Warm sunlight streams through capiz shell windows, casting a soft, golden glow across a room adorned with handcrafted furniture and intricate local artwork. The scent of freshly brewed barako coffee mingles with the sounds of Manila waking up, as you step onto a private balcony that overlooks the city’s vibrant streets.
Every detail of the space feels thoughtfully chosen—locally woven fabrics, bespoke wooden accents, and modern touches that blend seamlessly with Filipino tradition. This is the charm of boutique hotels in the Philippines—intimate, unique, and deeply connected to their surroundings.
1. Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences
The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences is more than just a hotel—it’s an art-inspired escape, designed by Tina Periquet-Galicia to bring Picasso’s colorful style to life. The rooms are spacious and cozy, from the 45 sqm Malaga Studio to the 133 sqm Picasso Loft, all crafted with comfort in mind. Think handcrafted linens, high-speed Wi-Fi, and modern kitchenettes.
When it comes to food, you’ve got options. Enjoy Spanish-Mediterranean dishes at Pablo Bistro, with room service if you’re in the mood to stay in, or grab a quick bite at Cartel Deli. There’s a bi-level gym if you want to keep up with your fitness, and the Altro Mondo gallery to feed your artistic side. Need some pampering? Studio 119 is ready for hair and body treatments.
Plus, they’ve got great event spaces like the Paulo Picasso Room if you need a spot for meetings or gatherings. And there are some pretty great deals too—like “Drizzle & Dream” starting at PHP 4,288 or “Weekend Escape” from PHP 3,850. They even offer a “Book Now, Pay Later” option, making your stay easy and affordable.
2. The Henry Hotel
This old mansion was once a buzzing hub for artists back in the 1950s, and you can still feel that creative energy at The Henry Hotel today. Tucked away in lush, green grounds, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle of hotels in Manila. Each room and suite has a unique mid-century vibe, with bright decor and furniture by designer Eric Paras.
The Henry Hotel Manila is all about mixing nostalgic charm with modern comfort. The rooms are uniquely themed, and the hotel has everything you need for a relaxing getaway—like a garden, library, pool, and cool decor throughout. There are some standout features too, like the I.P. Santos Lawn, perfect for events, “The Honest Henry” shop filled with Filipino products, and “Apartment 1B” for luxury dining.
They also offer packages for weddings and celebrations, with flexible options and an attentive staff to make everything easy. Plus, guests can enjoy special promotional deals that add even more to your stay.
3. The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a symbol of Manila’s strength and warmth, as even Ernest Hemingway once pointed out. Since opening in the early 1900s, it’s played host to legends like The Beatles and Michael Jackson. With its Filipino-inspired rooms and top-notch service, it’s all about giving guests a luxurious experience.
Truly one of the best hotel in Manila, this place is more than just accommodation. The Presidential Suite, for instance, comes with a memory foam bed, full kitchen, and 24-hour butler service. Guests here can soak in sunset views, relax by the pool, enjoy the spa, or explore the in-house art gallery.
For dining, Café Ilang-Ilang and Red Jade offer great options, while the Fiesta Pavilion and Centennial Hall suit weddings and events. “The Prestige Life” membership adds perks like discounts and free stays. Enjoy the spa, gym, pool, or browse boutique stores—The Manila Hotel ensures a comfortable and memorable stay for both business and leisure.
4. Discovery Primea
Discovery Primea is all about luxury in the heart of Makati, brought to life by the famous architect Kenzo Tange. The hotel effortlessly blends modern and classic styles, giving guests a mix of comfort and elegance. Every room is designed to make you feel like a VIP, with hypoallergenic beds, LED TVs, and spotless bathrooms.
When it comes to dining, head up to Flame restaurant on the 16th floor for an amazing meal, or unwind in the spa, hit the gym, or take a dip in the pool. The hotel’s got different room options to fit your needs—whether it’s a Business Flat, an Executive Suite, or a loft-style room, each space is packed with amenities perfect for both leisure and business travelers.
5. Hotel Céleste
Hotel Céleste is one of Manila’s original boutique hotels, known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional service. With just 25 beautifully decorated rooms and five luxurious suites, it offers an intimate and comfortable stay. The marble bathrooms and soft feather pillows add an extra touch of comfort.
For dining, guests can enjoy delicious meals at the Edward & Wallis Restaurant or indulge in a sophisticated experience at Le Feu Steak House, which specializes in steaks. Room service is also available for those who prefer to dine in.
Located in Makati, Hotel Céleste is perfect for exploring the city. It features modern Deluxe and Suite rooms, valet parking, free Wi-Fi, a gym, a business center, and airport transfers. It’s a non-smoking property, with check-in at 2 PM and check-out at noon.
6. Aruga Apartments by Rockwell
Aruga Apartments by Rockwell brings you the warmth of Filipino hospitality paired with world-class service. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer stay, they’ve got room options like Studio Deluxe, One-Bedroom, and Two-Bedroom Suites to suit your needs.
You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining—grab a bite at Prologue, Rocky’s Café, Eight Coffee Bar, Pancake House, or CoCo ICHIBANYA. Each offers a cozy vibe and plenty of delicious options.
The amenities here cover all bases, from an outdoor pool and fitness center to in-room massages and shuttle services. Planning an event? Aruga is perfect for weddings or meetings, with special packages and promotions, plus discounts for direct bookings and extended stays.
7. Privato Hotels
Privato Hotels has three convenient locations across Metro Manila—Makati, Ortigas, and Quezon City—perfect for business or leisure travelers. Each hotel features fully furnished rooms, a restaurant, function rooms, a swimming pool, a gym, and in-room massage services.
From work trips to relaxing getaways, Privato has everything you need. Rates range from Php 2,100 to Php 2,800, and for longer stays, they offer monthly rates starting at Php 45,000, along with discounts for extended visits. Privato Hotels also takes pride in giving back to the community.
They turn plastic waste into eco-lumber, donate meals and bottled water to hospitals, provide hygiene kits to typhoon victims, and partner with organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation. Through fundraising events and scholarship grants, Privato is dedicated to making a positive impact.
8. KL Serviced Residences
KL Serviced Residences is your cozy city retreat, perfectly located near great dining spots, shopping, and plenty of fun activities. They’ve got fully furnished options for every type of traveler—Studio Rooms, One-Bedroom Units, and Two-Bedroom Suites—all with modern perks like kitchenettes, high-speed WiFi, and work desks. Whether you’re a solo traveler or need space for the whole family, they’ve got you covered, even with spacious penthouses.
You can kick back at the indoor pool, get a workout in at the gym, or relax in the sauna. The KL Yard is perfect for lounging, and there’s even a function room for events or meetings. When you get hungry, head over to Nono’s for some delicious comfort food. It’s a great spot whether you’re here to work or just unwind.
They’ve also got some awesome deals—”Buy One Get One” offers, “Rainy Day Specials,” weekend staycations starting at PHP 3,900, and long-stay packages. Plus, book early and you could save up to 30%.
Find the Heart of Manila in Every Stay
Staying in a place that feels like home yet opens a window to the soul of Manila is an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. These eight boutique hotels are more than just accommodations—they’re a gateway to the city’s culture, its stories, and its people. Every stay is a chance to create memories that linger far beyond your visit.
When you choose where to stay, it’s not just about a bed for the night—it’s about the moments you take with you, the stories you get to tell. So let me ask you, wouldn’t you rather stay somewhere that truly reflects the heart of the city? Somewhere that transforms your journey into something unforgettable?
At Sam SEO Philippines, we provide the best insights and planning support to make your journey truly unforgettable. Visit us for expert travel tips and personalized guidance to ensure every detail of your adventure is perfect.
FAQs
What is the difference between a boutique hotel and a star hotel?
Unlike large hotel chains that adhere to strict star ratings and brand guidelines, boutique hotels don’t follow set rules. They are generally smaller, sometimes with as few as five rooms, and are often located in trendy or emerging urban areas.
What is unique about boutique hotel?
Boutique hotels are known for their small size, stylish decor, and personalized service. Unlike large hotel chains that stick to standard designs and amenities, boutique hotels focus on unique character and meticulous attention to detail, offering guests a distinctive experience.
What are the luxury hotels in Manila?
Some luxury hotels in Manila include Amanpulo, Dusit Thani Manila, Edsa Shangri-La, Fairmont Makati, Hotel H2o, Hotel Jen, Luks Lofts, Nobu Hotel, Raffles Makati, Sheraton Manila Bay, Sofitel Philippine Plaza, and The Peninsula. These new hotels in Manila offer upscale amenities, exceptional service, and unique experiences, making them ideal for a luxurious stay in the city.
Which part of Manila is good to stay in?
For the best places to stay in Manila, Makati is ideal for food lovers, while Malate and Binondo (Chinatown) offer vibrant cultural experiences. Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, is known for its dumpling houses, historic Binondo Church, and rich architecture, making it perfect for travelers seeking both culture and cuisine.