western European Time (WET) during the standard time period, which is equivalent to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+0). When daylight saving time (DST) is in effect, Gran Canaria observes Western European Summer Time (WEST), which is GMT+1.

Key Time Zone Details:

  • Standard Time: WET (Western European Time) - GMT+0
  • Daylight Saving Time: WEST (Western European Summer Time) - GMT+1

Time Difference: Gran Canaria and the UK

One common query is the comparison between Gran Canaria and the UK's time zones. During the standard time period, Gran Canaria and the UK share the same time zone, both observing GMT+0. This alignment simplifies planning for travel or communication between these two regions.

However, during the daylight saving period, both regions shift to GMT+1. This ensures that the time difference remains nonexistent year-round, making coordination seamless.

UK Time Zone Comparison:

  • Standard Time: GMT+0 (No difference)
  • Daylight Saving Time: GMT+1 (No difference)

Gran Canaria's Time Zone in Relation to GMT

Gran Canaria's alignment with GMT makes it straightforward to understand its time zone dynamics:

  • During standard time, Gran Canaria operates exactly on GMT (GMT+0).
  • When daylight saving time is active, Gran Canaria shifts to GMT+1.

This information is particularly useful for international travelers and those scheduling cross-border communications, ensuring accurate planning and coordination.

Gran Canaria Time and GMT:

  • Standard Time: GMT+0
  • Daylight Saving Time: GMT+1

What Does GMT Stand For?

GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time. It is named after the Greenwich district in London, England, through which the Prime Meridian (0° longitude) passes. GMT serves as the baseline for other time zones around the world.

Flight Time to Gran Canaria: What You Need to Know


Planning a trip to Gran Canaria involves understanding various logistical details, one of which is the flight time. This section provides information on flight durations to Gran Canaria from various major cities, aiding prospective travelers in organizing their travel schedules efficiently.

Flight Durations from Major Cities to Gran Canaria

Planning a trip to Gran Canaria? Here's a breakdown of flight durations from some major cities to help you organize your travel schedule effectively.

From London (UK)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes
  • Airlines: British Airways, Ryanair, EasyJet
  • Direct Flights Available: Yes

From Madrid (Spain)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes
  • Airlines: Iberia, Air Europa, Ryanair
  • Direct Flights Available: Yes

From Berlin (Germany)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Airlines: Lufthansa, Ryanair, easyJet
  • Direct Flights Available: Yes

From Paris (France)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes
  • Airlines: Air France, Ryanair, Vueling
  • Direct Flights Available: Yes

From New York (USA)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 12 hours (with one layover, typically in a European city)
  • Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, Iberia, British Airways (with layover)
  • Direct Flights Available: No (requires one or more layovers)

From Lisbon (Portugal)

  • Average Flight Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
  • Airlines: TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair
  • Direct Flights Available: Yes

Geographic Information: Where Is Gran Canaria?


Understanding the geographic location of Gran Canaria and its surrounding archipelago, the Canary Islands, can enhance your travel plans and general knowledge. This section provides  insights into where Gran Canaria is situated in relation to other regions and offers an overview of the Canary Islands' geographical context.

Gran Canaria is one of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is situated off the northwestern coast of Africa, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from the coast of Morocco and Western Sahara.

Key Geographic Coordinates:

  • Latitude: 27.9547° N
  • Longitude: 15.5920° W

This island is a popular destination known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush green forests to arid deserts and beautiful beaches.

Where Are the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands are an autonomous community of Spain, consisting of seven main islands and several smaller ones. The archipelago lies in the Atlantic Ocean, forming part of the Macaronesia region, which also includes the Azores, Madeira, and Cape Verde.

Main Islands in the Canary Archipelago:

  1. Tenerife
  1. Fuerteventura
  1. Gran Canaria
  1. Lanzarote
  1. La Palma
  1. La Gomera
  1. El Hierro

The Canary Islands are known for their volcanic origins, creating a unique and varied topography across the archipelago.


Where Is Gran Canaria Located Specifically?

Gran Canaria lies roughly in the center of the Canary Islands. It is the third-largest island in the archipelago, both in terms of area and population. The capital city, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is located on the northeastern coast of the island and is one of the largest cities in the Canary Islands.

Proximity to Other Major Islands:

  • To Tenerife: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) to the west.
  • To Fuerteventura: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) to the east.

These distances mean that inter-island travel is relatively straightforward, often facilitated by ferries and short flights.


Understanding the Geography

Gran Canaria boasts a remarkable variety of climates and landscapes within its small area of around 1,560 square kilometers (600 square miles). The island's geography is characterized by:

  • Northern Region: More humid, with lush green landscapes.
  • Southern Region: Drier, known for its beautiful beaches and arid terrain.

  • Central Highlands: Home to rugged mountains and deep ravines, offering dramatic landscapes and hiking opportunities.

Current time in Gran Canaria 

Gran Canaria weather month by month


Curious about what kind of weather you'll find in Gran Canaria each month? Let's take a peek together at the sunny personality of this gorgeous island, all year round!

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