Joanna James
Bangkok is home to a myriad of shopping centres that never cease to attract local and international crowds. Here are 5 well-known shopping malls that light up the streets of Bangkok with their exquisite structures and house a vast array of products, activities and experiences for visitors from anywhere in the world.
As its name suggests, Terminal 21 is an airport-themed shopping centre that brings together several famous cities under a single roof. It features several themed shopping sections that each reflect the style of specific locations including Paris, London, Tokyo, Istanbul, and San Francisco. In addition to popular fashion brand showrooms of Nike, Addidas and Jaspal, the mall also includes dining areas, food courts, a gym and an 8-screen Cineplex, making it the ultimate shopping destination. Terminal 21 is easily accessible for all, particularly for those staying at the Maitria Mode Sukhumvit 15 which offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the mall.
Siam Paragon is known as the “Pride of Bangkok” and is one of the largest shopping and entertainment destinations in Asia. With a full glass structure that exudes high-end ambience, Siam Paragon has 8 floors that house over 250 shops where shoppers can find their favourite international brands including Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Rolex, Prada, Mont Blanc and more. But the Siam Paragon offers more than just retail therapy. It is home to the SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, one of South Asia’s largest aquariums; the Royal Paragon Exhibition Hall; a state-of-the-art multiplex cinema; food halls and gourmet markets that offer deletable Thai food and international cuisines. The “Pride of Bangkok” is easily accessible for guests at any of the 4 star hotels in Bangkok and for local shopping enthusiasts.
Also known as Mahboonkrong, the MBK Shopping Centre has long been a go-to place for people looking for a good bargain! Commonly known for its affordability, the MBK boasts 8 stories with over 2000 shops that provide everything from fashion apparel, electronics, furniture and souvenirs. This alone makes it a shoppers' paradise! For those needing a break from their shopping extravaganzas, the MBK also includes an extensive food court with various international cuisines, a multi-screen cinema, a karaoke bar, a bowling alley and an arcade gaming centre. All of this makes for an energetic and wholesome shopping experience in the heart of Bangkok.
The Emporium is a sophisticated shopping mall known for its luxurious ambience and shopping experiences. It features high-end designer brands, a gourmet food hall, and a state-of-the-art cinema. This 6-story mall also boasts a supermarket, exhibition space, and convenient connection to the BTS Skytrain. It also houses the Thailand Creative Design Centre, Asia’s first design learning centre that features over 1500 books, videos and other materials. This makes it stand out as not just a shopping mall but also a venue for creativity and innovation as well.
The EmSphere is Bangkok's newest shopping haven, opened in December 2023, and a must-visit for anyone looking for new shopping experiences. Poised as a central feature of the EM district, this latest attraction boasts an impressively sleek design and promises an innovative shopping experience that embodies the notion of “Futur Retail”. It caters to various interests with trendy fashion and lifestyle stores, indulgent restaurants and gourmet options, the latest items in tech and a world-class venue for concerts, exhibitions, competitions and other events. The EmSphere isn’t just about shopping - it offers an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
