Bohol Island Shopping

Where to Shop in Bohol Island

Bohol is not as cluttered as Manila or Cebu when it comes to retailers and markets, but it still has some great handicrafts and contemporary shopping outlets to call its own. Bartering in shopping malls is acceptable but when visiting an independently owned stall feel free to try and barter the price down. Bohol has some exceedingly good basket ware, the quality and standard of craftsmanship is fantastic. Most tourist attractions have their own gift shops where token pieces can be acquired.

If you want to get some serious shopping done then we recommend a stop off in Manila, where the caliber of shopping rivals that of the USA.

For foreigners, it should be noted that you cannot take your bags into shops. You are expected to leave them at a 'courtesy counter' near the entrance and you will receive a token (normally a piece of plastic with a number on it).

Bohol Quality Mall

The second-largest shopping centre in Tagbilaran City, it has recently been renovated with new floors and additional shops. The mall is packed with restaurants, clothing boutiques, used and unused books and much more. Air conditioned and relatively modern, Bohol Quality Mall can definitely entertain for an hour or two if you are wanting to escape the midday sun.

Location: Straight in the middle of Carlos P. Garcia Avenue (commonly known as CPG Avenue) in the old town centre.
Remarks: Taxi or Car

Plaza Marcela

Opened in 1997, this is considered one of the island's more attractive malls, in other words both the exterior and interior are quite flash. Bohol locals are drawn to the mall by the special events often hosted here including live performances and competitions. There are many specialty stores and the reasonably priced restaurants also add to its appeal. Its positioning in a busy part of the capital makes it the most accessible of all Bohol's malls.

Location: Situated to the northwest of the town centre in Barangay Cogon
Remarks: Taxi or Tricycle

Island City Mall

The island's most recently opened and subsequently biggest shopping mall is both diverse and rich in content, recreational options and food choices. The food hall is a popular hangout with both families and Bohol’s youth, who choose to eat and socialise in the air-conditioned basement. This is the place to head to pick up appropriate summer apparel, literature both old and new and the latest technology. Foreigners should note that the ATM does not accept foreign cards, so bring enough cash so as you won’t be disappointed.

Location: Near the provincial bus terminal in Dao, Tagbilaran

Antequera – Basket ware

To date, there are approximately 10,000 weavers from Antequera who support three established firms in the industry. If you are interested in acquiring some basket ware, be sure to venture to the west of Tagbilaran City, where Anteqeura lies. Roughly 30 minutes from Tagbilaran City, this is considered to be the basket capital of Bohol, an island renowned for its weaving skills that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Location: 18 kilometres to the west of Tagbilaran City

What to Buy in Philippines

The Philippines is an excellent destination for anyone interested in picking up elaborate handicrafts, home-furnishings, jewelry, embroidery and baskets. In buying traditional crafts such as silks and carvings, tourists are invariably helping to support a still-growing and fragile economy. Read more...