Traditional Market Day and San Mateo & Teror

Exploring Gran Canaria’s Traditional Market and Historic Towns

This guided tour in Gran Canaria offers an engaging look into local life with a visit to the weekly market in Teror and the picturesque town of San Mateo. For $39.51 per person, travelers enjoy a 3 to 4-hour experience that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in popular southern resort areas such as Maspalomas, San Agustin, and Puerto Rico. The tour is designed for those who appreciate authentic local markets and charming mountain towns, with the opportunity to buy handmade items and local food.

The tour’s highlight is the market in Teror, a historic town known for its traditional stalls and vibrant atmosphere. It also features a visit to the Nuestra Señora del Pino Chapel in Pino Square, and a stop in San Mateo, a town famed for its peaceful streets and scenic surroundings. While most travelers will find this experience enjoyable, it is not suited for wheelchair users and is limited to groups of up to 99 people.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in southern resort areas
• Visit the weekly market in Teror with free admission
• Explore San Mateo and Pino Square with its significant chapel
• Duration is approximately 3 to 4 hours
• Price is $39.51 per person, offering good value
• Most suitable for those interested in local markets and small towns

How the Tour Begins: Pickup and Meeting Details

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am with hotel pickup from key southern resorts such as Bahia Feliz, San Agustin, Maspalomas, Arguineguín, and Puerto Rico. This makes it convenient for visitors based in these popular vacation spots. The drop-off is included, simplifying logistics and allowing a relaxed experience without the need to navigate public transport.

Meeting points are flexible within the designated resort areas, and once onboard, the group size is capped at 99 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere. You will be accompanied by a professional guide, who provides informative commentary about each stop, enhancing the experience with local insights.

Visiting the Colorful Market in Teror

The Teror market is the core of this tour. Known for its traditional stalls, it offers a variety of handmade crafts and local foods. While no specific food is included in the tour, visitors find it rewarding to browse and purchase regional souvenirs. The market operates weekly, making this a special opportunity to experience authentic Canarian culture.

The free admission allows visitors to explore at their own pace, with the guide highlighting notable stalls and local specialties. The vibrant atmosphere and traditional crafts make it a highlight for those interested in local culture and handicrafts.

Visiting the Nuestra Señora del Pino Chapel in Pino Square

One of the key stops is the Nuestra Señora del Pino Chapel, located in Pino Square. This chapel is a significant religious site dedicated to the Patron Saint of Gran Canaria. The guide explains its importance and shares stories about its history, providing cultural context for visitors interested in local religious traditions.

This stop allows for a brief visit to appreciate the architecture and spiritual significance of the site. It offers a peaceful moment amid the lively market and town exploration.

Discovering the Town of San Mateo

The tour includes a visit to San Mateo, a picturesque mountain town characterized by its quaint streets and scenic views. Known for its peaceful ambiance, San Mateo provides a contrast to the bustling market scene. Visitors can enjoy walking through its charming streets and appreciating the local architecture.

While the itinerary does not specify particular activities in San Mateo, its inclusion offers a relaxing break and a chance to experience small-town life on Gran Canaria. This stop adds a scenic and cultural dimension to the overall tour.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour is designed for groups of up to 99 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable experience. The professional guide leads the group through each stop, sharing insights and answering questions. The pickup service from southern resorts makes the experience convenient and hassle-free.

It is important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, which is relevant for travelers with mobility concerns. The duration of approximately 3 to 4 hours makes it suitable for a half-day activity, fitting well into a broader vacation plan.

The Experience of the Guide and Commentary

The guide plays a central role, offering informative commentary about the markets, towns, and landmarks. A review highlights that the guide was very informative about the markets and other facts about Gran Canaria, making the experience worth the money. This suggests a knowledgeable guide who enhances the visit with local stories and historical insights.

Although the tour does not include food or drinks, the guide’s explanations and the opportunity to browse the market stalls provide a rich cultural experience without extra cost.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

At $39.51 per person, this tour offers good value given the inclusions of hotel pickup, drop-off, and guided visits. The reservation process is straightforward, with most bookings made 16 days in advance.

The tour includes a free cancellation policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. In case of poor weather, the tour may be canceled, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour provides a great overview of local markets and small towns, it does not include food and drinks, which visitors may want to prepare for if they wish to sample local cuisine. The lack of wheelchair accessibility is also a factor to consider for some guests.

The group size means the experience could be lively, so those seeking a more intimate or quiet visit might prefer smaller, private options.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits travelers interested in local markets, small-town charm, and cultural sites like Pino Square. It is ideal for those who want a half-day trip that combines shopping, history, and scenic views in a manageable, guided format.

The tour may be less appealing for visitors requiring accessibility accommodations or those seeking culinary experiences, as food and drinks are not included.

Final Thoughts on the Gran Canaria Market and Town Tour

This guided tour offers a cost-effective way to explore two charming towns and experience Gran Canaria’s local culture. The professional guide’s knowledge and the convenient pickup service add to its appeal, especially for visitors based in southern resorts.

While the lack of food options and accessibility limitations may be drawbacks, the opportunity to browse the traditional market in Teror, visit the chapel in Pino Square, and explore San Mateo makes this a well-rounded option for those seeking a cultural and scenic outing.

This tour balances value and interest, making it a worthwhile addition to a Gran Canaria itinerary for those wanting authentic local experiences without a full-day commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from southern resorts like Maspalomas, San Agustin, and Puerto Rico.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $39.51 per person.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but visitors can purchase items at the market.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not wheelchair accessible.

What are the stops on this tour?
Stops include the market in Teror, Nuestra Señora del Pino Chapel in Pino Square, and San Mateo.

Is there a guide explaining the sites?
Yes, a professional guide provides commentary on the markets, churches, and towns.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
It’s recommended to bring cash or cards for market purchases; no other preparations are specified.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of a local market, cultural sites, and scenic mountain town visits, paired with hotel pickup, makes it a practical choice for a half-day cultural outing in Gran Canaria.