City Garden Grand Hotel

City Garden Grand Hotel Overview

I’ll be honest – I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to City Garden Grand Hotel on Makati Avenue. The name sounds sort of generic, you know? But honestly, this place completely caught me off guard in the best way possible. The lobby hits you with this elegant marble and warm wood combination that actually feels sophisticated without being stuffy, and there’s this subtle floral scent that I’m pretty sure comes from the gorgeous arrangements they refresh daily. What really got my attention though was how the staff remembered my name after just one interaction – not in that forced, over-the-top way some places do, but genuinely warm.

The location is actually brilliant if you know Makati at all. You’re right at the corner of Kalayaan, which means you can walk to Greenbelt in about eight minutes (I timed it), and the Ayala Triangle is literally across the street. I mean, you’ve got Century City Mall practically next door, plus all those hidden gem restaurants along Kalayaan that most tourists never discover. The five-star rating isn’t just marketing fluff either – the rooms are spacious by Manila standards, with these floor-to-ceiling windows that give you proper city views, not just concrete walls. The beds are that perfect firmness where you sink in just enough, and the blackout curtains actually work, which is crucial when you’re dealing with Manila’s early sunrise and all those LED billboards.

What I really appreciate is how they handle the little things that matter when you’re traveling. The WiFi is fast enough for video calls (tested it multiple times), the elevators are quick – no waiting around for five minutes like some places – and the concierge team knows their stuff about getting around the city without getting stuck in horrific traffic. They suggested taking the MRT from Ayala station during rush hour instead of a taxi, which saved me probably an hour getting to BGC. The rooftop pool area is where this place really shines though – it’s not huge, but it’s got this urban oasis vibe with enough greenery to make you forget you’re in the middle of one of Asia’s busiest districts. I spent way more time up there than planned, especially in the evenings when the city lights start coming on. Sure, it gets busy on weekends with locals using the facilities, but that just adds to the authentic Manila energy. The only minor thing is that street noise can be noticeable if you’re a light sleeper, but honestly, that’s just Makati being Makati – ask for a higher floor and you’ll be fine.

To book hotel in Manila during the vibrant Sinulog Festival season, visitors should make reservations well in advance as this bustling capital attracts cultural enthusiasts and business travelers from across Southeast Asia.

City Garden Grand Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of City Garden Grand Hotel

• Wonderful – Dela from Philippines – September 13, 2025 (9/10)

  Location is great as it's close to almost whatever you need around the area though a bit of traffic is to be expected. Staff is very accommodating and the room is well kept.
  
  What could be improved: Parking is not newbie friendly. I thought the room I booked would have a bath, however it might have been subject to availability still. Was looking forward to a relaxing dip but alas.

• Great view and location – Knut-einar from Norway – September 13, 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, the rooftop restaurant and pool are great with spectacular views. Spacious rooms and a good gym.

• Luxurious affordable accommodating staff! – Leanne from United States – September 11, 2025 (10/10)

  Clean nice staff luxurious open restaurant till night time and pool open early
  
  What could be improved: It’s perfect!

• Excellent location , not far from airport . Food was excellent as were the views – Ann from Australia – September 10, 2025 (10/10)

  Great location and staff very friendly and helpful . Food was excellent and views spectacular
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Best value for your money!! – John from United States – September 10, 2025 (10/10)

  Staff I s amazing!
  
  What could be improved: Elevators are in need of reprogramming. There’s always a long wait to get up or down. Maybe staff should use 1 dedicated elevator during peak hours for helping folks checking in to their rooms with baggage. Or use the “service elevator” instead.

• Exceptional – Joshua from Australia – September 9, 2025 (10/10)

  The Breakfast was Amazing. The room exceeded my expectations. House keeping was immaculate.
  
  What could be improved: The Gym could use more equipment.

• Perfect stay for Burgos st.activities – Thomas from United States – September 8, 2025 (9/10)

  Everything was spectacular as usual! The shower was amazing great pressure and plenty of hot water. Bed and pillows are great. The staff are really helpful and friendly. Great hotel.
  
  What could be improved: Really nothing to complain about. Ez check-in and out.

• Very Good – Ron from Qatar – September 4, 2025 (8/10)

  Facilities and location is great!
  
  What could be improved: The concierge didn't even assist to help us on which elevator to enter.

• Excellent value for the cost. – Michael from United Kingdom – September 4, 2025 (8/10)

  Breakfast was excellent. Very extensive menu.Friendly and helpful staff. Concierge were exceptional at arranging taxis.

• This is now our preferred "go to" hotel in Manila! – Alok_kedar from Papua New Guinea – September 2, 2025 (10/10)

  This was our second stay at City Garden Grand Hotel after a great previous stay at the start of the year. Once again we were very happy. It even appeared the room we received this time might have had a bathroom renovation. The room was spacious, the breakfast buffet is an absolute feast with something to suit all tastes.
  
  While we didn't use it on this stay, we thoroughly enjoyed using the rooftop restaurant and bar (same level as pool) during our last stay. The view of the city is amazing from here!

Surroundings