The Coolest Airbnbs and Holiday Apartments near Manila, the Philippines

Shift effortlessly into local life at this trendy one-bedroom serviced apartment in Taguig, blessed with high-rise views and floods of natural light. A picnic bench-style dining table, exposed brick-effect wallpaper and potted plants add an element of organic outdoorsiness, and if the real outdoors is calling you, make the most of having access to a large communal pool. For evenings inside, a Netflix-equipped flatscreen TV and a sink-in sofa should help you kick back.

Sucker for a bit of vintage style? Then you’ll love this loft-like Philippine vacation home, decorated with quirky travel-themed touches such as vintage travel chests, framed 1960s advertisements and retro light fittings. The elegant mid-century furniture is trendy, while sticking with the theme, and the mezzanine-level bedroom is cosy and calming, with a striking wooden headboard. Whip up your own meals in the modern kitchen, or it’s only a two-minute walk to the nearby shopping centre food court.

For a snug stay in Manila, consider Jen’s Comfy Home. The studio-type rooms bring together a kitchenette – which comes equipped with thoughtful features such as a large refrigerator and rice cooker – a dining area and a bedroom, the latter separated from the rest of the apartment by a clear glass sliding door. A balcony provides access to fresh air while a location just south of the airport makes this an easy choice for those in transit.

If where you’re sleeping is just as important as your location, the two luxurious suites here, located in buzzy Quezon City, tick both boxes with aplomb. Depending on how many you need to treat, pick either the one- or two-bedroom option, and drink in the penthouse-like vibes. Handsome furniture in tones of cream and brown, thoughtful high-end touches such as Egyptian sheets, rain showers and access to an in-house spa make this a must-book for pamper-happy travellers.

Get an authentic taste of suburban Filipino living in this homely townhouse, located just outside Manila’s central zone. The two-storey home links three bedrooms, which can accommodate up to seven guests, in a quiet, residential-feeling location at the northern edge of Quezon City. A spacious kitchen, balconies, and living room will give your group room to spread out, while all the mod-cons – including a washing machine – mean you can truly make yourself at home here.

It’d be easy to forget you’re in Manila at Shir Hub at Azure Urban Residences. Located southeast of the city, overlooking Laguna Lake, the vibe here is more resort than residence. The one-bedroom flats, with beds separated by a sliding glass door, offer lots of natural light, and come appointed with a balcony and kitchenette. The expansive, lagoon-like swimming pool, equipped with its own beach, makes this a sensible choice for those traveling with kids.

This gorgeous corner-unit studio within lively Makati City boasts a long stretch of floor-to-ceiling windows, giving the apartment not only plenty of natural light, but also a jaw-dropping panorama of the Metro. It’s tastefully designed with indoor plants, lots of natural light, wooden accents and a minimalist touch. You’ll have a beautifully-lit view of the Makati skyline at night.

An instant charmer, this large colonial-style house in Manila’s Paco district is adorned with beautiful antique furniture and vintage ornaments. The entire home, from the rooms to the shared spaces, remove guests from the busy streets of Manila and takes them to a different era. Neighbouring the guestroom is a covered patio, giving visitors a peaceful place to work or have their morning coffee. This screened space further opens up to the garden’s west wing, which houses a seating area among the trees for some quality quiet time.