Philippines · tool
How much does Manila cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Manila trip before you book anything.
Manila, Philippines travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic guesthouse room.
Street food, local carinderias (eateries), and fast food.
Jeepneys, LRT/MRT trains, and occasional short tricycle rides.
Exploring Intramuros on foot, visiting free parks, or cheap museum entries.
Bottled water, snacks, and small souvenirs.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-rated Airbnb apartment.
Mix of casual Filipino restaurants, cafes, and some international cuisine.
Taxis (Grab app recommended), occasional private car hire for longer distances.
Entrance fees to historical sites, cultural shows, or a guided tour.
Coffee, snacks, small shopping, and tips.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotel with amenities or a high-end serviced apartment.
Fine dining restaurants, hotel buffets, and premium international cuisine.
Private car with driver, airport transfers, and premium ride-sharing services.
Exclusive tours, spa treatments, or premium cultural experiences.
High-end shopping, cocktails, and generous tipping.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Use the Grab app for ride-hailing; it's often cheaper and more reliable than flagging down taxis.
- •Withdraw larger amounts from ATMs inside malls to minimize the risk of tampering and ensure better exchange rates.
- •While tipping isn't mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for excellent service is a common practice.
- •Be aware that prices in tourist areas, especially within Intramuros, can be slightly inflated; bargaining is sometimes possible but not always expected.
- •Carry small denominations of PHP for street food and local transport, as many vendors do not have change for large bills.
Plan the rest of your Manila trip
Trip budgets elsewhere