Top 22 Romantic Spots in Manila, Philippines - Updated 2024

Top 22 Romantic Spots in Manila, Philippines - Updated 2024
Rica
Rica 
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Laarni Lanox
Endorsed by a Manila Local Expert
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Laarni Lanox
Angelica Denise Burlaza
Endorsed by a Manila Local Expert
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Angelica Denise Burlaza

Despite the bustling streets and towering buildings, Manila is filled with romantic places and activities - often tucked in places you would not expect.

Visiting the Philippine capital with a loved one? From restaurants to must-sees, we’ve compiled some of the best things you can do to feel the love in the old city. Plan a romantic staycation for your special someone in one of the city’s top hotels with in-room hot tub, then head out to see these top romantic spots in Manila, Philippines.

For a romantic meal together

1. Lemuria Gourmet Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Open since 2006, Lemuria Gourmet Restaurant offers French-Mediterranean cuisine and fine wines, ideal for a couples date night. It is tucked in a quiet village with a cozy vibe, giving guests both the elegance of a fine dining restaurant and the comforts of home. Wear dressy attire, walk on the cobblestone road leading up to the old house turned into a restaurant, and enjoy a six-course dinner with your loved one!

Opening hours: 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Address: Julieta Circle, Quezon City, 1112 Metro Manila

Cost (for 2 people): 3000 PHP (approximately 60 USD)

Website: Lemuria Gourmet Restaurant

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2. Café Juanita

Cafe Juanita, Fort Bonifacio
Source: Photo by Flickr user Paulo O used under CC BY 2.0

Known for its Spanish era interiors and authentic Filipino cuisine, Cafe Juanita is ideal for a casual date whether for lunch or dinner. Go laid back and enjoy home-cooked-style food while being surrounded by colorful decor that makes it a prime Instagrammable spot. Some of the romantic restaurant’s must-try dishes include kare-kare (a stew with thick peanut sauce) and longganisa (similar to Spanish chorizo).

Opening hours: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Address: 19 W Capitol Dr, Kapitolyo, Pasig City, 1603 Metro Manila

Cost (for 2 people): 1200 PHP (approximately 25 USD)

Website: Café Juanita

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Charlyne

Charlyne
Philippines

Good Tip Good Tip

One of my favorite Chinese-Filipino restaurants here in the Philippines is definitely Classic Savory! Variety of choices, from solo meals, to meals you can share with a partner or family meals!

To ensure freshness, it takes a little while for the order to arrive as they cook and prepare right on the spot.

Tip: If you want to taste a little bit of different dishes, I recommend you to order Combo C4 (consisting of a Choice of Half Chicken, a good portion of Pancit Canton, Sweet and Sour Pork, 2 cups of rice, Fried Banana and drinks). This restaurant will always remain nostalgic to me as it reminds me of the great old times when our family would eat here for Sunday dinner!

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3. Farfalla

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Farfalla on Thursday, September 10, 2020

Craving pizza in the middle of Manila? Farfalla, located in Hotel Durban, serves authentic Italian favorites including handcrafted pizzas, as well as pasta and bread. Savor the casual vibe of the restaurant - it is filled with modern decor and also offers outdoor seating. Keep things romantic by getting a wine to pair with your meal. There is also a full bar, in case you want to stay longer and continue your conversation with a drink.

Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Address: Hotel Durban, 4875 Durban St. Cor. Makati Avenue, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila

Cost (for 2 people): 1500 PHP (approximately 30 USD)

Website: Farfalla in Hotel Durban

Manila Tour Guide

Margareth Ng

Margareth Ng

Manila Tour Guide

Jerick Magat

Jerick Magat

Manila Tour Guide

Alvin Salen

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

4. Spiral at Sofitel Manila (from USD 41.95)

Interior of Spiral Restaurant in Sofitel Manila - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user anonymouse1 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Take your loved one to a luxury buffet dining experience at Spiral Restaurant located at Sofitel Manila. It offers over 350 international dishes on its menu, including Asian, European and Indian cuisines. Aside from the breathtaking array of food, Spiral also has elegant interiors and beautiful lights that glow up at night. The romantic restaurant also offers unique features such as the Cheese Room, an isolated area where an array of cheeses is kept to maintain their freshness.

Opening hours: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12 Noon to 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM

Address: Plaza Level, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, CCP Complex, Pasay City

Cost (for 2 people): 6000 PHP (approximately 120 USD)

Website: Spiral at Sofitel Manila

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Le Spa Experience at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Philippines

Duration: 1hrs30 Min Duration

76 reviews

5. Van Gogh is Bipolar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by van Gogh is Bipolar on Friday, December 4, 2020

Wanna try something casual yet unique? Located in Sikatuna Village, there is a cafe slash healing sanctuary called Van Gogh is Bipolar. They have an unpredictable menu that depends on the owner’s mood on the given day! Aside from the surprises, they also have noteworthy decor that includes old housewares. You can even write a love letter and leave it there to be a part of their collection. The concept behind this romantic restaurant is also pretty cool: to “empower every single being to celebrate thy greatness as we celebrate thy imperfections.”

Opening hours: 11 AM to 5 PM, 6 PM to 11:30 PM

Address: 154-H Maginhawa Street, Sikatuna Village, Quezon City

Cost (for 2 people): 2000 PHP (approximately 40 USD)

Facebook: Van Gogh is Bipolar

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6. Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by NINYO Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge on Friday, June 19, 2020

For a quick escape from the madness of the metro, couples can go for a nice meal at the outdoor gazebo of Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine in Loyola Heights. This beautiful place offers Asian and European cuisine which you can pair with the world’s best wines. The restaurant’s design is intimate and homey, with a garden that looks refreshing by day and made cozier by soft lights at night. Their must-try dishes include pumpkin soup, grilled salmon, beef salpicao, mango pavlova, and hanger steak.

Opening hours: 11 AM to 2 PM, 6 PM to 10 PM

Address: 66 Esteban Abada St, Loyola Heights, Quezon City, 1108 Metro Manila

Cost (for 2 people): 3500 PHP (approximately 70 USD)

Website: Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge

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7. Atelier Vivanda Manila

Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed

No need to fly to France for a romantic dinner with the love of your life - there is the Atelier Vivanda Manila, a restaurant located in Forbes Town, Bonifacio Global City. Meat-loving couples can enjoy a mouthwatering menu of premium steaks from Michelin star Chef, Akrame Benallal, including thinly sliced smoked beef and persillé Black Angus. Savor the romantic yet casual feel in one of the most beautiful French-themed restaurants, in Manila. They also offer unlimited wine (red, white and sparkling), as well as unlimited cocktails!

Opening hours: 11 AM to 12 AM

Address: U-A8 Forbes Town Center, Forbestown Rd, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila

Cost (for 2 people): 2500 PHP (approximately 50 USD)

Website: Atelier Vivanda Manila

8. Top of the Citi by Chef Jessie

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


A delicious meal shared with a special person on a quiet rooftop restaurant in the middle of the metro - it doesn’t get any more romantic than this! Top of the Citi by Chef Jessie offers such experience for couples, whether it’s a first date or an anniversary celebration. The menu is comprised of French and Filipino cuisine, including steaks and Filipino classics such as adobo. The food, combined with a cozy interior and great views of the city, make for a great overall fine dining experience!

Opening hours: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Address: 34th Floor, Citibank Tower, 8741 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City

Cost (for 2 people): 2000 PHP (approximately 40 USD)

Website: Top of the Citi by Chef Jessie

9. Caviar Restaurant and Champagne Bar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Chase the monday blues away with our smoked burrata from puglia. #burratadipuglia #burratacheese #smokedcheese...

Posted by Caviar restaurant on Monday, May 17, 2021

Take a tour through Europe with a meal at Caviar Restaurant and Champagne Bar, located in Filinvest. They offer European cuisine, and one of their most popular dishes is the smoked salmon, complemented with a glass of wine. The ambiance is fancy, yet intimate and wearing dressy clothes is recommended. If you’re staying in the southern part of Metro Manila, this is a beautiful place that will impress your date.

Opening hours: 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Address: Westgate Center, Filinvest City, Muntinlupa City

Cost (for 2 people): 4000 PHP (approximately 80 USD)

Website: Caviar Restaurant and Champagne Bar

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10. Galileo Enoteca

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Wine and cheese await couples at Galileo Enoteca, a casual Italian restaurant, in Mandaluyong. For a unique experience, you can also try their “cheese wheel”, available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The restaurant is known for its romantic and peaceful ambiance, as well as their wine-filled interior. Other Italian fare on the menu include pasta, truffles, and bread.

Opening hours: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Address: 80 Calbayog Corner Malinao Street, Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City

Cost (for 2 people): 1000 PHP (approximately 20 USD)

Website: Galileo Enoteca

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Sights to see together

11. Pagsanjan Falls (from USD 180.0)

top 22 romantic spots in manila, philippines | pagsanjan falls

Add a fun thrill to your romantic getaway by braving the rapids and water cascades of Pagsanjan Falls with your significant other. This enchanting tourist spot features steep gorges, rocks, and boulders that provide fun challenges especially if you’re both adrenaline junkies. Local guide experts are also available to help you navigate through the waters. While the base of the pool is already an amazing swim spot, there is also a hidden cave behind the veil of water where you can lounge, swim, or simply enjoy a unique moment with your loved one.

After a two-hour boat ride, you can also feast on delicious Filipino dishes for lunch.

Visited this place?

From Manila: Majestic Pagsanjan Falls Adventure

Duration: 8.0 hour

35 reviews

12. Manila Bay (from USD 200.0)

Asia is known for many things and one of them is seafood. Manila, in particular, boasts a plethora of romantic restaurants that serve mouthwatering seafood cuisine. It also features the “dampa” concept where you can buy raw and, sometimes, even live seafood from a local market and have them prepared for an intimate dinner in one of the nearby restaurants. From scallops to baby sharks, seafood can be cooked any way you like.

For convenience, you can also arrange for a pickup from the port and be transferred straight to the seafood market.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Lime Hotel Manila Bay

For a more private viewing experience of Manila Bay, you can opt to stay in a hotel. For instance, my family and I booked a room at Lime Hotel, which overlooks the stunning bay, especially in the rooftop pool area. Plus, it is an infinity pool, which adds to the extravagance of the atmosphere. Below the pool area is a comfy outdoor lounge, the perfect spot if you want to have a casual chat with loved ones while still taking in the water views. 

Visited this place?

Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Seafood Experience

Duration: 4 to 5 hours

13. Greenbelt Chapel

Greenbeltchapeljf
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ramon FVelasquez used under CC0

Greenbelt is a business district, mostly known for its towering buildings and huge shopping malls. But if you want to have a quiet time in a beautiful place, after shopping and sightseeing with your loved one, Greenbelt Chapel is a great pick. This outdoor-style place of worship is surrounded by lush greenery and features a man-made pond. Masses are held at certain times every day, but it is always open for everyone to enjoy.

Address: Ayala Center, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1228 Metro Manila

Website: Greenbelt Chapel

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Laarni

Laarni
Manila

Serene and calm

If you are planning to visit the chapel with your spouse on a Sunday, then you might as well bring the children too. Greenbelt is a shopping mall, so you won't run out of things to do with the family—there are enumerable restaurants and cinemas on-site. And yes, the pond is a great place to bond with your loved ones. The serene setting is definitely welcoming amid the bustling business center. There is even a vending machine nearby where you can get fish food for a few coins, so you can make a fun time feeding the fish with the kids.

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14. Cultural Dance Show at Barbara’s

top 22 romantic spots in manila, philippines | cultural dance show at barbara’s
Source: www.klook.com

Watching a cultural dance show at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, in Intramuros, is a great introduction to the traditions of Filipino culture. Shows typically last three hours and feature performances by dancers wearing native costumes and dancing to Filipino folk music. Before watching, guests can enjoy a feast of Filipino specialties for dinner, including chicken adobo (chicken cooked in soy sauce and vinegar) and lechon kawali (deep-fried pork belly). If you and your partner love to soak up the local culture, this could be a romantic activity for you two!

Opening hours: 11 AM to 2 PM, 6:30 PM to 9 PM

Address: Plaza San Luis, General Luna St, Intramuros, 658 Zone 70, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Facebook: Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Laarni

Laarni
Manila

Cheers you up right away! They make you feel special Ah yes, libation

The food at Barbara's is always a good idea. Filipino favorites with a twist or something extra, while still retaining their distinctive culinary signatures. The old-world ambiance of this place gives you that sweet yet slightly heartbreaking feeling of nostalgia—like you've been there a long time ago. The restaurant is also a great venue to celebrate your loved one's birthday—or yours!—as the staff gives free cake along with a Happy Birthday song accompanied by the lively greeting of strings.

Visited this place?

Dinner Buffet and Cultural Show at Barbara's

36 reviews

15. Old Manila - Intramuros (from USD 60.0)

Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
Source: Photo by user Ray in Manila used under CC BY 2.0

Old Manila refers to the Spanish-era structures and other places in the city, related to the Spanish occupation of the Philippines. Most of these landmarks are located inside Intramuros, the oldest district of Manila. Included in the must-visits is the Manila Cathedral, which is currently the Episcopal see of the Archbishop of Manila. There is also St. Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the country, and Fort Santiago, an old Spanish fortress where crucial parts of Philippine history took place. Since these structures are nearby each other, you can tour them on foot, while hand-in-hand with your loved one! You can also tour using bikes, and even by horse and carriage.

Address: Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila

Website: Intramuros

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Faye

Faye
Philippines

Fort Santiago at Night

Intramuros is one of my favorite places in Metro Manila, especially Fort Santiago. Whenever I visit, it feels like an escape from the life in the metro, away from the noise and the hustle and bustle of this very busy city. I enjoy just roaming around, enjoying the surroundings, and admiring the heritage. I have been there several times already, but it always feels like the first time. My favorite time to visit is when it's almost time for sunset and stay until the evening sets in, because the place has beautiful night lights. Make sure to drop by Rizal Museum in Fort Santiago when you visit, and get to know more about life and works of Jose Rizal.

Visited this place?

Manila Sightseeing with Intramuros and Fort Santiago

Duration: 4 hours

216 reviews

16. Taal Volcano

taal volcano ("binintiang malaki")
Source: Photo by user therealbrute used under CC BY 2.0

Taal Volcano is not exactly located in Manila but is one of the most popular places for a day trip from the city. Located a couple of hours away from Manila, it is considered the second most active volcano in the Philippines. Adventurous couples can take a boat ride to the volcano island and see the crater up close. Guided horseback rides are also available on the island, to make your way up to the viewpoint a little easier.

Address: Talisay and San Nicolas, Batangas, Luzon, Philippines

Website: Taal Volcano

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Taal Volcano Day Tour from Manila, Philippines - Klook

Duration: 12hrsDuration

17. Manila Bay Cruise

Manila Bay
Source: Pixabay

Sunsets in Manila are best seen at Manila Bay! To make your sunset watching even more romantic, why not spend it on a cruise and enjoy the city sights from the bay while having a meal? Manila Bay offers cruises where couples can choose between a buffet and a set dinner course on board a ship, filled with romantic night lights. Sunset cruises usually last for an hour and a half, accompanied by an acoustic band, serenading guests with love songs.

Address: Seaside Boulevard, Pasay

Website: Manila Bay Cruise

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Manila Bay Dinner Cruise, Manila, Philippines - Klook

Duration: 1hrs30 Min Duration

18. Mt. Pinatubo

Mt Pinatubo 2012
Source: Photo by user Ernan Tangalin used under CC BY 2.0

Another popular day trip destination from Manila is Mt. Pinatubo, an active stratovolcano located on the boundary of three provinces, on the island of Luzon: Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga. It takes two to three hours to reach the jump off point, from Manila. Then, visitors need to ride a 4x4 jeepney for two hours and trek for another two hours to reach the crater, where a view of the blue water and surrounding rock formations await. This activity is recommended for couples looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Address: Mt. Pinatubo, Botolan, Zambales

Website: Mt. Pinatubo

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Mt. Pinatubo Hiking Day Tour from Manila - Klook

Duration: 17hrsDuration

19. Z Compound

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

One fine Sunday afternoon at Z!!! #alfrescodining #goodfood #art #nature #music

Posted by Z Compound on Sunday, July 11, 2021

Z Compound is a foodie haven, located on Malingap Street, in Quezon City. With a total of 11 restaurants, this open food court will introduce you to various cuisine, ranging from local Filipino fare to western specialties and southeast Asian favorites. It offers a whole new dining experience, away from the crowds and typical fare offered in Manila’s huge malls. The restaurants are open until midnight, so you can spend a longer time with your loved one over good food and cocktails!

Opening hours: 3:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Address: 33A Malingap, Diliman, Quezon City

Facebook: Z Compound

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20. Antipolo Cathedral (from USD 24.85)

Antipolo Cathedral Altar
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kevin Michael Agu... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Antipolo Cathedral, more formally known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, is a popular pilgrimage destination among Roman Catholics. Located an hour and a half from Manila, it enshrines an image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in a high altar, behind glass and also features stained glass windows above one of its main doors. Masses start as early as 5 AM on Sundays and 6 AM on Saturdays and weekdays.

Address: Dela Paz St., Antipolo, Rizal

Website: Antipolo Cathedral

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Luljetta's Hanging Gardens Spa Experience in Manila, Philippines

Duration: 5hrsDuration

1459 reviews

21. Rizal Park a.k.a. Luneta Park (from USD 60.0)

Rizal Monument at Rizal Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Maynard Rabanal used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Known as one of the largest urban parks in Asia, Rizal Park is a historical area and a popular leisure spot for both tourists and residents of Manila. It is named after Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero who was executed in the same place where the park is located. Its main landmark is the Rizal Monument, while other notable structures include the Independence Flagpole, Kilometer Zero, Carabao Sculpture, Dancing Rings, and the Chinese Garden. Make your visit more romantic and stay until the Musical Dancing Fountain Show, at night, that features water soaring up to 88 feet (26.8 meters)!

Address: Roxas Blvd Ermita, Barangay 666 Zone 72, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Website: Rizal Park

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Manila Sightseeing with Intramuros and Fort Santiago

Duration: 4 hours

216 reviews

22. Binondo (from USD 28.39)

Nazareno Translacion 2018 - Binondo (Manila)(2018-01-09) 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Patrickroque01 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Whether you’re visiting during Chinese New Year or any other time of year, Binondo is worth a visit. It is the world’s oldest Chinatown, established in 1584 and later served as the center of commerce of Manila, during the American occupation of the Philippines. Some of the must-sees in Binondo include Binondo Church, Kuang Kong Temple, and Seng Guan Temple. For shopping, you can drop by Ongpin Street for Chinese herbs and groceries. Meanwhile, for a taste of authentic Chinese food, head to Carvajal Street, where Chinese restaurants and delicacy shops abound.

Address: Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila

Website: Binondo

Tip from Content Creator

Rafael

Rafael

New Binondo Chinatown Arch, Manila Binondo Church, Manila Binondo, Manila

Photos of Binondo shared by content creator from the Philippines, Rafael Madrilejo.

Visited this place?

The Big Binondo Food Wok in Manila - Klook

Duration: 3hrs30 Min Duration

Romantic Manila

Manila is a huge city, where every corner has something unique to offer. Take your loved one with you and try new things together!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Rica is a young freelance worker from the Philippines. She writes for a living, but more importantly, she lives to write. Travel is one of her favorite writing topics, alongside love and...Read more

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