Shopping in Lanzarote

The Canary Islands were well known for their excellent low prices but with the introduction of the Euro everything became a bit more expensive. Even so, some consumer goods (alcohol, tobacco, perfume, jewellery, clothing and electronic goods) are still cheaper, as the islands managed to maintain their status of a free trade zone within the EU.

However, there are strict limits for goods being exported for personal use to other European Union countries. For example, you are only allowed to bring with you 1 litre of spirits, 2 litres of wine and 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars).

Arrecife is the island’s shopping area par excellence, with shops centred in the Calle León y Castillo and its side streets. Here, you will find bazaars and shops selling almost anything you can think of at very reasonable prices (usually considerably lower than those you find in major resorts). Traditional goods can be bought at the Saturday morning market, taking place alongside El Charco de San Ginés, and also in artisan shops in the area. If you are a Manrique fan you can buy art products carrying his designs or prints in the Tienda Fundación César Manrique, which you will find in the Calle José Betancourt.

In most villages throughout the island, you will find shops selling local craft items, such as pottery, basketwork, embroidery and jewellery, but one of the most famous places to buy these is the Casa-Museu del Campesino in Mozaga in the centre of the island. More traditional gifts and souvenirs can be found in Teguise. Here, every Sunday, the island’s biggest flea market takes place, with lots of stalls selling almost everything you could wish for! Haría is another interesting place with some nice shops offering a good range of island craft items. When touring the island, look out for other traditional markets that take place a bit everywhere!

The finely woven straw hats from Yaiza and Tinajo make excellent souvenirs. Other interesting craft souvenirs include rag dolls in national costume, lacework made by the island’s nuns and jewellery fashioned from olivine – a green gemstone of volcanic origin.

• TOP TIP •

Don't hand over money until you've compared prices and quality. Haggle for your gifts, it's expected. Don't think you are offending anyone and don't feel shy either!