FAQ
Tattoo Guide — Everything You Need to Know
Thinking about getting a tattoo in Gran Canaria? Whether you're visiting the island on holiday or living here, here are answers to the questions we hear most often before booking a tattoo.
About Tattooland Canarias
Where is Tattooland Canarias?
Tattooland Canarias is located in Playa del Inglés, in the south of Gran Canaria. Our location is convenient for visitors staying in Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras and the surrounding area.
Is Tattooland a professional tattoo studio?
Yes. Tattooland Canarias is a professional tattoo studio providing tattooing services in Gran Canaria. Our artists work in a professional studio environment and follow appropriate hygiene and safety procedures for tattooing.
Do you tattoo tourists?
Yes. We regularly work with visitors to Gran Canaria as well as local clients. If you're on holiday and want to take home a permanent memory of your time on the island, we can help you create a tattoo specifically for you.
Can I get a tattoo while I'm on holiday in Gran Canaria?
Yes. Many visitors choose to get tattooed during their holiday. Depending on the design, size and artist availability, appointments can often be arranged during your stay. If you're travelling soon, it's better to contact us in advance so we can discuss your idea and find a suitable appointment.
Booking Your Tattoo
Do I need an appointment?
An appointment is recommended, particularly for larger or more detailed tattoos and for specific artists. We can also accommodate suitable smaller tattoos depending on availability — contact us to check current availability.
Can I get a walk-in tattoo?
Walk-ins may be possible depending on the day, artist availability and the size and complexity of the tattoo. If you have a specific design or limited time during your holiday, contacting us before visiting is the safest option.
How do I book a tattoo?
You can contact us through our booking page or directly by WhatsApp, phone or email. For a tattoo enquiry, it helps to share: your tattoo idea, approximate size, where you want the tattoo, any reference images, and your preferred date or dates.
Can I send my tattoo idea before I arrive in Gran Canaria?
Yes — in fact, it's recommended if you're visiting the island. Sending your idea, reference images, approximate size and placement before your holiday gives us more time to understand what you want and organise your appointment.
Tattoo Designs & Styles
What tattoo styles do you offer?
We work with a range of styles and designs — the most suitable artist depends on the style, subject, size and level of detail you want. If you already know what style you're after, send us your idea and we'll help determine which artist is most suitable.
Can you create a custom tattoo design?
Yes. Custom tattooing is an important part of what we do. You can bring your own idea, combine different references, or simply explain what you have in mind, and the artist will develop it into a design suited to your body and chosen placement.
Can I bring my own tattoo design?
Yes. If you already have a design, bring it with you or send it to us in advance. Our artists can discuss it with you and, where appropriate, make adjustments to improve its suitability for tattooing.
Can you turn a holiday memory into a tattoo?
Yes. Gran Canaria provides plenty of inspiration — the ocean, beaches, islands, marine life, sunsets, landscapes and personal memories from your holiday. Your tattoo doesn't have to be a traditional "holiday tattoo"; we can use your idea as a starting point and create something personal to you.
Can I get a small tattoo?
Yes, subject to the design and artist availability. The important thing with a small tattoo is choosing a design that will remain clear and readable as it ages — some very detailed designs may need to be simplified or made slightly larger.
Can I get a matching tattoo with my partner, friends or family?
Yes. Matching and coordinated tattoos can be designed for couples, friends, siblings and family members. They don't have to be identical — they can share a theme or concept while being individually designed for each person.
Tattoo Prices
How much does a tattoo cost in Gran Canaria?
Tattoo prices depend on several factors, including size, placement, design, level of detail, style and time required — so there's no single price that applies to every tattoo. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to send us your idea together with the approximate size and placement.
Why can't you give me a price from the tattoo idea alone?
Two tattoos with the same subject can require completely different amounts of work — for example, a small simple design and a highly detailed realistic design of the same subject may take very different amounts of time. We prefer to look at the actual design, size and placement before giving you an accurate estimate.
Getting Tattooed in Gran Canaria
Where can I get a tattoo in Playa del Inglés?
Tattooland Canarias is a professional tattoo studio in Playa del Inglés, in the south of Gran Canaria. We work with both residents and visitors and offer custom tattooing in a variety of styles.
Where can I get a tattoo near Maspalomas?
We're located in Playa del Inglés and serve clients from the wider Maspalomas area, including visitors staying in nearby tourist areas. If you're staying in Maspalomas, Meloneras, Campo Internacional, Sonnenland or Playa del Inglés, contact us to discuss your tattoo and appointment options.
Is it a good idea to get a tattoo while on holiday?
It can be, provided you plan appropriately. The tattoo itself is only part of the experience — you also need to consider the healing period and what you'll be doing afterwards. If you plan to spend the rest of the day swimming, sunbathing or otherwise exposing the tattoo to the sun, discuss this with your artist before booking.
Can I swim after getting a tattoo?
Follow your artist's aftercare instructions regarding swimming and water exposure. In general, a fresh tattoo shouldn't be treated like healed skin — pools, the sea and other bodies of water can expose it to bacteria and prolonged soaking, while sun exposure can also affect healing. If swimming is an important part of your holiday, consider this when choosing the date of your tattoo.
Can I sunbathe after getting a tattoo?
Fresh tattoos should be protected from direct sun exposure while they heal — this is particularly important in Gran Canaria, where strong sunlight is common throughout much of the year. Your artist will explain how to care for the tattoo during healing and when normal sun exposure can resume.
Should I get my tattoo at the beginning or end of my holiday?
It depends on your plans. If you want to spend most of your holiday swimming and sunbathing, having the tattoo closer to the end of your trip may be more convenient. If you'd rather have plenty of time to discuss the design and complete the tattoo without rushing, arranging it earlier may be preferable. The important thing is to plan around your activities and allow appropriate time for healing.
Before Your Appointment
What should I do before getting tattooed?
Arrive rested, hydrated and having eaten appropriately. Avoid arriving dehydrated or exhausted, particularly if you've been travelling or spending the whole day in the sun. Wear clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed while keeping you comfortable.
Can I drink alcohol before getting a tattoo?
It's best to avoid alcohol before your appointment — it can affect your body's response to tattooing and may increase bleeding. Arrive sober, rested and ready.
Can I bring someone with me?
This depends on the appointment and the available space in the studio. If you'd like someone to accompany you, check with us beforehand.
What happens during the tattoo appointment?
Your artist will discuss the design, placement and size with you before starting. Once these are agreed, the area is prepared and the tattooing process begins. Your artist will also explain the relevant aftercare instructions before you leave.
Tattoo Aftercare
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the individual, the tattoo and the area of the body. Your artist will give you specific aftercare instructions, since different tattoos and techniques can require different approaches. See our full aftercare guide for the step-by-step routine we recommend.
What should I do after getting tattooed?
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your artist — keep the tattoo clean, avoid unnecessary irritation and protect the area while it heals. If you have any concerns about how it's healing, contact your artist or seek appropriate medical advice when necessary.
Can I go swimming after my tattoo?
Avoid swimming until your tattoo has sufficiently healed, following your artist's specific instructions. This applies to pools, the sea and other bodies of water.
Can I expose my new tattoo to the sun?
Fresh tattoos should be kept away from direct sun exposure during healing. Once healed, protecting your tattoo from excessive UV exposure helps preserve its appearance over time.
Choosing Your Tattoo Artist
How do I choose the right tattoo artist?
Look at the artist's actual work and choose someone whose style matches the tattoo you want. An artist can be excellent at one style and less suited to another, so portfolios matter more than popularity alone. Tell us what you want and we'll help you find the best fit among our artists.
Should I choose the artist based on reviews?
Reviews can be useful when choosing a studio, but the artist's portfolio matters just as much. Look at examples similar to the style, subject and level of detail you want — the best artist for your tattoo is the one whose work matches your particular project.
Tattoos in Southern Gran Canaria
Does Tattooland serve clients outside Playa del Inglés?
Yes. Although we're located in Playa del Inglés, clients come to us from across the south of Gran Canaria — including Maspalomas, Meloneras, Campo Internacional, Sonnenland, San Fernando, El Tablero and surrounding areas.
Can I book a tattoo before arriving in Gran Canaria?
Yes, and it's recommended if you already know you want a tattoo during your holiday. Send us your idea, reference images, approximate size and preferred dates so we can discuss the project before you arrive.
I only have a few days left in Gran Canaria — can I still get tattooed?
Possibly — it depends on artist availability and the tattoo you want. Contact us as soon as possible with your design idea and dates and we'll check what's available.
Why Choose Tattooland Canarias?
Choosing a tattoo is a personal decision, whether it's your first or your latest. At Tattooland Canarias, we combine professional tattooing, experienced artists and a personal approach to every project — from small spontaneous holiday tattoos to larger custom pieces. If you already have an idea, send it to us. If you're not sure exactly what you want, tell us what you're thinking and we'll discuss the possibilities together.
Ready to Get Tattooed?
If you're looking for a tattoo studio in Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas or southern Gran Canaria, get in touch to discuss your idea and check availability.
Bring your idea. We'll help turn it into a tattoo.