Best Boutique Hotels in Manila, Metro Manila

With a great location for exploring the historic sights of Manila, stylish contemporary rooms with great amenities, and several on-site dining options, The Bayleaf is easily one of the best upper-middle-range options in town. Aside from the sleek rooms, the rooftop bar -- featuring stunning panoramic views of Intramuros and the surrounding area, and a mellow yet chic vibe -- is the highlight here. Just note that the hotel lacks some of the amenities expected of hotels in this price range, including a fitness center, a pool, and a spa.

The Oasis is a pleasant mid-range boutique offering spacious, classic rooms with flat-screen TVs and minibars at affordable rates. There is a big pool (no loungers, though) and a wine bar, but the highlight here is My Kitchen by Chef Chris, a renowned Italian restaurant popular among Manila foodies. The location is convenient for tourists and business travelers alike, as Makati and Intramuros are a short drive away. Just note that only a handful of rooms feature Wi-Fi, and that there have been complaints of poor room soundproofing.

White Knight Hotel is a charming 29-room boutique housed in a lovely colonial mansion located in the heart of Intramuros. Rooms are simple but cute and spacious, with classic Filipino decor, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and large bathrooms. The hotel has few on-site amenities aside from a small traditional local restaurant -- but affordable rates and attention to detail make this a great pick for those looking to be within walking distance of major historic attractions without breaking the bank.