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About Venice Grand Canal Mall
Venice Grand Canal Mall is a premier lifestyle and shopping destination located in McKinley Hill, Taguig City, directly adjacent to Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Renowned as one of the most romantic and visually captivating shopping centers in the Philippines, this Megaworld Lifestyle Mall brings European charm to Metro Manila with its meticulously designed Italian-inspired architecture and man-made canal.
The centerpiece of the complex is a sprawling outdoor turquoise canal complete with authentic gondolas, classical bridges, and pastel-colored Venetian facades. Combined with an extensive array of open-air dining terraces, international retail brands, entertainment complexes, and photo-worthy piazzas, Venice Grand Canal Mall offers an immersive Mediterranean atmosphere for families, couples, and travelers exploring Taguig.
History and Vision
Venice Grand Canal Mall was conceptualized and developed by Megaworld Corporation, one of the Philippines' leading township developers, as the commercial and lifestyle anchor of its 50-hectare McKinley Hill township. Designed in consultation with Italian architectural consultants, the development aimed to recreate the timeless romantic ambiance of Venice, Italy, right in the heart of Metro Manila.
Officially opened to the public in late 2015, the mall quickly established itself as a flagship lifestyle property. Over the years, it expanded its leisure offerings, integrating high-end cinema complexes, pet-friendly plazas, outdoor performance spaces, and a diverse range of international restaurants, evolving into one of the most iconic urban landmarks in Taguig City.
What to See
Venice Grand Canal Mall is packed with Italianate architectural accents, charming plazas, and romantic photospots. Here are five top sights to admire during your visit:
1. The Grand Canal
The hallmark attraction of the mall—a long, winding outdoor canal featuring clear turquoise water, detailed stone edges, and traditional gondolas gliding past alfresco dining decks.
2. Rialto Bridge Replica
A grand arch bridge modeled after Venice’s famous Ponte di Rialto, offering an elevated, panoramic viewpoint over the canal and surrounding multi-hued building facades.
3. St. Mark’s Campanile Replica
A striking replica of the iconic Venetian bell tower standing tall at the end of the promenade, serving as a grand backdrop for architectural and street photography.
4. The Love Locks Bridge
A charming pedestrian bridge where couples attach personalized padlocks as a symbol of everlasting love, inspired by European romantic traditions.
5. Piazza de San Marco
A spacious open-air square surrounded by arched colonnades and outdoor seating, often hosting live musical acts, street performers, and seasonal pop-up markets.
What to Do
From romantic canal cruises to leisure activities, Venice Grand Canal Mall offers a distinct mix of experiences. Make sure to include these five activities in your plan:
1. Take a Traditional Gondola Ride
Board an authentic Venetian-style gondola steered by a costumed gondolier to glide along the canal, take photos, and enjoy serenades as you pass beneath stone bridges.
2. Dine Alfresco along the Canal Promenade
Enjoy a meal or coffee at one of the dozens of waterfront restaurants, listening to the gentle splash of water and live music while taking in the evening lights.
3. Catch a Movie at Megaworld Cinemas
Relax in VIP cinema lounges featuring state-of-the-art projection, reclining leather seats, and butler service inside the upper-floor entertainment complex.
4. Feed Pigeons and Enjoy Street Performances at the Piazza
Gather at Piazza de San Marco during late afternoons to watch mime artists, acoustic musicians, and cultural dance acts while enjoying the lively European square atmosphere.
5. Capture Night Photography and Light Displays
Visit after sunset when warm golden lighting, glowing bridge lanterns, and illuminated building facades create a magical reflection along the dark waters of the canal.
How to Get There
Reaching Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill from central Metro Manila and BGC is convenient via private ride-hailing or public transport:
- By Ride-Hailing Service or Taxi (Recommended):
- Set your drop-off destination to Venice Grand Canal Mall Main Entrance or McKinley Hill Driveway via Grab or taxi. It is a 10-to-15-minute ride from central BGC (High Street).
- By BGC Bus / City Bus from MRT-3 Guadalupe or Ayala Station:
- Take the MRT-3 to Ayala Station, walk to the BGC Bus Terminal, and take the Upper West Route or direct McKinley shuttle to McKinley Hill.
- Alternatively, take a city bus or jeepney along EDSA to Guadalupe or Chino Roces Avenue and transfer to a Gate 3 / Housing jeepney passing directly through Upper McKinley Road.
- By Jeepney / E-Jeepney from Market! Market!:
- Head to the terminal at Market! Market! in BGC and board a jeepney or e-jeep bound for Gate 3 / Lawton Avenue. Ask the driver to drop you off at Upper McKinley Road, followed by a 3-minute walk to the mall.
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Where to Stay
Staying near McKinley Hill or Bonifacio Global City gives you quick access to Venice Grand Canal Mall, high-end shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife. Recommended options include:
Transient House
Transient House provides simple, home-style lodging for short stays. And it's walking distance from BGC. It’s perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious visitors exploring the city. Book 805 here and get a discounted price of Transient House pesos per night.
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Grand Caliya Staycation
Grand Caliya Staycation provides stylish condo units with modern amenities. Perfect for families or groups, it offers comfort and accessibility near Bonifacio Global City. Book Grand Caliya Staycation here and get a discounted price of 1,297 pesos per night.
MyStay Hotel
MyStay Hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with essential facilities. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking affordability and convenience in Taguig. Book MyStay Hotel here while the price is 896 pesos per night.
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Lawton Residences
Lawton Residences features apartment-style accommodations ideal for long-term stays. Guests enjoy spacious units and proximity to key business and leisure districts. Book Lawton Residences here for as low as 1,215 pesos per night.
Astrotel Guadalupe
Astrotel Guadalupe offers affordable accommodations with themed rooms. Located near transport hubs, it’s a convenient option for travelers on the go. Book Astrotel here and get a promo price of 838 pesos per night.
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Airbnb
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Klook.comWhere to Eat
Venice Grand Canal Mall is a culinary hub featuring a wide mix of dining concepts from international restaurants to casual local eats:
Waterfront Dining & Italian Eats
Enjoy classic wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and wine along the canal at popular spots like Ponte Rialto, Toni & Sergio Gastro Italian, and Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen.
Asian Specialties & Fusion Fare
Satisfy your cravings with ramen, hotpot, and regional favorites at Ramen Kuroda, Samgyupsalamat, Suji-Sora, and various authentic Taiwanese tea shops.
Cafes & Desserts
Relax with cold-brew coffees, gelato, and pastries while enjoying canal views at Caramia Gelateria, Starbucks Reserve, Seattle’s Best Coffee, and local artisan boba shops.
Where to Shop
The mall offers a well-curated shopping layout across multiple levels for everyday lifestyle needs and specialty goods:
Fashion & Accessories
Browse high-street apparel, footwear, and activewear from popular global and local retail outlets scattered along the inner arcades.
Beauty, Wellness & Hobby Shops
Shop for skincare, cosmetics, books, novelties, and home items at major department stores, specialty boutiques, and wellness centers.
Supermarket & Everyday Essentials
Stock up on groceries, imported goods, and essentials at the sprawling Robinsons Supermarket located at the lower ground level.
Opening Hours
Venice Grand Canal Mall operates on standard commercial hours, with extended dining during weekends:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Note: Gondola rides typically begin operating from 1:00 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM on weekends and holidays. Individual waterfront bars and restaurants may operate later into the evening.
Essential Travel Tips
- Book Gondola Tickets Early: Queue lines for the gondola ride get long on weekend evenings; buy your tickets upon arrival to secure your preferred slot.
- Visit on Weekday Afternoons for Fewer Crowds: For photography without heavy crowds in the background, visit between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekdays.
- Bring Cash for Street Vendors & Kiosks: While restaurants and major shops accept credit cards, smaller pop-up carts and game booths prefer cash or GCash.
- Park at McKinley Hill Town Center: If driving, use the parking basements at Venice Grand Canal Mall or adjacent office towers along Upper McKinley Road.
- Pet-Friendly Destination: The mall is pet-friendly; ensure your pets are kept on leashes or in carriers in indoor sections.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit to Venice Grand Canal Mall with these top destinations nearby in Taguig and Makati:
- Bonifacio High Street (BGC): A premier open-air pedestrian shopping street filled with flagship retail stores, park spaces, and dining concepts.
- The Mind Museum: An interactive science museum in BGC featuring futuristic galleries, hands-on exhibits, and outdoor science parks.
- Manila American Cemetery and Memorial: A tranquil 152-acre historical park and memorial honoring soldiers, located just minutes away along Lawton Avenue.
- SM Aura Premier & Market! Market!: Major shopping malls located right on the edge of BGC, offering high-end fashion, department stores, and local food markets.
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