Manila is a sprawling, vibrant mix of everything – think Spanish colonial architecture meets chaotic night markets, local dive bars, towering skyscrapers, and expansive public parks. Plus, it’s got a surprisingly cool music scene. This city buzzes with life and demands your attention.
But let’s be real: Manila often gets the cold shoulder from backpackers on their Philippines adventure. And depending on what you’re after, that might not be such a bad call. Nothing’s worse than stepping off a long flight only to be hit with the overwhelming chaos of a sprawling metropolis. Plenty of travellers will tell you to skip the city altogether and head straight to the islands. But let’s face it – flight schedules aren’t always on your side, and you might need to crash in Manila for a couple of nights to recharge.
Finding the right spot in a city this massive can be a bit daunting. That’s where I come in. I’ve done the heavy lifting and put together a list of the best hostels in Manila to make your stay a breeze.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Manila
- Best Overall Hostel in Manila – Lub d Makati
- Best Hostel in Manila for Solo Travelers – Abraham Manila
- Best Cheap Hostel in Manila – Ola! Hostel Manila
- Best Party Hostel in Manila – Manila-Z Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Manila – CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The 5 Best Hostels in Manila
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Manila’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
1. Lub d Makati – Best Overall Hostel in Manila
- Dorm (mixed): From $16/night
- Private Room: From $36/night
- Address: 7820 Makati Avenue Barangay Poblacion,, Makati, 1210 Manila, Philippines
Lub d Makati strikes the perfect balance between hotel comfort and hostel vibes. The rooftop bar and laid-back common areas are ideal for unwinding. It’s not a wild party spot, but if recharging at the start or end of your trip is the goal, this place delivers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Clean and Modern Amenities
- Great Working Spaces
- Chill Vibes
Grab a coffee or some tasty bites at the on-site café, PumpHouse. For the workaholics and digital nomads, there’s a co-working space for getting stuff done, holding meetings, or even having private conference sessions. The location in Makati is prime for exploring the local nightlife.
The dorm rooms are comfy, with some offering epic city views. A big plus: they’ll store your bags for up to a month while you hop around the Philippines, letting you travel light without the hassle of checking luggage on every flight.
2. Abraham Manila – Best Hostel in Manila for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Private Room: From $32/night
- Address: 7840 Makati Avenue corner P. Guanzon Street, Makati, 1210 Manila, Philippines
This spot’s got that perfect laid-back vibe, perfect for kicking back and relaxing. The rooftop terrace is an absolute gem. The staff goes above and beyond to get everyone mingling which is great if you’re a solo traveller in the Philippines. Plus, with the night market right across the street, life couldn’t be better with some cheap eats.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Friendly Staff
- On-Site Bar & Restaurant
- Board Games
Abraham Manila ticks all the boxes: prime location in a great neighbourhood, squeaky clean, and tailor-made for solo backpackers looking to score some new travel buds in the Philippines. Daily social events like karaoke, open mic nights, board games, and movie nights keep the energy high and the connections flowing.
The free breakfast is basic, but it’s free – no complaints from me. Wi-Fi is solid, and the small coworking space is a sweet bonus. Dive into the Boodle fight or the bar crawl for guaranteed good times. The area is packed with great eats and bars, keeping the good vibes rolling.
3. Ola! Hostel Manila – Best Cheap Hostel in Manila
- Dorm (mixed): From $7/night
- Private Room: From $30/night
- Address: P Ocampo St, Cor Enrique St, Malate, Manila, 1009 Metro Manila, Philippines
If you’re hunting for one of the cheapest hostels in Manila, The Ola! Hostel should be on your radar. Honestly, it was one of my favourite hostels in the Philippines that I stayed in. The rooms are clean, air-conditioned, and decked out with comfy beds and private lockers to keep your stuff secure. But the real gem here is the 24-hour rooftop bar, where you can socialize, sip on great cocktails, and grab a bite to eat.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Rooftop Bar
- On-Site Laundry
- Social Vibes
The hostel is well-maintained, with spacious common areas and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. The location is spot-on, giving you easy access to all the best Manila attractions and dining spots.
After a day of exploring, unwind in the lobby with a movie. The on-site laundry is a lifesaver for long-term travellers, and there’s free, fast Wi-Fi in all common areas to keep you connected.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI4. Manila-Z Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Manila
- Dorm (mixed): From $18/night
- Private Room: From $58/night
- Address: 5660 Don Pedro St., Barangay Poblacion, Makati, 1210 Manila, Philippines
Manila-Z Hostel is the place to meet your next party crew in Makati. The location is spot-on for nightlife, with bars and clubs just a stone’s throw away, and an insane rooftop with 360° views of Manila that’ll have you vibing all night. They’ve got all the essentials – a handy ATM, chill zones, two restaurants, and a free breakfast to start your day. Plus, you get a drink token every night to kick things off right. The crowd here is cool, social, and always ready to hang.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Location
- Killer City Views
- Social Vibes
They’ve got the amenities sorted with good quality towels, clean ensuites, curtained bunks, and a communal area packed with free games. A good night doze might be a stretch, but if you’re chasing overflowing creativity, nonstop social action, and epic events, Manila-Z Hostel is your new home.
The staff are absolute legends. Gwen’s free walking tour is a highlight, and with round-the-clock security, you’re in safe hands. If you’re ready to hit the bars, this is your spot, and there’s no shortage of killer foodie spots nearby too. You’re also a short ride from Power Plant Mall, and visiting a shopping centre should definitely be on your Manila itinerary whilst you’re here.
5. CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Manila
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Address: 76 Mariveles Street, Mandaluyong City, 1550 Manila, Philippines
CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA delivers seriously comfy beds and air conditioning that actually cools you down after a day of sweaty adventures. The staff is absolutely lovely, and being near Shangri-La Plaza is a lifesaver when your backpack’s been running on empty for way too long – been there, done that.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill Vibes
- Strong and Reliable Wi-Fi
- Clean and Modern Amenities
The chill vibes definitely make it a top pick for digital nomads in the Philippines. With lots of communal spaces and reliable Wi-Fi, setting up a makeshift office here will be a breeze. Don’t want to work in the hostel? There are tons of cafes and cool co-working spaces nearby too, meaning you can smash out work without having to commute to a space that suits you.
The location is excellent, with MRT Shaw just a minute away, plus malls, food spots, and markets right at your doorstep. Free breakfast is the cherry on top, offering some serious bang for your buck. The homey vibe here makes it the kind of place you’ll want to return to every time you’re in Manila – because when you’re backpacking the Philippines, that’s bound to happen a lot!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Manila Hostels
So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top Manila hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the city.
6. NomadsMNL Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $13/night
- Private Room: From $48/night
- Address: Sto. Niño 4963 J P Rizal (E Rodriguez Ave), Paranaque, 1704 Manila, Philippines
NomadsMNL Hostel is a solid spot for a quick layover, just a hop away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The staff are super friendly, and the reception team is known to hook people up with some great local recommendations. The rooms – whether dorms or private – are spotless, with beds that deliver that well-needed shut-eye before you travel. Each room comes equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and lockers to stash your gear. For a solid reset before jetting off to the islands, NomadsMNL has you covered.
7. Mad Monkey Manila
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Private Room: From $34/night
- Address: Don Pedro, Makati, 8511 Manila, Philippines
This Mad Monkey just opened its doors, and everything here is as fresh as it gets. Smack in the heart of the main district, this spot puts you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions. Surrounded by cool restaurants and buzzing bars, it’s perfectly in tune with the Mad Monkey vibe – super social and impossible not to get involved. The place is spotless and well-maintained, and the staff are legends, always ready to go the extra mile for whatever you need. Topping it all off is a sweet rooftop where you can soak in the city skyline, plus a 24/7 cafe to satisfy those midnight munchies.
8. The City Flats Amorsolo
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Private Room: From $58/night
- Address: Amorsolo Street, Corner Dela Rosa, Makati City, Makati, 1630 Manila, Philippines
City Flats Amorsolo is nestled in a classic Manila skyscraper, offering unreal views from the rooftop – perfect for those moments when you want to imagine you’re living that concrete jungle life instead of just backpacking (fake it till ya make it , right?) The location is spot-on, with most of the city’s main attractions like Yuchengco Museum just a stroll away. The whole building is blessed with solid air conditioning, and all the facilities are solid. Dorm rooms are clean and comfy, with free Wi-Fi, towels, large lockers, and power outlets right next to each bed to keep your gear juiced. Digital nomads will appreciate the desk in each room, making it easy to get some work done on the go.
9. UNWND Boutique Hotel Makati
- Dorm (mixed): From $21/night
- Private Room: From $58/night
- Address: General Luna Street, Poblacion, Makati City, Makati, 1630 Manila, Philippines
This is hands down one of the best places to stay in Makati, with a vibe that’s hard not to fall in love with. Nestled in the heart of the city’s best bars and clubs, the whole neighbourhood comes alive, especially on the weekends. The location is prime – close to everything – and the on-site restaurant dishes out some seriously tasty food if you’re not in the mood to venture far. The breakfast menu is stacked with a la carte options, from sweet to savoury, and they brew a mean cup of coffee, with a solid selection of vegan choices too.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, offering both modern, spacious private and dorm rooms. Expect all the essentials for a comfy stay, including privacy curtains in the dorms, provided towels, and spotless bathrooms. The staff are friendly and super patient, always ready to help with whatever you need. It’s all good vibes here, through and through.
10. The City Flats Sacred Heart
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Address: Sacred Heart Street corner Dao Street, Barangay San Antonio, Makati City, Makati, 1229 Manila, Philippines
City Flats Sacred Heart is the perfect launchpad for exploring the city. Clean, quiet, and nestled in a solid location that feels both safe and welcoming, it’s also within walking distance of food spots, nightlife and shopping malls like Greenbelt. The facilities are modern and spotless, and the staff are super friendly, making you feel right at home.
The real highlight is the dorms, where guests get the full hotel treatment with a kit that includes slippers, soaps, a dental kit, grooming essentials, and a large towel. The dorms also feature a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom, large lockers, and solid air conditioning. A dedicated workspace with seating is available, making it a dream spot for digital nomads to get things done.
11. Haven Backpackers Hostel
Travelling solo in Manila isn’t always the easiest of things to do, but by staying at this recommended hostel in Manila you’ll be able to visit the city and stay there safely – and in comfort.
It’s the best place to stay for solo backpackers in Manila because the staff feels responsible for their guests, so if you’re concerned about safety in Manila, this is the perfect place to stay as you’ll always have someone watching over you. They also take you out on free city tours so you get to try the best local places to eat and drink – a sweet deal if you ask me.
12. Bunk 5021 Hostel
Bunk 5021 Hostel is a great place to stay in Manila if you’re looking for a new, modern, clean place that’s pretty close to decent bars and restaurants. It’s a great shout for people who wanna have fun: the bar is open 24 hours. And the breakfast is free.
The design here is all modern and shiny, industrial chic, polished concrete, exposed pipes, bright colours – you know the drill. But I love it. This cool hostel in Manila also boasts a whopping 144 beds, so you probably will never be turned away from here.
13. Our Melting Pot
A homely experience in the middle of the city, basic but still kinda cool with tiles and nice furniture dotted about the place. Also features strong aircon, which is a godsend in pretty much always-hot Manila. Trust me, pack smart for your trip to the Philippines ‘cos it gets SWEATY here.
The lounge is a decent place to hang out – there’s a kitchen, and that’s where they serve the FREE BREAKFAST too. Could be a good hostel for digital nomads in Manila. Though small, there are some good spots to sit and hunker down with the ol’ laptop.
14. Makati Junction
This Manila backpackers hostel is very comfy, very clean and features some pretty dang cool design-driven interiors. Plus there’s a load of space to get your work done at this cool Manila hostel.
So, yep, it’s all about the communal spaces here. It’s a solid choice for digital nomads in Manila because you can choose from the cafe, the lounge with couches or hammocks, or the TV room to get your head down for a couple hours with your laptop. Then you can sink a few beers at the hostel bar.
15. The Fort Hostel
Set in a converted old house, which in itself is cool, this Manila backpackers hostel is sandwiched between two bustling districts of the city. Close by is a huge shopping mall, plus embassies (handy if you need ’em), plus nightclubs for nighttime and museums for daytime.
The comfy rooms are also pretty spacious – and clean, which is always a welcome thing I gotta say. You’ll feel secure at this budget hostel in Manila as well since there’s always a security guard on the door. That way, you can keep your hard-earned pesos for exploring rather than splurging on your accommodation!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Manila
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Manila.
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 no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Manila
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Manila.
What to Pack for your Manila Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel 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!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel in Manila cost?
Dorm rooms in Manila are cheap – hostel prices in range from about $5 – $12. You’ll have to fork out a bit more for private rooms, which range from $8 – $75. You can expect rates to increase slightly during peak travel seasons.
What is the best place to stay in Manila for couples?
If you’re travelling with a partner and want to stay somewhere extra special, check out the unique and stylish Abraham Manila for its cosy private rooms.
What is the best place to stay in Manila near the airport?
NomadsMNL Hostel would be my pick if you need some shut-eye close to the airport. It also offers a free airport shuttle, making those early flights a breeze.
Final Thoughts on Manila’s Hostels
Manila might be a bit chaotic, but with the right place to stay, it can also be an unforgettable part of your Philippines adventure. Whether you’re crashing for a night before heading to the islands or want to explore the city’s vibrant mix of old and new, I’m sure you’ll find the hostel for you on this list.
If you’re still stuck on a spot then I’d definitely go with Lub d Philippines Makati. I love a Lub d hostel and this one is no exception – clean, modern, with a great location.
If you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in the city.
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of the madness!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in the Philippines for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Manila covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Manila if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Manila before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
