The Best Malls in Manila, Philippines

The SM Mall of Asia (commonly known as SM MOA to locals) is currently the fourth largest mall in the country. Overlooking the Manila Bay, the establishment has an outdoor walkway where shoppers can get a good, full view of the sunset and in some instances, pyro spectacular shows. This sprawling mall has four buildings: the Main Mall, Entertainment Mall, and the South and North Parking Buildings—all are interconnected via walkways. In addition to famous branded shops and food establishments across the mall, SM Mall of Asia also boasts entertainment features for leisure and educational purposes: the first ever IMAX theater in the country, an Olympic-sized ice skating rink, concert grounds, an amusement park, Science Center, SMX Convention Center, and the Mall of Asia Arena. SM MOA’s Arena even served as a venue for the 65th Miss Universe.

Located within the Ortigas Business District in Mandaluyong City, expect that SM Megamall will always be jam-packed after office hours. Previously, there were only two buildings, connected by a bridge: Mega Building A and Mega Building B. Over time, the mall has expanded to five buildings, making it the second largest mall in the Philippines. The third building, more commonly known as Mega Atrium, features mostly restaurants and is in the center, between Mega Buildings A and B. Building C, on the other hand, was formerly an open parking facility but was later converted into a shopping area in order to cater to increasing numbers of shoppers. The latest addition to the SM Megamall branch is Building D, or the Fashion Hall, where fashion lovers can find popular global clothing retailers such as Forever 21, Uniqlo, and H&M. Aside from shops and restaurants, SM Megamall also establishes itself as more than just a shopping mall by featuring an Olympic-sized skating rink, a bowling center, and Director’s Club Cinemas, among other places.

If high-end shopping is what you’re looking for, then Greenbelt Mall is the place to be. Owned by Ayala Malls and one of its flagship malls, this location consists of five buildings. Greenbelt 1 and Greenbelt 2 mostly feature fast food shops and restaurants, as well as branded shops. You’ll find high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, and Gucci within Greenbelt 4 and Greenbelt 5. Meanwhile, Greenbelt 3 features the cinemas and different international brands. Aside from the shopping area, there is a chapel within the Greenbelt Park. It’s also interconnected to another mall, The Landmark, which offers household goods, clothing, etc. at affordable prices.

Located within the Makati Central Business District, expect that Glorietta will be jam-packed during rush hour. It has five sections (Glorietta 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) that are home to a variety of shops, fast food and fancy restaurants, cinemas, arcades, and even fitness and wellness centers. At the heart of the mall is an atrium which serves as a venue for exhibits, fashion shows, and other big events. The Glorietta Mall is also linked to nearby malls: The Landmark and SM Makati. This mall previously received the Shopping Center of the Year Award in 2002 and 2004.

SM City North EDSA is the largest mall in the Philippines and third largest in the world. It’s located at the intersection of North Avenue and Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA). It has five major sections: The Annex, The Block, Sky Garden, Interior Zone, and of course, The City Center. The mall’s supermarket, department store, food court, and IMAX Theater are located in The City Center. Meanwhile, shoppers may find high-end stores in The Annex and The Block. If they want a bit of fresh air while dining at their favorite shopping destination, guests can pick a restaurant along the elevated park called Sky Garden. In 2014, it was announced that SM North EDSA has become the world’s biggest solar-powered mall, after solar panels were installed on its rooftop.

TRINOMA (or Triangle of North Manila) is a huge shopping complex right across from SM City North Edsa. Visitors heading to this area can spend an entire day shopping and strolling throughout these two malls, as they’re connected by an overpass. TRINOMA stands out because it’s known for its alfresco style, reverse waterfalls, gardens, glowing facade, and landscaped gardens at the rooftop, making shopping a relaxing experience. Because it’s connected to the North Avenue MRT Station, expect big crowds after office hours.

If you want a less crowded and luxurious shopping experience, then this upscale shopping destination located along Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City is just right for you! Shangri-La Plaza is home to a variety of branded shops, retail chains, high-end boutiques, and fancy restaurants, among other places. It has four major sections: The Main Mall, North Wing, East Wing, and Shangri-La Plaza. Every shopper can find everything he or she needs at the Main Mall, which has six levels and a basement, where the Garden Food Court, Supermarket, TechnoHub, and other fast food chains can be found. Shangri-La is also famous for its cinemas, which hold the Cine Europa Film Festival every September.

At first glance, SM Aura Premier catches the attention of passerby for its unusual architectural style. This upscale shopping mall is located at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, another business district that would remind guests of Singapore because of its wide open spaces and tall buildings. Shoppers will find international brands such as Forever 21, Uniqlo, Topman, Crate & Barrel, etc. at SM Aura Premier. For a different kind of dining experience, head over to the mall’s Sky Park, where you can choose among alfresco bars and restaurants, and feel relaxed in a green rooftop park.

A favorite shopping destination all-year round, Greenhills Shopping Center has the best bargains for every shopper in need. This shopping complex has a diverse mix of shops and restaurants. Shoppers will find over 100 bargain stalls and high-end shops, selling clothing, furniture, and gadgets (whether brand new or secondhand). While some stalls offer the same product, you have to be keen on finding the best (and lowest) price at a reasonable quality. Aside from offering a unique shopping experience, Greenhills Shopping Center also provides entertainment in its world-class cinemas, music museum, and Indie theater.

Located along the busy streets of St. Elena and Soler Streets in Binondo, Chinatown, the 168 Shopping Mall is a must-visit spot for those looking for the best bargains, from commodities to novelty items, RTW’s, and hardware. This shopping complex houses over 500 tenants that sell apparel, toys, gifts, and decor at low and affordable wholesale and retail prices. If you’re looking to shop within your budget and find it hard to keep on bargaining, then 168 Shopping Mall is the place you should head over to!

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