Manila travel guide
Manila Travel Budget: Daily Costs & Calculator
Budget travellers need about $38 USD per day in Manila; mid-range travellers average $120 with a good Makati hotel and restaurant meals; luxury starts around $340. Grab rides cost ₱150–300 across the centre, and the national museums are free.
How expensive is Manila?
Manila is mid-priced for Southeast Asia: cheaper than Singapore, pricier than Hanoi. Food and Grab rides are the bargains; island flights are the real budget line.
Manila trip budget calculator
Pick your travel style and trip length — the calculator estimates your total budget in USD using real 2026 Manila prices.
Excludes international flights. Lodging is per room (shared by travellers); other costs are per person. Prices in USD, converted from Philippine Peso (PHP).
Manila daily costs by travel style
| Cost per day | Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodging | $14 | $65 | $200 |
| Food | $12 | $30 | $80 |
| Transport | $4 | $8 | $20 |
| Activities | $8 | $18 | $40 |
| Total per day | $38 | $121 | $340 |
Money-saving tips for Manila
- Carinderia (local canteens) serve full meals for ₱80–150
- Grab is the safe default; jeepneys (₱13) are the cultural ride
- National museums are free — among Asia’s best free culture
Also in philippines
Manila travel budget — FAQs
How much money do I need per day in Manila?
Budget travellers need about $38 USD per day in Manila; mid-range travellers average $120 with a good Makati hotel and restaurant meals; luxury starts around $340. Grab rides cost ₱150–300 across the centre, and the national museums are free.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.