Venturing into shops and boutiques is inevitable while on holiday. Beautiful window displays with unique local products invite us to step in as we wander through picturesque towns and bustling cities. It’s always fun to get some shopping done and pick out a little something to bring back home – for others and ourselves!
Gran Canaria isn’t just about breathtaking volcanic beaches and natural parks – there is an amazing shopping scene to match. Read on to discover the best shopping in Las Palmas and around the island.
Where to shop in Las Palmas
The capital is the ultimate shopping destination in Gran Canaria where there is no shortage of designer and high-street fashion shops. You’ll also find artisanal shops selling one-of-a-kind local, handcrafted goods. There is something for all tastes and wallets.
Calle Mayor de Triana and surrounding area
Calle Mayor de Triana is one of Las Palmas’ main shopping arteries, home to abundant shops and restaurants. Located between Parque de San Telmo and the historic district of Vegueta, this pedestrianised street bustles with shoppers and non-shoppers alike who come here not only for the incredible shopping but also to admire the stunning modernist buildings. You’ll find outposts for the Spanish brands Mango, Zara and Desigual as well as jewellers, perfumeries and a slew of other shops. Take a break from shopping at one of the outdoor cafés along the street.
Turn onto any one of the side streets to explore the lovely boutiques, showcasing the most covetable accessories. The charming district of Vegueta harbours age-old Canarian artisan shops where you can pick up local gourmet products, such as renowned Canarian cheese. Gourmets will relish the selection of products at the handsome 19th-century Mercado de Vegueta.
Avenida Mesa y López
Avenida Mesa y López is another prime shopping destination to keep on your radar. Conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from Playa de las Canteras, it features several sports shops, the department store El Corte Inglés, designer boutiques and local shops. There are also a handful of cafés around Plaza de España where you can grab a refreshment and bite to eat.
Shopping Centres in Las Palmas
The city also harbours wonderful shopping centres where you’ll find all types of shops under one roof. The central El Muelle Shopping Centre has an amazing array of top fashion and beauty shops, and an unrivalled selection of eateries. It is also open on Sundays between October and April.
Las Arenas Shopping Centre is located right by the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, at the other end of Playa de las Canteras. More than 100 high-street names can be found here. The world-class leisure facilities include restaurants, movie theatres and other entertainment spaces. It is open every day of the week.
The other shopping centres of Siete Palmas, La Ballena, Alisios and Las Ramblas complete an offering that ensures you have an amazing shopping experience. If you are holidaying outside the city, you will be equally spoilt by the selection of shopping options.
Where to shop outside Las Palmas
El Mirador Shopping Centre is located just south of Las Palmas and offers unrivalled shopping from ‘big-box’ stores to high-street names. It also has incredible views of the Atlantic from the rooftop terrace. Las Terrazas Shopping Centre is an open-air fashion outlet where you’ll be able to grab real bargains on high-street and designer goods.
Maspalomas is a top destination in Gran Canaria for its incredible sandy dunes and beaches, but when you aren’t soaking up the sun, you can enjoy some amazing shopping. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the partially pedestrianised Avenida de Gáldar, lined with shops and cafés. Boulevard El Faro and El Tablero Shopping Centres are located on the outskirts of town and offer a great line-up of high-street fashion.
The tourist resort of Playa del Inglés may have already caught your attention for its renowned beauty but it is also where one of the island’s largest shopping centres is located: Yumbo Centrum. More than 400 shops and restaurants are distributed on four stories in this open-air concept centre. It is also a popular attraction for its pubs and bars among LGBT visitors.
The quaint seafaring village of Puerto de Mogán is considered by some to be Gran Canaria’s own ‘Little Venice’. It is also a top spot to pick up local artisanal crafts and products. Pick up beautiful cotton linens and delicious gourmet products from the tiny shops.
Shopping in Gran Canaria is absolutely satisfying and is a fun way to spend your time while on holiday. We’ve given you a rundown of the top commercial spaces but set aside some time to explore the outdoor markets held across the island. You will not only score that perfect-something but get a cultural immersion in the Canarian way of life.
