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Famous Landmarks in Makati City

Famous Landmarks in Makati City

Makati City Metro Manila, Philippines Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Makati's urban heart is a few landmarks combining modern urban planning with cultural touchpoints. These sites offer visitors glimpses into the city's lush areas and historical narratives.

The mix of modernity and cultural spaces one of Makati's distinct characteristics.

Must-Visit Sites

  • Ayala Triangle Gardens: Urban park, walking paths, public art, Christmas light show.
  • Ayala Museum: Art and history exhibits, dioramas, "Gold of Ancestors".
  • Greenbelt Chapel: Open-air, modern circular chapel within Greenbelt mall.
  • Makati City Hall: Seat of government, administrative and governmental center.

Visitor Information

Ayala Triangle & Greenbelt Chapel

  • Ayala Triangle Gardens: Open ALL day and night, free entry. Christmas light show late Nov-Dec.
  • Gardens Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light. Christmas for light show.
  • Less Crowded: Weekdays during working hours for peaceful strolls.
  • Greenbelt Chapel: Open daily, free entry. Early weekdays for tranquility.

Ayala Museum

  • Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Admission: ₱850 for non-Filipinos, ₱450 for Filipinos.
  • Guided Options: Available by appointment. Check website.
  • Photography: Often restricted inside galleries. Check policies upon entry.

Rooftop bars: Offer panoramic city views for excellent photography, especially at sunset and night.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Ayala Museum: "Gold of Ancestors" exhibit, "Philippine History in Diorama".
  • Yuchengco Museum: Filipino national artists, pre-colonial artifacts, Jose Rizal memorabilia.
  • Art Galleries: Finale Art File and Silverlens for contemporary Filipino art.
  • Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP): National center for performing arts in Pasay.

Historical Sites

  • Archaeological Sites:

    No significant spots in Makati City itself.

  • Historical Districts:

    Poblacion retains some colonial-era architecture.

  • Religious Sites:

    Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church (1620), National Shrine of The Church of our lady of Guadalupe.

  • Commemorative Sites:

    Ayala Triangle Gardens monuments, Wall of Remembrance (Manila American Cemetery, Taguig).

  • Industrial/Military:

    No direct sites function as tourist attractions within Makati.

Natural Attractions

Makati's urban landscape means natural attractions are mainly confined to designed green spaces.

Green Spaces & Views

  • Ayala Triangle Gardens

    Most prominent green space in the CBD, walking paths, open lawns, public art.

  • Legazpi Active Park & Washington SyCip Park

    Tranquil parks with walking paths, sculptures, and lush planting for relaxation.

  • Salcedo Park

    Home to the popular Salcedo Saturday Market amidst greenery.

  • Scenic Viewpoints

    Mainly from rooftop pubs or high-rise buildings, offering impressive cityscapes at sunset.

  • Wildlife Viewing

    No wildlife viewing areas exist within Makati. Zoos are outside the city.

  • Beaches, Lakes, Waterways

    Pasig River borders northern Makati for transport. No beaches or large lakes.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the obvious to discover Makati's lesser-known treasures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Poblacion offers a more bohemian and local feel. Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch in Poblacion.

Local Favorites

Salcedo/Legazpi Markets, local Carinderias for authentic, budget-friendly food experiences.

Emerging & Photo Opportunities

Nearby Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig offers new attractions, modern parks, and a thriving dining and retail scene.

  • The Greenbelt Chapel: Unique circular architecture and serene setting.
  • Makati Skyline from a Rooftop Bar: Capture stunning panoramic the views at sunset or night.
  • Attraction Tickets: GetYourGuide.com for convenient booking.

Practical Travel Tip

Many attractions in Makati are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Ayala Center area.

Wear comfortable shoes to explore thoroughly.

Makati's Modern Charm

Makati is a contemporary, urban center, a hub for business and lifestyle.

Urban Experience

  • Explore skyscrapers and corporate offices.
  • Enjoy high-end establishments and shopping malls.
  • Experience a varied food scene.

Beyond the Concrete

While urbanized, Makati also offers green spaces for relaxation and local charm.

Relax and Discover

  • Unwind in parks like Ayala Triangle Gardens.
  • Discover the bohemian feel of Poblacion.
  • Visit art galleries and museums for cultural immersion.

Cultural Insights

Explore the history and art that shape Makati's identity.

Art & Heritage

  • Ayala Museum for dioramas of Philippine history.
  • Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church, one of Makati's oldest.
  • Yuchengco Museum dedicated to Filipino national artists.
  • Temporary exhibitions at local museums.

Connectivity & Access

Makati well-connected and easy to navigate.

Getting Around

  • Ayala MRT station provides central access.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing (Grab) are readily available.
  • Many areas are pedestrian-friendly with elevated walkways.

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

  • Dry season (Nov-May) for pleasant weather.
  • December for the famous Ayala Triangle Christmas lights.
  • Weekdays to avoid weekend crowds at popular spots.

Stay Comfortable

  • Lightweight clothing due to tropical climate.
  • Sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring.

Get Your Guide

Make the most of your Makati exploration with these helpful resources and booking options.

Attraction Tickets

Book your tickets for museums, city tours, and popular sites in advance for convenience.

Guided Tours

Explore Makati with local experts who share insights and history.

Easy Booking

Secure your experiences effortlessly through a trusted platform.

Explore & Book with GetYourGuide

Makati City Tours

Discover the city's landmarks and secluded nooks with various tour options.

Find Tours

Museum Entry

Pre-book your admission to the Ayala Museum and other cultural institutions.

Book Museum Tickets

Local Experiences

Look for unique local experiences like food tours or cultural classes.

Discover Experiences

Day Trips from Makati

Explore attractions outside Makati with guided day trips.

Browse Day Trips

Family-Friendly Attractions

Find tickets and tours suitable for all ages.

Family Fun

Seamless Planning

Utilize GetYourGuide for a smooth and organized sightseeing schedule.

Benefits

  • Skip the lines at popular attractions.
  • Flexible cancellation options.
  • Mobile tickets for convenience.

Maximize Your Time

Pre-booking experiences frees up time for more exploration.

Smart Travel

  • Save precious travel time.
  • Access special deals and discounts.
  • Read reviews from other travelers.
  • Tours available in multiple languages.

Expert Tip

Consider a hop-on, hop-off bus tour for a practical method to see multiple attractions at your own pace.

This allows flexibility and covers many points without the hassle of individual transport.

Hidden Gems & Local Insights

Venture beyond the main tourist paths to discover Makati's unique character and local life.

Exploring Poblacion

Poblacion, the old municipal center, now a district. It a bohemian and local feel.

What to find

  • Eclectic mix of old buildings and trendy bars.
  • Varied international restaurants and budget-friendly hostels.
  • A lively atmosphere distinct from the polished CBD.

Filipino-Chinese Arch

Discover the historical and cultural significance of the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch.

A Glimpse into History

  • Marks the entrance to Makati's old Chinatown.
  • Offers a glimpse into its historical trading past.
  • Symbolizes the cultural blend of the area.

Weekend Markets

The Salcedo Saturday Market and Legazpi Sunday Market are local favorites.

Market Delights

  • Discover unique products and fresh produce.
  • Taste gourmet goods and artisanal foods.
  • Engage with local vendors for a more local experience.

These markets offer a lively atmosphere beyond just shopping.

Local Carinderias

Often overlooked by tourists, these small, family-run eateries offer authentic Filipino meals.

Authentic & Affordable

  • Experience home-cooked Filipino dishes.
  • Enjoy budget-friendly local food.

A genuine taste of local life and flavors.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture unforgettable times at these distinctive Makati spots.

Snap & Share

  • The Greenbelt Chapel: Unique circular architecture.
  • Makati Skyline from a Rooftop Bar: Panoramic city views.
  • Ayala Triangle Gardens Christmas Lights: Festive spectacle.

These locations offer stunning backdrops for your travel photos.

Beyond Makati's Borders

Bonifacio Global City BGC

Adjacent to Makati, BGC offers modern parks, dining, and retail options. It represents a continuous development of the region.

Nearby Provinces

Consider day trips to provinces like Laguna or Batangas for farm-to-table experiences or natural attractions. These regions offer a changed tempo and scenic beauty.

Cultural Center of the Philippines

Located in nearby Pasay City, the CCP is easily accessible and hosts major theatrical, musical, and dance performances. It serves as a national hub for performing arts.

Walking in Makati

Many attractions, especially in Ayala Center, are within walking distance or joined by elevated walkways. Comfortable shoes are a travel essential.