Hotels in Manila

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and is the most urbanized region in the country. It shares a common history with Mexico and Madrid being the first Global cities in the world due to commercial networks. Being spot on the equator, Manila enjoys a tropical climate all year. The majority of the people speak Tagalog but Filipinos are great English speakers so you wouldn't have a hard time communicating. If you're looking for the convenience of the Urbanscape, Manila is surely the place to go.

How to Get There

The best way to travel to Manila is via plane through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). It serves a number of international routes including direct flights to and from the US, China, Korea, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The airport has four terminals with terminal 1 and 3 for international and 4 and 2 for domestic. If you ever need to transfer between terminals, you can take a free shuttle bus or hail an airport taxi.

Public Transportations Available

Besides buses and trains, there are also other ways to go around Manila.

Jeepney

If you want to experience how a true Filipino commutes around Manila and neighbouring cities, the jeepney is the way to go. Jeepneys are the cheapest way to go around the city starting from US$0.20 or PHP10. Keep in mind that jeepneys have specific routes and it might take more than one ride to get to a specific location.

Taxi and Taxi Hailing Apps

If you don't mind spending a bit more, you can always use taxis and taxi-hailing apps. A typical taxi flag down rate starts from US$1.50. Before your trip, download a taxi-hailing app just to be safe. Manila taxis are notorious for swindling their passengers so always be vigilant: don't allow anyone you don't know in the taxi and always ask for a receipt.

Car Rental

Car rentals are also available in Manila, especially if you're planning to go outside the city. Car rentals typically start from US$25 to US$30 or around PHP1400 to $1500. Be sure to carry your international license!

Tourist Attractions

Manila is a bustling city with tons of tourist attractions. Below are some of Manila's must-visits:

Rizal Park

Dedicated to the country's National Hero, Rizal Park, otherwise known as Luneta or Luneta Park holds a historical significance in Philippine history. From 1823 to 1897, a total of 158 public executions were held in the park. This includes one of the many heroes of Spanish-ruled Philippines including Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora. Rizal Park is also nearby to Intramuros or what was left of the boundaries of old Manila as well as Manila Bay.

Fort Santiago

Another historical site on the list, Fort Santiago is a citadel located near Intramuros that served as a prison and military base during the Spanish era. This was also the prison that held Dr. Jose Rizal captive during his final years alive - the prison where he wrote his famous poem "Mi Ultimo Adios" or "My Last Farewell" which was smuggled out of a lamp. Today, the citadel is now a museum celebrating the life of its famous captives.

SM Mall of Asia

One thing to know about Filipinos is that they love to go to the mall. If you notice, almost on every corner there would be one. Considered as the third largest mall in Asia and fourth in the world, the SM Mall of Asia is one to visit especially if you love to shop. Besides shopping, you can also do fun activities at the Amusement Park, Exploreum Science Center or just chill at the Esplanade.

Hotels

The best thing about Manila is the wide range of accommodations to choose from. Here are some hotels you can book from Traveloka.

Solaire Resort and Casino

If you're hoping to splurge on your accommodation, check out Solaire Resort and Casino located at Parañaque City near Manila Bay. Solaire Resorts and Casino have tons of facilities including a jacuzzi, swimming pools, restaurants, and more. It caters to all types of travellers including families. Solaire Resorts and Casino rates start from US$326 or PHP17,000.

The Manila Hotel

Also nearby Manila Bay, the Manila Hotel is a mid-range hotel with rustic Spanish-influenced interior design and architecture. The Manila Hotel gives you comfortable amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, an executive club, and more. The Manila Hotel price starts at USD$261 or PHP13,600.

Quezon City Mplace Residences

If you are on a budget, Manila has tons of condos that you can rent. For only US$15 or PHP770 per night, you can rent a whole condo to yourself. The Quezon City Mplace Residences is located at the heart of the city which provides you with a pool, WiFi connection, air conditioning and more.