Where to stay in Manila

Are you heading to the Philippines, the archipelago of a thousand wonders? Here’s where to stay in Manila, the capital of the Philippine nation!

Manila: a charming name for an equally charming city. The capital of the Philippines is also one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a metropolitan area of over 16 million inhabitants! Situated on the west coast of the island of Luzon, it is at the center of the Philippines’ political and cultural life, and has been gradually opening up to tourism over the past few decades. This colonial city, founded in the 16th century, is not lacking in assets, and its troubled history lends the place a certain charm.

Destroyed during the Second World War – a little-known fact, but one of the towns most devastated by the conflict – it has risen from its ashes to offer visitors an unforgettable stay: its strong character, the many points of interest to discover, the extraordinary kindness of the Manillais and its ideal geographical location make it a must-see in the archipelago.

So, are you ready to embark on your adventure and discover the charm of Luzon, between Asia and Oceania? We’ve got all the tips you need on where to stay in Manila and how to find the best accommodation, whatever your needs!

Intramuros

Photo credit: Flickr – Ray in Manila

A superb colonial district inherited from the Spanish, Intramuros is the historic heart of the city, with a museum-like atmosphere.

Discover the area on a guided tour of the old town, and immerse yourself in Filipino culture as you enjoy this district, surprisingly untouched by the hustle and bustle of Manila, strolling through the clean streets leading to the Plaza Roma, or taking advantage of the low entrance fees to the many museums retracing the area’s history: charming downtown hotels allow the curious to find a place to stay in Manila while enjoying a great bowl of culture! What’s more, the ferry terminals are concentrated in Intramuros: perfect for organizing a countryside getaway and escaping the city fury!

Find a hotel Intramuros

Find an Airbnb Intramuros

Malate

Photo credit: Flickr – Wayne S. Grazio

A popular district for Asian and European backpackers, Malate is the place to be if you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Manila in one of the many establishments open to the public, hotels or hostels; but don’t bother if you’re looking for peace and quiet, as this is not the area’s speciality!

Bars, food stalls and nightclubs are open all the time in a general hubbub. It’s worth pointing out that Manila is a city that sometimes descends into many excesses: drugs, prostitution and delinquency are very present in the capital, especially in Malate after dark. Although police presence has tended to reduce the risks over the last few years, we obviously recommend avoiding the darkest alleys at certain times of the day…

Find a hotel in Malate

Find an Airbnb in Malate

Makati

Photo credit: Flickr – DerekBBB

Makati is a bit like the Manhattan of the Philippines: huge buildings, bars and luxury boutiques vie for the wide avenues of this ultra-dynamic business center. Numerous hotels and palaces welcome you; given the Philippines’ very low standard of living, these are of course reserved almost exclusively for Westerners… Accommodation can be found on rental platforms, and the apartments available ensure that you can stay in Manila in good conditions, without losing any of the country’s culture, as evidenced by the numerous street vendors and incessant horn honking typical of large Southeast Asian cities!

Our tip: hold out your arm as a jeepney approaches, and take to the streets to admire the McMicking Memorial & Courtyard, discover theAyala Museum dedicated to local art, or sample one of the delicious spicy kebabs that will delight your taste buds.

Find a hotel in Makati

Find an Airbnb in Makati

Map of hotels and accommodations – Manila,ph