Makati
Makati lies in the heart of the Metro Manila. The city is known for its upscale shopping malls with high fashion brands, restaurants and hotels, and is home to many affluent Filipinos. Makati is considered to be a financial, commercial and economic center; it is home to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).
Understand
Cost of living
Makati City's cost of living is significantly higher than its neighboring Filipino cities, owing primarily to its skyrocketing real estate value and relatively upscale commercial and residential selections. However, compared to other major cities of the world, Makati is not that expensive compared to other upscale cities in the world. Furthermore, bargains comparable to other Philippine cities may be found in certain areas, such as in the Makati Cinema Square, The Landmark, Cash & Carry, and Guadalupe Mall, that will make a stay in Makati possible even with a backpackers' budget.
History
The area of Makati City was first dismissed as worthless swampland by the Spanish conquistador Juan Miguel de Legazpi in 1571. Yet over the centuries, this small community would leave large imprints in the social, economic, and cultural history of the country. In 1670 it was established as a visita of Sta. Ana de Sapa under the of the Franciscans. The friars established one of their earliest churches in the Philippines, the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, in Makati, drawing pilgrims from all over the country. At the opening of the 20th century, the Americans established Fort McKinley in Makati, and in 1901, San Pedro de Makati, with a population of 2,500, was incorporated into the province of Rizal. On February 28, 1914, the Philippine Legislature passed Act 2390, shortening the name San Pedro Makati to Makati in the 1930s, the first airport, Nielson Airport, opened in what is now the Ayala Triangle. The first centrally planned community was established in the 1950s, and since the 1970s, Makati has been the undisputed financial and commercial capital. Makati has also figured prominently in the political history of the Filipinos. The community was one of the cradles of the revolt against Spanish colonial rule, and following the assassination of Ninoy Aquino in 1983, the epicenter of the protest movement against the dictatorial rule of Ferdinand Marcos. On January 2, 1995, Makati became an independent city by Republic Act 7854.
Talk
The main language choice for communication in this affluent city is English, making the stays here of international travelers and businessmen a relatively enjoyable experience. A knowledge of Tagalog, the local language, will benefit any traveler.
Get in
By train
The MRT Line 3 (MRT-3) elevated train has four stations along EDSA. These are the Guadalupe, Buendia, Ayala and Magallanes stations. Getting off at the Ayala Station will set you in the middle of the Ayala Centre, a complex of shopping malls and restaurants.
MRT-3 is a quick and inexpensive way to get into the city. The cost of a ticket ranges from ₱13-16.
The PNR Metro Commuter Line has three stations at Dela Rosa, Pasay Road, and EDSA.
- 1 Buendia-PNR Station, Gil Puyat Avenue (in front of SM Hypermarket and JMC Centre and near or along Dela Rosa Street). 4:30AM–10PM. It offers cheap transport service.
- 2 Magallanes-MRT Station, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue corner Chino Roces Avenue.
- 3 Magallanes-PNR Station, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue corner Sergio Osmena Avenue (SCTEX).
- 4 Ayala-MRT Station, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue. It is located in Ayala Center near SM Makati. This is public transportation service not only MRT also bus.MRT At 2nd floor and buses pass through the road. There are many buses going to different places of south part of Luzon like Biñan, Pacita, Alabang, Sucat, Bicutan, Balibago Santa Rosa Laguna, Fri complex, carousel, PITX. Bus stations are from different area and pass by Ayala due to many passengers here. If you don't know the bus station where to go. This will be another choice for you to go to South part of Manila.
- 5 Buendia-MRT Station, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue corner Gil Puyat Avenue. Accessible to the bus terminal going to North Edsa or Caloocan or trips going to Moa/PITX bound to Southbound and jeepneys going Makati Avenue and Mandaluyong City Hall. Escalator and Stairs are present on site. No food establishment at the station but there's a nearby Shell Station with Jollibee and Mercury Drug store as their landmark.
- 6 Guadalupe-MRT Station, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue.
By car
Two of Metro Manila's main arteries pass through Makati. The Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (EDSA) passes along the southeast part of Makati and connects the city with Mandaluyong City and Pasay City. The South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) runs through the western part of Makati and connects the city with Manila to the north and with southern Metro Manila. The Skyway, an elevated highway built on top of SLEX, provides residents coming from southern Metro Manila a fast way to reach Makati. SLEX and EDSA intersect at the Magallanes Interchange, which is the most complex system of elevated roadways in Metro Manila.
Other major roads in Makati include Buendia Avenue (Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue), which connects EDSA and SLEX in the north; Ayala Avenue, an important street that runs through the Central Business District; and Makati Avenue, which connects Ayala Avenue with Buendia Avenue and also extends north to cross the Pasig River to Mandaluyong City.
By bus
Buses plying the Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (EDSA) route from Baclaran in Paranaque to Quezon City and Caloocan City pass through the Central Business District daily. As mentioned above, you can't load or unload just anywhere, you have to wait or go to the designated stops. There are separate loading and unloading zones which you must observe.
- 7 One Ayala Terminal, Ayala Center, Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue corner Ayala Avenue. The integrated transport terminal that combines what used to be several separate transportation points. The buses that use to crowd EDSA just outside here, the shuttles that used to congregate at various terminals in the Makati Business District, they’re all here now. I’m only here on weekends, and tend to go home late, so I don’t know what it’s like during a workday rush hour.
Most of Metro Manila's expanding Premium Point-to-Point (P2P) bus network terminates at Makati; common termini are Greenbelt, Glorietta, The Circuit, and Trasierra.
- RRCG Transport runs Alabang Town Center–Greenbelt 1, Ayala Malls South Park–Greenbelt 5, Robinsons Cainta–Trasierra, SM Cherry Antipolo–Greenbelt 5, SM City Masinag–Greenbelt 5
- DNS Transport (Delta Neosolutions) runs from Eastwood City–Makati CBD, Sucat Exit—Greenbelt 5, and UP Town Center–Glorietta 3.
- San Agustin runs Noveleta—Trasierra and SM Southmall—Circuit Lane.
- HM Transport runs Robinsons Galleria—Glorietta 3.
- MetroExpress Connect runs Camella Homes Dasmariñas—San Lorenzo Place, Robinsons Place Dasmariñas—Trasierra, Vista Mall Daang Hari—Trasierra, and Vista Mall Daang Hari—San Lorenzo Place.
By taxi
Taxis come form across the metro, including the airport. A single costs ₱200-300 from Ninoy Aquino International Airport or ₱200-250 from Ermita.
By ferry
The Pasig River Ferry [dead link] stops at one station in Makati: Guadalupe (near Guadalupe Bridge) is in a convenient spot for tourists, which makes this option far less convenient than hailing a taxi. It may be worth keeping the ferry service in mind as another means of getting into Makati from other riverside districts such as Manila/Intramuros in Manila.
- 8 Guadalupe Ferry Terminal, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue corner J. P. Rizal Avenue.
Get around
You can easily walk around the Central Business District by way of the sidewalks or the pedestrian underpasses. Some areas in the Central Business District are connected with overpasses where pedestrians can walk above the streets.
Taxis are also abundant, especially around the malls. The flat rate is ₱40 and a ride across town is ₱100-150.
It is inadvisable to drive in Makati. Makati has some of the strictest traffic rules in Metro Manila. Traffic marshals actively enforce rules. The metro-wide road space rationing ("number coding" or "color coding") scheme is active all day unlike in neighboring cities where they are only enforced during rush hour. Traffic jams are a headache, one-ways streets are common, and left turns are less common than rights. Parking fees are steep, especially in the CBD, and enforcement is draconian, with clamping or towing for violations.
See
Landmarks
- 1 Greenbelt Chapel (Santo Niño de la Paz Chapel), Ayala Center, Arnaiz Avenue (in Greenbelt Park). The church is popular for church-goers, most people find it relaxing though because of the park around it. The church is surrounded by trees and a fish and lily pond is on the side of the chapel. The Greenbelt Chapel might be the most relaxing chapel in the Philippines. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is also found here.
- 2 Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church, 7440 Bernardino St. Built by the Augustinian friars and is inspired by European Baroque. It is named Nuestra Señora de Gracia in honor of the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary that can also be found inside
- 3 Philippine Stock Exchange, Tower One & Exchange Plaza, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Avenue. One of the two stock exchanges in the Philippines, it is known to have Asia's shortest trading times which lasts only for two hours. Nearby the PSE is the Ninoy Aquino Monument.
- 4 Ninoy Aquino Monument, 6766 Ayala Ave, Legazpi Village. Open 24 hours. Erected in honor of the late Filipino senator, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, who was the husband of late Philippines president. Corazon Aquino. Free.
- 5 Nielson Tower Historical Marker, Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue. The Nielson Airport was built by Laurie Reuben Nielson, a businessman born in New Zealand. It was built in 1937 and served as the control tower and passenger depot of the city's airport. Until 1948. The Nielson Airport was built on a 42-hectare piece of land in Makati owned by Ayala y Cia. During World War II, commercial flights were relocated so that Nielson could serve the U.S. Army Air Corps.
- 6 Gabriela Silang Monument, Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue. Open 24 hours.
- 7 Sultan Kudarat Monument, Makati Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas Avenue. Open 24 hours.
Museums
- 8 Ayala Museum, Dela Rosa St, ☏ +63 2 759-8288, hello@ayalamuseum.org. Tu-Su 9AM-6PM. Showcases the rich and vivid history of the Philippines from the earliest times of the Mactan battle to the struggle of democracy in EDSA. Also present are some famous paintings by Filipino painters such as Fernando Amorsolo, Juan Luna and Fernando Zobel. Guided tours are available if booked in advance for large groups. ₱425/adult, ₱300/concession.
- 9 Yuchengco Museum, RCBC Plaza, Corner Ayala Avenue and Senator Gil J. Puyat Avenue, ☏ +63-2-889-1234, info@yuchengcomuseum.org. 10AM-6PM. The museum was created to house the art collection of Secretary Alfonso T. Yuchengco, and highlight his distinguished career as a businessman, diplomat, collector, philanthropist, patron of the arts, and advocate for education in the Philippines. The museum’s primary goal is to foster a greater public appreciation of the finest in Filipino and Filipino-Chinese visual arts and creativity. The Yuchengco Museum houses paintings by Fernando Amorsolo, Juan Luna and Carlos “Botong” Francisco.
- 10 Filipinas Heritage Library, Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue. Located inside the old Nielson Airport tower, the Filipinas Heritage Library has an astounding collection of books that date back to the Spanish period. Serious scholars of the time period will love it, but anyone with even a remote interest in old books and history should give it a visit.
- 11 Makati Museum, 986 Dr Jose P. Rizal Avenue. 8AM–5PM. Old colonial building displaying some local historical artifacts & photos.
Parks
- 12 Greenbelt Park, Arnaiz Avenue. 11AM–9PM. Greenbelt Park is a small park designed to be a complement to the surrounding Greenbelt Malls. An artificial duck pond and stream can be seen here, as well as the Greenbelt Chapel for Catholic services. Greenbelt Park is also a good place to sit, people watch and see the more multicultural side of Metro Manila. Free.
- 13 Ayala Triangle Park, Paseo De Roxas Avenue corner Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue. 6AM–10PM. Behind the Philippine Stock Exchange, the Ayala Triangle Park is surrounded by restaurants and cafes. Free.
- 14 Legazpi Active Park, Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village. 6AM–10PM. A small, well-kept park along Legaspi Street. On Sunday mornings the Legaspi Market opens, where you can get fresh organic foods, delicacies, sweets and other assorted souvenirs. Free.
- 15 Salcedo Park (Jaime C. Velasquez Park), Tordesillas Street, Salcedo Village. 5AM–10PM. Another small park along Legaspi Street. Similar to the Legaspi Market, on Saturday mornings the Salcedo Market opens. Free.
- 16 Washington Sycip Park, Legazpi Street, Legaspi Village. 6AM–10PM. Compared to Legazpi Active Park this park is far more tranquil with a lot more greenery. The trees are quite lovely, the pond is quaint, plenty of spaces to sit & eat a meal; plus, large enough for a moderate paced walk.
Do
- 1 Manila Polo Club, 35 McKinley Road. Exclusive: you can't order or get water inside if you're only a guest and not a member. Though there's ample parking inside. Comfort room operating and wheelchair accessible.
Work
The Makati Central Business District[dead link] is the home of some of the biggest companies in the Philippines. It is also where the top BPO's and contact centers are headquartered.
Buy
Ayala Center is the Philippines' answer to Singapore's Orchard Road or Thailand's Siam Square, and has a number of upscale malls. High-end brands and restaurants usually have branches here. The cost of buying in Makati is far more expensive than its neighboring cities or in any other city in the Philippines because of the upscale brands they have in Makati.
- 1 Glorietta by Ayala Malls, Ayala Avenue. 10AM–9PM. It is one of the biggest malls in Metro Manila. Aside from shopping and dining, it has indoor facilities such as a kids' playground and an activity center for concerts and shows. Its tenants include Adidas, Aldo, Cole Haan, Lacoste, Mango, Marks and Spencer, Nike, Puma, and Zara.
- 2 Greenbelt, Paseo De Roxas Avenue. 11AM–9PM. The one stop for high-end stores from brands like Adidas, Aldo, Anne Klein, Audemars Piguet, Balenciaga, Bally, Banana Republic, The Body Shop, Bottega Veneta, Bulgari, Burberry, Celio, Charriol, Chopard, Diesel, DKNY, Emporio Armani, Escada, Fred Perry, Gucci, Hèrmes, Hugo Boss, IWC, Jimmy Choo, Juicy Couture, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Levi's, Louis Vuitton, Lucky Brand, Kate Spade, Mango, Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jabos, Massimo Dutti, Michael Kors, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Paul Smith, Prada, Rimowa, Rolex, Salvatore Ferragamo, Springfield, St. John, Tod's, Tony Burch, Topman, Topshop, Zara, and more. Dining options include walk-in restaurants and fast food chains; fast food chains are found in Greenbelt 1, while restaurants are located in Greenbelt 2, 3 and 5.
- 3 Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Drive. 11AM–9PM. A four-level complex that has shops, international and local restaurants, and cinemas. Shops at the Power Plant Mall include Adidas, Aldo, Anne Klein, Armani Exchange, Bally, Billabong, The Body Shop, Celio, Cole Haan, Diesel, DKNY, Dorothy Perkins, Esprit, Fred Perry, Kate Spade, Kennth Cole, Levi's, Mango, Marks and Spencer, Massimo Dutti, Michael Kors, Muji, Nine West, Rimowa, Rolex, Salvatore Ferragamo, Shu Uemura, Springfield, Thomas Sabo, Topman, Topshop, Trucco, and Zara.
- 4 Salcedo Weekend Market, Tordesillas Street, Salcedo Village. 7AM to 2PM. In the heart of the Business Center District is the Salcedo Park. Every Saturday, vendors take over part of the park to sell their specialty items. There are ornamental plants, organically grown vegetables, bakery products, lechon from Cebu, etc. Be sure to come early for the full experience.
- 5 SM Makati, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue. 10AM–9PM. Department stores & supermarkets.
Eat
Makati is packed with dining choices:
Budget
- Earl of Sandwich, 3rd Floor, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center. Excellent submarine sandwiches.
- Mang Inasal Filipino-style chicken.
- Jolibee. A growing fast-food chain in the country serving fried chicken, burgers, fries, sundaes, etc.
Pizza
The pizza debate will rage in eternity but thankfully, you're never far from a slice in Manila. No matter your personal definition of pizza, Makati has you covered with a mind-boggling array of choices. Of course, they have Pizza Hut, Papa John's, and Domino's, which if that's your thing, you won't have to look far.
- Greenwich A favourite of locals. Very affordable yet tasty pizza, often located in mall food courts.
- Yellow Cab Pizza Multiple locations, one of the Philippines' most successful pizza franchises that has gained its market share with good value for money, lots of toppings and imported cheese.
- Sbarro Multiple locations throughout Metro Manila. Yes, it's a chain store but where else are you going to find Chicago-style deep dish? Nowhere. Sbarro's it is. Their pastas are also filling and tasty.
- California Pizza Kitchen Multiple locations including the third floor of Greenbelt 5. It is what it is. If thin crust is your taste, head here. Dine in, take away or delivery.
- Shakey's Great traditional thin crust pizzas and a family restaurant.
Mid-range
- Apartment 1B, One Lafayette Square, 132 L.P. Leviste Corner Sedeno St., Salcedo Village, ☏ +63 2-843-4075. Comfort foods with a twist, served in a bistro-style setting. Highlights include: French onion soup, cream cheese samosas, Reuben sandwich, three-cheese veggie lasagna. Though the prices (₱300 average starter; ₱450 average sandwich; mains from ₱340 for the Mac n' cheese, to ₱2100 for the steak frites) come out on the high side of mid-range dining options, Apt. 1B is well worth it.
- Persia Grill, ☏ +63 2-403-9999. Five locations in Metro Manila; for Makati visit Valero Street or Legaspi Street branches. For Middle Eastern and/or Mediterranean. The Legaspi location is directly across the entrance to Greenbelt 5, at the corner of Dela Rosa Street. Highly recommended.
- Cyma Greek Taverna, Greenbelt 2, Ground Floor, Ayala Center, ☏ +63 2-7729-4837. Moderately authentic Greek food. Menu includes loads of favorites such as taramosalata, paidakia, dolmades, kefthedes, octapodi, sagahnaki (and yes, unfortunately they set in on fire and “Opa!”) See menu link for prices.
- Chimara Feel Good Kitchen, Cinema Level, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, ☏ +63 949 889 7834, chimaragb3@tatersgroup.com. This healthy café has a range of delicious vegetarian and vegan friendly options from soups, salads and wraps. They also have a range of soy ice cream and offer home delivery as well. They will deliver meals into the cinema while you enjoy a movie.
- Circles Event Café, Makati Shangri-La Hotel, Ayala Ave. cor. Makati Ave., +63 2 8814 2580. Offers an array of continental, oriental, à la carte and buffet selections in a relaxing ambiance.
- Magic Bread Vegetarian Store, 25 Bautista St, Cor. Buendia, Palanan, ☏ +63 2 887 7921. Great store selling a range of healthy vegetarian friendly baked goods and products.
- Cibo, Italian restaurant with several branches, most notable at Shangri-la Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong and Glorietta 4. Their pasta dishes and panini sandwiches are great. Don't miss the very refreshing fresh red grape shake.
- Hossein's Persian Kebab, 7857 LKV Building, Makati Avenue (along Makati Avenue and opposite of Burgos Street), ☏ +63 2-8890-5928. The restaurant was founded in 1985. Serves authentic Indian, Arabian and Persian cuisine. Halal certified. Very overpriced. Go to Persia Grill or Al Basra on Makati Avenue.
- Sentro 1771, Greenbelt 3 2nd Level, Ayala Center, +63 2-7757-3940 to 41. Casual dining restaurant serving Filipino cuisine. Popular dishes include the tomato and kesong puti (native white cheese) salad, sizzling tofu and corned beef sinigang (corned beef in tamarind broth). They are known for their coffee pie.
- Via Mare, Ground Floor, Greenbelt 1, ☏ +63 2 8815 1918. Excellent oysters.
- Bizu Patisserie and Cafe, Ground Floor Greenbelt 2, Ayala Center, ☏ +63 2 7757 2498. French patisserie and cafe. Try the 10 Hour Roast Beef! They make the best Macarons de Paris similar to those of the best patisseries in Paris. Their French gateaux and Lavazza coffee are perfect for a night cap. Open for breakfast at 7AM and the Eggs Benedict and Filipino Breakfast are must-tries.
Splurge
- 1 The Pantry, Dusit Thani Hotel, Ayala Center, Arnaiz Avenue, ☏ +63 2 8893 1832. 6–10:30AM, noon–2:30PM, 6–10PM. Fine dining at the Dusit Thani.
- 2 Old Manila at The Peninsula Manila, corner Ayala Ave. & Makati Ave, ☏ +63 2 8887 2888. 11:30AM–2:30PM, 6:30–11PM. Fine French dining. Experience the luxuriousness of the place and it’s cuisines. The prices of each food if fair enough to with the food we take and the service they make. Impeccable service and best foods awaits you.
- 3 Shang Palace at Makati Shangri-La, Manila, Makati Shangri-La Hotel, Ayala Ave. cor. Makati Ave, ☏ +63 2-840-0884. 11AM–2:30PM, 6–10:30 PM. Chinese/Cantonese cuisine. Excellent Dim Sum.
- 4 Sala, Locsin Building, 6752 Ayala Ave. cor. Makati Ave, ☏ +63 2-750-1555, +63 2-893-0242. 5PM-10PM. Modern European restaurant. Wonderful fine dining restaurant, with two choices of set menus, attentive and friendly service, and a small and tasteful interior decor.
- 5 UMU Japanese Restaurant, Dusit Thani Hotel, Ayala Center, Arnaiz Avenue, ☏ +63 2-867-3333. Noon–2:30PM, 6–9:30PM. Offers authentic Japanese cuisine such as the sushi and sashimi bar, teppanyaki, and bento box.
- 6 Peoples' Palace, G/F Garden side, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, ☏ +63 27292888, reservations@peoplespalacethai.com. 11AM–10PM. They serve Thai and other Asian dishes. US$30 and up per meal.
- 7 Blackbird Makati, Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue (located in Nielson Field Airport Tower). 11AM–10PM. Elegant art deco restaurant with a spiral staircase serving grilled meat, seafood, pasta & curries.
- 8 Spices at The Peninsula Manila, corner Ayala and Makati Avenues. 11AM–2PM, 6–10PM. Asian restaurant.
- 9 Spices at The Peninsula Manila, corner Ayala and Makati Avenues. 11AM–2PM, 6–10PM. Asian restaurant.
- 10 Din Tai Fung - Greenbelt3, 2nd floor, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center. 11AM–9PM. Taiwanese restaurant.
Drink
The epicenter of Makati's famous nightlife is Greenbelt where some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, bars and karaoke joints cluster around a park in the middle of the main business district. Meanwhile, there are a series of bars stretched out along Makati Avenue, northeast of Ayala Triangle, including the infamous P Burgos Street red district area.
The Poblacion area is next to (or arguably a part of) the Red Light District, and is possibly the best place for bar hopping in the Metro. The historically low rent (by Makati standards) of the area has led to several trendy bars and restaurants popping up, ranging from cheap beer gardens to some of the best bars in the country. Just start in the area around Don Pedro St. and walk around until you find a bar you like.
- In Greenbelt: Museum Cafe Ground Floor, Ayala Museum, Makati Ave corner Dela Rosa Street (adjacent Greenbelt 3 and 5) Tel +63 2-757-3000. Kind of a swanky joint. Usually featuring live music. It's common to see well-heeled expats sipping mimosas at noon.
Northeast of Ayala Triangle
- WG Diner Corner of Makati Ave. and Gen. Luna St., Makati, This unassuming outdoor establishment was the best kept secret in town. Located near the A. Venue Mall, across the street from the Wendy's and 7-Eleven. Friendly staff, decent Filipino food, and insanely cheap beer (₱33 per bottle of San Miguel!), combined with a ringside seat on the parade of God-knows-what on Makati Ave., makes WG a solid choice for a laid-back night with friends.
- Wide Eye Ground Grill (Kuwagos) Makati Ave. corner B. Valdez. This is where the locals go, and by locals, we mean contact center employees. Open 24 hours. A bucket of 6 San Miguel for ₱130. Serves Filipino dishes. The place gets unbearably loud on weekends.
Sleep
Budget
- 1 Our Melting Pot, 37 Polaris Street 3rd Floor Wang Mart Bldg, ☏ +63 2 8833 4736. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. (Temporarily Closed as of November 2023). The top-billed backpackers' destination in Manila in Hostelworld site, Our Melting Pot is a comfortable and friendly hostel in the cozy central district. For ₱800 per person per night, modest breakfast included, you can book a bed in its 6-bed or 4-bed mixed dorms. There are also private accommodations that range from US$23-27. The backpackers joint is essentially an apartment unit converted into a hostel so it has a very homey atmosphere. Walk-in guests may only gain access to the building upon presenting themselves to the receptionist at the lobby of the hotel as friend of the owners. Security protocol of A.Venue suites is very strict so online booking facilitates everything. The accommodation comes with free internet access and common area for guests, including use of the hotel swimming pool facilities, gym and game room. The hostel exudes a modern atmosphere, friendly and peaceful vibe.
- 2 Lorenzzo Suites, 1803 Evangelista Street, Bangkal (within a 10-minute drive of the domestic and international airports), ☏ +63 2 8822 2723. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. All rooms are equipped with set breakfast, free morning coffee or tea daily, Wi-Fi Internet access, Air-conditioning and flat-screen TV. Some of its services are 24-hour standby generator, 24-hour security, sprinkler system, CCTV surveillance and airport transfer (upon request).
- 3 Makati Apartelle, 4411 Montojo Street, ☏ +63 2 8974219. Check-in: noon, check-out: noon. Offers 1-bedroom fully-furnished units. Each unit has an air conditioner, one double-bed with towels and linen (one bed, sleeps 2 people), a refrigerator, a 24" LCD TV with cable, a living room set, dining room set, an electric kettle, a private bath with hot and cold shower, kitchen utensils, an electronic vault/safety deposit box, fans and a telephone/intercom (free calls within Metro-Manila). Wi-Fi is free. Utilities included. Daily housekeeping provided. All-female, friendly staff. Very clean, safe and inexpensive.
- 4 Citadel Inn - Residential Tower, 5007 P. Burgos Street, Bel-Air, ☏ +63 2 897-2370. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. In the middle of the business, shopping and entertainment districts of Makati City. The 33-storey condominium hotel now boasts of 120 rooms equipped with complete dining and kitchen facilities.
- 5 Spaces Hotel Makati, Mezzanine Floor Creekside Mall, Amorsolo St. cor VA Rufino St., Legazpi Village, ☏ +63 2 8817 8726. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. From ₱2,690.
- 6 Franchise One Inn, 7430 Santillan St, Brgy Pio del Pilar (corner Fernando Street), ☏ +63 2 8856 7900, fax: +63 2-8864667, franchise1hotel@gmail.com. Check-in: 1PM, check-out: 1PM. Each accommodation is air-conditioned, and boasts an LCD television with cable, DVD player with movies, and comfortable beds.
- 7 Saint Illian's Inn, 7461 Santillan Street, Pio del Pilar, ☏ +63 917 107 0525, fax: +63 2 812-1998. Check-in: 1PM, check-out: 2PM. In the business district of Makati City, a budget hotel that is clean and efficient.
- 8 The Clipper House Makati, 5766 Ebro Street, P. Burgos Poblacion, ☏ +63 2 8890 8577. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Hotel in an old art deco building in Makati, near the red light district and the Powerplant Mall. It's a budget hotel, but annoyingly they do not show their rate on the website.
Mid-range
- 9 LPL Suites Greenbelt, 112 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, ☏ +63 2 8818-3628. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Studio and bedroom suites, all equipped with air conditioning, cable TV and Wi-Fi Internet access. Facilities and services are safe deposit box, travel and tour assistance.
- 10 Guijo Suites, 7644 Guijo St., San Antonio Village, ☏ +63 2 8553 8998. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Deluxe room, junior suite and premier suite, all equipped with flat screen LED TV with cable channels, Wi-Fi Internet access and safe. Facilities and services are Lobby Restobar, daily housekeeping services and 24-hour CCTV security.
- 11 Amorsolo Mansion Apartments & Suites, 130 Amorsolo cor. Herrera St., Legaspi Village, ☏ +63 2 818-6811. Check-in: noon, check-out: noon. Offers rooms equipped with kitchen, refrigerator, remote control colored television, air-conditioner, telephone with IDD/NDD access and voice mail. Amorsolo Mansion also offers the following services: a restaurant, airport transfer to and from the hotel, daily maid service, business service and room service.
- 12 Hotel Celeste, 02 San Lorenzo Drive corner Arnaiz Avenue, ☏ +63 2 887 8080. It offers rooms equipped with air conditioning, a telephone with NDD/IDD service, wireless Internet access, Internet connectivity and a mini-bar. Some of its facilities and services are a business center, conference room and outdoor jacuzzi.
- 13 AIM Conference Center Manila, Benavidez cor. Trasierra Streets, Legaspi Village, ☏ +63 2 7750-1010, fax: +63 2 751 7160, +63 2 750 4459, accm@aim.edu.ph. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 14 Antel Spa Hotel Suites, 5343 General Luna Corner Makati Avenue (located in : INNOVPHIL), ☏ +63 2 403 7576. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. Offers 80 rooms, all of which have LCD TV, minibar, and bath tub. Also has a gym and fitness center, free Wi-Fi and a coffee shop. From ₱4680.
- 15 Asian Mansion II Condotel Makati, 107 Dela Rosa Street, Legaspi Village (Very near the Ayala Center), ☏ +63 2-8844-9061, fax: +63 2-844-9061. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 16 BSA Mansion Condotel Makati, 108 Benavidez, Legaspi Village, ☏ +63 2 8812 26717, fax: +63 2-812-2671. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 17 City Garden Hotel, 7870 Makati corner Kalayaan Avenue, ☏ +63 2-8899-1111, fax: +63 2-899-1415. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. This three-star hotel is one of the more popular mid-range hotels. They are known to nickel and dime guests, however, charging service fees for seemingly everything (i.e. a 100% fee for bringing food (not only alcohol) to the pool side. From US$67.
- 18 Jupiter Suites (formerly Jupiter Arms Hotel), 102 Jupiter St.Bel-Air Village, ☏ +63 2-8905044, fax: +63 2-8905019, frontdesk@jupitersuites.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Quaint 25-bedroom facility right in the heart of the Makati Central Business District. From US$35.
- 19 Crown Regency Hotel Makati, 1026 A. Arnaiz Avenue San Lorenzo Village, ☏ +63 2 8813 4441. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. A/C suites equipped with satellite/cable television and broadband internet access. Also has a business center, fitness center, and Wi-Fi zone. From US$87.
- 20 Herald Suites Solana, 2914 Finlandia corner Einstein Street, San Isidro MCPO (a few meters from the South Expressway), ☏ +63 2 8336 6151. Offers 40 big air-conditioned guest rooms. It has a pool and gym on the top floor, and a coffee shop on the second floor. From ₱4000.
- 21 Fersal Neptune, 107 Neptune St., Bel-Air II, ☏ +63 2 8897 9123. Has 33 rooms categorized as Deluxe Double and Twin. From US$42.
- 22 Ramada Encore Makati, 9630 Kamagong Street, San Antonio Village. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 23 Somerset Olympia Makati, 7912 Makati Avenue corner Santo Tomas Street. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. This polished apartment property, in a modern, high-rise building, is a 7-minute walk from Makati Central Business District, an 8-minute walk from the Glorietta shopping mall and 7 km from Resorts World Manila casino.
- 24 The Sphere Serviced Residences, 136 Valero Street, Salcedo Village. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Upmarket residential area around Ayala Triangle Gardens, with weekly Salcedo Market & global dining.
Splurge
Thanks to its reputation as the country's premier financial district, Makati City is home to some of the country's pricier hotels. Many major international hotel chains have their local affiliates in Makati City.
- 25 Ascott Makati, Glorietta 4, Ayala Centre, ☏ +63 2 7729 8888, fax: +63 2 728 0000, enquiry.manila@the-ascott.com. From the elegant penthouses to three-bedroom residences, each of the 306 apartments offers spacious living and dining areas, fully-equipped modern kitchens, home entertainment systems and wireless (WiFi) internet connection. From ₱5670.
- 26 The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences, 119 L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, ☏ +63 2 8828 4774. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Offers air-conditioned rooms with 32-inch flat-screen LCD TV with cable channels, kitchenette with electric stove and microwave oven, and Internet connection. Some of its amenities include Qi Wellness Spa, salon 119, and gym.
- 27 CEO Flats, 27 Canopus corner Jupiter Street, Bel-Air Village, ☏ +63 2 8519 1999. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, LCD TV, refrigerator, electric stove, microwave oven, private toilet and bath with hot and cold water. Some of its facilities and services are food outlets at the ground floor, mini-mart at basement 1, a roof deck which serves as a function area, 24-hour security, free internet access and housekeeping upon request (charges apply).
- 28 The Makati Shangri-La, Manila, Ayala cor. Makati Ave (Across from The Landmark in Ayala Center), ☏ +63 2 8813 8888, fax: +63 2-813-5499. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. ₱₱₱₱.
- 29 New World Makati Hotel, Esperanza Street Corner Makati Avenue (infront of Greenbelt 3), ☏ +63 2 8811 6888, fax: +63 2 811 6777, reservations.manila@newworldhotels.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 30 The Peninsula Manila, Ayala cor. Makati Ave (across the road from the Ayala Center), ☏ +63 2 8887 2888, fax: +63 2-815-4825. From US$120.
- 31 The Raffles Hotel Manila, 1 Raffles Drive (located in Fairmont Makati), ☏ +63 2 795 0777. Comes with multiple pools and restaurants, butler service, floor to ceiling windows. ₱11107.
- 32 A.Venue Hotel Suites, Antel Lifestyle City, Makati Avenue, ☏ +63 2 8773 3000, fax: +63 2 757-2616. Offers restaurants, function rooms, and comfortable accommodations. ₱2211.
- 33 Holiday Inn & Suites Makati City, Glorietta Mall, Palm Drive, Ayala Center, ☏ +63 2 7909 0888, hism.reservations@ihg.com.
- 34 I'M Hotel, 7862 Makati Ave (Makati Avenue corner Kalayaan Avenue), ☏ +63 2 7755 7888, reservations@imhotel.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. I’M Hotel is a 5-star hotel in the Poblacion district and houses the largest onsen spa (as of 2018) in the Philippines. The hotel's architecture and rooms are designed by Singapore-based architects. It features 434 rooms including 182 suites equipped with an Electrolux-fitted kitchenette, living room, and dining area. The hotel also has an infinity pool, which can be seen upon entering the lobby as one looks up because it is acrylic-bottomed. The hotel's Common Good Food Playground features nine upscale dining outlets offering various international cuisines.
- 35 Dusit Thani Manila, Arnaiz Avenue. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon.
- 36 Discovery Primea, Ayala Avenue. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. In the Makati Central Business District, this upmarket hotel is a 9-minute walk from the Ayala Museum and a 12-minute walk from Greenbelt Park. Ninoy Aquino International Airport is 6 km away.Airy rooms feature Wi-Fi and loaner smartphones, as well as flat-screens, coffeemakers, and floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. Some offer balconies, while chic suites add kitchens and living/dining areas. A bi-level 2-bedroom apartment sleeps up to 4 guests. A breakfast buffet is available. Other amenities include 2 restaurants and 2 bars, as well as a lobby lounge. There’s also a gym, a spa, and an outdoor heated infinity pool with a bar.
- 37 Somerset Millennium Makati, Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. In a modern glass-fronted building, this high-end urban hotel is 1 km from a metro station, 7 km from the SM Mall of Asia, and 11 km from the aquarium and live shows of Manila Ocean Park. Featuring quilted headboards and natural tones, the polished rooms and suites come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Most have kitchens, and some offer living rooms. Room service is available.Parking and breakfast are complimentary. There's a restaurant and a bar, as well as an outdoor pool and a fitness room.
- 38 Mandarin Oriental, Makati, Ayala Triangle, Makati Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas Avenue. Opens in 2024.
- 39 Fairmont Makati, 1, Raffles Drive (located in Raffles Makati). Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM.
Stay safe
Makati is generally peaceful. Perhaps the more peaceful place than Makati is the Bonifacio Global City (Fort Bonifacio) area of Taguig. Choosing between Manila and Makati? Makati is much better security-wise.
Be mindful of people coming from outside of Makati though. They tend to be tagged as 'less civilized' by Makati residents because most offenses in the city are made by them.
Be wary of strangers and take extra precaution when being approached. Avoid crowded places, as well as sketchy locations.
Metro Manila police are generally foreigner-friendly. As usual, the recommended approach is to be on high alert at all times, as incidents may take place anywhere.
Connect
The international telephone country code for the Philippines is +63. The area code for Metro Manila (including Makati) is 2.
Cope
English is spoken everywhere. All traffic signs and business establishments are in English. In formal business engagements, English is the language of choice.
Expect heavy daytime traffic in Makati. Avoid traveling during peak hours. While jeepneys are banned from certain areas (namely Ayala Center), they are in full force everywhere else. Just like any urban area, Makati is noisy. In addition to the general traffic noise, the city is in the midst of a construction boom, and construction is ongoing 24/7. So when choosing a hotel, it's a good idea to find out in advance what is happening in the nearby vicinity. If there's a 40-story tower going up across from the Mandarin Oriental, which there is, ask for a room facing the other direction. It's highly recommended to use tap water for washing your hands and nothing more.
Be wary of taxi drivers. Every other driver will tell you he doesn't know where Greenbelt 3 is, thereby forcing you to give directions or allow him to circle the area, unmercifully driving up your fare. On Friday and Saturday nights, never light a taxi if the driver refuses to use the meter and insist on an extortionate fare to your destination, for instance, a normal cab ride from P Burgos Street to Greenbelt should be no more than ₱70. On weekends, it's usually ₱100 just to get in the cab. Some drivers will outright refuse to take you based upon what they perceive to be their odds of getting a return fare.
Also, if you're that reckless, beware of citizens stealing your information and making charges to your accounts.
Generally speaking, Makati is the most civilized and comfortable metropolis in the Philippines. Travelers of all nations will feel comfortable.
Go next
| Routes through Makati |
| Pasay ← | S  N |
→ Mandaluyong → Cubao |
| Tutuban ← Paco ← | N  S |
→ Taguig → Alabang |
| Manila ← | N  S |
→ Alabang → Lucena |
| Manila ← | N  S |
→ Alabang → Lucena |
Continues to Manila as  ← |
N   S |
→ Jct  (Skyway At-grade northbound only) → Parañaque → Alabang |
| Cubao ← Mandaluyong ← | N  S |
→ Pasay |
| Taguig ← | S N |
→ Pasig |
| Pasay ← | W  E |
→ Taguig via 32nd Street → Pasig |