Cover We list ten of the best urban retreats in Metro Manila (Photos: The Henry Hotel; Shangri-La The Fort; Solaire Resort North, by Justin de Jesus)
We list ten of the best urban retreats in Metro Manila (Photos: The Henry Hotel; Shangri-La The Fort; Solaire Resort North, by Justin de Jesus)
1 / 1
From five-star hotels to boutique gems, explore these stylish urban retreats for your next staycation in Metro Manila
A short retreat to recharge and hit the reset button is always a good idea, and you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gotten away.
We’ve all heard and make generous use of the portmanteau that is “staycation”, the elegant answer to our growing desire for pause without the fuss of departure and preparations made well in advance. Tucked within its vibrant business districts and storied neighborhoods, Metro Manila offers a wealth of stays that are indulgent, curated and close to home. Perfect for those craving a change of scenery or a mere break from routine, these city hotels rival far-flung destinations in comfort and charm with their skyline views, plush rooms, assortment of amenities and consistently excellent service.
Below, we list top choices to consider for your next urban escape in alphabetical order:
Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery Collection
Above Filipino-Spanish heritage and art deco marry in Admiral Hotel’s distinct design (Photo: Admiral Hotel Manila)
Filipino-Spanish heritage and art deco marry in Admiral Hotel’s distinct design (Photo: Admiral Hotel Manila)
1 / 1
A nostalgic nod to old society and the golden era, Admiral Hotel wraps you in art deco glam and the contemporary, artistic flair of an MGallery hotel. Perched along Roxas Boulevard, its rooftop bar is a quiet treasure at sunset, with a Manila Bay view that looks straight out of a postcard.
Read more: Tatler Best-in-Class: Awarding the best hotels in the Philippines 2025
Grand Hyatt Manila
Above Dine at The Peak, located at Grand Hyatt Manila’s roof deck (Photo: Grand Hyatt Manila)
Dine at The Peak, located at Grand Hyatt Manila’s roof deck (Photo: Grand Hyatt Manila)
1 / 1
In the buzzing Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Grand Hyatt whispers understated luxury. Not to be missed on your stay: The Peak—part grill, part jazz lounge—delivers a sweeping cityscape and the kind of cocktails that linger in memory; while the Illume Spa promises a restorative treatment from scalp to soul.
The Henry Hotel Manila
Above This boutique property is set in a beautifully restored 1940s-era mansion (Photo: The Henry Hotel Manila)
This boutique property is set in a beautifully restored 1940s-era mansion (Photo: The Henry Hotel Manila)
1 / 1
Tucked away in Pasay, The Henry Hotel charms with retrofitted mid-century architecture and leafy calm. Its homegrown vibe, vintage furniture and art-filled rooms make it feel more like an artist’s residence than a hotel—a boutique gem for when you’re seeking something cosier.
Hotel Okura Manila
Above Experience sinking into a traditional hinoki bathtub for rejuvenation like no other (Photo: Hotel Okura Manila)
Experience sinking into a traditional hinoki bathtub for rejuvenation like no other (Photo: Hotel Okura Manila)
1 / 1
Fusing Japanese hospitality and Filipino warmth, Hotel Okura has carved its place as a distinct and serene retreat within Newport World Resorts. Its tatami-style suites, hinoki bathtubs, authentic cuisine and meticulous omotenashi offer what feels like a genuine change of setting without the flight.
More from Tatler: No passport needed—eat your way across Asia with these tasty snack boxes
The Manila Hotel
Above The superior deluxe room is a spacious haven of old-world charm (Photo: The Manila Hotel)
The superior deluxe room is a spacious haven of old-world charm (Photo: The Manila Hotel)
1 / 1
An icon since 1912, The Manila Hotel is a living museum with tales to tell—of statesmen, writers and starlets past. Its Champagne Room remains one of the city’s most romantic dining spots, a throwback to colonial grandeur.
The Peninsula Manila
Known for its iconic fountain entrance and capacious lobby lounge, the Manila Pen is a classic. Afternoon tea here is practically a rite of passage, set to the soft strains of live classical music.
Raffles Makati
With its expansive and polished suites, Raffles is a sanctuary in the business district. It’s also just steps away from some of the metro’s best shopping malls; plus, sneak in a visit to the Ayala Museum for some culture.
Shangri-La The Fort, Manila
Above The lap pool delivers a stunning panorama of Bonifacio Global City (Photo: Shangri-La The Fort, Manila)
The lap pool delivers a stunning panorama of Bonifacio Global City (Photo: Shangri-La The Fort, Manila)
1 / 1
Straddling luxury and lifestyle, it’s not hard to see why Shangri-La The Fort claims it is “where the city comes alive”. Situated at the heart of BGC, near the famed High Street, the hotel welcomes Manila’s most discerning—balancing decadent dining and bars with high-performance amenities, from the expansive Kerry Sports to a lap pool with a view.
Sheraton Manila Hotel
Above The bi-level units are perfect for families (Photo: Sheraton Hotel Manila)
The bi-level units are perfect for families (Photo: Sheraton Hotel Manila)
1 / 1
Also within Newport World Resorts, Sheraton is a modern haven perfect for a family staycation. Along with its unique bi‑level loft suites and other spacious accommodations, leisure unfolds with a tranquil afternoon at the palm-lined outdoor pool, a massage at Shine Spa or playtime for little ones at the Kids Club.
Solaire Resort North
Above The living room in one of the suites at Solaire Resort North (Photo by Justin De Jesus)
The living room in one of the suites at Solaire Resort North (Photo by Justin De Jesus)
1 / 1
The latest jewel in Quezon City’s crown, Solaire Resort North is unapologetically grand. With gilded interiors, fine dining and a world-class entertainment complex just floors away from your suite, it’s Vegas-style opulence with unmistakable Filipino flair.
NOW READ
Meet Medusa, Manila’s hottest new supper club
Explore Asia by sea: 7 cruise experiences tailored for every traveller
Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
