Things To Do
in Bel-Air

Bel-Air, Philippines is a vibrant and upscale residential area located in Makati City, known for its lush green spaces and modern amenities. The neighborhood boasts a mix of high-end condominiums, exclusive villages, and commercial establishments, making it a desirable place to live and visit. With its proximity to major business districts, Bel-Air also serves as a hub for both locals and expatriates.

Visitors can enjoy tranquil parks, fine dining, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the dynamic culture of the Philippines.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Bel-Air
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Washington Sycip Park, enjoying the lush greenery and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ayala Museum to learn about Filipino culture and history, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and then explore the nightlife at a nearby bar or lounge.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Have breakfast at a local bakery and then visit the Salcedo Saturday Market to experience local food and crafts.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Greenbelt Mall for shopping and leisure, enjoying the open-air environment.

evening
:

Relax with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying the stunning skyline views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10-$20
Coffee at a café$2-$5
🏨Hotel per night$50-$150
🚌Taxi fare within the city$3-$10
🍺Local beer$1-$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant local culture and friendly locals.
  • Wide variety of dining and entertainment options.
  • Proximity to major business and shopping districts.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other areas.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye
  • "Oo" - Yes
  • "Hindi" - No

Places to Visit in Bel-Air

Visit one of these nice places.

Washington Sycip Park

A scenic park featuring lush greenery and modern sculptures, perfect for nature photography.

Ayala Triangle Gardens

A beautiful urban park surrounded by skyscrapers, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.

Greenbelt Mall

An upscale shopping area with vibrant landscaping and modern architecture, ideal for capturing urban life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bel-Air

Bel-Air offers a culinary landscape that beautifully blends local flavors with international cuisine, making it a haven for food lovers.

Bel-Air Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Adobo

A savory stew made with chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices.

Must-Try!

Sinigang

A sour soup made from tamarind, tomatoes, and various meats or seafood.

Lechon

Roast pig, known for its crispy skin and flavorful meat, often served during celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Salcedo Saturday Market

A bustling market featuring local delicacies, fresh produce, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various vendors selling favorites like skewered meats, fish balls, and banana cue.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bel-Air experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). The wet season from May to October sees increased humidity and rain, particularly in July and August, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Overall, expect warm temperatures year-round with occasional rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

A polite greeting, such as a smile or handshake, is customary when meeting someone.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and respectfully.

Politeness in Conversation

Using 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to elders shows respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bel-Air is generally considered a safe area, with a low crime rate compared to other parts of Metro Manila. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying valuables in public to ensure a safe experience.

Tipping in Bel-Air

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and bars, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used in establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Wet Season (May to October)

Prepare for heavy rain and humidity; indoor activities and waterproof gear are advisable.

Christmas Season (December)

Experience festive decorations and cultural events; it's a great time to visit for holiday festivities.

Summer (March to May)

Hot and humid conditions prevail; stay hydrated and plan activities for cooler parts of the day.

Nightlife Guide

Bel-Air at Night

Bel-Air's nightlife features a mix of trendy bars, lounges, and clubs that cater to various tastes. Popular spots include rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline and lively nightclubs that play everything from electronic dance music to hip-hop. The area offers a safe and vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for both locals and tourists looking to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Bel-Air

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Makiling

A dormant volcano known for its rich biodiversity and hiking trails, located about 40 km from Bel-Air.

Pico de Loro

A popular hiking destination featuring stunning views of the Batangas coastline, approximately 70 km away.

Airports

How to reach Bel-Air by plane.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Located approximately 7 km from Bel-Air, this is the main international airport serving Metro Manila, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bel-Air is highly walkable, with many amenities located within walking distance. The area is well-planned, featuring pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and green spaces. However, some parts may require walking along busy streets, so it's advisable to stay alert while navigating.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Expatriates

A significant number of expatriates live in Bel-Air, contributing to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Local Residents

The area is home to many affluent Filipino families and professionals, creating a diverse community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is immensely popular in the Philippines, with both professional leagues and street games common.

Boxing

Boxing has a significant following, with many Filipinos taking pride in local champions and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bel-Air can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Major roads can become congested, but there are several transportation options available, including taxis and ride-sharing services. Public transport is limited; however, jeepneys and buses connect to other parts of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bel-Air.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Halal Food

Halal options are available, especially in areas frequented by Muslim customers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bel-Air is efficient, with several hospitals and clinics in close proximity. Makati Medical Center is a well-known facility offering comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also readily available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide