Nightlife in Manila

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Manila stays awake late. The city has busy bar streets, rooftop lounges, live music and karaoke on almost every corner. Filipinos love to sing, and karaoke is a big part of a night out. Most nightlife is in Makati, BGC and the bay area. This guide covers where to go and how to get home safely.

Poblacion, Makati

Poblacion is the most lively bar area in Manila. Its narrow streets are packed with small bars, craft beer places, cocktail bars and late-night food. Many bars are in old houses and on rooftops. The crowd is young and mixed, with locals and visitors. It is busiest on Friday and Saturday nights, when streets fill with people. Prices are moderate for the city. Watch your belongings in the crowds, and use Grab to get home rather than walking far late at night.

BGC

BGC has a more polished nightlife. There are rooftop bars with views over the towers, wine bars, cocktail lounges and large clubs. Many places are around Bonifacio High Street, Uptown and the streets near Burgos Circle. The area is clean and well lit, with security guards, so it feels safe to walk between bars. Drinks cost more than in Poblacion. Some clubs have a dress code, so avoid shorts and flip-flops if you plan to go to one. Most bars take cards and e-wallets.

Live music and karaoke

Manila has a strong live music scene, with bands playing Filipino and international songs. Many bars in Makati, BGC and Quezon City have live bands on weekend nights. Karaoke is everywhere. Small bars have machines for everyone, while "KTV" places rent private rooms by the hour for groups. It is a fun way to spend an evening with friends. Quezon City, especially around Maginhawa and Tomas Morato, has many low-cost bars and music spots popular with students. Many bars post their weekly band schedule online.

Manila Bay at sunset

Manila Bay is famous for its sunsets. The seaside walk behind SM Mall of Asia and the Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard are popular places to watch the sky turn orange. After dark, the Entertainment City area near the bay has large hotel resorts with casinos, restaurants, bars and shows. Even if you do not gamble, the hotels have good restaurants and lounges. The bay area is about 20 to 40 minutes from Makati by car, depending on traffic. Clear evenings are most common in the dry season.

Staying safe

Use Grab or a registered taxi to get home late at night. Keep your phone out of sight on busy streets. Only drink from glasses you have watched being poured, and do not leave drinks alone. Bars often close late, and some areas have local rules on closing times, so check before you go. Carry ID, because some bars and clubs ask for it at the door. Drink plenty of water in the heat. Save your hotel address on your phone, so you can show it to a driver.

Nightlife at a glance

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