Tropical Fruits & Markets
Tenerife's climate allows for the cultivation of tropical and subtropical fruits that you won't find in this quality anywhere else in Europe:
- Plátano de Canarias: The Canarian banana is smaller, sweeter, and more aromatic than the imported banana — and has an EU origin label. It grows everywhere in the north and is the symbol of Canarian agriculture.
- Papaya: Grows year-round in Tenerife. The local variety is sweet, creamy, and a fraction of the price on the mainland.
- Mango: The Canarian mango (harvest: September–November) is one of the best outside the tropics. In supermarkets from 3€/kg.
- Aguacate (Avocado): Tenerife produces top-quality avocados. In autumn at the markets: incomparably creamy.
- Tuno (Prickly Pear): The fruit of the prickly pear cactus grows all over the island. Sweet, juicy, full of seeds. In summer at markets from 2€/kg.
The Best Markets
- Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África (Santa Cruz): The largest and most beautiful market hall in the Canaries. Fish, meat, cheese, fruits, flowers — all under a Moorish-inspired roof. Flea market in the basement on Sundays.
- Mercadillo del Agricultor (Tacoronte): Saturday and Sunday market with local farm products: wine, cheese, honey, fruit. This is where the locals shop.
- Mercado de La Laguna: Freshly renovated market hall in the UNESCO old town. A good mix of traditional stalls and modern gastro concepts.
- Mercadillo de Tegueste: Sunday market in the small town of Tegueste (near La Laguna). Authentic, without tourist frills. Local wine, Gofio, cheese.
