Do you love to shop? Or is your budget more suited to window shopping than actual buying? No matter how much money you have to spend, Bangkok has the shopping mall for you. Bangkok is full of malls to suit all budgets and shopping styles. You won’t run out of places to use your credit card in the Thai capital. Take a look at our list of the most popular malls in Bangkok right now, and decide where you’re going to go to spend your hard-earned cash.
CentralWorld
Located in Siam, CentralWorld is the buzziest, trendiest of Bangkok’s new shopping malls. CentralWorld is focused on fun and fashion and it caters to a younger crowd with the must-buy brands being Zara, Timberland, MNG and others. Once you’ve finished shopping for fashion, accessories and more, check out the 15-screen cinema or go to one of the 100 restaurants, bars and cafes that serve a wide variety of foods and drinks. There’s even an ice skating rink at CentralWorld – this really is a full day out, rather than just a mall. CentralWorld is open from 10am to 10pm and the nearest BTS is Siam or Chidlom.
Central Embassy Shopping Mall
The original high-end mall in Bangkok with a huge range of luxury stores and designer brands is still going strong. Central Embassy is the place to go when you want to splurge. This is a multi-million pound complex with not only high-end stores but luxurious cinema screens, and even a six-star hotel on site. If you want to spend big, there is no alternative. Closest BTS is Ploenchit (but if you’re coming to shop here you can probably afford to take a cab).
Siam Paragon
If you’re looking for luxe, pay this mall a visit. The location for the trendy, exclusive set in Bangkok to spend their money, this is a smart hi-tech place where you can buy electronics, gadgets, designer home décor, and even sports cars. If your budget is a little lower than sports car, there are many outlets selling the regular high street fashions. There is a cinema, and also a selection of cafes and restaurants as you would expect. Visit the Siam Ocean World aquarium if you get tired of shopping. The nearest BTS is Siam and this place is open from 10am to 10pm.
Terminal 21 Shopping Mall Bangkok
A new concept in malls – visit all the major cities in the world in one indoor space. You can browse the shops of Tokyo, go to Carnaby Street in London, visit Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, or bargain in a souk in Istanbul. This mall is on Sukhumvit Road, nearest BTS is Chidlom, and it’s open 10am to 10pm. Sounds like a kitschy concept but it actually works.
MBK
Located in Siam, this mall is completely different from Siam Paragon. It caters to those looking for a bargain and is more of an indoor version of Bangkok’s markets than a shiny US mall. There are seven floors of shops and stores selling all manner of things from luggage to ornaments, gadgets to mobile phones. SF Cinema City is located in this mall and you will also find a food court selling well-priced dishes. Nearest BTS is National Stadium and this place is also open from 10am to 10pm.
Central Chidlom
A nice, compact and well-designed mall for all the essentials including cosmetics and clothing, as well as a great food court and some excellent accessories stores. This is located at Childlom.
The Emporium
Located in Phrom Phong, The Emporium is a smaller version of Siam Paragon and easier to navigate. There are a few floors, devoted to both fashion and to entertainment, gadgets, and technology. There’s also a decent gourmet market and some excellent facilities like the SFX Cinema and exhibition space for artists and designers.
Pantip Plaza
So you want a computer, a tablet, or something to help make your computer work? This mall is dedicated to IT. You’ll find so much choice here, although not all of it is guaranteed quality. Browse and make your choices from the range available – you won’t find a more extensive selection. Open until 9pm and the nearest BTS is Chidlom.
Platinum Fashion Mall
As the name suggests, this Bangkok mall is devoted to clothes. Selling fashion clothing and accessories in a flea market style, this mall is popular with everyone from students to young office workers looking to pick up a fashion bargain. If you’re looking to buy the latest trends, come here.
Siam Center
This mall has been recently redesigned and offers something a little different – boutique stores selling quirky items and one-of-a-kind goods. Local designers as well as international brands have pride of place here, and you can also enjoy the updated architecture of the shopping center.
For more ideas on where to shop and what to buy in Bangkok, visit PhuketOn. PhuketOn – your destination for information and inspiration on Bangkok, Phuket and Hua Hin.
