Raffles Makati

Raffles Makati Overview

You know what hit me first when I walked into Raffles Makati? The smell – not that generic hotel air freshener scent, but something that actually felt expensive and subtle. I mean, you’re stepping into serious luxury here, and this five-star property doesn’t pretend otherwise. The lobby has this understated elegance that honestly makes some of the flashier hotels in Makati look like they’re trying too hard. The marble floors are gorgeous, but they’ve managed to make the acoustics work so it doesn’t echo like a cathedral – which, trust me, is harder than it sounds.

What really sets this place apart is how they’ve nailed the details that most travelers don’t think about until something goes wrong. The elevators are fast (crucial when you’re on the 20th floor), the WiFi actually works throughout the building, and – this might sound weird – but the lighting in the rooms is perfect for both working and relaxing. I’ve stayed in plenty of places where you’re either squinting at your laptop or sitting in a cave. The suites feel genuinely spacious, not just cleverly arranged, and those floor-to-ceiling windows give you these sweeping views over the city that make you want to just sit there with your morning coffee for way longer than you planned. The bathrooms are seriously impressive too – deep soaking tubs and rainfall showers that actually have good water pressure.

Location-wise, you’re right in the heart of everything without being stuck in the chaos. Ayala Avenue is literally around the corner, so you can walk to the major shopping centers, but Raffles Drive itself is surprisingly quiet at night. The staff – and I’m usually pretty skeptical about this kind of thing – genuinely seems to know what they’re doing. Check-in was smooth even during what looked like a busy conference week, and they remember your name, which sounds small but makes a difference when you’re dealing with jet lag and just want things to work. Honestly, the 9.5 rating makes sense once you’re there. It’s expensive, sure, but it’s the kind of place where you understand exactly where your money went. If you’re doing business in Manila or just want to treat yourself properly, this is probably your best bet in the area.

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.

Raffles Makati Accommodations

Reviews of Raffles Makati

• Exceptional – Nicole from Thailand – June 27, 2025 (10/10)

  One of the most beautiful hotel experiences I have ever had! Everything about it was luxurious and the service was impeccable! Can't wait to return!

• Fantastic location hotel for business or leisure – Sergey from United Kingdom – June 14, 2025 (8/10)

  Super friendly and welcoming staff. Great facilities.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was up to the standard except the food quality. Some fruits at the breakfast bar were clearly reused from the previous day and not fresh. I had mild food poisoning from it on the last day of my stay. Food at the macaron bar was not up to standard too. Ordered chicken Cesar salad but chicken breast had weird aftertaste (metallic). I reported the issue to the stuff so I hope they will address it with the chef.

• Exceptional – Ashish from India – June 3, 2025 (10/10)

  Immaculate property,very professional and gentle staff.I regret for not staying longer.Maybe next time.The location is within mins walking distance to all shopping malls and restaurant.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Raffles is the best hotel in Manila – Cecilia from Germany – May 16, 2025 (10/10)

  Very friendly and service-oriented staff. Good service. Excellent food and breakfast and very comfortable bed. Well-working WiFi. Complimentary water on the room and lovely furnitured rooms. Raffles is an statement that I like and I will come back.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. 🙂

• Exceptional – Geetha from India – April 14, 2025 (10/10)

  Everything

• Excellent – Jeremy from United States – March 13, 2025 (10/10)

  Front Desk Staff Lianne was understanding and kind. I was in dire straights due to flight changes and demands from work. She helped me with my accommodations and provided ample resources to be able to rest
  
  What could be improved: Nothing its the best hotel Ive been at in SEA

• A Perfect Place for Manila – Gregor from Germany – February 19, 2025 (10/10)

  A very good equipped Hotel. Excellent Breakfast and… for us important…a very good gym. The concierge, Mr. Gilbert was very kind and helped us perfectly to enjoy and organize everything in Manila. A special thank you to the very nice ladies at the reception (Abby and Dianne). They made us every time feel coming home.

• The only place to stay in Manila! – Sabrina from Hong Kong – February 17, 2025 (10/10)

  Got upgraded to an amazing suite (1001), staff was super friendly & helpful, food was top notch! Had afternoon tea in the Writers Lounge and it was excellent too. The Mistral bar on the 10th floor is very breezy and a col place to watch the sunset. Wish we could have stayed longer, unfortunately the spa was fully booked but would have loved to try it! Definitely the best place we stayed at during our 10 day trip!
  
  What could be improved: NA

• Wonderful stay at Raffles – Carlyn from South Africa – February 10, 2025 (10/10)

  We got a room in the Raffles Residences, which is absolutely stunning! The room was spacious and the bed was the most comfortable I have slept on while travelling in the Philippines! They have a lot to offer at this hotel, I managed to do their signature spa experience which I highly recommend! All the facilities were amazing but the absolute highlight is how friendly the staff are. We will be back next time we are in Manila
  
  What could be improved: Very very minor thing but we saw a tiny cockroach in our kitchen sink

• I want to stay here again 🙂 – Sakura from Japan – February 6, 2025 (10/10)

  It was very nice. I like the atmosphere and especially the stuff was really friendly from the start to the end of staying. I will come back again!
  
  What could be improved: NA

Surroundings