You could be forgiven for thinking Manila isn’t the most attractive city at first glance, but give it a chance! Under that hard exterior is a city full of life, rich history and (my favourite) incredible food.
Manila has had a complex history of Spanish, American and Asian influence… From the vibrant markets of Chinatown to the colonial architecture in Intramuros – history has merged and created a fascinating mix of the past across the city’s tradition, culture and cuisine.
Not only does Manila have a rich history but it’s also brimming with cool markets, bars and coffee shops. Along with its indie music scene, Manila is one of Asia’s hipster hot spots.
In between all this exploring, you’re going to need a place to rest up! The best stays in Manila are Airbnbs (in my humble opinion). They provide more of a local experience than hotel rooms and are often found in the most ideal locations. However, Manila is HUGE and there are a shit-load of Airbnbs on the market.
But don’t you worry! Rather than having you trawl through hundreds of properties on Airbnb, I have curated a list of the best Airbnbs in Manila and arranged them according to your style and budget.
So, let’s jump right in and check out what this megacity has to offer…
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Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Manila
Cozy Sunlit Studio in Makati
- > $
- > 3 Guests
- > Access to pool
- > Indoor Hammock
Island-Inspired Budget Studio
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Breakfast included
- > Chic decor
Loft Apartment with Incredible View
- > $$$
- > 6 guests
- > Complimentary drinks and crackers
- > Minimalist loft apartment
Bayview Mansion with Balcony
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > In the heart of the nightlife area
- > Several entertainment options
City Views Apartment
- > $$
- > 4 guests
- > Stable WIFI
- > Stunning city views
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Manila
Backpacking the Philippines is an amazing experience. If you’re traveling there, you’ll sooner or later land in Manila, the bustling capital city. Don’t worry, I’m are here to help you find the right accommodation for your stay. And there is no better place for this than Airbnb!
Condominiums (or condos) are probably the most commonly found Airbnbs in Manila. They’re basically apartments in tall buildings and are built for people who live in the city. Most condos offer access to a pool, sauna, and sometimes even a gym!
Next, there are entire apartments that are just like condos, in that you get the whole place to yourself, meaning full privacy.
Normally, you won’t find hotels on Airbnb, but there are a few exceptions. Especially in Manila, you’ll come across a lot of small boutique hotels that can be compared with guesthouses. You’ll have a whole room to yourself (with lots of different amenities depending on your budget), as well as a private bathroom.
The other option is private rooms, which are found everywhere in the city. Booking a private room in a local’s house comes with a lot of advantages. A first-time visitor can always ask their host directly for recommendations and insider tips, which they will be happy to provide.
The Top 18 Airbnbs in Manila
So without further ado, here are my absolute favorite Airbnbs in Manila. Choose wisely so you’ll be ready for your Filipino adventure!
Cozy Sunlit Studio in Makati | Overall Best-Value Airbnb in Manila
Do you want to be in the heart of Manila’s coolest district, enjoying the nearby nightlife and amazing street food? If the answer is yes, then I’ve found the best Manila Airbnb for you! This apartment won’t cost you a lot, and if you are a small family, you can fight over the double bed and the hammock. It’s the perfect place to relax — floor-to-ceiling windows have great views and let in a lot of natural light. Even if you’re not sleeping in it, the hammock is a lovely place to kick back with one of the many books in the apartment!
Island-Inspired Budget Studio | Best Budget Airbnb in Manila
Another great offering, the best airbnb in Makati, is the best Manila Airbnb if you’re on a budget. The space has a tropical ambiance, and is one of the best locations in town. Although the place is so affordable, there’s no expense spared to make you comfortable. On your first day at this cool apartment, your superhost will supply you with a simple breakfast of bread, eggs, and spreads. There’s a kitchen too, so you’ll be able to prepare your own meals to further keep your costs as low as possible!
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View on Osprey View on REILoft Apartment with Incredible View | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Manila
Fancy a luxury Manila apartment with an awesome view of the Makati skyline? If you answered yes, I might have just made your dreams come true! This lovely place comes packed with cool stuff that will make your stay comfy and memorable. Toiletries, cooking utensils, TVs, and even a few basic food items — you name it, you’ve got it. So if you are on a family vacation or traveling with a group of friends, just head over here!
Psst…
Bayview Mansion with Balcony | Perfect Manila Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Are you a solo traveler? Usually, hostels are a great idea — and there are a lot of hostels in Manila — but if that’s not your thing, then at least staying in a buzzing and happening district is a good bet. Malate is one of the coolest spots in town, and this apartment is slap bang in the middle of it. Not into partying? No worries. There’s plenty more to keep you entertained in the best Manila Airbnb for solo travelers besides the very good location. A super-strong Wi-Fi connection will make it easy to keep in touch with friends and family back home, while the TV equipped with Netflix will keep you entertained!
City Views Apartment | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Manila for Digital Nomads
Okay, I have just found the best Airbnb for digital nomads in Manila. Seriously, this place has it all, lighting fast wifi, a workspace overlooking the city and a ridiculously comfy bed. The ideal place to perch up and make that dolla’.
Sun rises on this side of the city, so the mornings are pretty spectacular, not a bad way to start the day. There is a gym downstairs and once you shut your lid, a short walk and you’re surrounded by bustling bars, delicious restaurants, and coffee shops. The only problem with staying here is you may never want to leave.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Manila
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Manila!
Charming 1-Bedroom Studio in Metro Manila
This lovely apartment is the perfect option for digital nomads or couples, with a great view of Pilar Village from the bedroom window. You will have access to a huge pool, a smart TV, and fast Wi-Fi! The best part? The apartment is a stone’s throw from SM Southmall, where you can shop till you drop and eat at the many restaurants!
Quiet Private Room in a Flat
Another great Manila homestay option is this quiet room in a cozy apartment close to St Luke’s and the transport hubs — great if you’re planning on a few fun-filled day trips out of the city! The room comes with high-speed internet too. All in all, it’s a very fair price, and it’s super comfortable. It’s everything you could want from a hotel, except you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home. You might even be lucky enough to get a complimentary snack when you check in!
Beautiful Room in Wooden Home
Don’t want to stay in a condominium where everything looks the same? Then this unique home is the right place for you! The private room is perfect for solo travelers or couples. Antique and modern designs are on display, side by side, giving this charming place a great vibe. Made from wood, and with custom wood furniture, you’ll be able to feel the calmness in the air at this Manila Airbnb — a relief considering the city is one of the most densely populated in the world, and with some of the busiest streets. The host also has pets roaming in the garden, a fact loved by previous guests.
Chill Spot, Manila
Those of you who are looking for an apartment in Manila appropriate for a party, listen up. This isn’t just an apartment — it’s practically a club! This fab spot can accommodate up to 16 people across its 4 bedrooms, and it will blow your mind.
Not only are there 3 kitchens and access to a swanky private pool but there’s also space for about 70 of your closest friends and lighting that wouldn’t be out of place in an EDM club! The only danger with a place like this is there’s so much to do indoors, you’ll probably forget to head out and explore the city!
Amazing Apartment with Wave Pool and Beach
Enjoy the ultimate getaway with your family or friends in this stylish 2-bedroom condo corner-unit that comes with a superb balcony! Housing up to 6 guests, this awesome Metro Manila Airbnb will give you access to a wave pool, man-made white beach, children’s playground, basketball court, gym, volleyball court, beach bar, sky garden, and much more! It is also just a 5-minute walk from SM City Bicutan mall, and 10–15 minutes away from NAIA Airport.
Charming Condo Near the Sea
This Manila Airbnb is located in a prime area, with shopping malls, the biggest casino in Manila, and lots of other hotspots nearby. Close to the sea, you can also enjoy an early-morning walk around the block and watch the stunning sunrise. The host is known to be over-the-top welcoming, very attentive, and helpful. Previous guests loved their stay and rated the home with only the best reviews. Check it out for yourself!
Renovated Condo with Wi-Fi, Metro Manila
Pasay is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city, so it’s only natural that you’ll want to be right in the center of all that action. I have good news, in that case! This property is the best Airbnb in Manila’s Pasay district — with direct access to SM Mall of Asia. Located in one of the towers of this entertainment complex, you’ll also have a casino and numerous shops for your shopping pleasure nearby.
Stunning 30th-Floor Studio in Makati, Metro Manila
Another Makati Airbnb, this one is one of my favorites when it comes to getting real value for your money. The apartment is located on the 30th floor and offers a nice view of the surrounding area from your bedroom. With a TV, comfy bed, kitchen, and lots of other modern amenities, you’ll find everything you might need during your stay. The building also has a gym, swimming pool, and spa, which are free to use — perfect for those days when you just want to stay home. Just pack your bags and see for yourself!
Large Zen-Inspired Apartment
With an incredible view from the balcony, this Manila Airbnb is one of the best places to stay with your mates. Should you want to cook a big meal together, you can use the kitchen, which is equipped with a fridge, microwave, and rice cooker. Then eat your meal with a movie on the flat-screen TV. If you don’t fancy eating in, the apartment has direct access to the Mall of Asia. There are lots of restaurants and cool things to do as a group down there!
Brand-New Condo, 10 Minutes from NAIA Airport
Liked the look of the best Airbnb in Manila’s Pasay district but found it too small? Allow us to present you with this alternative. For groups of up to 4 people, there’s no better vacation rental you can find in the city’s coolest neighborhood. The Airbnb is a short walk to Terminal 3 of NAIA (Manila) Airport, is super clean, and there’s everything you need to make your stay comfortable — Wi-Fi, a television, and toiletries are all provided.
Great Apartment Close to Forbes Park
Another superb area in Manila is Makati — you’ll find a lot of great nightlife and restaurants serving Filipino cuisine here! Plenty of the best Airbnbs in Manila are located in Makati, and I’ve already included a few. I couldn’t miss this one-off, though! It’s a great option if you’re traveling and don’t necessarily need to watch your budget a lot. The interior design screams luxury, though, some might find it a bit tacky for their taste. Nevertheless, this Manila Airbnb offers incredible value for money, with its prime location, great amenities, and top service.
54th-Floor Best Airbnb in Makati
This Manila apartment is a great option if you want to be in the hip and happening Makati city. It is one of the hottest nightlife districts not only in Manila but in all of the Philippines! This beautifully decorated 1-bedroom apartment with a balcony is located on the 54th floor and boasts an unobstructed view of the Manila city skyline. Housing up to 4 guests, this Manila Airbnb will give you access to a 24/7 concierge, pool, smart TV, Wi-Fi, a fully functional kitchen, and washing machine!
Light-Filled Zen Sanctuary
One of the most romantic apartments in town, this Manila Airbnb is the ideal spot for a couples’ short-term vacation rental in the city. This is an Airbnb Plus accommodation — meaning that the host takes extra care to make sure your stay is unforgettable. Watch the sunset from the private balcony with artisanal coffee and a sweet view of the city, cook a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, or kick back and watch a movie on the king-sized bed! I’m sure that you’ll love this gorgeous Manila apartment, which effortlessly combines retro and contemporary design!
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
FAQs about Airbnbs in Manila
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation rentals and homes in Manila.
What To Pack For Manila
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Manila Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Manila Airbnbs
And that concludes my list of the best Airbnbs in Manila. I hope that you’ve found something suitable in terms of your budget, travel style, and group preferences!
As you can see from the list above, there’s a huge variety of options at hand. Whether you want a pad to crash at after a hard night of partying in Makati, a stay with a friendly, local host, or a luxurious offering with views of the Manila skyline, it’s all there somewhere in this Filipino megacity!
And don’t forget my best Airbnb in Manila — at least according to value — the Cozy Sunlit Studio in Makati. If I’ve spoilt you with too many choices, go for the easy option and plump for that.
All that’s left now is for us to wish you an incredible holiday in Manila and the gorgeous country of the Philippines!
Updated April 2023
- Check out our Backpacking the Philippines guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Manila guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the Manila too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the Philippines.
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