Lanzarote, a jewel in the Canary Islands, offers more than just stunning landscapes and pristine beaches. Its vibrant local markets and street food scene provide a window into the island’s rich culture, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in authentic Canarian life. From artisanal crafts to farm-fresh produce and mouthwatering delicacies, these markets showcase the best of Lanzarote’s local talent and culinary bounty.
Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, a souvenir hunter, or simply curious about local life, exploring these markets is an essential part of any Lanzarote experience. Let’s embark on a journey through the island’s most captivating markets and street food hotspots, where you’ll discover the flavours, aromas, and traditions that make Lanzarote truly unique.
Teguise market: lanzarote’s largest sunday bazaar
The crown jewel of Lanzarote’s market scene is undoubtedly the Teguise Market. Held every Sunday in the historic town of Teguise, this sprawling bazaar transforms the sleepy streets into a bustling hive of activity. As the largest open-air market on the island, it attracts both locals and tourists alike, offering an unparalleled shopping and cultural experience.
Artisanal crafts at plaza de san miguel
At the heart of Teguise Market lies Plaza de San Miguel, a hub for local artisans showcasing their craftsmanship. Here, you can find an array of handmade goods, from intricate lace work to bold ceramic pieces. The craftsmanship on display reflects centuries of Canarian tradition, with many artisans using techniques passed down through generations.
One standout feature is the selection of aloe vera products, a testament to Lanzarote’s abundant growth of this medicinal plant. From soothing skin creams to health supplements, these locally-sourced aloe products make for unique and practical souvenirs.
Local cheeses and wines in calle león y castillo
As you wander down Calle León y Castillo, your senses will be tantalized by the aroma of local cheeses and wines. This street is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a true taste of Lanzarote’s fertile soil and traditional farming methods.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the renowned queso de cabra (goat cheese), often infused with unique flavors like paprika or herbs. Pair your cheese tasting with a glass of Lanzarote’s distinctive wines, particularly the crisp white Malvasía varietals, which showcase the unique minerality imparted by the island’s volcanic soil.
Live canarian folk music at plaza de la constitución
As you explore the market, the air is filled with the lively sounds of Canarian folk music. Make your way to Plaza de la Constitución, where local musicians, often dressed in traditional costumes, perform throughout the day. These performances not only entertain but also provide a glimpse into Lanzarote’s rich musical heritage.
The vibrant melodies and rhythms of Canarian folk music create an immersive atmosphere, transporting you to the heart of the island’s cultural traditions.
Timple instruments and traditional pottery
Keep an eye out for craftsmen showcasing the timple , a small guitar-like instrument unique to the Canary Islands. These intricate instruments are not only beautiful to look at but also play a crucial role in traditional Canarian music.
Additionally, you’ll find stalls displaying traditional Canarian pottery, with designs and techniques that have been perfected over generations. These pieces often feature intricate patterns inspired by the island’s volcanic landscapes and maritime heritage.
Arrecife’s marina lanzarote market: seafood and coastal delights
For those seeking a more intimate market experience with a focus on fresh seafood, the Marina Lanzarote Market in Arrecife offers a charming alternative. Held every Saturday morning, this market combines shopping with the relaxed ambiance of a seaside village.
Fresh catch at pescadería del puerto
The highlight of Marina Lanzarote Market is undoubtedly the Pescadería del Puerto, where local fishermen bring their daily catch straight from the Atlantic. From succulent vieja (parrotfish) to tender octopus, the variety is impressive and ever-changing based on the season.
If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, this is an excellent opportunity to pick up some fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal. Many vendors are happy to offer cooking tips and recipe suggestions, helping you make the most of your purchase.
Lapas a la plancha: grilled limpets specialty
One local delicacy you must try at Marina Lanzarote Market is lapas a la plancha , or grilled limpets. These small, cone-shaped mollusks are a Canarian specialty, typically served sizzling hot with a drizzle of garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
The taste of lapas is unique – slightly chewy with a briny flavor that captures the essence of the sea. It’s a true taste of Lanzarote’s coastal cuisine and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Charco de san ginés: waterfront tapas stalls
After exploring the market, take a short stroll to the picturesque Charco de San Ginés, a natural lagoon lined with traditional white-washed fishermen’s cottages. Here, you’ll find a selection of tapas stalls offering a variety of small plates perfect for a light lunch or afternoon snack.
Try the papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with spicy mojo sauce, or sample some freshly grilled sardines. The waterfront setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying these local delicacies while watching the boats bob gently in the lagoon.
Playa blanca’s marina rubicón market: gourmet and artisan offerings
Situated in the upscale Marina Rubicón, this twice-weekly market offers a more refined shopping experience. Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, it’s an ideal spot for those looking for high-quality local products in a picturesque setting.
Lanzarote wines: malvasía volcánica tastings
The Marina Rubicón Market is particularly noted for its selection of Lanzarote’s unique wines. The island’s volcanic soil imparts a distinctive minerality to its wines, particularly the crisp white Malvasía varietals. Many vendors offer tastings, allowing you to sample before purchasing.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the Malvasía Volcánica , a grape variety unique to Lanzarote. These wines often have notes of tropical fruit and a subtle smokiness, reflecting the island’s volcanic terroir.
Handcrafted aloe vera products from local farms
Lanzarote’s dry climate is ideal for growing aloe vera, and the Marina Rubicón Market showcases a wide range of locally produced aloe vera products. From soothing after-sun gels to nourishing face creams, these products harness the plant’s natural healing properties.
Many stalls offer products from small, family-run aloe vera farms, ensuring you’re getting authentic, high-quality items. These make for excellent souvenirs or gifts, offering a piece of Lanzarote’s natural bounty to take home with you.
Street food hotspots in puerto del carmen
Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote’s most popular resort town, offers a vibrant street food scene that shouldn’t be missed. From beachfront food trucks to traditional stew vendors, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Avenida de las playas: beachfront food trucks
Take a stroll along Avenida de las Playas, the main strip in Puerto del Carmen, and you’ll encounter a variety of food trucks offering quick, delicious bites. These mobile eateries serve everything from gourmet burgers to traditional Canarian snacks.
Look out for trucks selling papas locas (crazy fries), a local favorite featuring crispy fries topped with various sauces and toppings. It’s the perfect snack to enjoy while watching the sunset over the beach.
Sancocho canario: traditional fish stew vendors
For a taste of authentic Canarian cuisine, seek out vendors selling Sancocho Canario . This hearty fish stew is a staple of Lanzarote’s culinary tradition, typically made with salted fish, sweet potatoes, and gofio (toasted grain flour).
While traditionally a home-cooked dish, some local vendors have started offering Sancocho Canario as street food. It’s a filling and flavorful meal that provides a true taste of local home cooking.
Bienmesabe: sweet almond cream dessert stalls
To satisfy your sweet tooth, look for stalls selling Bienmesabe , a traditional Canarian dessert. This rich, creamy concoction is made from ground almonds, egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon, often served over a slice of sponge cake or as a standalone dessert.
The name Bienmesabe literally translates to “tastes good to me,” and once you try it, you’ll understand why. It’s a perfect way to end your street food adventure in Puerto del Carmen.
Costa teguise’s pueblo marinero square: weekly night market
Every Friday evening, the charming Pueblo Marinero Square in Costa Teguise comes alive with a vibrant night market. This weekly event combines shopping with entertainment, offering a more relaxed market experience.
Canarian wrinkled potatoes and mojo sauces
One of the highlights of the Pueblo Marinero market is the opportunity to try authentic papas arrugadas (Canarian wrinkled potatoes) served with traditional mojo sauces. These small, salty potatoes are a staple of Canarian cuisine and are typically served as a side dish or appetizer.
You’ll find vendors offering both red ( mojo rojo ) and green ( mojo verde ) sauces to accompany the potatoes. The red sauce is spicier, made with red peppers and paprika, while the green sauce is milder, featuring cilantro and garlic.
Gofio amasado: toasted grain flour delicacy
Another traditional food you can find at the Pueblo Marinero market is gofio amasado . Gofio, a flour made from toasted grains, has been a staple of Canarian diet for centuries. In this preparation, it’s kneaded with water, salt, and sometimes honey to create a dough-like consistency.
Gofio amasado is often shaped into small balls or patties and can be eaten as is or used as a side dish. It’s a unique taste that’s deeply connected to Lanzarote’s culinary heritage.
Live cooking demonstrations of lanzarote specialties
One of the most engaging aspects of the Pueblo Marinero market is the live cooking demonstrations. Local chefs often set up stations where they prepare traditional Lanzarote dishes, offering visitors a chance to see how these specialties are made.
These demonstrations not only provide entertainment but also offer valuable insights into Canarian cooking techniques. You might see chefs preparing dishes like caldo de pescado (fish soup) or ropa vieja (a hearty meat and chickpea stew), giving you ideas for recipes to try at home.
Sustainable and organic markets in haría valley
For those interested in sustainable and organic produce, the markets in the lush Haría Valley offer a refreshing change of pace. This verdant area in the north of Lanzarote is known for its traditional farming practices and commitment to sustainability.
Eco-friendly produce from lanzarote’s volcanic soil
The unique volcanic soil of Lanzarote, combined with traditional farming techniques, produces vegetables and fruits with distinctive flavors. At the Haría markets, you’ll find an array of organic produce, from sweet Canarian tomatoes to unique varieties of potatoes.
Many farmers use permaculture principles and water-conserving techniques adapted to Lanzarote’s arid climate. This commitment to sustainability not only produces high-quality food but also helps preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem.
Cochineal dye products: A lanzarote tradition
One unique product you’ll find in the Haría markets is cochineal dye. Lanzarote has a long history of producing this natural red dye from the cochineal insect, which lives on prickly pear cacti.
You can find a range of products colored with cochineal, from textiles to cosmetics. This traditional industry represents an important part of Lanzarote’s cultural and economic heritage, and buying these products helps support local artisans.
Farm-to-table experiences with local growers
Many of the markets in the Haría Valley offer more than just shopping – they provide an opportunity to connect directly with local growers. Some farmers offer tours of their properties, allowing visitors to see firsthand how food is grown in Lanzarote’s unique environment.
These farm-to-table experiences often include tastings of fresh produce and homemade products like jams or cheeses. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Lanzarote’s agricultural traditions and the challenges of farming in this volcanic landscape.
By supporting local markets and producers, you’re not only enjoying the freshest flavors of Lanzarote but also contributing to the island’s sustainable agricultural practices and preserving its unique culinary heritage.
Exploring Lanzarote’s markets and street food scene offers a delicious journey through the island’s culture, history, and culinary traditions. From the bustling Sunday market in Teguise to the intimate farm experiences in Haría Valley, each market provides a unique window into local life. By savoring the flavors, meeting the producers, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of these markets, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Lanzarote’s gastronomic landscape.