Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel

Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel Overview

You know what caught me off guard about Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel? Walking into the lobby, I honestly wasn’t expecting the space to feel so polished and modern – I mean, Cubao can be pretty hectic and gritty, but once you’re inside, it’s like stepping into a completely different world. The four-star property sits right on General Aguinaldo Avenue, which puts you smack in the middle of everything happening in Araneta City, and I actually loved how you could hear the energy of Manila outside without feeling overwhelmed by it.

The location is honestly brilliant if you’re planning to catch concerts or events at the Smart Araneta Coliseum – I’m talking a literal five-minute walk, which saved me from the usual nightmare of Manila traffic when I was heading to a show. But even if you’re not there for events, the Gateway Mall is right next door, so you’ve got dining and shopping sorted without having to venture far. What I really appreciated was how the hotel staff seemed to actually know the area – they gave me solid recommendations for local spots that weren’t just the obvious tourist traps, like this hole-in-the-wall sisig place a few blocks away that was incredible.

The rooms themselves feel surprisingly spacious for Manila standards, and the beds are genuinely comfortable – I slept well despite being on a higher floor where you can still catch some of the city sounds. The shower pressure was excellent (always a concern in older parts of the city), and the air conditioning worked perfectly, which you definitely need when you’re dealing with Manila’s humidity. I did notice the hotel gets pretty busy during concert seasons – the elevators can be slow when there’s a big event, and the breakfast area fills up fast, but honestly, that’s just part of staying in such a prime location. The staff handles the crowds well though, and they’re genuinely helpful rather than just going through the motions. If you’re looking for something that puts you right in the thick of Manila’s entertainment district without sacrificing comfort, this place delivers – just book early if there’s a major event happening at the Coliseum because half the city will be trying to stay here.

Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel

• Sour start at breakfasts – Yeo from Singapore – August 30, 2025 (8/10)

  The spa is superb. Very good massage.
  
  What could be improved: The breakfast sourdough bread was sub-standard, poor quality flour n not properly baked.

• Very Good – Ma from Philippines – August 24, 2025 (8/10)

  Location is really good. But you could get same services and amenities in other hotels for a lower valie. Nothing stands out.

• Very Good – Martin from Switzerland – August 13, 2025 (8/10)

  great location, huge selection of food for breakfast. very friendly staff (reception, restaurants, pool bar). overall good choice if you have business nearby.
  
  What could be improved: not applicable

• Enjoyed it! The room with the pool view and we also enjoyed swimming in the pool and bar! – Dianne from Philippines – August 12, 2025 (10/10)

  The property is near the malls and lot of food establishment to choose from.
  
  What could be improved: The drinks in the bar are quite pricey though

• For improvement in premier lounge, more choices of foods, need to check always if no refill foods.. – Joven from Philippines – August 10, 2025 (9/10)

  Ambiance and very kind staff
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Very good – Elmalot from United States – August 8, 2025 (9/10)

  Close to shopping area
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom no lock the shower floor slippery and no shower door the floor easy to get wet outside shower area

• Exceptional – Noriko from Japan – August 2, 2025 (10/10)

  What could be improved: There should be screen or tinted glass for the toulet

• Super staff great house keeping loved the stay – Andrew from Qatar – July 21, 2025 (10/10)

  Loved this hotel had everything we needed
  
  What could be improved: In house eating a little high priced but there plenty of options close by

• it was a relaxing stay, good view and great location, will stay there again. Definitely recommended 🙂 – De from Australia – June 24, 2025 (10/10)

  accessible location, breakfast buffet is excellent
  
  What could be improved: none

• Fantastic and unforgettable! – Bryan from Kuwait – June 16, 2025 (10/10)

  All were the best!! I will come back again that’s for sure!

Surroundings