Manila is a city that never stands still. In places like Makati or Bonifacio Global City, the streets are alive with office workers, malls packed with shoppers, and restaurants buzzing late into the night. Music spills out from bars, and traffic hums constantly in the background. But just a short drive or walk away, you can stumble into quiet neighborhoods, old churches, and simple eateries where life feels slower. The city moves between fast and calm, giving you the rush of the crowd and the ease of small, peaceful corners.

Best Areas to Stay in Manila

Makati

Hotels in Makati – Ideal for first-time visitors who want a mix of modern city life and comfort. The area is filled with shopping malls, rooftop bars, and restaurants, yet you can also find quiet streets and cozy cafés.

• Raffles Makati – From PHP 17,915 Luxury hotel with spacious suites, excellent service, and direct access to shopping and dining. Great for those who want everything within reach.
• Fairmont Makati – From PHP 7,874 Elegant stay with comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and warm hospitality. A good balance of business and leisure.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Hotels in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) – Best for food lovers, nightlife seekers, and those who enjoy walking around safe, clean streets lined with art murals, cafés, and trendy shops.

• Shangri-La at the Fort – From PHP 18,147 Modern luxury with big pools, multiple dining options, and plenty of activities nearby. Right in the heart of BGC.
• F1 Hotel Manila – From PHP 7,864 Convenient stay with friendly service, comfortable rooms, and easy access to High Street’s shops and restaurants.

Ermita & Malate

Hotels in Ermita & Malate – Great for travelers who want a more laid-back vibe with easy access to Manila Bay, historical sites, and budget-friendly stays.

• The Bayleaf Intramuros – From PHP 3,177 Boutique hotel inside the old walled city with rooftop dining and views of Manila’s skyline. Perfect for history lovers.
• Hotel H2O – From PHP 3,566 Unique rooms with aquarium walls, right next to Manila Ocean Park. Fun for families and couples looking for something different.

Getting to and Around Manila

Manila is served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which has four terminals spread across Pasay and Parañaque. Depending on traffic, getting from the airport to the city can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour.

From NAIA, you can take a Grab car (ride-hailing app), a metered taxi, or an airport bus to different parts of the city. Many hotels also offer airport pickup services if you prefer a hassle-free arrival.

Once in Manila, the easiest ways to get around are by Grab, taxis, or city buses. The MRT and LRT trains are a good option if you want to avoid traffic during rush hours, especially around Makati, Quezon City, and Pasay. For short trips, walking in safe areas like Makati or BGC is also enjoyable, with plenty of cafés and shops along the way.

If you have an early flight or a late-night arrival, staying at a hotel close to the airport or one that offers airport transfers can make your trip much smoother.

👉 Click here to explore more hotels near Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)

Find More to Match Your Travel Style

Family-Friendly Stays & City Adventures

Kid-friendly hotel with a pool → Dusit Thani Manila (Price from PHP 6,984)
Spacious rooms, great dining options, and a big outdoor pool. Located in Makati, just steps from malls and family-friendly restaurants.

Serviced suites for longer stays → Aruga Apartments by Rockwell (Price from PHP 7,920)
Apartment-style suites with kitchens, ideal for families or groups. Safe neighborhood with a supermarket nearby and easy access to Power Plant Mall.

Luxury Hotels with a View

Skyline views from a city suite → Raffles Makati (Price from PHP 17,915)
5-star hotel with elegant rooms, butler service, and sweeping views of the city skyline. Perfect for couples or business travelers.

Luxury escape with dining and shopping → Okada Manila (Price from PHP 13,265)
World-class resort in Entertainment City with spacious suites, fine dining, and a grand casino. Offers sunset views over Manila Bay.

Stylish Boutique Picks

Chic and modern in the city → The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences (Price from PHP 4,557)
Art-inspired hotel in Makati with stylish rooms and a cozy vibe. Close to cafés, restaurants, and galleries.

Quiet charm near the bay → The Bayleaf Intramuros (Price from PHP 3,177)
Boutique hotel set inside Manila’s old walled city. Rooftop dining with sunset views, plus easy access to historic landmarks.

Tips for Booking Manila Hotels

Book Early for Peak Seasons

Reserve your hotel ahead of time if you’re visiting during Christmas, New Year, Holy Week, or long weekends. Popular areas like Makati, BGC, and near Mall of Asia fill up fast, and prices usually rise closer to the date.

Watch Out for Major Events

Manila often hosts big concerts, international conventions, and sporting events. These can quickly fill hotels near the venues, especially around Mall of Asia Arena, Araneta Coliseum, or World Trade Center. If you’re traveling during these times, secure your booking early to avoid last-minute stress.

Save with Booking Perks

New Trip.com users can enjoy up to 8% off on selected hotels. That discount could cover a nice dinner in Makati or even help you upgrade to a suite in places like Raffles Makati or Okada Manila.

Stay Smart with Location Choices

You don’t always need to book the priciest hotels in the city center. Consider:

• Pasay – Convenient if you want to stay close to the airport and Mall of Asia.
• Ermita or Intramuros – More affordable stays near Manila Bay and historical sites.
• Quezon City – Great for budget-friendly options, especially if your trip includes university areas, shopping, or food spots.