The best boutique hotels in Manila that will keep you coming back to the vibrant capital of the Philippines
Design-led accommodations can be found in every corner of buzzing Manila. Take a peek at our faves.
You know we love to travel across Asia. From the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the relaxed vibes of Phuket and royal palace hotels in India, the continent is home to some wonderful places to stay. Not to be outdone, the capital of the Philippines has long been known for its dynamic design scene, so it’s no wonder that the accommodation scene is also on point. Here are the best boutique hotels in Manila, from old-world establishments that pay tribute to the country’s colonial past to luxe serviced residences in the heart of the metro.
The best boutique hotels in Manila, the Philippines
1. Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences
With a name like that, it’s not surprising that Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences embraces the artistic aesthetic. Interior designer Tina Periquet-Galicia drew on the famous painter’s life and style, from splashes of bold colors in the lobby to paint-splattered bedrooms inspired by stages of Picasso’s life. A gallery for the works of local artists is set on the third floor for guests who want a taste of the city’s art scene.
The vibrant but cozy Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences has 144 rooms, each one with modern amenities like work desks, kitchenettes, and free Wi-Fi to make leisure or business travellers feel at home. Featuring large beds, high-quality linens, and blackout curtains, these rooms are designed for a perfect night’s sleep. The property also has a salon, a gym, and a Spanish-Mediterranean restaurant known as Pablo Bistro.
Find out more about Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences
2. The Henry Hotel
As a former artist enclave in the 1950s, this old-world mansion has a rich history in arts and culture. To this day, The Henry Hotel keeps its creative roots ever-present in the verdant grounds, creating a postcard-pretty space where artists and artists-at-heart can find inspiration and serenity in the bustling metro.
Stylishly appointed rooms and suites are bathed in sunlight and warm hues, each one individually designed and kitted out with repurposed furnishings, mid-century décor, and vintage patio sets. Hotel interiors are the work of renowned designer Eric Paras.
Treat your tastebuds to the finest dining options, with in-house restaurant Apartment 1B hailed for serving delicious gourmet cuisine. Other notable amenities include an outdoor pool and a lush garden that’s a popular wedding venue in the Philippines.
Find out more about The Henry Hotel
3. The Manila Hotel
Ernest Hemingway once described The Manila Hotel as “the perfect representation of the city, if not the country’s resilience, vitality, versatility, and hospitality.” Ever since the magnificent hotel opened near the turn of the 20th century, it has played host to a stunning array of politicians, royalty, and distinguished personalities like the Beatles and Michael Jackson. And amazingly, the boutique property remains the standard for luxury amenities, Filipino-inspired interiors, and impeccable service in Manila.
Every room in Manila Hotel is beautifully put together, but the Presidential Suite is especially grand. Feel like a VIP with a plush Senso memory foam mattress, Bulgari toiletries, a full-service kitchen, and a 24-hour butler service. Paintings by prominent Filipino artists adorn the walls, while a superb panoramic view of Manila Bay gives guests the best vantage point for unforgettable sunsets.
When it comes to food, guests have several excellent dining choices like Café Ilang-Ilang for a mouthwatering international buffet and the romantic Champagne Room that’s perfect for special occasions. The hotel also has a spa, a swimming pool, a health club, and an art gallery.
Find out more about The Manila Hotel
4. Discovery Primea
Nestled in the heart of Makati’s central business district, Discovery Primea is an exercise in modern luxury. Brought to life by award-winning architect Kenzo Tange and Los Angeles-based interior design firm Texiera, this five-star hotel is a beautiful take on Mediterranean Chinoiserie. It’s a welcome haven for sophisticated travellers visiting Manila, especially those seeking a balance of style and function.
Expect timeless elegance in all of the rooms and suites. Hypoallergenic goose feather mattresses, LED TVs, and pristine bathrooms in every room promise a hotel experience fit for a VIP. As much as you want to stay in this blissful cocoon for your entire stay, there’s more to see and do in Discovery Primea. You’ll love dining at Flame restaurant up on the 16th floor, before exploring the hotel’s top-notch facilities like spa, gym, and swimming pool.
Find out more about Discovery Primea
5. Hotel Céleste
One of the first boutique hotels in Manila, a stay at Hotel Céleste promises exceptional service and personalised comfort. Home to just 25 European-inspired rooms and five elegant suites, marble baths and feather pillows are the cherries on the top.
Enjoy a meal at the onsite Edward & Wallis Restaurant by Hotel Céleste or indulge in some room service instead. Conveniently located in the heart of Makati, it’s the perfect jumping off point for exploring the city.
Learn more about Hotel Céleste
6. Aruga Apartments by Rockwell
Live the luxe life at Aruga Apartments by Rockwell, a beautiful retreat in Makati that suits travellers with a more refined taste. Each tastefully designed room and suite is decked out in Asian contemporary style, with a well-stocked kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a pristine bathroom with amenities. Clean, chic, and delightfully spacious—yes, even the studio units—these spaces are a blissful base for leisure or business trips to Manila.
Aruga’s superb facilities keep all the modern essentials within easy reach of guests. The outdoor swimming pool and kiddie pool are perfect for a midday dip. Or if you want to stay strong, the hotel features a well-equipped gym, too. Foodies, don’t fret; there are loads of amazing dining options right outside the hotel doorstep.
Find out more about Aruga Apartments by Rockwell
7. Privato Hotels
Hip, modern, and conveniently located in the metro’s key districts, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Privato Hotels. There are three different branches in Manila, so travellers can pick the location that best suits their itinerary.
The Italian-inspired Privato Hotel Ortigas is sleek and modern, with a gym, a roof deck lounge, and three ballrooms. The Makati branch is built for work and play, with a stunning rooftop lounge and easy access to the city’s central business district and nightlife hotspots. Designed by the acclaimed Budji Layug and Royal Pineda, Privato Hotel Quezon City is a stunning space featuring pieces by celebrated furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue. All three hotels feature a rooftop pool and conference rooms.
Set in the bustling city centres throughout Metro Manila, these hotels are steps away from restaurants and shops that leisure and business travellers may enjoy exploring.
Find out more about Privato Hotels
8. KL Serviced Residences
KL Serviced Residences, located near plenty of dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities, is a city retreat designed for easy living. Yes, this 100-room boutique stay’s contemporary aesthetics are on point, but it also appeals to the practical traveller with fully furnished units in varying sizes perfect for quick business trips and long-term visits. A few of the perks: a well-lit workspace, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a modern kitchen with an electric stove and microwave oven.
Travellers can enjoy the benefits of the hotel lifestyle at KL Serviced Residences. Stay on track with your fitness goals at the gym, or relax in the sauna or indoor swimming pool.
Find out more about KL Serviced Residences
But wait, there’s more….
- Find out our picks for the best boutique hotels in the UK
- Discover the world’s most gorgeous hotels in heritage buildings
- And read our review with hotel designer Bill Bensley
