Start our journey from the island's oldest history with a visit to the Museo Canario in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This is one of the most important archaeological museums on the island, offering a fascinating insight into the life and culture of the indigenous people, the Guanches. For just €5 (as of 2023), you can enjoy a rich collection of artifacts, including mummies, ceramics and tools. The museum is famous for its impressive collection of skulls, which attracts the attention of not only archaeologists, but also ordinary tourists. The exhibition on mummification is worth noting - an unusual opportunity to learn about the burial practices of the island's ancient inhabitants.

The next point on our route is the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park in Gáldar. This place is a real gem for history buffs, offering the unique experience of exploring an original cave with Guanche rock paintings. The museum combines modern technology with traditional presentation methods, making the visit not only educational but also highly interactive. Ticket prices are affordable and the quality of the exhibits is top-notch. Visitors especially praise the way the museum presents the daily life of the Guanches, allowing one to almost move back in time.

When comparing the two museums, it's worth noting that the Museo Canario offers a more classical approach to presenting the collections, while Cueva Pintada focuses on an immersive experience. However, both places are invaluable for understanding Gran Canaria's prehistory. Museo Canario has an advantage due to its central location in Las Palmas, which makes access easy, while Cueva Pintada requires a trip outside the capital, but compensates with the unique experience of visiting the original cave.

For those traveling with children, Cueva Pintada may be more appealing due to the interactive elements of the exhibit. The Museo Canario, on the other hand, with its extensive collection of artifacts, will be ideal for those seeking a deeper archaeological understanding. Regardless of your choice, both museums offer excellent value for money, allowing you to take a fascinating trip back in time without straining your vacation budget.

As we continue our journey through Gran Canaria's history, we can't leave out places that showcase its rich artistic and cultural legacy. One such place is the Casa-Museo Antonio Padrón in Gáldar. This is a unique museum dedicated to the work of one of the most important Canarian artists of the 20th century. Importantly for frugal travelers - admission to the museum is free! Here we can admire not only Padrón's paintings, but also his studio and personal objects, which gives a remarkable insight into the artist's creative process. The museum is a great example of how to combine the presentation of art with the story of daily life in Gran Canaria in the mid-20th century.

Skipping back a few centuries, the Christopher Columbus House (Casa de Colón) in Las Palmas is worth a visit. This place, although its connection to Columbus himself is debatable, offers a fascinating journey back in time to the great geographic discoveries. For the affordable price of 4 euros (with discounts available), you can see not only exhibits related to Columbus' voyages, but also learn about the history of the Canary Islands' relationship with the Americas. The museum is famous for its impressive collection of maps, which show how perceptions of the world changed in the 15th and 16th centuries.

For those who prefer a more modern approach to science and technology, the Elder Museum of Science and Technology should be a must-see. This place is ideal for families with children, offering plenty of interactive exhibits and interesting planetarium shows. Ticket prices are competitive, and the ability to return to the museum within the same day makes it a great option for spending a full day, with a lunch break in town.

Comparing the three places, each offers something unique. Casa-Museo Antonio Padrón is an intimate look at the work of a local artist, perfect for lovers of Canarian art and culture. The Christopher Columbus House attracts those fascinated by the history of geographic discovery and colonization, offering a broader historical context. The Elder Museum, on the other hand, is a paradise for young and old explorers, focusing on learning through play.

In terms of accessibility, the Christopher Columbus House and Elder Museum have an advantage due to their location in Las Palmas, while you have to travel to the Casa-Museo Antonio Padrón in Gáldar. However, the latter makes up for it with no entrance fee.

For families with children, by far the best option would be the Elder Museum, offering the most activities for the little ones. Adults interested in art and history will find more for themselves at the other two museums. It's worth noting that all of these places offer good value for money, which is important for frugal travelers.

When planning a visit to Gran Canaria's museums, it's worth keeping in mind a few practical aspects that will help us save not only money, but also time. First of all, check the opening hours of the museums - some, such as the Museo Canario, are open until late in the afternoon, allowing you to plan your day flexibly. It's also worth noting days when admission is free or discounts are offered - for example, the Christopher Columbus House often has promotions for students.

In terms of accessibility, most museums in Las Palmas are accessible to people with limited mobility. The Elder Museum of Science and Technology particularly stands out in this regard, offering full wheelchair accessibility and facilities for people with various disabilities.

For those traveling with children, we strongly recommend scheduling a visit to the Elder Museum early in your stay. The interactive displays and planetarium can inspire children to explore the island further. The Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park, on the other hand, can be a fascinating experience for older children who are interested in history and archaeology.

It's also worth thinking about purchasing a museum card if you plan to visit more than one museum. Some hotels and tourist offices offer discounts on museum tickets - it's always worth asking.

Comparing all the museums discussed, each has its own unique advantages. The Museo Canario and the Christopher Columbus House offer a deep dive into the island's history, while the Elder Museum provides a more interactive and modern approach to learning. Casa-Museo Antonio Padrón, on the other hand, is an intimate look at Canarian art.

In terms of prices, all museums offer good value for money. The most economical option is the Casa-Museo Antonio Padrón with free admission, while the Elder Museum, despite its higher ticket price, offers the most attractions, especially for families with children.

The location of most museums in Las Palmas makes it easy to visit several sites in one day. The exception is the museums in Gáldar, but a trip there can be a great opportunity to explore another part of the island.

All in all, Gran Canaria's museums offer a fascinating journey through the island's history and culture, while also providing an excellent option for frugal travelers. Whether you're a lover of archaeology, art or modern science, you'll find a museum in Gran Canaria that will satisfy your interests without blowing your budget. Remember to check current prices and opening hours before visiting, as they are subject to change. Exploring Gran Canaria's history through its museums is not only an educational adventure, but also an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating island.