Best Budget Friendly Places To Stay In Manila

Finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay in Manila makes a big difference in enjoying the city. Manila offers all sorts of budget friendly hotels, each with their own charm and perks. Whether you’re searching for something close to tourist sights, want to be near the airport, or need a place where pets are welcome, you have good options without stretching your travel budget.

Some neighborhoods in Manila are safer and more convenient for tourists, so I pay careful attention to location whenever I recommend places. I also consider reviews, amenities, and that extra peace of mind that helps travelers feel at home. Staying within budget does not mean giving up comfort, a good night’s sleep, or the chance to explore Manila’s best spots.

This guide covers my top picks for budget friendly hotels in Manila. Each one offers a unique benefit, such as free airport shuttles, breakfast included, or a pet friendly policy. I also add tips on the safest and most convenient areas to stay, plus things to watch for booking cheap accommodation in the city.


1. Hop Inn Hotel Ermita Manila

https://www.hopinnhotel.com/our-hotels/hop-inn-ermita-manila

Rooms starting at P1,208 / $21.23 USD at time of printing.

Hop Inn Hotel Ermita is a great choice if you want comfort, safety, and affordability. I often see travelers call out the friendly staff and clean rooms in their reviews. Rooms come with free WiFi and air conditioning, and have strong water pressure. This hotel sits close to Manila Bay, Rizal Park, and Robinsons Place Manila, making it easy to check out the city’s famous sites on foot or by taxi.

Location Highlights:

  • Walking distance to the U.S. Embassy and Intramuros.
  • Lots of dining and shopping spots around.
  • Twenty minutes by car from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The lobby is open 24/7, which is handy if you have late night flights or need advice. The area feels secure due to the location in Ermita, one of the busier districts in Manila. This is a great spot for solo travelers and couples on a budget who still want access to tourist sights.


2. Red Planet Manila Binondo

https://www.redplanethotels.com/hotel/binondo-manila

Rooms starting at P1,340 / $23.55 USD at time of printing.

If you’re hoping to check out Manila’s oldest district and get a taste of history, Red Planet Binondo is a solid choice. The hotel stands right in Chinatown, so you’ll find markets, food stalls, and cultural spots around every corner. Rooms are compact but tidy and have the basics like hot showers, fast internet, and in room safes.

  • A few minutes from Ongpin Street and Binondo Church.
  • Quick rides to Quiapo, Divisoria, and Intramuros.
  • Staff security and keycard access for all floors.

Staying here means you get both an authentic Manila experience and peace of mind about your budget. Binondo also feels safer during the day thanks to businesses and constant foot traffic.


3. Go Hotels Ermita Manila

https://gohotels.ph/branch/ermita-manila

Rooms starting at P1,161 / $20.40 USD at time of printing.

Go Hotels Ermita is another practical option right in the middle of Manila’s fun, tourist friendly areas. This hotel often has promos and discount rates for direct bookings. Rooms are simple, with fresh bedding, flatscreen TVs, and air conditioning. Some rooms have views of the city skyline.

  • Just steps from the Robinsons Place Manila shopping mall.
  • Not far from Malate nightlife and Rizal Park.
  • Available luggage storage makes early arrivals or late departures easier.

This hotel works well for longer stays. If you plan to move around Manila, the nearby jeepney and bus routes are really convenient as well.


4. The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati

https://www.theminisuites.com/

Rooms starting at P2,635 / $46.31 USD at time of printing.

If you want to be close to the action in Makati but not pay the high hotel prices, The Mini Suites is worth checking out. The hotel is inside a tall modern building near Ayala Avenue, which puts you near green spaces, business centers, and Makati’s top restaurants.

  • Direct access to Makati’s covered walkways, so you can avoid Manila’s traffic and heat.
  • About twenty five minutes by car from NAIA if there’s no heavy traffic.
  • An outdoor pool, gym, and free bottled water.

Safety is a priority thanks to 24 hour reception and secure lift access. Single rooms run small but are thoughtfully designed, making the hotel good for solo travelers and business visitors working on a budget.


5. Selah Pods Hotel Pasay

https://www.selahpods.com/

Rooms starting at P2,107 / $37.03 USD at time of printing.

Travelers who need quick airport access often pick Selah Pods in Pasay. It’s just a short drive from NAIA, and it is close to the Mall of Asia, one of Asia’s largest malls. Rooms feature modern design, air conditioning, cable TV, and WiFi. Some rooms have floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city.

  • Airport shuttle service available at a low cost.
  • Infinity pool and rooftop restaurant to unwind after a flight.
  • Near government buildings and convention centers.

The location affords travelers with an early morning departure to get a solid night’s sleep and skip Manila’s heavy morning traffic. Safety features include keycard entry and 24 hour security.


6. Lub d Philippines Makati

https://lubd.com/destination/manila-makati/

Shared/Group rooms starting at P510 / $8.96 USD at time of printing.

Private King rooms starting at P1561 / $27.43 USD at time of printing.

This hotel hostel hybrid is a favorite for backpackers, digital nomads, and anyone wanting a social vibe at a good price. Lub d has clean private rooms along with dorm beds for super budget stays. There’s a co-working space, game room, and café onsite, so it’s easy to work or meet other travelers here.

  • Easy walk to Poblacion, Makati’s trendiest nightlife spot.
  • Consistently praised for its safety, with CCTV and security staff on every floor.
  • Walkable to Makati Central Business District and restaurants.

Lub d’s location balances lively nightlife options with convenient access to public transportation. Free WiFi, and cool communal areas, make it a fun, affordable stop for young travelers.


7. Hotel 101 Manila

https://hotel101.com

Rooms starting at P2,795 / $49.12 USD at time of printing.

Hotel 101 Manila sits near the Mall of Asia and is one of the most popular budget hotels for business travelers and families. The rooms are bright, with simple kitchenettes, air conditioning, and plenty of space for luggage. A clean swimming pool and café in the hotel adds comfort.

  • Less than fifteen minutes from the airport by car.
  • Good for families due to room size and amenities.
  • Near the bay, with plenty of taxis and rideshare options.

The staff focuses on guest safety, and the busy area stays well lit at night. The price to quality ratio hard to beat if you want to stay in Pasay on a budget.


8. Stay Malate Hostel (formerly Wanderers Guest House)

https://staymalate.hotels-manila.com/

Rooms starting at P967 / $17 USD at time of printing.

For travelers who need to save money or simply want a social place to rest, Stay Malate Hostel fits the bill. The location puts you a single block away from Manila Bay, the Remedios nightlife district, and lots of cheap eats.

  • Shared dorms and private rooms available, both with air conditioning.
  • A lounge, rooftop bar, and tour desk to meet others and plan your Manila adventures.
  • Security lockers and 24 hour front desk for peace of mind.

The Malate area is lively, but the hostel keeps it’s entrance secure and guests say the staff are really helpful for first timers in Manila. This is a good pick for backpackers and groups of friends keeping costs low.


9. Pearl Lane Hotel

http://www.pearllanehotel.net

Rooms starting at P1764 / $31 USD at time of printing.

Pearl Lane is a longtime favorite among budget travelers for its mix of value, cleanliness, and location. The rooms are simple and have strong WiFi, a fridge, and lots of windows for natural light. A free breakfast helps you start your day easily.

  • Located in Malate, close to art galleries, cafes, and parks.
  • Consistent positive reviews about safety and helpful staff.
  • Affordable airport transport can be booked through the front desk.

This hotel works for couples, business travelers, or small groups who want to be near tourist spots as well as local neighborhoods.


10. RedDoorz Plus @ Kamuning Quezon City

https://www.reddoorz.com/

Rooms starting at P1,059 / $18.61 USD at time of printing.

If you’re staying longer in Manila or looking to check out Quezon City’s scene, RedDoorz Plus @ Kamuning is a smart and budget friendly option. The hotel has simple but spacious rooms, free WiFi, and friendly front desk staff who know the area well.

  • Not far from Cubao, Araneta Center, and Tomas Morato’s restaurant row.
  • Easy access by Metro or bus- especially handy for avoiding Manila traffic.
  • Typically quiet area at night, with extra security measures.

Solo travelers, students, or anyone on a budget often like this location because it’s well connected and feels less crowded than Manila’s city center. During festivals or concerts in Quezon City, it’s also a prime spot with affordable pricing. If you want reliable and quick access to Manila’s northern districts without paying city center prices, this is a great pick.


Best Pet Friendly Budget Hotel: Red Planet Manila Aseana City

https://www.redplanethotels.com/hotel/aseana-city-manila

Rooms starting at P2,010 / $35.33 USD at time of printing.

Red Planet Manila Aseana City is a top option if you want to bring pets along without paying high-end hotel rates. The hotel is upfront about its pet policy, so you know exactly what to expect. Rooms have spotless tiled floors, air conditioning, and the staff provides beds or bowls for small pets if you ask ahead.

  • Minutes from the Mall of Asia and the airport.
  • Lots of pet friendly public spaces and parks nearby.
  • 24 hour security and covered parking deliver safety and convenience.

Just remember to check pet size restrictions and bring all necessary pet papers. This is a reliable, safe hotel for animal lovers passing through Manila. And, with a location that puts you between the city’s biggest mall and airport, you’ll waste no time getting to your next stop.


Tips for Choosing a Budget Hotel in Manila

Paying attention to the following items will help give you the best travel experience:

  • Location Matters: Hotels near LRT/MRT lines or trending sights save you money and time on transportation. Makati, Ermita, and Pasay are generally safer for tourists.
  • Security: Look for hotels with 24 hour front desk, security staff, and electronic keycards, and positive reviews from other travelers in regards to safety.
  • Airport Access: If catching a flight, hotels in Pasay, and those close to airport expressways, keep travel simple and stress low.
  • Read Recent Reviews: Ratings and reviews often share real world details about cleanliness and service that are easy to miss in official hotel photos.
  • Watch for Hidden Fees: Some budget hotels add charges for early check in, late check out, or extra amenities. Double check before booking.
  • Call Ahead: Messaging the hotel directly with questions, such as available room types or shuttle schedules, leads to better clarity and, sometimes, extra discounts.

Neighborhood Safety and Convenience

Most tourist friendly parts of Manila feel safe and busy during the day, especially places close to malls, museums, or embassy areas. In the evening, it feels more secure in Makati, Pasay, and Binondo, where there’s lots of traffic and hotels keep entrances lit and staffed. Checking hotel reviews for up to date info on neighborhood safety, especially if you plan on arriving late at night, is a good idea. If in doubt, call ahead for the latest tips and details from hotel staff before you set out. Filipinos are known for their friendliness and welcoming attitude.

Some neighborhoods host street festivals or community events, turning once quiet blocks into lively, colorful scenes. If you happen to be in Manila during these times, you may enjoy the festivities and extra crowds, which can mean increased safety, and extended hours at shops and cafes.


How to Get the Best Deals on Budget Hotels

Booking directly on hotel websites or through trusted apps usually delivers the best prices. Last minute deals sometimes pop up, especially for solo rooms or Sunday through Thursday bookings. If you travel during the rainy season (June to November), prices often drop even further. It’s wise to check cancellation policies in case plans change suddenly, and stick with well known booking platforms for added safety.

Joining hotel loyalty programs, even as a first time guest, sometimes unlocks exclusive discounts or freebies like breakfasts and airport rides. Set up fare alerts and join travel forums for the newest deals or flash sales shared by other travelers in real time.


Finding Value and Comfort in Manila

Traveling Manila on a budget is very possible, even when you want a clean, safe place to sleep near the city attractions. Each of these hotels brings something unique to the table, whether you’re focused on price, airport convenience, pet friendliness, or being near the main sights. A good location, recent traveler reviews, and helpful safety features all make your stay smoother and more enjoyable.

Manila welcomes all sorts of travelers ready to jump into the city’s history, food, and culture. With planning and a smart pick from this list, you’ll find comfort and adventure without blowing your budget. Whether for a single night layover or a week-long stay, Manila’s budget hotels make it easy to relax and begin your adventures in the capital of the Philippines.

Lechon Baboy Recipe Filipino Style

The Ultimate Filipino Lechon Baboy Recipe for Family Celebrations

Lechon baboy, or whole roasted pig, is one of the most famous Filipino dishes around, and for good reason. Whenever I think of the biggest, happiest gatherings back home—from birthdays to fiesta—there’s almost always a perfectly roasted lechon at the center of it all. The crispy skin, and tender, juicy meat, bring people together and gets everyone excited for a feast.

There’s a real sense of pride that comes with making lechon baboy. The tradition goes way back to Spanish colonial times and has become a symbol of celebration and hospitality. If you’ve ever seen a whole pig roasting slowly over hot coals, you know it’s a full-on event that takes teamwork, patience, and plenty of good spirits. It’s super popular from Luzon down to Mindanao, but each region adds its own little twist.


Why Lechon Baboy Is So Special

  • Ultimate Party Food. It’s a showstopper and gets everyone talking and eating together.
  • Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat. The main highlight for most people, and worth all the effort.
  • Customizable Flavors. Different regions and families stuff their lechon with their favorite herbs and aromatics, making each version unique.
  • Tradition and Togetherness. Roasting lechon is a group effort and always makes for good memories.

Ingredients for Classic Filipino Lechon Baboy

What you need will depend on the size of the pig and your personal taste, but here’s the basic list for a midsized (around 22 lbs) pig that serves a typical family gathering:

  • 1 whole pig (18–25 lbs, clean and prepped)
  • 1 cup salt
  • 3 tablespoons cracked black pepper
  • 2 cups soy sauce
  • 2 cups vinegar
  • 15 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 5 stalks lemongrass (tanglad), bruised
  • 8 bay leaves
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped into large pieces
  • 3 large red onions, quartered
  • 3–4 pieces star anise (optional, for extra aroma)
  • About 1/4 cup cooking oil, for brushing
  • Banana leaves (for lining the belly, optional but adds aroma)
  • Charcoal (lots of it; enough for at least 4–5 hours of roasting)

How to Prepare Lechon Baboy at Home

Prep the Pig

  1. Rinse the pig thoroughly inside and out with clean water. Pat dry with towels.
  2. Rub salt, soy sauce, vinegar, pepper, and garlic all over the inside and outside. Don’t skip the cavity since that’s where most of the flavor goes!
  3. Stuff the cavity with lemongrass, bay leaves, green onions, red onions, and star anise (if desired). You can also add banana leaves inside for classic aroma.
  4. Sew up the belly with kitchen twine or sturdy string to keep all the stuffing in place.

Set Up the Spit

  1. Thread the pig through a sturdy bamboo pole or rotisserie rod, making sure it’s secure and centered. Tie the legs securely to the pole so it turns smoothly.

The Roasting Process

  1. Build a charcoal pit about 3 to 4 feet longer than the pig. Make sure you can turn the spit smoothly and safely.
  2. Light the coals and let them burn down until they’re white and glowing. Don’t roast over leaping flames to keep the skin from burning.
  3. Start turning the pig slowly over the charcoal. Roasting takes about 4 to 5 hours. Keep the heat steady and avoid burning one side.
  4. Brush the skin with oil from time to time. This helps it blister and turn extra crispy.

Check for Doneness

  1. After about 4 hours, check the skin for a good, even brown color. Tap it; the skin should be crispy and sound almost hollow.
  2. Slice into the thickest part (often the shoulder) and check if the juices run clear. If they do, it’s ready!

Tips and Easy Tweaks

  • Use banana leaves if you can find them; they add a subtle flavor and keep the meat juicy.
  • Try adding pineapples or tamarind leaves to the stuffing for a bit of sweetness and tang.
  • If you want a shortcut, you can brine the pig overnight in a cooler for extra juicy meat.
  • Baste often, but gently, since too much liquid can soften the skin and keep it from getting crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I don’t have space for a whole pig?
Cooking only the belly (lechon belly or “rolled lechon”) works great and fits in most home ovens or large grills. The flavors are just as good, and the skin still gets really crispy.

Q: How do I make lechon sauce?
Filipino lechon isn’t complete without a sweet and savory sauce. Just simmer liver spread, vinegar, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, garlic, onions, soy sauce, and pepper until thick. Mang Tomas is the popular bottled brand if you want something quick. You can find it here on Amazon, and your purchase helps the Blog with a small commission at no cost to you. https://amzn.to/4hWRwX5

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Marinate or stuff the pig a day before roasting to let the flavors soak in. Always roast lechon on the day of your event so it stays hot and crispy.


Celebrate with Lechon Baboy

I always look forward to the moment when the lechon hits the table and everyone gets ready to jump in together. Filipinos love sharing good food and good company, and lechon is perfect for that. Whether you’re trying this for a holiday or your next big get-together, it’s sure to create happy memories. Bring the family together for a feast and a chance to start a new tradition—lechon really is the centerpiece of celebration in the Philippines. It’s the one thing that rivals Karaoke…well, almost 🙂