Gran Canaria is a free trade zone with minimal import duties. Perfume, tobacco, electrical goods, and alcohol are cheaper than most places in the world. The southern region is home to most of the shops and Yumbo Centre is a retail haven where you can buy everything from clothing to shoes to champagne. In the capital, Las Palmas is home to Calle Mayor de Triana, a long shopping strip where the large Las Arenas center is located. Calle Cano, Avenida Mesa y Lopez and Calle Viera y Clavijo are also notable shopping streets.
The majority of the stores in Gran Canaria are aimed at tourists, so it's common to find locally made souvenirs and handicrafts. San Mateo’s farmers’ market is the best weekend spot if you are looking for Canarian pottery, baskets, aloe vera, Agaete coffee, and embroidered lace.
Shops are usually open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. post-siesta. Bigger stores in touristy areas like Centro Comercial Las Arenas (Las Palmas) and Centro Comercial Kashbah (Playa del Ingles) are open all day. Many stores are closed on Sundays.
Shoppers should carefully scrutinize the products they buy especially if its designer goods. Fakes and knock-offs are common in street stalls and the commercial center. High-end stores such as Lacoste and Ralph Lauren along with independent boutiques can be found at Meloneras’ Resort.
Spas in Gran Canaria
Spa getaways and relaxing holidays are offered by select travel operators and hotels in Gran Canaria. Gran Canaria Spa, Wellness & Health is one of the notable establishments. Most spas are strategically located overlooking the sea or the lush greenery, and are well equipped to provide high quality treatments such as traditional massages, exotic body rubs, health and beauty packages, and thalasso treatments.