Manila is the capital of the Philippines and the heart of a much larger metropolitan area that also takes its name. The Pasig River runs through the middle of the city, splitting it into northern and southern sections, and the city proper is made up of sixteen districts, each with its own character, history and food.
For a visitor, the practical question is where to base yourself. Much of Manila's accommodation clusters along Roxas Boulevard facing Manila Bay and in the districts of Ermita and Malate, and the city's hotels sit roughly 20 to 30 minutes from the international and domestic airports. This guide covers which areas make sense as a base, what each one suits, and how to think about budget levels. It does not recommend individual properties.
Best areas to stay in Manila
1. Ermita
Ermita is one of the two districts where most of Manila's hotels, inns and apartelles are found, together with neighbouring Malate. It sits within the city proper, close to the government and heritage core, which makes it a convenient base if you want to spend your days around the old city rather than commuting in from elsewhere in Metro Manila.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants an affordable base with plenty of accommodation to choose from. Staying in Manila itself is a cheaper choice than the affluent business areas of Metro Manila, and Ermita is central to that. Expect a mix of hotels, inns and apartelles rather than a single style of lodging.
2. Malate
Malate is the other district where the bulk of the city's accommodation is concentrated, alongside Ermita. Like Ermita it sits in the city proper and shares the same practical advantages: a wide range of places to stay and easy access to the bayfront.
It suits travellers who want choice and value, and works well for those who plan to spend their time in Manila rather than in the surrounding business districts. As in Ermita, you will find hotels, inns and apartelles. Together the two districts form the main accommodation zone of the city.
3. Roxas Boulevard and the Manila Bay waterfront
Roxas Boulevard runs along the bay, and many of Manila's accommodations are found here overlooking Manila Bay. If a waterfront setting matters to you, this is the strip to look at, and it sits within easy reach of the Ermita and Malate accommodation zone.
It suits visitors who want the bay on their doorstep and are happy to base themselves along a single thoroughfare. The boulevard is also one of the city's main addresses for hotels, including major international chains, which have a presence across Metro Manila. Rates at this class of property are generally cheaper than for the same standard in Western cities, though by Philippine standards such a stay is a luxury.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Manila is an affordable place to stay, and you can sleep in a Manila hotel for as little as ₱500 per night. At that price, do not expect many luxuries. Inns and apartelles, concentrated in Ermita and Malate, are the typical options at this level.
- Mid-range: The broad middle of the market is made up of the many hotels, inns and apartelles found in Ermita and Malate and along Roxas Boulevard. This is where most visitors will find the widest choice.
- Splurge: Major international hotel chains operate in Metro Manila, including along the Roxas Boulevard waterfront. Rates are generally cheaper than for the same class of hotel in Western cities, but a stay at this level is considered a luxury by Philippine standards.
Best area for a first visit
Ermita is the best single base for a first visit. It is one of the two districts where most of Manila's hotels, inns and apartelles are concentrated, so you have the widest choice of places to stay, and it keeps you in the city proper rather than in the surrounding business districts. Pair it with Malate if you want to widen your options further.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stay in Manila or elsewhere in Metro Manila?
It depends on your trip. Manila is the government centre of the Philippines but is not necessarily the most central location for business travellers or tourists within Metro Manila, nor the most safe or pleasant area of the city. If that matters to you, look at other options in Metro Manila. On the other hand, staying in Manila is definitely the affordable choice, more so than the affluent business areas.
Which districts have the most accommodation?
Most of Manila's hotels, inns and apartelles can be found within Roxas Boulevard overlooking Manila Bay, or in the districts of Ermita and Malate.
How far is the accommodation from the airport?
Manila's hotel accommodations are 20 to 30 minutes away from the international and domestic airport.
Can I stay in Manila cheaply?
Yes. You can sleep in a Manila hotel for as cheap as ₱500 per night, though you should not expect many luxuries at that price.
Compare live prices for the areas that suit you using the booking tools on this page.