Daily costs per person in US dollars. Manila is one of Asia's most affordable major cities — these ranges cover the spectrum from budget backpacker to comfortable mid-range.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: PHP (Philippine Peso) (Cards accepted in malls, cash elsewhere)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $9–18 | $25–60 | $80+ | Hostels → budget hotels → business hotels |
| Food | $5–12 | $15–30 | $40+ | Street food → local restaurants → fine dining |
| Transport | $3–8 | $10–25 | $35+ | Jeepneys → Grab → private car |
| Activities | $0–10 | $10–25 | $40+ | Free museums → guided tours → premium experiences |
| Entry Fees | $0–5 | $5–15 | $15–25 | Most major museums are free |
| Daily Total | $17–53 | $65–155 | $210+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Use Grab for transport
The Grab app is the safest and most transparent way to get around Manila. Prices are fixed, air-conditioned, and avoid the negotiation and potential scams of street taxis. GrabShare is even cheaper for solo travellers.
Eat where locals eat
Carinderia (local canteens) serve turo-turo (point-and-choose) meals for 60–100 PHP ($1–2). The food is freshly cooked, authentic, and often better than restaurant versions. Look for the places with the most customers.
Take jeepneys for short trips
Jeepneys cost just 13 PHP per ride and cover most major routes. They are safe during the day and an authentic Manila experience. Routes are written on the side of the vehicle.
Visit free museums
The National Museum complex (Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History) is entirely free and world-class. Rizal Park is free. Many churches are free. Manila's best cultural attractions cost nothing.
Stay in Makati or Ermita
Budget hotels and hostels in Makati and Ermita start at 500–800 PHP ($9–14) per night. Both areas are central, well-connected, and have the widest range of affordable food options.
Eat at Dampa seafood markets
Choose fresh seafood at market prices and have it cooked at adjacent restaurants. A seafood feast at Dampa costs 500–1,000 PHP per person — the same meal at a restaurant would be 3–5 times more.
