The guide to the City of Makati
Makati is a popular city in the Philippines and is undoubtedly a place you wouldn’t want to miss if you’ve decided to stay in Manila. Skyscrapers, lush parks, museums, and vibrant nightlife make the city truly unique.
You’ve arrived for a short trip to Makati, but you’re not sure where the best places to go are? Don’t worry, as this is what happens to many people who come to the city. It’s not easy at all to discover the most worthwhile spots in the city, especially if you’re a newcomer. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here is a detailed guide on what to do and the recommended places to visit in Makati. You should use this guide to enjoy the perfect visit you undoubtedly expect.
The most recommended hotels in Makati according to their level:
When choosing a hotel, the choice usually varies according to personal taste and preferences. In Makati, you can find a number of luxury hotels, but ideally, you should take into consideration several factors in the hotel selection process.
Where is the hotel located?
Needless to say, you won’t want to stay far from the places you plan to visit during your stay in the city. It is essential to find a hotel located in the city center that will provide you with easy and convenient access to all the recommended places, allowing you to make the most of your visit.
What is your budget?
Budget is a primary consideration when choosing a hotel, and it is important to select one that matches your budget. However, this should not impact your enjoyment of the trip, so it is recommended to conduct a comprehensive evaluation to choose the ideal hotel for you.
Accessibility
If the hotel is not accessible enough, this can be a nuisance and can negatively impact your travel experience. The availability of transportation near the hotel that reaches the places you want to visit, or taxi services, is an important consideration when choosing a hotel.
What services does the hotel offer?
When it comes to choosing the right hotel, everyone considers how to enjoy a luxurious stay. Therefore, to have the perfect experience, it’s important to select a hotel that offers services and facilities that meet your standards. For instance, a hotel offering free Wi-Fi is a crucial consideration if you are on a business trip.
Here are some of the recommended hotels in Makati that meet the considerations mentioned above:
New World Makati Hotel – a 5-star hotel located right behind the stunning “Greenbelt” entertainment center.
The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences – a 4-star boutique hotel located right in the center of Makati and close to the city’s synagogue.
Fairmont Makati – a luxurious 5-star hotel located right next to the Greenbelt entertainment center in a strategic location in the city.
City Garden Grand Hotel – a 4-star hotel located in the touristy area of Makati City, which is less prestigious but known for its selection of restaurants. It’s also a choice for those who want to be closer to the city’s entertainment district.
The Peninsula Manila – a prestigious and impressive 5-star hotel, located about a 3-minute drive from the heart of Greenbelt, right on a central axis in the city.
Holiday Inn and Suites Makati – a high-level 4-star hotel located right next to SM Makati, a massive shopping mall belonging to the SM chain, which also owns the famous Mall of Asia.
Red Planet Makati – a good 3-star hotel located in a less central area of Makati City. It’s not far from the center of things and is considered a more budget-friendly option compared to the hotels mentioned above.
Guijo Suites – a 3-star hotel located in a less central area, and reaching the city center may take longer during traffic jams
Ascott Makati – a 5-star apartment hotel offering high-class apartments with kitchens, and it’s situated right in the heart of Makati City.
Excellent bars and clubs
Choosing a bar to visit depends on personal taste. Ideally, the perfect bar is one that fits your budget, is easily accessible, offers high-quality services, and meets your expectations. When you’re on a trip in Makati, you will undoubtedly encounter numerous options, which can make it challenging to decide. To assist you in making the right choice among the best bars and clubs in Makati, we’ve compiled all the relevant possibilities. These are bars and clubs that we are confident are excellent.
The restaurant at the Peninsula Hotel.
Long Bar - at the Raffles Hotel in the Ayala Center Mall.
Finder's Keeper
Ocean telephone company
Hidden charming corners.
These are places that only the locals in Makati know about, and they are definitely worth a visit. You can enrich your city experience, learn new games, taste Filipino cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture. To discover these places, you’ll need a tour guide who will provide you with added value at every destination. In any case, here is a list of some:
8065 Bagnet
A Toda Madre
https://www.facebook.com/atodamadretequila/
Suzu Kin
https://www.facebook.com/Suzukin-Japanese-Restaurant-411233488946018
Goto Monster
https://www.facebook.com/gotomonsterph/
Santica Naturals Bistro& Cafe
https://www.facebook.com/satinkanaturals/
Where should you learn about Philippine history?
The Ayala Museum, located in the heart of Makati, is the ideal place to visit to learn up close about the history of the Philippines. Archaeological collections, art exhibitions, all of these will provide you with insights into the local history. You can also learn about Filipino culture. Interesting aspects of local history are presented through rotating exhibitions and permanent displays.
Recommended places to visit in Makati:
You are already in Makati and wondering which places are worth visiting. Don’t worry, the following list presents some of the highly recommended places to visit when you are in Makati.
Ayala Museum
The museum is the heart of the city and is located in the central district. Here, you can learn about the highly inspiring history of the Philippines, impressive local art, and the pursuit of national heroes.
Ayala Triangle Gardens
The garden is located in the central district of Makati, and you must not miss a visit to it. It is an ideal place for those who want to find some peace and relaxation. You can enjoy walking, jogging, and meditation.
https://www.facebook.com/ayalaATG/
Star City Park (near Makati)
The park is located near Makati and offers enjoyable and fun activities suitable for all ages:
- Roller coasters
- Thrill rides for adults
- Kid-friendly attractions
- Beautiful rides like Peter Pan and Giant’s Land
- Snow World
https://www.facebook.com/StarCityPH/
The Mind Museum (BGC)
If you have a great love for science, a visit you won’t soon forget is guaranteed. The Mind Museum is a world-class museum of its kind, featuring scientific collections. Here, you can learn about the history of life’s evolution, Earth, the universe, and technology.
https://www.facebook.com/themindmuseum/
Greenbelt
An opportunity to enjoy a green oasis in the heart of the city with a selection of leisure spots, relaxation areas, and mood-enhancing ambiance. You won’t want to conclude your trip without first visiting Greenbelt in Makati. Its location makes it ideal for unwinding and relishing the tranquility ‘away’ from the bustling city, basking in the birds’ chirping and soaking up the sun’s rays. The area boasts dozens of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
https://www.facebook.com/Greenbelt.AyalaMalls/
City of Dreams (Near Makati)
After a long day of sightseeing, you’ll probably want to relax and have some fun. The perfect place for that is the City of Dreams. You can overlook the cityscape, and if you enjoy meeting new people, visit the casino and nightclub.
https://www.facebook.com/cityofdreamsmanila/
Festivals you shouldn't miss.
Participating in festivals is undoubtedly an enriching experience that teaches us about local culture and provides us with new insights. During your stay in Makati, if you have the opportunity, it’s recommended to take part in the local festivals that will leave you with wonderful memories. In the Philippines, numerous festivals are based on seasonal changes, religious festivals honoring saints, and festivals celebrating agricultural seasons. These festivals are characterized by a lot of love and care for others, and participating in them will enhance your experience in the Philippines. Here are some of the festivals you can join while in the city:
Caracol Festival – This festival takes place every Sunday in January and combines three festivals. The word “Caracol” represents the snail’s spiral and symbolizes the prevention of bad luck.
Kasalan Festival – This festival is dedicated to couples who got married outside the church.
Senakulo Festival – This festival commemorates the life of Jesus – his life, humanity, and death.
Ganito Kami Noon Festival – This festival is held in early June at the City Hall Quadrangle. The mayor leads the festival with his wife, aiming to showcase local governance and social sectors.
Belen Sa Makati Festival – The festival begins in December and celebrates the Christmas holiday. Decorations for the holiday can be found all over the city, with various establishments presenting their version of the birth of Jesus.
Likhang Kamay Festival – This festival is organized in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the Department of Trade and Industry. During the festival, local handcrafted arts and initiatives are displayed, offering insights into Filipino society’s changes.
Miss Makati – The competition is held every year during the last week of May. The purpose of the festival is to choose a goodwill ambassador through a beauty contest. Participation in this festival will give you insight into Filipino culture and the appreciation of beauty.
New Year’s Countdown – This festival first opened in 2004. Its purpose is to celebrate the new year and takes place on New Year’s Eve. The festival features fantastic performances alongside fireworks. If you enjoy having fun and celebrating, this is the ideal festival for you. It’s advisable to go to high-rise buildings to enjoy this rare spectacle. (A small tip: go to the following buildings: Gramercy 71, Floor 32 at City Garden Grand Hotel), you’ll thank us.
Do you have some extra time and looking for more things to do? (Or maybe you’re just a bit bored?)
Recommended Activities in Makati City – Whether you’re alone, with children, or just want to pass the time, there are plenty of interesting things to do during your stay in Makati that will make your visit enjoyable. Here’s a list of recommended activities that will undoubtedly enhance your stay.
Rooftop Party
If you love to party, Z Hostel is the perfect place for you to join a rooftop party that will enhance your travel experience in Makati. You will also have the opportunity to make new friends in the beautiful city of Makati.
Bowling
Of course, you’ll probably want to release some of the tension that has built up during your adventure, right? The ideal activity for you is bowling. The recommended place for that is Puyat Sports.
Yoga
Yoga combines spiritual, mental, and physical training for relaxation and improvement of quality of life and health. The recommended place for this is Beyond Yoga.
Try practicing fencing
Fencing is a type of sport in which two contestants fight each other using swords. For those who love adventures and enjoy acquiring new hobbies, they will surely enjoy such a great activity. Republic Fencing and Sport Club is the ideal place for you.
Shooting at the range
Shooting at a range, in simple terms, is an activity that can be done indoors or outdoors. It’s an activity that will help you sharpen your archery and shooting skills. A recommended place for such an activity is the Jethro Shooting Range.
In summary, this brief guide will help you gain some interesting insights about the city of Makati in the Philippines, and you can be sure that you’ll make the most of your time in the city using it. Use the tips provided in this guide to find the best restaurants and pubs, the places to visit, and the spots where you can learn about Filipino history and culture.
Let the fun begin!
Boxing
To enhance your experience in Makati, you should definitely try boxing! Boxing is a great sport that will not only help you train but also give you a fresh burst of energy after a long day of sightseeing. The perfect place for this is Elorde Boxing Gym.