For many travelers to the Philippines, the nation’s sprawling retail landscapes—such as the formidable Mall of Asia in Pasay City—are often considered the beginning and end of the shopping experience. Yet, tucked away in the McKinley Hill township of Taguig City lies a destination that transcends the traditional mall concept. The Venice Grand Canal Mall is not merely a retail hub; it is an architectural homage to the timeless elegance of Italy.
During a visit to Manila in late 2022, I found myself drawn to McKinley Hill not for the urge of shopping but for immersing into the beauty of a Venice namesake.
Having missed the opportunity to visit Venice during a 2011 tour of Italy—where my itinerary was dominated by the spiritual and historic grandeur of Rome and Vatican City—this Manila landmark offered a compelling, if unexpected, second chance to experience the Venetian aesthetic.
Developed by Megaworld Corporation, the mall’s authenticity is no accident. The firm collaborated with the Rome-based Paolo Marioni Architetto to ensure the design remained faithful to its namesake.
This dedication to craftsmanship was formally recognized in 2017 when the development secured the award for Best Retail Architectural Design at the Philippine Property Awards. Today, it is frequently cited as the most romantic destination in the country.
The centerpiece of the experience is, naturally, the man-made canal. Here, the atmosphere is defined by the gentle rhythm of oars as traditional gondolas navigate the azure waters, guided by singing gondoliers.
Visitors can explore a selection of novelty boutiques and bazaars, or dine at the various upscale restaurants that line the water’s edge, many of which specialize in authentic Italian cuisine. I spent a couple of hours there sipping some finely brewed coffee, window-shopping and admiring the Venice replica.
Perhaps the most evocative vantage point is the Ponte de Amore (Bridge of Love). Spanning the canal, the bridge offers a panoramic view of the gondolas below and the intricate facades that house the mall’s shops and the state-of-the-art Venice Cineplex.
I had some great moments standing on the love bridge and observing shoppers spending quality time there. It becomes a premier destination for photography, capturing the romantic spirit that permeates the open-air complex.
Since its inauguration in 2015, the Venice Grand Canal Mall has evolved into more than just a local hangout for Taguig residents. It stands as a premier attraction for international tourists, proving that even within the bustling urbanity of Metro Manila – one can find a quiet, elegant slice of Venice.
The well-paved road climbed steadily away from the Venice Grand Canal Mall, each step toward Upper McKinley Road feeling heavy with the afternoon’s heat. Behind me, the canal’s turquoise water and the bitter-sweetness of the coffee remained vivid, a quiet memory I wasn't quite ready to lose.
Yet, I headed slowly back to my hotel in Bonifacio Global City, the hustling central business district in Taguig.
