Where to Stay in Manila
Philippines
|Pop. 1.6M
|4 neighborhoods covered
Manila at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Manila
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Utilize ride-hailing apps like Grab for transportation. They offer predictable pricing and are generally safer and more convenient than hailing taxis on the street, especially during peak hours or in less familiar areas.
Getting Around
Traffic is a major factor; always factor in extra travel time, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-8 PM).
Watch Out For
Overpriced taxi rides (insist on meter or use Grab)
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe in well-developed areas like Makati and BGC during the day, but requires heightened awareness at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas. Utilize trusted transportation like Grab.
Hidden Gems in Manila
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Paco Park
FREEThis historic park, a former Spanish cemetery, offers a serene escape with its beautiful gardens, old stone walls, and a central chapel. It's a peaceful spot for a quiet stroll or to appreciate historical architecture.
Binondo Chinatown
The world's oldest Chinatown, Binondo is a bustling district brimming with authentic Chinese eateries, street food stalls, and heritage shops. Dive into delicious dim sum, savory noodles, and unique local Chinese-Filipino delicacies.
National Museum of Natural History
FREEHoused in the stunningly restored Ayuntamiento building, this museum showcases the Philippines' rich biodiversity with impressive exhibits on flora and fauna. Don't miss the 'Tree of Life' central atrium, a breathtaking architectural marvel.
Escolta Street
FREEOnce Manila's most prestigious street, Escolta is now a vibrant hub for art and culture, featuring beautiful pre-war buildings, independent galleries, and weekend markets. It's a great place to explore Manila's art scene and architectural heritage.
Hole in the Wall
Located on the 4th floor of Century City Mall, this is a curated collection of unique and popular Filipino food stalls offering a diverse range of local flavors. It's a fantastic spot to sample various dishes from different vendors all in one place.
Intramuros Bamboo Organ
While Intramuros itself is popular, seeking out a performance of the unique 19th-century bamboo organ at San Agustin Church is a special treat. The sound is unlike any other, offering a truly historical and musical experience.
What It Costs in Manila
Daily budget per person in PHP
💡80% cheaper than London
PHP 2000/day
PHP 5000/day
PHP 15000/day
Where to Stay in Manila
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Greenbelt Park15 min
- Ayala Triangle Gardens20 min
- Poblacion25 min
Pros
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- +Good infrastructure and services
- +Relatively safe and well-maintained
Cons
- -Can be expensive
- -Traffic congestion is severe
Top stays in Makati
The Peninsula Manila
$$$An iconic luxury hotel known for its impeccable service and grand colonial ambiance.
Fairmont Makati
$$$Offers sophisticated rooms and direct access to the vibrant Ayala Center shopping district.
City Garden Grand Hotel
$$Boasts a rooftop pool with stunning city views and modern amenities.
Troy's Place
$$A charming boutique option offering personalized service and stylish rooms.
KL Serviced Residences
$$Provides spacious serviced apartments ideal for longer stays and families.
Best for
Walk to
- Uptown Mall10 min
- Mind Museum15 min
- Mercato Centrale20 min
Pros
- +Clean and well-organized urban environment
- +Abundance of international dining and shopping
- +Pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks
Cons
- -Can feel somewhat sterile compared to older parts of Manila
- -Higher cost of living
Top stays in Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
Shangri-La at The Fort, Manila
$$$A modern luxury hotel with extensive amenities, including a popular pool bar and fitness center.
Grand Hyatt Manila
$$$Offers luxurious accommodations and some of the highest dining experiences in the city.
F1 Hotel Manila
$$Known for its spacious suites and excellent value for families.
Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila
$$$Premium serviced apartments offering home-like comfort with hotel services.
The Suites at One Bonifacio High Street
$$$Prime location with direct access to high-end retail and dining.
Best for
Walk to
- Rizal Park15 min
- National Museum Complex25 min
- Intramuros30 min
Pros
- +Affordable accommodation and food options
- +Proximity to major historical sites
- +Energetic nightlife scene
Cons
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Safety can be a concern in certain streets at night
- -Infrastructure is older and less maintained
Top stays in Malate
Diamond Hotel Philippines
$$Offers bay views and a more upscale experience within Malate, with good amenities.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manila
$A reliable budget option offering clean rooms and essential amenities.
Dude 89 Hostel
$A popular backpacker choice known for its social atmosphere and affordable dorms.
Aura Hotel
$Offers basic, clean rooms at very competitive prices.
City Garden Hotel Makati
$$Though technically in Makati, it's accessible from Malate and offers a good mid-range option.
Best for
Walk to
- Rizal Park5 min
- National Museum of Fine Arts10 min
- National Museum of Natural History12 min
- Intramuros20 min
Pros
- +Centrally located for cultural attractions
- +Very affordable accommodation and dining
- +Easy access to public transport
Cons
- -Can be chaotic and crowded
- -Safety requires vigilance, especially at night
- -Some areas are less developed
Top stays in Ermita
The Bayleaf Intramuros
$$A charming boutique hotel offering rooftop views over Intramuros.
Hotel H2O
$$Unique hotel with aquarium-themed rooms and excellent Manila Bay views.
Ermita Lodge
$A basic, no-frills option popular with budget travelers.
Z Hostel
$Known for its rooftop bar and social events, a hub for backpackers.
Sadayan Suites
$Offers simple, clean rooms in a convenient location for sightseeing.
Areas to be cautious
- Certain parts of Quiapo and Divisoria: These areas are known for intense crowds, heavy traffic, and a higher incidence of petty theft and pickpocketing. While they offer unique local markets, they require extreme vigilance and are not recommended for casual tourists, especially first-timers or those concerned about safety.
Insider tip: Utilize ride-hailing apps like Grab for transportation. They offer predictable pricing and are generally safer and more convenient than hailing taxis on the street, especially during peak hours or in less familiar areas.
Safety in Manila
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Generally safe in well-developed areas like Makati and BGC during the day, but requires heightened awareness at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas. Utilize trusted transportation like Grab.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially in districts like Malate or Ermita. Be wary of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items. Consider using rideshare services for all travel.
Emergency
117
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced taxi rides (insist on meter or use Grab)
- 2Distraction theft (someone bumps into you while another picks your pocket)
- 3Fake police or overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours
Getting Around Manila
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. ₱350-₱600 (30-60 mins, depending on traffic). Airport Liner Bus: approx. ₱50-₱100 (60-90 mins, limited routes). Grab: approx. ₱400-₱700. NAIA Expressway helps reduce travel time.
🎫
Day Pass
No specific day pass for MRT/LRT; single ride tickets are used. A Beep Card can be loaded for easier travel on MRT/LRT and some buses/point-to-point buses (₱20 initial cost).
Single: MRT/LRT: ₱15-₱30 depending on distance. Jeepney: ₱10-₱15 for the first few kilometers.
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededGrab
📶
WiFi
Good30-50 Mbps in cafes and hotels
Public Transport
MRT (Light Rail Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) are the main rail lines but are often crowded and have limited coverage. Jeepneys and buses are ubiquitous but can be confusing for tourists. Tricycles are common for short distances in local neighborhoods.
Ride-share
Grab is the dominant app. Typical cost for a 5-10 km ride within the city is ₱150-₱300.
Transport Tip
Traffic is a major factor; always factor in extra travel time, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-8 PM).
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Shopping malls (e.g., SM Malls, Ayala Malls), some cafes, hotels.
Coworking
Several options in Makati and BGC, such as ClockIn, MyOffice, and Weremote. Daily rates typically range from ₱500-₱1,000.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar
Hotels & Accommodation in Manila
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Manila?
Compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Who Is Manila Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers a good introduction to modern Manila with reliable infrastructure, safety, and a wide array of amenities.
Families
Provides a clean, safe, and pedestrian-friendly environment with family-friendly attractions and dining.
Budget Backpackers
Offers affordable accommodation, food, and a lively atmosphere close to historical sites.
Culture Enthusiasts
Centrally located for easy access to the National Museums, Rizal Park, and Intramuros.
Luxury Travelers
Home to top-tier hotels, fine dining, and exclusive shopping experiences.
Digital Nomads
Features reliable internet, modern co-working spaces, and a comfortable, upscale urban environment.
About Manila
Manila, officially the City of Manila, is the capital and second-most populous city of the Philippines after Quezon City. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 1,902,590 people. Located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay on the island of Luzon, it is classified as a highly urbanized city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manila
Is Manila safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Manila?
What area should I stay in Manila?
When is the best time to visit Manila?
How do I get around Manila?
Manila Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel