Kate Fletcher 
Looking for the greatest areas where to stay in Manila on your next trip? Fantastic!
I compared all the areas, organized them by categories, and hand-picked the best hotels for your stay. Basically, in this post you will find a list of top-rated hotels sorted by price and by area – this way you will be able to choose your ideal place in literally a couple of clicks!
Spoiler alert: The best area for first-timers is Makati. It is the safest area and the main tourist hub in Metro Manila. But hey, there are more areas and hotels for all tastes and budgets in this article!
Stay until the end to see the best hotels near Manila airport and quick city tips you should know before your trip.
All good hotels in Manila get booked pretty fast, so if you want to get good deals and stay in the best-rated hotels, you must book in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
For those of you who have little time, here you have the best accommodation in Manila – all in the city center, with great reviews and sorted by price:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Makati – where to stay in Manila for first-timers
- 2. Quezon City – the coolest place to stay for nightlife
- 3. Malate – where to stay by the water
- 4. Ermita – where to stay for world-class museums
- 5. Poblacion – where to stay on a budget
- 6. Intramuros – where to stay for families
- BONUS 1: Where to stay near Manila airport
- BONUS 2: Things to know before visiting Manila
- FAQs about where to stay in Manila
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here you have a map with all the areas I will be talking about in this Metro Manila neighborhood guide:
- Where to stay for first-timers – Makati, Intramuros and Quezon City
- Where to stay for nightlife – Quezon City, Malate and Poblacion
- Where to stay by the water – Malate, Ermita and Intramuros
- Where to stay for world-class museums – Ermita, Intramuros and Makati
- Where to stay on a budget – Poblacion and Malate
- Where to stay for families – Intramuros, Makati and Quezon City
1. Makati – where to stay in Manila for first-timers
Makati is the business center and one of the most beautiful places in Manila. It is the safest area in the city and the top option for first-time visitors.
The district is HUGE and bustling with upscale shopping malls, unique modern architecture, cultural attractions, and deluxe restaurants where you can try traditional Philippine cuisine!
Makati is also a great area where to stay for shopping, one of the most known shopping centers is Greenbelt Mall (map).
The Greenbelt Mall is surrounded by greenery and features high-end brands and hundreds of restaurants where you can stop for a bite before continuing to discover the city!
People’s Palace is one of the most popular in the area. The place is usually packed, so I suggest making reservations ahead so you can try it out! BTW their curries look incredible!
Did you know the area around Forbes Park is also known as the millionaires row? In this area, the wealthiest families, ex-pats, and diplomats live!
Just a few minutes walk from the mall, you can find the Ayala Museum, which I personally recommend! Here, you can learn about Philippine history and culture.
If, after shopping in all the malls and visiting museums, you crave some time in nature, visit the lovely Washington Sycip Park! Relax with a book or stroll amongst the beautiful wilderness.
P.S. If you are looking for the best view over the city, my favorite place for that is Firefly Roofdeck Restaurant (map) – bonus points if you go for sunset!
PRO TIP: Bonifacio Global City, also known as BGC, is Makati’s neighboring area. Bonifacio Global City is as trendy, business, and modern as Makati, so if you find the accommodation you like in the area, book it!
This centrally located luxury 5-star hotel is one of the best choices in Manila. The gym, spa, international restaurant, and outdoor pool on-site are just the beginning. Not only does Fairmont Makati offer great modern rooms, but they even have a pillow menu to ensure you have the best sleep possible during your stay.
Other accommodation options in Makati
Deluxe hotel with a rooftop pool and the best value for money you’ll find
Relax by the rooftop pool and enjoy a traditional meal at the 2 onsite restaurants
Things to do in Makati
- Shop at the Ayala Center Manila, then relax in the Ayala Triangle Gardens
- Take a glimpse into the local history and art at Ayala Museum
- Visit the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial
- Check out the church of Nuestra Señora de Gracia
- Have some family fun at The Mind Museum
2. Quezon City – the coolest place to stay for nightlife
If Makati is big, Quezon City is HUMONGOUS. It is the Major city in Metro Manila, and apart from being great for historical attractions and nightlife, it has a unique local feel!
This city is home to one of the most important universities in the country, UP Diliman, the reason why the area is filled with young people and hip hang out spots! PRO TIP: If you are fond of walking, the green lung surrounding UP Diliman is a great place for a relaxing stroll!
FUN FACT: Quezon City was actually the capital of the Philippines for 28 years (from 1948 until 1976).
Did you know that Manila is the most densely populated city in the world?
One of the most emblematic historical sites in the area is Quezon Memorial Circle, dedicated to former president Manuel Luis Quezon. Don’t forget to check out the Liwasang Aurora Dancing Fountain when you’re there!
Visit Santo Domingo Church (map) during your trip! A beautiful modern catholic church that features a stunning courtyard. You will LOVE visiting this hidden gem and taking arty photos of it!
If you want to experience the local nightlife, I personally suggest you do an iconic Maginhawa food crawl along Maginhawa Avenue. You will try excellent food, and you will meet locals along the way!Another huge plus of the area is the wide range of unspoiled nature! One of the best places to visit is La Mesa Ecopark (map).
What an incredibly relaxing place in Quezon City! Wake up to incredible views of Central Manila! It comes with an on-site gym and modern amenities that will make you feel like a star! Including an incredible swimming pool on the rooftop terrace! The complimentary breakfast will give you the energy to visit all the nearby attractions!
Other accommodation options in Quezon City
This modern hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning and all the amenities you need, including a rooftop pool!
Cute budget accommodation offering all the basic amenities you need! The rooms come with private bathrooms and a view
Bright, modern apartment with luxurious bathtub featuring a mounted TV. Great Airbnb for a staycation in Manila
Things to do in Quezon City
- Shop at the upscale Eastwood Mall before exploring its surrounding flea markets
- Pose in front of 3D art with your family at Art in Island Museum
- Check out the Manuel Quezon Memorial and Museum
- Have some fun at the interactive Quezon City Experience
- Enjoy the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
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3. Malate – where to stay by the water
Malate is definitely a great place for those who want to enjoy beautiful views, cheaper accommodations and super vibrant nightlife. This area is next to Ermita and Pasay, so you will be within walking distance of many great attractions!
This neighborhood is quite central and can reach most areas in around 30 minutes, and from Malate to Quezon City, it’ll take you 1 hour. So, if you are looking for a good place to stay for 2 nights, you will love the convenient location!
In Malate, you cannot miss going to Manila Bay Beach or visiting Our Lady of Remedies Parish Church (map), an imposing 16th-century church with revealing Baroque architecture. It will leave you speechless!
If you want something with a local vibe, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design is perfect for you. This art museum showcases the art of De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde students. Don’t miss out and check out local artists!
FUN FACT: If you are wondering where ENHYPEN (a K-pop band) stayed in Manila, we have a clue they were roaming around Mall Asia during their stay in the city!
The main nightlife hub in the area is Del Pilar Street in Malate, the area is filled with live music venues and bars. LOCAL TIP: this area is also known as the redlight district and sometimes it can get sketchy with people approaching tourists and offering them to buy things.
Below, you can find the best hotels near Manila Bay in Malate:
Stay in a glamorous hotel! The property is located within walking distance of all the main historical sites and entertainment venues. It hosts theme nights for guests and comes with a fitness center and a spa offering yoga classes. The outdoor swimming pool looks dreamy!
Other accommodation options in Malate
Super trendy hotel with cool decor. Located steps away from all the main places to visit!
This great three-star hotel comes with everything you need for a great stay. Rooms are simple and comfortable!
This cozy condo is the perfect place for a fun stay in Manila. It hosts 4 guests, and offers city views!
Things to do in Malate
- Go for a walk at Manila Bay Beach
- Listen to live music and have a drink at Cowboy Grill Mabini
- Check out the unique Our Lady of Remedies Parish Church
- Uncover local nightlife in Del Pilar Street
4. Ermita – where to stay for world-class museums
Ermita is located next to Malate and Intramuros, right by Manila Bay! It offers a wide range of cultural attractions, a vibrant nightlife, and stunning waterfront views, including a beach area!
Definitely, this area is quite ideal! It is between 2 major cool areas, and Ermita itself nestles amazing attractions! To start, for those who love strolling with a view, head to the beautiful Manila Baywalk Dolomite.
Rizal Park, without a doubt is the star of the show! It is great for those who want to spend time surrounded by nature and visit some of the best museums in the city. Some of the most iconic are the National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Anthropology. If you are traveling with kids, they will love going to the National Planetarium!
If you want to spend your days shopping, you will find anything and everything you need at Robinsons Place Manila (map). From the outside, this shopping center looks like a cool casino, inside, you can get from delicious cakes to trendy clothes!
Below, you can find the best hotels near Manila Bay:
Stay in one of the most luxurious hotels in Manila, and have a fantastic vacation! This incredible hotel comes with a dreamy terrace with a swimming pool and jacuzzi! The rooms have deluxe amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows with city or ocean views.
Other accommodation options in Ermita
Simple, modern, and trendy! This cool hotel offers amazing value for money. All of Ermita’s attractions are just steps away!
This hotel comes with a classic look! The outdoor pool looks refreshing and relaxing. Rooms host up to 4 guests
What a stunning condo! Enjoy everything Manila has to offer and relax in the privacy of your accommodation
Things to do in Ermita
- Learn something new at the National Museum of Natural History
- Explore the National Planetarium
- Have a picnic in Rizal Park
- See the National Museum of Anthropology
5. Poblacion – where to stay on a budget
Poblacion, also known as Burgos, is known to be the red light district of Manila and it is the best area to stay in Makati for budget travelers!
The area is part of Makati and home to the coolest nightlife spots and the cheapest hostels, which is simply a great combo.
One of the most acclaimed bars and restaurants in the area is Filling Station Bar & Cafe. It has the most stunning interior. You will feel like you are in a 1950s museum. And it is open 24/7!
Like the rest of Makati, this area is filled with shopping malls. I recommend you stop by Power Plant Mall or Century City Mall. The 2 biggest ones in Poblacion!
During the nighttime, P. Burgos Street (the red light area) turns on its neon lights, and bars open. Giving a serious Blade Runner vibe! NOTE: Please be aware of scammers in the area; be safe!
This is the best hotel for a proper staycation! The property offers stunning apartments for a relaxing stay in Manila. You can choose from studios to 2-bedroom apartments, and select accommodation comes with a balcony! All the guests have access to the outdoor swimming pool and fitness center.
Other accommodation options in Poblacion
Great hotel with an old-world vibe. The rooftop terrace comes with unbeatable views. Enjoy them by the pool with drinks
Stay at the best-rated, cheapest hotel in Manila! Offers shared rooms and private rooms with a private bathroom
Beautiful and trendy Airbnb with 360º views of Manila. The property can host 4 guests
Things to do in Poblacion
- Have a coffee and a treat at the local café Commune (map)
- Go shopping at Power Plant Mall
- Learn about Philippine history at Makati Museum
- Have a picnic at Ayala Triangles Gardens (map)
6. Intramuros – where to stay for families
Intramuros is the historic center of Manila. As its name suggests, this neighborhood is walled by a stunning fortification built in 1571.
The area is great for history buffs due to the great deal of historical landmarks you can find here, and for families, as it is one of the safest areas in the city!
Some of the most iconic attractions are in this district. One of them is Fort Santiago, built in the 15th century and used as a Spanish military base. It first was made of logs, and after a Chinese pirate attacked it the Spaniards rebuilt it in stone!
Did you know most of the historical landmarks inside Intramuros belong to the Spanish colonial era? This zone was the epicenter of Spanish colonial rule in Manila.
Another iconic landmark you cannot miss is the Manila Cathedral, which features Romanesque architecture. Remember to visit San Agustin Church, one of the oldest in the area, built in the 1600s! Visit its museums and gardens once you’re there!
Also, this area has a lot of cute places to visit in Manila for couples, with all the beautiful architecture and beautiful views from the walls!
Hotels in Intramuros are quite limited, so I added a few only a 5-minute walk away from the area:
This 5-star property offers easy access to top tourist points of Intramuros and features a business center, spa, gym, outdoor pool, and pool bar, plus multiple restaurants serving Chinese, French, and other specialties. This hotel makes comfort an ultimate priority with high-class mattresses and other amenities and is one of the best places to stay in the city.
Other accommodation options in Intramuros
A premium location within the walled city with a rooftop bar and restaurant
Stay in a luxurious property steps away from all the main attractions. It comes with a pool and amazing views
Things to do in Intramuros
- Explore Fort Santiago, a Spanish relic
- Check out San Agustin Church and its museum and courtyard gardens
- See the neo-Romanesque masterpiece Manila Cathedral (map)
- Relax in San Diego Gardens
- Visit the Baluarte de San Diego
- Explore the old tunnels of Puerta Real Gardens
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$150 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$80 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$30 |
| 📍 Best area: | Makati |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Fairmont Makati |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Discovery Primea |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Holiday Inn |
BONUS 1: Where to stay near Manila airport
If you’re looking for hotels in Manila near the airport, I’ve got you, fam!
Ninoy Aquino International Airport is located in Pasay, so if you want to stay near the airport to catch an early flight, you should stay in the area.
But something cool about Pasay is that it has a lot to offer. So, even if you are staying in Manila for a longer period, Pasay could be the perfect area for you!
This neighborhood is super safe; it is located by Manila Bay, and it nestles quite a BIG amount of fun amusement parks and cool shopping centers. It would be perfect for families or groups of friends!
One of the best ones in the area is SM Mall of Asia. It nestles a cinema, thousands of stores, AND also features an amusement park SM by the Bay! Get on the Ferris wheel and enjoy the views!
Nearby, you have the super cute Dessert Museum. It is the loveliest thing I’ve seen; everything looks so adorable and delicious! Families with kids will love to experience the exhibitions and sample sweets!
If, after all this fun, you are still in need of another adrenaline rush, head to Star City, another amusement park with the craziest rides! People of all ages will love it!
PRO TIP: If you find accommodation in Parañaque or Taguig, book it without a doubt since these areas are super close to the airport!
Here is a list of airport hotels:
- Luxury (from US$150 and up): City Of Dreams – Nüwa Manila – If you want to have a royal one-night stay, this hotel will deliver! The property’s luxurious style will charm you and make you feel at ease! Relax in the sauna the night before catching your flight, and opt for the paid shuttle service to the airport!
- Mid-Range (from US$80 to US$150): Savoy Hotel Manila – This hotel is located literally steps away from the airport! The hotel comes with a spa center and an outdoor swimming pool, which is open all year round! There is a paid shuttle service in case you want to take a quick look at the city before you leave!
- Budget (up to US$70): Cozy and Classy Studio – Great option where to stay in Manila for 1 night! If you want something more private, this cute studio is perfect for you! The decor is delightful, and you will feel right at home! It offers streaming services and 2 outdoor pools. Located only a 15-minute walk from the airport.
BONUS 2: Things to know before visiting Manila
Traffic
When planning where to stay in Manila, include traffic among the main deciding factors. The city is notorious for its road congestion and overcrowding in trains and buses. As a consequence, many locals spend hours commuting from home to work during the worst of days. Make sure to remember that getting anywhere by car will take longer than you think!
Manila is also home to cheap and unique transportation, the pedicab, but it is recommended only to take it if you are traveling with a local.
Airport Transportation
Many tourists visiting the capital of the Philippines find transfers from the airport to their lodgings complicated. Hence, try reserving a hotel with a shuttle service if you are coming to Manila for the first time. It will save you time and money as well as provide you with a stress-free introduction to the Philippines.
Where NOT to Stay
Although the areas that I have discussed in this post are among the safest places in the city, there are areas you should avoid. Avoid areas around Navotas, Tondo, Baclaran, and other areas with high numbers of squatters and/or poorly lit streets. Generally, these areas are far away from the tourist sights, so if you stay close to the areas I talked about, you should be okay.
Pickpockets
When in Manila be aware of pickpocketing since they are quite common there. Avoid wearing jewelry and carrying expensive belongings in bags whilst roaming the streets, as they are very easily stolen. A common scam to be wary of is long conversations with strangers on the street. The scammer’s friend can easily be searching through your personal things whilst you’re distracted. Pickpockets are particularly common on the metro, so hold your bags in front and be alert at all times.
Walking at Night
Try to avoid walking the streets at night. Take a taxi instead. Taxis are very affordable in the Philippines and will get you to and from your destination in the safest way possible. Usually, it won’t cost more than P150 ($3.50) for a 20-minute trip, and you can either hail them on the street or book a ride on the Grab app. If you really do have to walk, avoid dimly lit streets and alleyways.
FAQs about where to stay in Manila
🧳 Where do tourists stay in Manila?
Most tourists stay in Makati since it is the most westernized part of the city. You will find big hotel chains and large shopping malls in this area, as well as other tourist attractions.
🇵🇭 Where is the best place to stay in the Philippines?
Everyone should see Metro Manila during their stay. But if you need some inspiration, check out our comprehensive guide to the top areas in the Philippines!
🏙️ What is the city center of Manila?
Manila doesn’t really have a city center as it is so big that it has many smaller cities inside it. Intramuros is the old capital and is a walled city with lots of history. Alternatively, Makati is the modern center of business.
🕺 Where should I stay in Manila for nightlife?
Quezon City is the best area for nightlife! It is filled with trendy bars and cool restaurants. Some of the best areas for nightlife there are Maginhawa Avenue and Eastwood.
🚫 What are places to avoid in Manila?
One area to avoid in Manila is Tondo, a city slum. Other no-go areas are Navota and Baclaran. Don’t walk on dark, empty streets, and be aware of people offering things to you on the streets and the usual tourist scams.
🏊 Where is the best place to stay in Manila with a pool?
Lucky you, Manila has a wide range of hotels with refreshing pools. Some great options are Seda Vertis North and Fairmont Makati.
🗓️ How many days do you need to explore Manila?
Well, I would recommend you stay at least 5 days. Metro Manila is super big and consists of so many other cities, so if you want to explore, you will need at least 5 days.
🥘 Where is the best street food in Manila?
If you want to try the best street food in Manila, head to Quezon City. The area is known to be a foodie hub, and Maginhawa Avenue is its main character for food hopping!
Conclusion
That is a wrap for today, my sweet angels! Those were the best places where to stay in Manila!
Honestly, all the hotels mentioned in this article are top-tier, but if I had to choose my 2 favorites, I would go with:
- Fairmont Makati – with world-class facilities and a focus on comfort in a central location, near tourist places.
- Holiday Inn – another great option in Makati, perfect for those looking for a long or short-time hotel in Manila.
Keep in mind hotels in Manila get booked super fast, so it is essential you book your hotel room in advance to avoid those last-minute booking issues!
Which of the areas and tourist attractions in Metro Manila was your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
Kate
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