Where to Stay in Manila
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Malate
Offers affordable accommodation, food, and a lively atmosphere close to historical sites.
See full Manila neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Manila
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Malate
A historic district that was once Manila's premier entertainment hub, now a mix of old-world charm, budget accommodations, and lively nightlife.
Our top picks in Malate
Offers bay views and a more upscale experience within Malate, with good amenities.
Book NowA reliable budget option offering clean rooms and essential amenities.
Book NowA popular backpacker choice known for its social atmosphere and affordable dorms.
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Ermita
The historical and governmental core, home to national landmarks, museums, and a mix of government offices and budget-friendly establishments.
Our top picks in Ermita
Makati
The bustling financial and commercial heart of Metro Manila, offering a blend of modern luxury and urban energy.
Our top picks in Makati
An iconic luxury hotel known for its impeccable service and grand colonial ambiance.
Book NowOffers sophisticated rooms and direct access to the vibrant Ayala Center shopping district.
Book NowBoasts a rooftop pool with stunning city views and modern amenities.
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Malate | Budget | A historic district that was once Manila's premier entertainment hub, now a mix of old-world charm, budget accommodations, and lively nightlife. | budgetnightlife |
Ermita | Budget | The historical and governmental core, home to national landmarks, museums, and a mix of government offices and budget-friendly establishments. | culturefirst-timers |
Makati | Luxury | The bustling financial and commercial heart of Metro Manila, offering a blend of modern luxury and urban energy. | first-timersluxury |
Bonifacio Global City (BGC) | Luxury | A master-planned, modern district known for its wide, tree-lined avenues, upscale lifestyle, and vibrant arts scene. | first-timersfamilies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Manila
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Manila
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Manila. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Manila
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Manila
Malate
BudgetA historic district that was once Manila's premier entertainment hub, now a mix of old-world charm, budget accommodations, and lively nightlife.
- +Affordable accommodation and food options
- +Proximity to major historical sites
- +Energetic nightlife scene
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Safety can be a concern in certain streets at night
- -Infrastructure is older and less maintained
Ermita
BudgetThe historical and governmental core, home to national landmarks, museums, and a mix of government offices and budget-friendly establishments.
- +Centrally located for cultural attractions
- +Very affordable accommodation and dining
- +Easy access to public transport
- -Can be chaotic and crowded
- -Safety requires vigilance, especially at night
- -Some areas are less developed
Makati
LuxuryThe bustling financial and commercial heart of Metro Manila, offering a blend of modern luxury and urban energy.
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- +Good infrastructure and services
- +Relatively safe and well-maintained
- -Can be expensive
- -Traffic congestion is severe
Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
LuxuryA master-planned, modern district known for its wide, tree-lined avenues, upscale lifestyle, and vibrant arts scene.
- +Clean and well-organized urban environment
- +Abundance of international dining and shopping
- +Pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks
- -Can feel somewhat sterile compared to older parts of Manila
- -Higher cost of living
Daily Budget (Budget)
PHP 2000/day
Hidden Gems in Manila
Lesser-known spots the locals love
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.
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Manila
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Manila Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Manila on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Manila Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Manila with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Manila: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Manila's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Manila: Scenic Excursion
Escape Manila for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Manila Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Manila's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Manila
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