Puerto Princesa Public Market
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic Palawan souvenirs. Experience the vibrant daily life of Puerto Princesa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce arrives
Puerto Princesa Public Market
Best Time
Freshest produce arrives
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic Palawan souvenirs. Experience the vibrant daily life of Puerto Princesa.
"Very good for seafood and vegetables. Cheap prices."
🛍️ Haggle for Souvenirs
Always canvass and negotiate prices for dried fish, cashews, and souvenirs to get the best deals.
👟 Watch Your Step!
The fish selling area can be wet and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Seafood Galore
Fish Section
Dive into a vibrant display of the day's catch. From large shrimp to various local fish, it's a seafood lover's paradise.
Local Delicacies & Snacks
Stalls throughout the market
Discover an array of dried fish, roasted cashews, and other local treats – perfect for pasalubong (souvenirs).
Vibrant Local Atmosphere
Main market floor
Immerse yourself in the lively energy of Palawan's daily life, a true sensory experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Market
Best Buys & Bargains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Haggle for Souvenirs
Always canvass and negotiate prices for dried fish, cashews, and souvenirs to get the best deals.
👟 Watch Your Step!
The fish selling area can be wet and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
💰 Cash is King
Most vendors operate on a cash basis, so ensure you have enough local currency.
📍 Old Market vs. New
Some prefer the old market on Malvar Street for certain items, though this new market is more accessible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Haggle for Souvenirs
Always canvass and negotiate prices for dried fish, cashews, and souvenirs to get the best deals.
👟 Watch Your Step!
The fish selling area can be wet and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
💰 Cash is King
Most vendors operate on a cash basis, so ensure you have enough local currency.
📍 Old Market vs. New
Some prefer the old market on Malvar Street for certain items, though this new market is more accessible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Puerto Princesa Public Market to be a vibrant spot for fresh seafood and local produce at great prices. While some note the selection might be better at the older market, this location is generally more accessible and offers a good variety of goods, including popular dried fish and cashews. Be mindful of the wet floors in the fish section.
"I prefer the old market. The location is not as accessible. I think the selection of fish at this new market is not as good as the old one. Price wise - there isn’t much difference."
J. Emmanuel Curabo
"Very good for seafood and vegetables. Cheap prices
Purchased 1 kilo large shrimp 600p"
chip wolf
"Small market, has an ok variety of things."
M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is centrally located and accessible by tricycle or local jeepney. If you're near the airport, it's a short ride away. Some travelers mention the old market on Malvar Street is within walking distance of the Baywalk.
Yes, it's relatively close to the airport, making it a convenient stop if you have a few hours before your flight.
Tricycles are the most common and affordable mode of transport for short distances within the city. For longer trips like to El Nido, buses like Cherry Bus are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Puerto Princesa Public Market. It's a public space for locals and tourists alike.
The market is typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening, with the freshest produce available in the morning. Specific closing times can vary.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a variety of local products, including dried fish, roasted and fried cashews, ref magnets, t-shirts, and sarongs.
Yes, especially for souvenirs and dried goods, it's common practice to haggle for a better price. Always compare offers from different vendors.
The public market is a prime spot for dried fish. Some travelers suggest the old market on Malvar Street might have a good selection as well.
Absolutely! The market is renowned for its fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits, offering a wide selection at competitive prices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market is a fantastic place for a food trip, offering fresh seafood that can be cooked nearby, as well as local snacks and delicacies.
While the market itself is primarily for buying raw ingredients, there are often small eateries or food stalls nearby where you can have your fresh seafood cooked.
Beyond the market finds, look out for local specialties. While not directly at the market, Buko Puffs from Catalina's Bakeshop are a popular pasalubong.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, taking photos is acceptable, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their products. Be mindful of the busy environment.
Early mornings offer the best light and the most vibrant activity as vendors set up. Late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep a close eye on younger children due to the crowds and potentially slippery floors in the fish section. It's advisable to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. While the market is primarily for shopping, the experience itself is educational and memorable. Consider purchasing some dried fish or cashews as a fun snack for the family to share.
💰 Budget Travelers
When it comes to souvenirs like dried fish and cashews, remember to haggle. Comparing prices across different stalls will help you secure the best deals. This market is the perfect place to stock up on local snacks and ingredients for a fraction of the cost you'd find elsewhere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Puerto Princesa: The Public Market
Travelers often highlight the market as a must-visit for experiencing authentic local life. It's a fantastic spot to find fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits at prices that are hard to beat. Beyond groceries, the market is also a treasure trove for souvenirs, particularly dried fish and the famous Palawan cashews.
While the market is a hub of activity, it's important to be prepared. The fish section can be wet and slippery, so sensible footwear is recommended. For tourists, a key piece of advice is to always canvass and haggle for prices, especially when purchasing souvenirs, to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Culinary Adventures at the Market
Beyond the seafood, the market is the go-to place for 'pasalubong' – edible souvenirs. Dried fish in various forms are a staple, and the roasted or fried cashews are a highly sought-after treat. These make for perfect gifts or personal indulgences to take home.
While the market itself focuses on raw ingredients, the surrounding area often hosts small food stalls and eateries. These establishments can often cook your market purchases to perfection, allowing you to savor the local flavors immediately. It’s an affordable and delicious way to experience Puerto Princesa's gastronomy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit