Manila, Philippines

Best places to shop in Manila

5 markets, malls and shopping districts in Manila — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-08

1. Divisoria

The city's great bargain district — Tutuban Center, 168 Mall and 999 Mall, plus the street markets around them. Wholesale prices on nearly everything.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 08:00–19:00; avoid the pre-Christmas weeks entirely
Cost: Budget
Tip: Carry only what you need in a front pocket and leave the bag at the hotel. This is the most crowded shopping in the country.

Watch outPickpocketing and bag-slashing are the real risk here rather than any sales trick. Keep phones out of sight in the aisles.

2. SM Mall of Asia

One of the largest malls in the world, on Manila Bay — hundreds of shops, an arena, an ice rink and a bayside promenade for the sunset.

Where: Mall
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–22:00
Cost: Mid-range

3. Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan

The tiangge stalls famous for South Sea pearls, plus phones, gadgets and apparel. The country's best-known place to buy pearls.

Where: Bazaar
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–20:00
Cost: Budget–Mid

Watch outFreshwater and shell-coated imitations are sold alongside genuine South Sea pearls at deliberately blurred prices. Ask to rub two together — real pearls feel gritty; imitations glide.

4. Bonifacio High Street, BGC

The open-air retail spine of Bonifacio Global City — international brands, design shops and a weekend market, in the city's newest district.

Where: Luxury
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 11:00–22:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury

5. Quiapo Market and Carriedo

The dense street market around Quiapo Church — herbs and folk remedies, camera gear on Hidalgo Street, textiles and hardware.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 07:00–19:00
Cost: Budget
Tip: Hidalgo Street is the traditional camera row and still the cheapest place in Manila for used lenses.