4 DaysPhilippines
Makati City
Your 4-day travel guide
The best time to visit Makati is during the dry season from December to May, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures a...
Makati City•4D•All
Makati City, Philippines
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
Modern Manila's Cultural and Culinary Heart
Makati City stands as the financial and cosmopolitan center of Metro Manila, offering a compelling mix of contemporary urban life and Filipino cultural heritage. While known for its gleaming skyscrapers and luxury shopping, Makati reveals deeper layers through its preserved historical sites, diverse neighborhoods, and exceptional dining scene. This itinerary explores both the polished business district and the more authentic residential areas, balancing museum visits with culinary adventures. As a couple, you'll discover romantic dining spots, cultural institutions perfect for shared exploration, and neighborhoods that showcase the city's evolution from a rural town to a global metropolis.
Get Real Local Advice
Ask someone who actually lives in Makati City
1
Historical Foundations and Modern Makati
Day 1 of your journey
The Ayala Museum presents Philippine history and art through innovative exhibitions. You'll see the Gold of Ancestors collection featuring pre-colonial gold artifacts, dioramas depicting key historical events, and contemporary Filipino art. The museum provides excellent context for understanding the country's cultural development. Plan for about two hours to see the permanent collections, with morning visits offering fewer crowds. The building itself is an architectural landmark in the Makati Central Business District.
Ayala Museum
Why Visit
This museum offers the most comprehensive introduction to Philippine history and culture in Makati, with professionally curated exhibits that make complex historical narratives accessible. The gold collection is particularly impressive, showcasing craftsmanship from before Spanish colonization. It provides essential background that will enrich your entire trip through the Philippines.
Address: Makati Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Greenbelt Park. Check their website for temporary exhibitions, and consider the audio guide for deeper context. The museum shop has quality Filipino crafts and books.
2
Art, Architecture, and Evening Romance
Day 2 of your journey
3
Neighborhood Exploration and Culinary Diversity
Day 3 of your journey
4
Cultural Synthesis and Departure Preparations
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Transportation: Use Grab (Southeast Asia's ride-hailing app) for convenient point-to-point travel within Makati. Jeepneys follow fixed routes but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Currency: Philippine pesos (PHP) are used everywhere. Credit cards are widely accepted in malls and restaurants, but carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Language: English is widely spoken in Makati, especially in business and tourist areas. Learning basic Filipino phrases like 'Salamat' (thank you) is appreciated.
Safety: Makati is generally safe, but exercise normal urban precautions. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Dining: Many restaurants add a 10% service charge to bills. Tipping beyond this is optional but appreciated for exceptional service.
Weather: Bring an umbrella year-round - sudden rain showers are common. Air conditioning can be strong indoors, so consider a light layer.
Connectivity: Free WiFi is available in many malls and cafes. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity if staying longer.
Electricity: Philippines uses 220V with Type A, B, and C outlets. Bring adapters if your devices have different plug types.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Makati is during the dry season from December to May, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable. January to April offers the most reliably sunny weather, with average temperatures around 28-32°C (82-90°F). The Christmas season (December) features festive decorations and events but also higher hotel rates. The summer months of March to May can be quite hot and humid. The rainy season from June to November brings frequent afternoon showers and possible typhoons, though these rarely disrupt urban activities significantly. Hotel prices are generally lower during rainy months except for peak holiday periods.
Local Insights & Tips
Makati represents contemporary Philippine urban culture, where global influences blend with Filipino traditions. The city maintains a more formal atmosphere in its business districts, with many professionals wearing business attire. In residential areas like Poblacion, you'll find a more relaxed vibe. Filipinos are generally friendly and hospitable, with strong family values evident in social interactions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. Punctuality is appreciated for appointments, but social gatherings often operate on 'Filipino time' (slightly later than stated). The concept of 'hiya' (saving face) is important - avoid public confrontation or criticism. Dining is social and often involves sharing dishes family-style. Despite its modern appearance, Makati retains community-oriented values in its neighborhoods.