Where to go shopping in Tenerife

Shopping may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Tenerife. After all, as the largest of Spain's Canary Islands off the coast of Africa, Tenerife is better known as a beach destination than as a retail one. Also, the island has a reputation for great nightlife that is well-deserved and brings millions of travelers here from across Europe and around the world to party and enjoy the excellent weather.

But that doesn't mean you can't do some shopping here. The island's popularity with tourists means that there are shops to suit every style of shopper and every budget imaginable. From bustling markets and luxury boutiques to artisanal shops and duty-free stores, Tenerife offers an eclectic mix of shopping opportunities against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, gifts for people back home, or just some tasty things to eat, you can find a good mix of local boutiques, luxury brands it's, local markets, and shopping malls to suit your needs, whether you're looking for clothes shopping, gifts, or anything else.

And whatever you buy on your Tenerife shopping trip, it's good to know that Bounce can store items of any kind for as long as you need, whether that's a few hours or days at a time. With storage locations across Tenerife, you can spend your day shopping then hit the beach, a nice restaurant, or go to a club and leave your new purchases behind, knowing they will be safely looked after until you are ready to pick them up.

All you need to know when shopping in Tenerife

Shopping in Tenerife is as diverse as its scenery. While this isn't Paris, you'll find your share of glitzy boutiques offering luxury brands along with a more traditional shopping experience in the markets and specialty stores of the town. You can also visit Siam Mall, the biggest shopping mall in Tenerife, for a comprehensive shopping experience that puts everything you need under one roof.

Shopping architecture

Tenerife’s shopping areas range from open-air markets and charming local shops to modern shopping centers. The capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and the popular southern resort areas like Costa Adeje are major hubs for retail therapy. Meanwhile, malls like Siam and the Oasis Shopping Center are great places if you just want to do some one-stop shopping and pick up a variety of items at the same time.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Tenerife open around 10 AM and close by 8 PM, with a siesta break in smaller stores from 1 PM to 4 PM. Larger shopping malls remain open throughout the day. Sundays and public holidays may see some closures, though tourist-heavy areas often have extended hours.

Pricing and bargaining

Thanks to its duty-free status, Tenerife offers competitive prices on electronics, perfumes, and alcohol. While prices in malls and boutiques are fixed, you can practice bargaining in local markets. If you're going to do that, it doesn't hurt to learn at least basic numbers in Spanish. After all, traders are much more likely to offer you a deal if you can understand one another.

Shop like a local

Bring cash for smaller shops and markets, as not all accept cards. If you're intending to strike a bargain, you'll often find that prices are a lot more flexible if you make it clear that you are paying in cash. Also, it's good to bring reusable bags with you when you go out shopping, as just like everywhere else, Tenerife has more or less turned its back on disposable plastic bags. Don’t forget to explore the island’s specialty goods like volcanic wines, mojo sauces, and aloe vera products. These make great gifts and also offer a way to support local businesses at the same time.

Unique shops to visit in Tenerife

Tenerife is home to an array of unique shops offering one-of-a-kind finds. If you're looking for something as unique as the islands themselves, check out some of the specialty stores and markets located throughout Tenerife. Not only will this help you to pick up unique items, but it also helps you explore the culture and authentic life of this part of the world.

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África

Known as "La Recova," this iconic market in Santa Cruz is a treasure trove of local produce, spices, and artisanal crafts. It’s a vibrant place to experience the island’s culture, and in a place that often struggles with the effects of mass tourism, this is still somewhere that you can expect to encounter locals going about their day and buying their produce for their daily needs. If you're doing a self-catering holiday, this is probably the best place to get your groceries, as you can try local products direct from the vendors and help support them in their work while enjoying the freshest food possible.

Address: Av. de San Sebastián, 51, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Aloe Park Tenerife

This shop specializes in aloe vera products made from locally grown plants. From skincare to wellness items, you’ll find high-quality goods that make perfect gifts. It's a unique take on a cosmetic store that combines high-street fashion with local ecology, making it a great place to pick up gifts or just treat yourself.

Address: Cam. Real Llano Azul, 38627 Arona, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Artenerife

Dedicated to showcasing local artists, Artenerife offers handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and artwork inspired by the island’s natural beauty. This handicraft store offers unique items you won't find anywhere else and allows you to support local artisans while you shop for unusual gifts.

Address: Av. Rafael Puig Lluvina, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Shopping experiences in Tenerife

Beyond fashion, Tenerife offers plenty of unique shopping experiences that capture the island’s essence. Shopping in the local markets and locally owned stores is a great way to get to grips with the local culture as well as find something you never would at home.

Casa del Vino

More than just a wine shop, Casa del Vino is the perfect spot to explore Tenerife’s wine heritage. This is a museum of winemaking on the island, so you can learn all about the development of Tenerife's wine industry and how the volcanic soil affects the vines to make a unique product. Sample and purchase volcanic wines alongside other gourmet items.

Address: C. San Simón, nº 49, 38360 El Sauzal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Icod de los Vinos Craft Market

Nestled near the famous Dragon Tree, this market offers traditional Canarian crafts, from woven baskets to lacework. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs while exploring a picturesque town. Away from the busyness of Santa Cruz, you can pick up some bargains and enjoy a glimpse of real Canarian life.

Address: Plaza de Lorenzo Cáceres, Icod de los Vinos

Golden Mile

Located in Playa de las Américas, this bustling strip is home to high-end stores, jewelers, and electronic shops. It’s a hotspot for tourists seeking both luxury and variety and one of the best places to find both high-street fashion and more luxurious items. You'll also find local designers scattered among the better-known names, so you may be able to find a truly unique piece here.

Traditional shopping options in Tenerife

For a more conventional shopping experience, Tenerife boasts several modern shopping centers:

Siam Mall

Located near Siam Park, this modern mall features international brands like Zara, H&M, and Mango alongside dining options and entertainment facilities. This is the biggest mall on the island, so if you just need to pick up some new underwear or a bathing suit, this is a good place to do it. Then again, there are enough stores here that you could easily spend the whole day shopping here too.

Address: Av. Siam, Costa Adeje

El Corte Inglés

Spain’s iconic department store offers a wide range of products, from fashion and electronics to gourmet foods and cosmetics.

Address: Avenida Tres de Mayo, 7, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Centro Comercial Meridiano

A popular mall in Santa Cruz with a mix of high-street brands, a cinema, and restaurants.

Address: Av. Manuel Hermoso Rojas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tenerife’s shopping scene offers a unique blend of tradition, luxury, and local charm. Whether you want to keep it traditional by shopping at the local handicraft markets or would rather find that great piece by a famous designer, chances are you can do it here.

Bounce makes it easy to have a memorable shopping trip by providing storage wherever you go. Leave the bags behind with us, and you can get on with enjoying the island, knowing your new purchases will be safely looked after until you're ready to pick them up.