A vibrant bayside city on the island of Luzon and the capital of the Philippines, Manila is a melting pot of cultures, apparent in its architecture, trends, and traditions. In Binondo, you’ll discover one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns, while in Ermita, you’ll find many museums and parks, including the National Museum and Rizal Park. The city is also home to a wealth of beautiful churches, such as the baroque-styled 16th-century San Agustin Church and the stunning Manila Cathedral, also a renowned wedding venue in the country. Also, don’t forget to visit Quiapo Church, known as the home of the miraculous Black Nazarene.
If you’re keen on immersing yourself in the area’s rich history, consider staying at one of the best historic hotels in Manila, Philippines. See our curated list for more information.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 15, 2024.
1. The Manila Hotel (from USD 140)
Reasonably priced with discounts at breakfast buffet
Historical and cultural vibe, spacious rooms, beautiful lobby, pool, and gym
Excellent location for visiting Intramuros and nearby attractions, walking distance to Rizal Park
Delicious breakfast buffet with extensive choices, superb Filipino dishes, and healthy options
There’s nothing quite like The Manila Hotel. It holds the distinction of being the first 5-star hotel in the Philippines and the top choice of international dignitaries and many celebrated personalities from around the world, making it a top accommodation choice.
With a history traversing 111 years, this iconic hotel offers its guests well-appointed suites and rooms adorned with traditional furnishings and wood accents. Some of the rooms even feature balconies with a view of Manila Bay.
The property is also famous for its dining options, including the Champagne Room, which serves French delights, Cafe Ilang-Ilang with its international cuisine, and The Red Jade Restaurant, which offers Cantonese food. Additionally, if you want to learn more about its history, you can visit its heritage museum and take a journey back in time to an era when cell phones and the internet were not a thing yet.
2. Rizal Park Hotel (from USD 124)
Dating back to the late 19th century as the Army and Navy Club Manila, Rizal Park Hotel is living proof of the colorful history of the Philippines. Founded in 1898, it served as a haven for US military personnel and civilians. Its walls witnessed significant events in Philippine-American relations and even survived the wreckage of World War II.
Now, as the Rizal Park Hotel, with its motto, “history in style”, guests can experience both the past with its colonial-era design and the future with its many modern conveniences. A swimming pool, a spa, an entertainment center, and a casino are just a few of the amenities that will surely pamper and indulge the guests.
Rizal Park Hotel
Address: South Road Drive T.M. Kalaw Ext. Ermita Manila, Manila Bay, Manila, Philippines, 1000
3. Miramar Hotel (from USD 34)
Known as Miramar Apartments in 1992, this historic hotel along Roxas Boulevard was once the go-to place of the elite families in the Philippines, as it has modern conveniences that other establishments lacked at the time, including one of the first elevators in the country.
This four-story building was restored and reopened in 2001 as Miramar Hotel, keeping its original Art Deco structure. Today, the property offers vibrant guestrooms with Art Deco interiors, an on-site restaurant, a spa, a business center, and function rooms for special occasions.
Miramar Hotel
Address: 1034-1036 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, 1000
4. Manila Grand Opera Hotel (from USD 46)
Nestled where the historic Manila Grand Opera House once stood — a venue for numerous political gatherings and a vibrant entertainment hub — Manila Grand Opera Hotel enjoys a strategic location close to essential establishments and attractions. These include trains, Chinatown, and Intramuros.
The cozy rooms feature hardwood floors, a private bathroom with toiletries, coffee-making facilities, and cable television. The casino and karaoke bar will surely keep you entertained, while the business center and meeting rooms will help you with anything work-related. For guests planning longer stays, laundry and concierge services are also available.
Manila Grand Opera Hotel
Address: 925 Rizal Avenue corner Doroteo Jose Street Sta. Cruz
Manila Tour Guide
Alvin Salen
Hi I'm looking forward to be your tour guide in Manila. I'm 20 years in tourism industry in the country and will take you to the historical sites in Manila such as the 400 year old Spanish fortress.
Tours by Alvin
5. The Luneta Hotel
A historical gem in the Philippines and one of the few remaining structures with French Renaissance style, evident in its ornate balcony, mansard roof, and gargoyles that seem to guard the building. The Luneta Hotel dates back to 1917 and has undergone renovations by different owners over the years.
In 2014, after years of extensive restoration, the hotel reopened to the public, offering a wide array of guestrooms. The rooms here are cozy and come with the top conveniences, while some high-end rooms feature a bathtub. Don’t forget to visit Luneta Park, just across from the hotel, and Intramuros, a historic walled city housing Fort Bonifacio.
The Luneta Hotel
Address: 414 T. M. Kalaw Avenue, Ermita, Manila, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, 1000
Explore the bustling city of Manila
Make the most of your time in Manila by listing down all the things you want to see and experience. Make sure to add Intramuros, Chinatown, and shopping in Divisoria to your checklist. To further help you, read our list of historic hotels in Manila, Philippines, and learn about its past.
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