Don’t let the name put you off. Teror is one of the most rewarding towns to visit in Gran Canaria, with a perfectly preserved old town, one of the island’s most important churches, and impossibly pretty streets.
I visited as a day trip from Las Palmas — easily combined with nearby Arucas — and a few relaxed hours were enough to cover the highlights. Here’s everything you need to know.
Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read the full disclosure here.
Getting to Teror from Las Palmas
Bus #216 runs from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Teror in 25 minutes. The fare in 2026 is €2.30, and the approach through the hills is wonderfully scenic. The bus drops you at the Estación de Guaguas, a five-minute walk from the Old Town.
Coming from Arucas? Jump on bus #215 — about 30 minutes. Check current timetables at guaguasglobal.com. It also pairs well with
If you’re exploring Gran Canaria by bus, Teror also pairs with Firgas for a full day out of the capital.
What to see in Teror
1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino
Start here. The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino (Basilica of Our Lady of the Pines) dominates Plaza del Pino and is the reason Teror exists at all. After the first Bishop of Gran Canaria witnessed a Marian apparition on this spot on 8 September 1481, the town became the most important pilgrimage destination in the Canary Islands.
The neo-classical exterior is striking, but the interior is where it gets interesting. Nicolás Jacinto’s Rococo main altarpiece, crowned with the Virgin’s ornate silver throne, is the showpiece, but I preferred the less showy Altar of Souls, with its vivid painting of souls in Purgatory.
There’s also a statue of Jesus tied to a column, the focus of Teror’s Easter parade, and the Treasure Room houses a bizarre collection of offerings from the faithful.
As for Our Lady of the Pines herself, her 15th or 16th-century wooden figure is dressed in elaborately embroidered cloaks, with a new one each September for the two-day Fiesta del Pino.
Practical information: Entry is free. Opening hours: Monday 3.30 pm–8 pm; Tuesday to Friday 9 am–1 pm and 3.30 pm–8 pm; Saturday 9 am–8 pm; Sunday 8 am–8 pm.
The area in front of the altar is for prayer only, and admission is policed vigorously (this is an important sacred site for Canarians). Visits are not permitted during Mass.
2. Calle Real de la Plaza
If you love traditional Canarian architecture, you’ve come to the right town. The pedestrianised Calle Real de la Plaza is lined with excellent examples of buildings with typical wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs. Most of the Old Town’s shops, cafés and boutiques line this street.
3. Cistercian Convent
Convent cookies are quite a thing in Spain, and Teror’s Cistercian Convent is a good example of why. Ring the bell, and a turntable reveals what’s on offer. Place your euros, voice your order, and an unseen nun spins your pastries through to you.
The nuns are available Monday to Saturday, 10 am–12 pm and 4–5 pm; Sunday 10 am–11.30 am.
4. Plaza Teresa de Bolívar
This small square was built in 1953 as an overspill space for the Fiesta del Pino. It was dedicated to Teresa de Bolívar, wife of South American revolutionary Simón Bolívar, whose family came from Teror.
5. Episcopal Palace
The Canarian bishops gave this building to the townspeople in the 18th century as thanks for their support in building the Basílica. Part of it is still home to the bishop; the rest houses temporary exhibitions by local artists.
6. Barrio de Arriba
For the best views of the Old Town and the Basílica, make your way up to the Barrio de Arriba (upper district). The top of the Escalinata de la Cruz is the sweet spot.
7. Teror Sunday market
I missed this, but if markets are your thing, time your day trip to Teror to coincide with its popular weekly market. It takes place every Sunday between 8 am and 2 pm.
There is a firm focus on food, including the local spreadable chorizo sausage, sweet treats and handicrafts. The chorizo sandwich is apparently a must.
Nearby: What Else to Do in the Area
If you’re travelling by bus, Arucas and Firgas are the natural companions to Teror. Both are straightforward connections and make a satisfying day from Las Palmas. For drivers, the viewpoints at Vuelta de los Pájaros and the protected area of Pino Santo are worth the detour.
For more ideas, here’s my full Gran Canaria itinerary and solo travel guide.
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.
Most useful guide for taking advantage of bus in Gran Canaria. Less hassle and less worry than hiring a car. Thank you.