A Quick Glimpse: Why Everyone Ends Up at Centaurus
No matter where you start your day in Islamabad — from hiking up Trail 5 or sipping chai in F-7 — chances are you’ll somehow end up at Centaurus Mall. Located on Jinnah Avenue right in the heart of the city, this massive glass structure is impossible to miss. It’s where Islamabad’s modern vibe really comes alive.
Getting There
Centaurus is conveniently accessible whether you’re:
Flying in: 40 minutes from Islamabad International Airport
Driving from Lahore: About 4.5 hours (straight shot via M2)
Coming from Muzaffarabad: Roughly 3 hours of scenic travel
Walking from F-8/F-10 sectors: Short taxi or car ride away
Once you’re close, trust me — the shiny towers will guide you in.
The Food Court (Yes, Before Shopping)
There’s just something about that top-floor food court that feels… nostalgic. Maybe it’s the kids running around, or the aroma of freshly fried fries blending with sizzling BBQ. Some of my favorites:
BBQ Tonight: The platter is worth every calorie
Burger Lab: Crispy chicken done right
Gloria Jean’s: The iced mocha is the ultimate fuel-up
Savour Foods (Lower Ground): Quick, cheap, and a true Islamabad essential
Pro tip: Grab your meal and sit near the glass walls for a sunset view over the city skyline.
The Brands
Window shopping feels just as good here.
Sapphire: Their lawn prints get better every season
J. (Junaid Jamshed): For last-minute Eid shopping
Khaadi & Outfitters: For both Eastern and Western vibes
Samsung & Huawei stores: Tech updates without the haggling
And yes — the sales during Eid or New Year? Absolute madness. You’ll see half the city queued up.
Family Spots: Fun City
If you’re with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), Fun City is where the real action is. The arcade vibes are retro, and the staff actually knows how to deal with sugar-fueled kids.
The Cineplex & Lazy Evenings
The popcorn’s nothing to write home about, but the seats are comfy, and the ticketing is smooth. Best part? You walk right out and have your pick of dinner places to land.
A Few Underrated Features
Hidden Seating Area: There’s a semi-secret chill spot near the cinema escalator that gives you a mini view of the city.
Basement Grocery: Forgot shampoo or want imported chocolate? Head to the Al-Fatah in the basement.
Valet Parking: Worth it during weekends when finding a spot becomes a test of patience.
Centaurus Mall Timings (Updated for 2025)
Mon to Fri: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sat & Sun: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Note: Fridays are busy — avoid evenings if you don’t love crowds.
Local Tip: What Most Tourists Miss
The Centaurus Mall mobile app now alerts you of real-time sales and crowd status. Download it if you want to skip the chaos or spot limited-time flash deals.
Final Thoughts: Why Centaurus Still Wins
Sure, Islamabad has other malls now — Giga Mall, Safa Gold, and smaller plazas all over — but Centaurus Mall still holds the crown. Maybe it’s the buzz, the crowd, or the feeling of being part of the city’s pulse.
It’s not just about shopping. It’s where you go after work, between classes, before a dinner date, or on a lazy weekend when you don’t know what else to do. In a city known for its calm and quiet, Centaurus is the chaos we all secretly love.
