Things To Do
in Malate
Malate is a vibrant district in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. It is known for its bustling nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. Malate is also home to several cultural attractions, including the historic Malate Church and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
The district is popular among tourists and locals alike for its diverse dining options and entertainment choices.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Malate Church, known for its stunning architecture. Enjoy a peaceful morning prayer or moment of reflection in this beautiful space.
Head to the nearby Rajah Sulayman Park and enjoy a leisurely stroll along Manila Bay. You can also indulge in local street food from various stalls in the area.
Catch the magnificent sunset by the bay, offering picturesque views of the horizon. Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling popular Filipino dishes.
Begin your day with a visit to the Cultural Center of the Philippines to appreciate various art exhibitions. Engage with the local art scene and learn about Filipino culture.
Visit the nearby galleries showcasing contemporary works by local artists. Take time to explore boutiques that feature handcrafted items and artworks.
Experience a cultural performance at the CCP, where you can enjoy local theater or dance. Wrap up the night by savoring dessert at a cozy café nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, with numerous historical landmarks and sites.
- Proximity to Manila, making it convenient for business and transportation.
- Vibrant local community and nightlife, with many restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.
- Educational institutions available, including universities and colleges.
- Access to nearby tourist attractions, such as beaches and parks.
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue, particularly during peak hours.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in the Philippines.
- Some areas may experience safety concerns, including petty crime.
- Limited green spaces and parks compared to suburban areas.
- Potential for overcrowding due to its popularity and urban nature.
Best Activities in Malate
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely stroll along Roxas Boulevard Promenade and enjoy the scenic views of Manila Bay. There are also parks, food stalls, and recreational areas along the promenade.
Experience a relaxing sunset cruise on Manila Bay, offering beautiful views of the sunset and the city skyline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Malate with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Malate
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular waterfront promenade offering stunning views of Manila Bay and beautiful sunsets. Great for leisurely walks and photo opportunities.
A historical urban park providing a picturesque backdrop for photography and featuring iconic landmarks such as the Rizal Monument.
The historic walled area of Manila that offers a blend of Spanish colonial architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and photogenic spots like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
Food in Malate
Malate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Filipino dish featuring meat (chicken, pork, or beef) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, then braised to tender perfection. It's savory, tangy, and often served with steamed rice. Visit Abe's Farm or Recipes restaurant for a delicious rendition.
Must-Try!
A refreshing dessert made with layers of crushed ice, sweet beans, coconut, fruit, and ube (purple yam) ice cream. Indulge in this iconic sweet treat at Razon's of Guagua or MilkyWay Cafe for an authentic experience.
A sour soup featuring tamarind broth, vegetables, and your choice of pork, fish, or shrimp. Its tangy and savory flavor is a delightful contrast to the tropical climate. Try it at Café Adriatico or Abe restaurant for a comforting bowl.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Malate better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market offers an array of street food delights, from grilled skewers of meat and seafood to traditional snacks like fish balls and kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs). Stroll along the boulevard and savor the lively atmosphere and local flavors.
A popular food market featuring a diverse selection of local and international cuisines. Explore the stalls offering Filipino delicacies, such as lechon (roast pig), sisig (sizzling pork dish), and bibingka (rice cake), as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Malate, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and addressing them with proper titles such as 'Ate' for older sisters and 'Kuya' for older brothers.
Greetings are an important part of Filipino culture, so it is advisable to greet people with a smile and use polite phrases like 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to elders to show respect.
In Malate, it is customary to wait for the host's signal before starting to eat, and it's polite to offer food to others before serving yourself. It's also common to use utensils when eating rather than eating with hands.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Malate with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Malate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Malate, Philippines, but it is appreciated for good service. A 10% service charge is often added to the bill in restaurants, so tipping may not be necessary in those cases.
Cash is widely used for payment in Malate, especially for small transactions. Credit cards are also accepted in many establishments, but it's always good to have some cash on hand. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Malate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Malate, Philippines is during the dry season, which generally runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the area's attractions.
The wet season in Malate, Philippines typically occurs from May to October. During this time, visitors can expect frequent and heavy rainfall, as well as potential typhoons. It is advisable to be prepared for wet weather and to be mindful of travel disruptions during this period.
Malate at Night
Hiking in Malate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dormant volcano located in Calamba, Laguna, about an hour's drive from Malate. It offers various trails with beautiful views, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna.
Located in Antipolo, this trail provides scenic views of Metro Manila and the Sierra Madre mountains. It's perfect for a shorter hike combined with art and culture.
An active volcano located on Taal Lake in Batangas, approximately two hours from Malate. The hike to the crater provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Located in Mindoro, this national park is about a few hours away by ferry. The park features diverse wildlife and stunning vistas, with various hiking trails available.
Although further away in Benguet, this is one of the highest peaks in Luzon. Known for its sea of clouds and diverse ecosystem, it can be accessed via a long trip but is highly rewarding.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Malate through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Malate by plane.
The primary airport serving Manila and the surrounding areas, it is the main international gateway to the Philippines.
Located in Pampanga, this airport serves as a secondary gateway for international flights to and from the Philippines.
Situated in Cebu, this airport is one of the busiest in the Philippines and caters to both domestic and international flights.
Located in Davao City, this airport serves the southern regions of the Philippines with both domestic and international flights.
Located in Iloilo City, this airport provides both domestic and international air service, contributing to regional connectivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The total number of residents in Malate, encompassing diverse demographic groups.
This group includes the youth, often comprising college students and early career professionals.
Adults in this age range typically represent the workforce, including professionals and skilled workers.
Older adults who may be retired or nearing retirement age.
This includes infants, toddlers, and teenagers, making up a significant portion of the population.
A vibrant segment of the population that actively contributes to Malate's cultural diversity.
This group consists of individuals from other countries living and working in Malate.
The Soul of Malate
Discover the essence of Malate through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Malate and the Philippines as a whole, with many local leagues, street courts, and community events centered around the sport.
Volleyball enjoys a strong following in Malate, particularly among women. Local tournaments and beach volleyball events are regularly organized.
Football has been growing in popularity, with various clubs and teams established in and around Malate, as well as youth programs that encourage participation.
Badminton is widely played in recreational centers and clubs in Malate. It is a popular choice for both casual and competitive players.
Table tennis is commonly played in various community centers and sports clubs, with many enthusiasts engaging in friendly matches and competitions.
With parks and promenades available, running and jogging are popular recreational activities among residents in Malate, often organized in groups or events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Malate offer vegetarian and vegan versions of traditional Filipino dishes, incorporating ingredients like tofu, eggplant, and coconut milk. Look for 'Gulay' (vegetable) or 'Tofu' sections on the menus for these options.
While Filipino cuisine heavily features rice as a staple, it's important to inquire about potential hidden sources of gluten in sauces and seasonings. Communicate your dietary needs to the staff, and they will often be accommodating and helpful in selecting gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Malate with these cultural adventures.
