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Makati City Itineraries

Makati City Itineraries

Makati City Metro Manila, Philippines Travel Guide

-Hour Layover Highlights

Focus on Makati's core attractions for a condensed experience. Start with Ayala Museum and Greenbelt Chapel. Lunch at Greenbelt, then shop or stroll Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Evening dinner in lively Poblacion for diverse culinary options.

Layover Itinerary

  • Morning: Ayala Museum, Greenbelt Chapel.
  • Lunch: Mid-range Filipino meal in Greenbelt.
  • Afternoon: Shopping (Greenbelt/Glorietta), Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Time-Based Itineraries

Suggested plans based on your stay duration.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Explore Makati's districts: Ayala Center, Salcedo, Legazpi, Poblacion. Include museums, markets, and dining. Consider a day trip to Intramuros or Tagaytay.

Weekend Plan

  • Day 1: Ayala Museum, Greenbelt Chapel, shopping, Ayala Triangle, Poblacion dinner.
  • Day 2: Salcedo/Legazpi Markets, Yuchengco Museum, art galleries, fine dining.
  • Day 3: Day trip to Intramuros (Manila) or Tagaytay.
  • Mix cultural exploration with natural escapes.
Discover Makati's city life and historical surroundings.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A week allows for thorough exploration of Makati, Metro Manila, and nearby areas like Tagaytay and Laguna. Consider a quick beach trip if time permits.

Week-Long Adventure

  • Days 1-3: Makati districts, Manila's historical core (Intramuros, Rizal Park, National Museum).
  • Days 4-5: Day trips to Tagaytay and Laguna (Pagsanjan Falls/hot springs).
  • Days 6-7: Option for domestic flight to a beach destination (Batangas, Boracay).

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine the one-week experience with a longer regional trip for a comprehensive Philippine adventure. Consider Palawan or Cebu and Bohol for world-class nature.

Extended Philippine Journey

  • Follow the one-week itinerary for Makati and Metro Manila.
  • Include a 3-5 day trip to Palawan (A Paradise in palawan or Coron) for island hopping.
  • Alternatively, visit Cebu and Bohol for whale sharks, Chocolate Hills, and tarsiers.
  • Domestic flights connect Manila to these diverse regions.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For an extended stay, consider renting a serviced apartment or condominium in Salcedo Village or Legazpi Village. These areas offer comfort, convenience, and a more local living experience.

Extended Living in Makati

  • Serviced apartments or condos offer ideal long-term accommodation.
  • Salcedo and Legazpi Villages for comfort and local immersion.
  • Explore diverse neighborhoods at a leisurely pace.
  • Join local clubs or classes to truly immerse yourself.

General Itinerary Advice

These itineraries are flexible templates. Adapt them to your interests, pace, and budget. Makati offers diverse experiences; tailor your journey.

Personalize Your Trip

Adjust any itinerary to match your specific interests, whether historical, culinary, or adventure-focused.

Flexibility is

Traffic can influence travel times, so remain flexible and allow extra time between destinations.

Explore Local Gems

Don't hesitate to venture off the suggested paths and discover hidden local gems.

Itinerary Planning:

Consider a balance of well-known sights and local discoveries for a richer experience.

Interest-Based Routes

Customized routes based on your travel passions.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Explore Makati's Ayala Museum and Poblacion's historical core. Day trips to Intramuros, National Museum, Corregidor Island, and Barasoain Church enhance the experience.

History Enthusiast Path

  • Makati: Ayala Museum, Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church.
  • Day Trip: Intramuros (Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila).
  • Day Trip: National Museum Complex, Corregidor Island.
  • Day Trip: Barasoain Church in Bulacan.
Delve deep into the Philippines' rich past.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Join food tours in Poblacion. Explore Salcedo and Legazpi Markets for artisanal food. Try carinderias, and experience fine dining in Greenbelt. Consider Filipino cooking classes.

Gastronomic Journey

  • Makati: Poblacion food tours, diverse dining.
  • Makati: Salcedo Saturday and Legazpi Sunday Markets.
  • Day Trip: Filipino cooking courses in Metro Manila.
  • Day Trip: Laguna for farm-to-table experiences.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Makati has walks in the city and runs in parks. Day trips include hiking in Rizal or Batangas provinces. Water sports are available in Batangas. Check Taal Volcano access for trekking.

City Adventures

  • City walks and runs in Ayala Triangle.
  • Explore urban cycling routes if available.
  • Enjoy the green spaces for light exercise.

Outdoor Escapes

  • Hiking in Rizal or Batangas provinces.
  • Water sports in Batangas (diving, snorkeling).
  • Taal Volcano trek (check current access advisories).

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Makati has Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Museum, and malls with play areas. Day trips include Enchanted Kingdom (Laguna), Manila Ocean Park, and Zoobic Safari (Subic).

Fun for All Ages

  • Makati: Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Museum, malls.
  • Day Trip: Enchanted Kingdom theme park in Laguna.
  • Day Trip: Manila Ocean Park for marine life.
  • Day Trip: Zoobic Safari in Subic for wildlife encounters.

Art and Architecture Emphasis

Makati: Ayala Museum, Yuchengco Museum, private art galleries, plus the distinct Greenbelt Chapel. Day trips include the National Museum Intricate and heritage churches.

Creative & Structural Tours

  • Makati: Ayala Museum, Yuchengco Museum, Salcedo/Legazpi galleries.
  • Makati: Marvel at Greenbelt Chapel's unique architecture.
  • Day Trip: National Museum of Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History.
  • Day Trip: Explore various heritage churches across Metro Manila.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Inner Peace in Makati

Visit Greenbelt Chapel for quiet thought. Explore various yoga studios in Makati for wellness practices.

Relaxing Day Trips

National Shrine of Padre Pio (Batangas) or Regina RICA (Rizal) for spiritual solace. Nurture Wellness Village (Tagaytay) for spa treatments or hot springs in Laguna.

Wellness & Exploration:

Balance your activities with relaxation and self-improvement tailored to your interests.

Budget-Based Plans

Plan your trip to suit your budget, from backpacking to luxury.

Backpacker's Guide

Stay in hostels in Poblacion. Eat at carinderias or dining halls. Use jeepneys, MRT, and LRT for transport. Concentrate on no-cost sights like Ayala Triangle Green spaces and Greenbelt Chapel.

Budget Travel Essentials

  • Accommodation: Youth hostels in Poblacion for social and low-cost stays.
  • Food: Carinderias and mall food courts for inexpensive meals.
  • Transportation: Rely on jeepneys, MRT, and LRT for daily commutes.
  • Activities: Free attractions like parks and chapels.
Travel smart, experience more at a lower cost.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Choose 3-star hotels or An airbnb rentals in Salcedo or Legazpi Villages. Enjoy a mix of mid-range restaurants and local eateries. Use Grab for convenience, alongside MRT/LRT. Include paid museum entries and consider a guided city or food tour.

Comfort and Value

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotels or Airbnbs in pleasant neighborhoods.
  • Food: Mix of dining experiences, from local to mid-range.
  • Transportation: Balance Grab rides with public transport.
  • Activities: Include museums and organized tours for engagement.

Luxury Experience Plan

Stay in 5-star accommodations such as The Peninsula Manila or Raffles Makati. Indulge in fine dining and international cuisine. Opt for private car services or premium Grab options. Enjoy exclusive tours, luxurious spa treatments, and high-end entertainment.

Premium Travel Choices

  • Accommodation: Top-tier 5-star hotels for the best possible comfort.
  • Food: Experience upscale eating and gourmet international cuisine.
  • Transportation: Private car services or premium Grab for exclusivity.
  • Activities: Exclusive tours, luxury spas, and high-end entertainment.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Mix high and low experiences. Splurge on a single nice something to eat or an unique tour, then balance it with budget-friendly options. Eat at local markets or use public transport. Take advantage of happy hours and free attractions.

Smart Spending Tips

  • Balance splurges with cost-effective choices.
  • Look for promotions, happy hours, and discount deals.
  • Enjoy free attractions like parks and walking tours.
  • Prioritize experiences that offer the best value for money.

Budgeting Overview

Accommodation Costs

Ranges from hostels (Poblacion) to luxury hotels (Ayala Center).

Dining Expenses

Street food is very affordable. Fine dining in malls can be expensive.

Transportation Costs

Public transport is cheapest, Grab offers convenience at higher cost.

Budgeting Reminder:

Track your spending daily to stay within your budget and enjoy a stress-free trip.

Seasonal Specialties

Align your visit with seasonal highlights for unique experiences.

Summer/Winter Highlights

Summer (March-May) is the hottest season, good for beach trips and festivals in the open. Winter (December-February) brings cooler, drier weather, ideal for exploring the city and Christmas festivities like the Ayala Triangle Lights.

Best Times to Visit

  • March-May: Hottest season, beach trips, al fresco festivals.
  • December-February: Cooler, drier weather for city exploration.
  • December: Experience the merry Ayala Triangle Lights.
  • Optimal for tours on foot and comfortable outdoor activities.
Choose your season for specific experiences.

Festival or Event-Centered Visits

December features the Ayala Triangle Lights and Sounds Show for Christmas. In February, witness Makati's Caracol Festival, known for its colorful street dancing. Check local calendars for other events.

Celebrate with Locals

  • December: Ayala Triangle Lights and Sounds Show.
  • February: Makati's Caracol Festival with street dancing.
  • Consult local event listings for exact dates and other celebrations.
  • Explore regional festivals for unique cultural immersions.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Wet Season (June-October) is the low season, offering better deals on hotels and flights. Prepare for rain and potential typhoons. Focus on indoor activities like museums, shopping, and dining. This time of year offers a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists.

Wet Season Benefits

  • Lower prices for hotels and flights.
  • Fewer tourists, a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Be ready for rain and potential weather disturbances.

Indoor Activities Focus

  • Explore Makati's museums and art galleries.
  • Indulge in shopping in the numerous malls.
  • Enjoy dining experiences and food adventures indoors.

Special Local Experiences

Beyond major festivals, local communities host smaller events. Check local community boards or ask hotel staff for current happenings.

Hidden Gems

  • Discover smaller, community-led events.
  • Ask locals for recommendations on activities by season.
  • Your the concierge at the hotel might have insights into local schedules.
  • Look for flyers or community postings for events in the area.

Year-Round Appeal

While seasons offer unique characteristics, Makati's major attractions, dining, and shopping are accessible year-round. Modern infrastructure means indoor activities remain comfortable regardless of weather.

Consistent Attractions

  • Major malls and entertainment venues operate consistently.
  • A diverse culinary scene is available throughout the year.
  • Museums and art exhibition spaces welcome visitors in all seasons.
  • Nearby beach destinations maintain appeal in various weather conditions.

Seasonal Travel Strategy:

Flexibility with your itinerary is helpful. Traffic in Metro Manila can be unpredictable; allow extra time between destinations.