
Poblacion Central Market
Davao's vibrant cultural hub for authentic Mindanao crafts, art, fashion, and delicious local delicacies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

Poblacion Central Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Davao's vibrant cultural hub for authentic Mindanao crafts, art, fashion, and delicious local delicacies.
"A must-visit in Davao, showcasing Mindanao art and local products accessible to everyone."

Negotiate for Bulk Buys
Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially when buying multiple items for pasalubong. :moneywithwings:
Explore Both Floors
The ground floor has food and souvenirs, while the second floor offers more fashion and crafts. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mindanao Tribal Art & Crafts
Second Floor
Discover indigenous art, fabrics, and accessories representing Mindanao's 11 tribes. A true cultural immersion.
Artisanal Chocolates & Local Delicacies
Various Stalls
Indulge in Davao's famous chocolates, cakes, and pastries. Don't miss Lachi's and other local food stalls.
Island Souvenirs & Fashion
Ground Floor
Shop for Davao-themed clothing, accessories, and personalized pasalubong with a fun island twist.
Kublai Millan's Artworks
Various Stalls
Explore the works of renowned artist Kublai Millan, showcasing Mindanao's vibrant art scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Your Davao Pasalubong Hub
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate for Bulk Buys
Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially when buying multiple items for pasalubong. :moneywithwings:
Explore Both Floors
The ground floor has food and souvenirs, while the second floor offers more fashion and crafts. :world_map:
Try Local Delicacies
Sample delicious treats from Lachi's and other food stalls for an authentic taste of Davao. :ice_cream:
Beware of Aggressive Sellers
Salesladies on the second floor can be very persistent; stay firm if you're not interested. :woman_shouting:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate for Bulk Buys
Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially when buying multiple items for pasalubong. :moneywithwings:
Explore Both Floors
The ground floor has food and souvenirs, while the second floor offers more fashion and crafts. :world_map:
Try Local Delicacies
Sample delicious treats from Lachi's and other food stalls for an authentic taste of Davao. :ice_cream:
Beware of Aggressive Sellers
Salesladies on the second floor can be very persistent; stay firm if you're not interested. :woman_shouting:
Support Local Artisans
Many stalls feature pure Mindanao-made products, supporting local craftsmanship. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Poblacion Market Central for its wide array of authentic local products, from Mindanao tribal art to artisanal chocolates and souvenirs, often at more affordable prices than elsewhere. The market's improvement with air-conditioned stalls and organized displays is noted, making it a convenient one-stop shop for pasalubong. However, some shoppers find the salesladies on the second floor to be overly aggressive.
"So many things to choose from! From pearls to bags to accessories. There is something for everyone. Once you are done shopping there is a selection of local food and drinks stalls. There are banks and money changers inside too if you’ll be needing some more money for your shopping. The place is very clean and organized. My only comment is the salesladies on the second floor can be very aggressive and they can swarm you just to see their stores. Everything else is a treat. It’s lovely to see beautiful local products accessible to everyone."
Tjoy Sherrod
"An exciting cultural destination, that houses indigenous art, fabrics , furniture and colorful accessories like necklaces, belts bags and many more. They define the cultural identity represented by 11 tribes of Mindanao.
Also a place that showcases Mindanao Art ,the works of foremost artist, Kublai Millan.
You can easily do your shopping for endless inspiration and creative works of Art. A must to visit in Davao."
Armando Giron
"Poblacion Market Central has improved a lot since the last time I visited this place in 2022. Most stalls are already airconditioned, and the display of products are well-organized. Everything here is significantly cheaper than in other stores in Davao City. This is a one-stop pasalubong center for tourists."
Kersey Badocdoc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Poblacion Market Central is located in the heart of downtown Davao City, easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. It's a central landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, there is parking available, though it can get busy during peak hours. It's advisable to arrive early if you're driving.
Yes, numerous jeepneys and taxis pass by the area. It's a well-connected part of the city.
It's located in the Poblacion District, a central area in Davao City, making it easy to find.
While improvements have been made, accessibility can vary. Some areas might be challenging, but many stalls are on the ground floor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Poblacion Market Central is free. You only pay for the items you purchase.
Operating hours can vary slightly by stall, but generally, the market is open daily from around 9 AM to 7 PM or 9 PM. Some food stalls like Hey Monday Deli have specific hours.
There are no entrance fees for the general market. Any special exhibits or events would have their own admission policies.
Yes, the market is typically open on holidays, though it's always a good idea to check for any special holiday hours.
Weekdays, especially in the morning, tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide array of souvenirs, including Mindanao tribal art, fabrics, accessories, pearls, batik clothing, keychains, ref magnets, and artisanal chocolates.
Poblacion Market Central is a prime spot for quality Davao products. Look for items from Island Souvenirs, D'Landap Gift Shop, and various artisanal chocolate vendors.
Yes, prices are often negotiable, especially for bulk purchases. Don't hesitate to haggle politely.
Absolutely! Many stalls feature pure local Mindanao-made products, supporting local artisans and their crafts.
Shops like Alvics Batik and Ainee Batik N Pearl offer a selection of batiks, t-boliskirts, malongs, and other unique ethnic wear.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of local food and drinks, including Lachi's famous pork ribs and pastries, as well as other delicious treats from various stalls. Hey Monday Deli is also a popular spot.
Lachi's is a well-known establishment for its ribs and cakes. Hey Monday Deli is also highly recommended for its quality and generous servings.
Yes, you can find artisanal chocolates, including those from Magara Ph, which are recommended for chocolate enthusiasts.
Food stalls generally operate during the market's main hours, with some, like Hey Monday Deli, having specific lunch and dinner service times.
Definitely! Poblacion Market Central offers a great opportunity to sample authentic local delicacies and dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the vibrant displays of local crafts, art, and food make it a visually rich location for photography.
The stalls featuring Mindanao tribal art, colorful textiles, and the food displays offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from the stall owners before taking close-up shots of their merchandise.
There are no widespread restrictions, but be mindful of other shoppers and avoid blocking aisles.
Lighting varies. Some stalls have good artificial lighting, while others rely on natural light. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer softer natural light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for unique Davao-themed items from Island Souvenirs that can serve as fun mementos for the kids. While some sales tactics can be aggressive, keeping a close eye on children and sticking together will ensure a pleasant visit. The market's central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Davao City.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on finding pasalubong like keychains, ref magnets, and smaller crafts, which are usually very affordable. While some higher-end items like wooden displays might be pricier, the overall value for money is excellent. You can also enjoy local delicacies from the food stalls at reasonable prices, making it a great spot for an affordable meal.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Don't miss the opportunity to find unique pasalubong that truly represent Davao and Mindanao. Be prepared for potentially persistent sales pitches on the second floor, but remember that negotiation is part of the experience, especially for bulk purchases. Look out for quality brands like D'Landap Gift Shop for traditional items and Island Souvenirs for trendy Davao-themed merchandise.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Cultural Tapestry of Mindanao
Beyond tribal crafts, the market also highlights the contemporary art scene of Davao. It features the works of renowned artist Kublai Millan, whose sculptures and artworks often draw inspiration from Mindanao's culture and natural beauty. This blend of traditional and modern art makes Poblacion Market Central a significant cultural destination for visitors seeking an authentic experience of Mindanao.
For those interested in fashion, you'll discover stalls selling modern ethnic Filipiniana, batiks, malongs, and other unique apparel. These items offer a stylish way to bring a piece of Mindanao's fashion heritage home.
The Ultimate Pasalubong Destination
Popular choices include artisanal chocolates, with vendors like Lachi's offering delicious treats and cakes. You can also find Davao-themed items from Island Souvenirs, featuring everything from durian-inspired designs to Mt. Apo views on clothing and accessories. Other notable finds include pearls, bags, wooden figurines, and keychains, all representing Davao's local pride.
Remember that prices can be negotiable, especially for bulk purchases, so don't hesitate to haggle politely to get the best deals. The market's organization and the wide variety of quality local products make it a highly recommended stop for any tourist.
A Culinary Journey Through Davao
A standout is Lachi's, famous for its unforgettable pork ribs, cakes, and pastries. Another highly recommended spot is Hey Monday Deli, praised for its quality food and generous servings, making it a 'sulit' (worthwhile) dining choice.
For chocolate lovers, the market is a treasure trove. You can find artisanal chocolates, including those from Magara Ph, which are a must-try for anyone interested in Davao's chocolate scene. Exploring these food stalls is an essential part of the Poblacion Market Central experience, offering an authentic taste of Davao.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit