Shopping
The Canary Islands are a bargain paradise for certain products due to the low IGIC (Impuesto General Indirecto Canario — only 7% instead of 21% IVA on the mainland):
What is cheaper?
- Perfume & Cosmetics: Significantly cheaper than in Germany — perfumeries like "Perfumes y Cosméticos" are everywhere
- Tobacco & Alcohol: Considerably cheaper (cigarettes ~50% less than in Germany, spirits ~30% less). Note: Pay attention to import allowances!
- Electronics: Moderately cheaper — worthwhile for more expensive devices (cameras, laptops)
- Sunscreen: Paradoxically not cheaper — on the contrary, often overpriced in tourist areas
Supermarkets
- Mercadona: Largest chain, affordable, own quality brand "Hacendado"
- HiperDino / SuperDino: Canary chain — good selection, local products
- Lidl: Like in Germany, German products available
- Spar: Widespread, even in small towns
Weekly Markets
The most beautiful weekly markets for local products:
- Teguise (Lanzarote): Sundays — the largest and most famous market in the Canary Islands with handicrafts, cheese, wine, and live music
- Vega de San Mateo (Gran Canaria): Sat/Sun — the most authentic farmers' market in Gran Canaria
- Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África (Santa Cruz de Tenerife): Daily — the most beautiful market hall in the Canary Islands in a Moorish-style building with a courtyard
- Mercado del Puerto (Las Palmas): Daily — historic market hall, now also a food hall with tapas stalls
💡 Tipp
Canary souvenirs worth bringing home: Mojo sauces (bottled), Gofio, Canary cheese (vacuum-packed at market stalls), local wine, Aloe Vera products (grown in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote), and handcrafted Timple miniatures.
