The Best Shopping Spots in Manila
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is known for its bustling and lively atmosphere. From colorful markets to high-end malls, the city has something for every type of shopper. Philippines is one of the countries most famous for its shopping experiences, and Manila is no different. Not only are there a plethora of options, but the prices are incredibly reasonable. For anyone looking for a thrilling shopping adventure, Manila is the place to be.
Here are some of the best shopping spots in Manila:
1. Greenhills Shopping Center:
Greenhills Shopping Center is the home of everything you could ever want – from clothing and jewelry to consumer electronics and restaurants. This shopping center is crowded and bustling with activity around every corner. Greenhills has everything from designer products to fake Gucci bags, so there’s literally something for everyone. The bargain hunter will find some of the best items priced affordably. The center has been around since the 1970s, so it has a lot of experience in providing exceptional shopping and dining experiences.
2. SM Megamall:
SM Megamall is one of the largest malls in the Philippines and Asia, which makes it a haven for shopping aficionados. While the mall has a variety of items to choose from, the top spots to visit are the high-end boutiques, the ice skating rink, the cinema theaters, and the food court. The facade of the mall is hard to miss – it is a massive structure with flashy lights illuminating the entire building.
3. Divisoria Market:
The Divisoria market is bustling and chaotic with vendors yelling prices and customers haggling to get the best deal possible. It’s an outdoor and indoor shopping destination where one can purchase items such as clothes, accessories, toys, and food products at bargain prices. This market is infamous for its “ukay-ukay” or “thrift shop” sections, where customers can buy quality pre-loved clothes for a fraction of the price.
4. Robinson’s Place Manila:
Robinson’s Place Manila is an enormous shopping complex that’s been around since the 1990s. It’s convenient for visitors to grab a coffee, a quick bite, and visit popular stores such as Zara, Topshop, and Forever 21, among others. There’s also a movie theater and an arcade, which is great if one wants to take a break from shopping and have some fun.
5. Bonifacio High Street:
Bonifacio High Street is the go-to location if you’re in the mood for luxury shopping. It is a high-end outdoor shopping center with countless retail stores, designer boutiques, and specialty shops. There are also an abundance of restaurants and cafes to choose from, providing a change of pace from the other locations mentioned above.
6. Glorietta:
Glorietta is a centralized mall located in Makati City, which is home to some of the city’s best-known brands. It has a large department store, a long list of high-end boutiques and luxury brands, a 3D movie theater, and a fitness center. The mall has a unique atmosphere, with bright and spacious aisles that make you feel comfortable while you shop.
7. St. Francis Square:
St. Francis Square is known for being to one of the oldest shopping centers in the city. It was established in 1975, and since then, it has been one of the busiest shopping spots in Manila. It has a clothing section, a department store, and countless food shops.
8. Market Market!:
Market Market! is an indoor and outdoor mall located in Taguig City. It’s a lively place to shop featuring brightly lit stores, trendy boutiques, and quirky shops. The indoor portion is great for buying boutique items, while the outdoor market is perfect for authentic Filipino food, flowers, and other native products.
9. Tiendesitas:
Tiendesitas is a shopping center that features Filipino-inspired storefronts, products, and food outlets. It is a fitting place to visit if you want to feel the Filipino culture, grab some hand-made crafts or souvenirs, and sample local delicacies.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time to visit the malls in Manila?
A: The best time to visit the malls is on weekdays, especially during off-peak hours. Most stores are open from 10 am to 9 pm, but closing times may vary.
Q: Is it safe to go shopping in Manila?
A: Manila is a safe place to go shopping. However, always be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings.
Q: Are prices negotiable in Manila markets?
A: Absolutely. Prices in Manila are often negotiable, especially in markets, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better deal.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Manila’s Best Shopping Spots:
1. SM Megamall Ice Skating Rink
2. Greenhills Shopping Center Ghost Tour
3. Divisoria Market Bargain Hunting
4. Robinson’s Place Giant Christmas Tree
5. Bonifacio High Street Art Walk
6. Glorietta Centralized Mall
7. St. Francis Square Food Court
8. Market Market! Outdoor Market
9. Tiendesitas Filipino-inspired Stores
10. Mall of Asia Gigantic Fireworks Display
In conclusion, Manila is a haven for shopping enthusiasts, as it has numerous shopping centers with great deals and an abundance of different items on sale. If you’re looking for the most authentic Filipino shopping experience, it’s highly recommended to visit the markets, but if you’re looking for a high-end shopping adventure, you should visit high-end malls like Bonifacio High Street, SM Megamall, Robinson’s Place and Glorietta. Don’t forget to take advantage of the food and leisure options within each mall to ensure an unforgettable experience.