Los Cristianos was once an old fishing town but has grown to become one of the Canary Island’s busiest holiday hotspots. Blessed with a vibrant nightlife, two stunning beaches, and a promenade that is home to some of the most outstanding restaurants, this is the only resort in the Canary Islands that offers serious competition to the neighbouring Playa de las Americas.
The other exciting thing about Los Cristianos is its shopping experience. With an impressive variety of chic boutiques and high end stores, there is so much on offer for the dedicated shopaholic. Be it you are looking for high quality goods, brilliant bargains, or authentic Canarian crafts, Los Cristianos has everything you’re looking for. The shopping scene in the resort is an attraction all on its own.
Away from The Main Strip
If you’re looking for the main tourist shops, then you’ll find them along the seafront promenade. These are great if you’re looking for the typical trinkets to carry back home with you. However, if you are looking for something out of the ordinary or a bit more upmarket, then you’ll be glad to know that there are several boutique stores and shops tucked away behind the main strip. And the great thing is that the area is pedestrianised which means that it is for tourists to stroll around and enjoy the shopping experience without having to worry about bumping into other people or getting run over by buses or taxis.
Markets in Los Cristianos
If you’re looking for authentic knicks knacks, then head over to Gran Arona Hotel. Just next door, you’ll find the very active Los Cristianos Market which is held every Tuesday and Sunday. Apart from the normal influx of tourists, Los Cristianos is home to several thousand local Canarians, which means that the markets are usually where you will find items and things that you will not find anywhere else, considering that some are made and sold by the residents themselves.
The market in Los Cristianos is the largest of its kind in South Tenerife and is the place to go if your shopping expedition in the town takes you on the hunt for jewellery, clothing, artwork, and leather goods. The market is open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you want to get the best bargains, consider getting there as early as possible.
While you can haggle, just remember not to get too involved unless you are seriously considering buying an item. However, if a trader doesn’t meet you on a price you’re hoping for, it’s okay to give a polite no and walk away.
If you miss the daytime market, there is no need to worry. Los Cristianos is just 20 minutes away from the Los Abrigos market. Although it is on the smaller side, the Los Abrigos market is one of the few night time markets in the Canary Islands and is open from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It’s well worth visiting and offers a different experience from the regular daytime affairs. It’s friendly, smaller, and somewhat quirky.
Shopping Centres Along The Beach
Buying things in the Los Cristianos market can get a bit sweaty and hot, especially during noon. If you want to have a relaxed shopping experience, then the Vista Sur Shopping Centre, which is close to the beach, is a great option to consider. Though small, it has a good selection of snack shops, shoe and jewellery shops, clothes shops, and ice cream parlours. There are also several restaurants within the shopping centre which are ideal if you want to grab a bite between purchases. The centre also has several onsite toilets which are essential especially if you are shopping with children!
Spending Sensibly While Shopping in Los Cristianos
Whether you’re shopping in the malls, street side shops, or markets of Los Cristianos, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your spending. Consider how much you’re spending and where your money is. To minimise risks, consider using a preloaded card which offers both security and flexibility. These cards looks like an ordinary credit or debit card and can be preloaded with an amount before you head out for your holiday where you use it as a debit card or in ATMs to make withdrawals.
Bagging Bargains
There is nothing better than ending your day after a Los Cristianos shopping excursion with a grand bargain or two. The Centro Commercial Safari shopping centre, located just outside the resort, provides many shops. This is the place to visit for great deals. You’ll also find several restaurants where you can relax and a delightful water fountain located at the centre’s main square. For the best experience, consider visiting the centre in the evening if you want to see a spectacular light display as the fountain dances with colour and music.
The centre’s main square attracts entertainers and street performers, so if you are tired of trudging around the various shops, consider pulling up a pew, grabbing a drink and watching the exciting variety of street shows and acts.
Shopping with Family
If you’re shopping in Los Cristianos with your family, then make sure to check out Pasarela Oasis Shopping Center. Constructed into a hillside, it’s easy to spend several hours within this striking shopping mall.
Apart from a bounty of shops, designer stores, and boutiques, the centre is also home to an extensive variety of restaurants serving cuisine from all corners of the globe. If you really want to unwind then you’ll be glad to know that there is a chill out zone where snacks and drinks are served and has a superb view of the resort.
For kids, there is an exceptional play area with slides, climbing frames and inflatables that’ll keep them busy for hours. Pasarela Oasis Shopping Center is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Shopping For Property
If you’re thinking of owning a place in Los Cristianos then why not head over to an established estate agent in the area who offers quality properties.
For more ideas on Los Cristianos, go to tenerifeforum.site and get the low down about the island. For all the latest island news, check out tenerifeweekly.com.