The Best Backpacker Hostels in Manila, Philippines

For such a sleek and modern place, Z Hostel is a bargain. They have mixed dorm rooms ranging in capacity, from four, to six, to eight sleepers, all of which go for less than 1,000 PHP ($20). In addition, they also offer an all-female dorm as well as a private room for two. A top-notch breakfast and a fantastic location up its appeal to backpackers. It’s in Poblacion, a hip and happening neighbourhood in Manila’s business district of Makati. It’s surrounded by great new bars and restaurants that youngsters from all over the Metro drive long distances and crazy Manila traffic to get to. But what really sets this place apart is its famous Z Roof Deck Bar, offering beautiful views of the Manila skyline. At night, this roof deck comes alive, with a live DJ and a great selection of drinks and bites. Z Hostel’s a fantastic choice for the social butterfly who likes to keep the fun and party at arm’s length.

With its industrial-inspired interiors, this quirky hostel is an instant charmer. Its up-cycled furniture and decor exude the fun, casual vibe backpackers love. They have several shared dormitories of different capacities ranging from three beds to 10. Some of the best shopping malls in the Metro also sit close by such as Power Plant Mall and the Greenbelt complex. And with this hostel also being in the lively Poblacion neighbourhood, guests have a great bar-hop route waiting right outside their doorstep for exciting Manila nights.

Situated near Manila’s historic center, Tambayan is perfect for backpackers who want to have quick and easy access to the Metro’s most popular historical sights like Intramuros, the National Museum, and Rizal Park. Being a refurbished mansion, this capsule hostel dons a lot of character in its high ceilings, polished wooden banisters, and detailed wall trimmings. But don’t let these old-fashioned touches deceive. This hostel’s accommodations are very much up-to-date with its chic capsule beds and stylish rooftop gastrobar. All room types, except for their four-capsule private, share the common bathrooms, which isn’t an issue as the staff make sure they are always well-kept. Prime traveller location and refined accommodations — Tambayan Capsule Hostel is an easy choice.

Not your typical hostel, this charming guesthouse stands out with its traditional architecture and historical design that show a lot of thought and attention had been put into its creation. Despite looking more like a boutique hotel or an inviting bed and breakfast, Park Avenue also houses four-bed dormitories for travellers on a budget. The staff are very hands-on and accommodating, just as one would expect from such a homely environment. This guesthouse is perfect for backpackers who want to avoid the busy, energetic vibe of most hostels and instead want some downtime in a more relaxed, tranquil setting amidst bustling Manila.

Crossroads is a hostel that looks and feels like a home. It’s set up in a small, centrally-located building one might mistake for a house if not for the red signage stating otherwise. It houses 30 beds in total, spread across six shared rooms of four-, six-, and eight-guest capacities. Also at guests’ disposal, are a Wi-Fi connection, laundry facilities, and a well-equipped kitchen — a true treat for travellers who have been away from the comforts of a complete home for some time. Public transport and major roads are also extremely accessible, as are popular shopping centres such as SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, and Greenhills Shopping Center. With a warm host and helpful staff to boot, this pleasant hostel will be a hard one to leave.

Our Awesome Hostel is a good no-frills choice that’s easy on the budget. Here, you’ll get to save on accommodations and splurge on other luxuries instead. Bonifacio Global City, for example, with its sprawling shops and food strips, is only a quick walk away. Makati’s best malls are also only a few minutes away by taxi (should the crazy Metro traffic subside, that is). For guests who decide to stay in, the hostel has a great roof deck lounge boasting spectacular views of surrounding districts.

With hostels in Tagaytay as well as El Nido, Palawan, OMP is no novice at the hostel game. They know how to foster the relaxed yet social and open atmosphere backpackers love. At their Makati branch, they’ve twinned up with The Good Shepherd Hostel. Their basic accommodations are enough to satisfy the regular traveller and the light price tag that goes with it makes it all the better. Some perks that set this partnership apart are free Manila tours, free daily breakfasts, and an extremely pleasant team running the show.