While I have seriously cut down on all kinds of shopping since I started traveling so much, I have found it very difficult to resist spending all of my money on clothes and shoes while in Asia – the shopping malls and prices in Europe simply can’t compare to those in Asia.
The only thing that has stopped me from filling my backpack with shoes and dresses is that I hate the extra weight.
I’ve dealt with my shopping-cravings by saying that one day I will go back with at least one large empty suitcase to fill up with all the shopping I want before I leave again. When I do this, these are the places I will visit – which are known to have some of the best shopping in Asia.
Best Cities In Asia For Shopping

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The first time I went on Malaysia holidays and visited KL I was completely shocked by the sheer size of the shopping malls.
Just like in Bangkok you can walk from one shopping mall to another without ever even going outside.
Berjaya Times Square mall is enormous, and you will find that a lot of tourists inside are carrying maps of the mall as it’s so easy to get lost.
For more luxurious shopping KLCC mall underneath the famous Petronas Towers is the place to go, a place where I found myself surrounded by cat walk models on a shopping spree – this mall is worth a visit just to see the towers themselves.
The most famous malls are Bukit Bintang Plaza, Low Yatm Sungeu Wang Plaza and Starhill Plaza.
There are also a lot of interesting night markets around town where you can do some more budget retail shopping, like Petaling Street in China town.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a shoppers haven, offering everything on earth for some amazing prices, even compared to other cities in Thailand.
From Thai silk and handicrafts, budget rip-offs to high end fashion, local designers to international brands, everything is right here in Bangkok, and often under the same roof.
We experienced some amazing service from the shops, one which actually sent a microphone we bought via express flight up to Chiang Mai half an hour after we bought it online, and we received it the same evening.
Top places to shop are Central World Plaza (biggest mall in Bangkok), Chatuchak Market, Paptong Night Market, MBK Mall, Siam Discovery, Pantip Plaza, Siam Paragon among others.
Best Places to Shop in Hong Kong
Shopping in Hong Kong China is more than just a social activity, it is treated more like a serious sport, and it’s an important part of their history, culture and way of life. Hong Kong is smaller than Bangkok which makes it a lot easier getting around, something which is crucial when you are out to simply shop.
The best time to go for Hong Kong holidays is either in July to September or late December to February when the city has some truly amazing sales. The most popular places to shop are Festival Walk, SOHO, Causeway Bay and Kowloon.

Whether you’re lucky enough to get a layover on international Hong Kong flights or are planning a holiday to Hong Kong, you must take time to experience some of the greatest shopping in the world.
Like many other Asian countries, Hong Kong has a reputation for covering all aspects of the shopping spectrum; you’ll be able to find everything from one of a kind jewelry pieces to the latest and greatest in gadgets.
Don’t worry if you don’t have the cash to splash, as you can usually stick for your budget in Hong Kong and still find exactly what you’re looking for. From street markets to upscale department stores, Hong Kong has it all.
If this has already got you searching the internet for a flight to Hong Kong, don’t delay – experience the magic of this vibrant city and start your shopping adventure today!

Temple Street Night Market
If you’re looking for a bargain, you can’t go past the Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. The markets are open daily, from 4pm to midnight, providing you with plenty of time to find just what you need!
You’ll find something for everyone at these markets, with a variety of clothing, gadgets, watches, electronics, luggage and various food stalls. If you want to buy some souvenirs for the unlucky non-travellers back home, the Temple Street Night Market is the perfect place.
Plaza Hollywood
As far as shopping malls are concerned, this is the crème de le crème of Hong Kong. The Plaza Hollywood Shopping Mall is one of the largest in the East of Hong Kong, located amongst the infamous Kowloon Shopping District.
There are more than 220 stores and restaurants, an enormous exhibition centre and a cinema located within Plaza Hollywood.
DFS Galleria Hong Kong
If you’re looking to spend a little money on some world famous brands, DFS Galleria is the perfect shopping destination for you. Stocking only the finest international brands globetrotters, from all across the world, travel to Hong Kong to experience the luxurious shopping experience of a lifetime.
Ladies’ Market
Also known as the Tung Choi Street Markets, the Ladies’ Markets offer everything a girl could need. While men’s and children’s clothing are on sale, as well as various toys, there is an abundance of women’s clothing, bags and accessories.
Most of the clothing found at the markets is quite affordable, making this a popular shopping destination with tourists. Also located in the market district of Kowloon, the Ladies’ market is open every evening from noon until 11.30pm.
K11
This is the place where shopping meets art. Designed to incorporate the wonders of art and nature, this isn’t just shopping; it’s an entire experience. The first of its kind in the world, K11 blends the beauty of the world to create an unforgettable atmosphere, enhanced by intricate architectural detailing.
Peter Clay - Travel Project says
Great post! Agree with KL, I’m like a kid in a lolly store when I go to Plaza Low Ya (Tech Mall) – floors and floors of electronics! Singapore always an old fav though. But just quietly, my wife and I’s new fav city is Galle in Sri Lanka. Full of Bohemian designers and contemporary stores all mixed with historical buildings.
Andi Perullo says
Can wait to go shopping in HK in March!
Andrew - The Unframed World says
…and Singapore. ^_^
Nicole_gamble says
Interesting post, I am so glad that I have visited your site. Really useful information!
Mariellen Ward says
Personally, I don’t think you can beat Delhi (or Mumbai). Gorgeous clothes, in a dazzling array of colours, often hand-beaded or hand-embroidered, at reasonable prices; ornate jewelery that makes you feel like a princess; and don’t get me started on the shoes!
Jacinthe Milton says
If I am a shopaholic then I will go to Bangkok, Thailand. I’ve heard a lot of things there when it comes to shopping. The price is good, as well as the quality of the clothes and etc.
Sofia - As We Travel says
Yeah prices are good, and in markets you can get some amazing deals if you enjoy bargaining.
Sofia - As We Travel says
I didn’t have much time to explore the shopping in Delhi, but I went to one mall which was awesome, so I can imagine that the rest of Delhi is as well.
Everything was so cheap, I bought things I would never have been able to afford in Europe like hand-beaded silk skirts and things like that. Next time I visit I’ll make sure I have more time to do some shopping.
Sofia - As We Travel says
Great, bring an extra empty bag so you can really go crazy and fill it to the max!
Sofia - As We Travel says
Thanks for the tip about Galle, sounds like a great place. I’ll keep that in mind when we visit Sri Lanka.
Khairah321 says
that was really good and descriptive…now i want to hop on the next place to malaysia and go shopping 🙂
Superful says
This is great some people would love the chance to go to asia and spend there time shopping.
Mykonos says
I have heard about Bangkok before I just couldn;t believe it much! Thank you for the information!
Fudge143 says
lol!….i Think Manila Philippines is the best shopping destination…because everywhere you will go thers always a Shopping malls
cheap flights to Delhi says
Oh these cites are very good cities in Asia for Shopaholics.
New York Hotel says
I read your blog. Such a great topic. I really happy to read this post. so I will decide go to Bangkok, Thailand. I’ve heard a lot of things there when it comes to shopping. The price is good, as well as the quality of the clothes and etc.
Andrea says
I agree with you! i have been in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur and i just love them! lots of stuff and really cheap! I went to Singapore and there are lost of mall there too… but its by far more expensive! so i wouldn’t add it to this list 🙂
Exotic Las Vegas says
I’m sorry but if you visit Hong Kong or Bangkok and your main concern is shopping your priorities are jacked, those cities are absolutely beautiful and have such a diverse culture to take in.