Things To Do
in Alabang
Alabang is a southern district of Muntinlupa in Metro Manila known for upscale residential communities and modern malls. It centers around Filinvest City, Alabang Town Center, and Festival Mall, offering shopping, dining, and business facilities. The area serves as a gateway to the southern provinces and has a polished, family-friendly vibe.
With abundant green spaces, quality healthcare, and international schools nearby, it blends suburban calm with city accessibility.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Alabang and check in at a cozy boutique hotel near Filinvest City. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of local delicacies at Elait, savoring their taho and artisanal coffee. Take a leisurely walk around the verdant streets to get your first glimpse of the neighborhood’s laid-back charm.
Head to Ayala Malls Filinvest City for a mix of shopping and culture, exploring vibrant shops and art installations. Grab lunch at Zark’s Burgers for a taste of their famous cheesy creations and quirky milkshakes. Wander through the lush landscaped gardens and relax by the man-made lagoon within the mall complex.
Dine at The Forest for a fusion of Southeast Asian flavors amid a chic jungle-inspired setting. After dinner, enjoy live acoustic performances in nearby bars or catch a film at the cinema. Cap off the night with a refreshing cocktail at a rooftop lounge overlooking the glittering cityscape.
Wake up early and savor the breakfast buffet at Crimson Hotel’s Café Eight, where fresh pastries and local rice dishes await. Treat yourself to a specialty coffee as you admire the modern hotel's sleek design. Stroll through Northgate Cyberzone to enjoy the serene morning vibe before the crowds arrive.
Embark on a food crawl in Northgate where hole-in-the-wall eateries serve everything from sinigang bowls to gourmet sandwiches. Pop into deli shops for imported cheeses and cured meats, then sample Filipino pastries like ensaymada and bibingka. Pause for a light smoothie at a health bar to recharge for the afternoon.
Book a table at Mesa for modern Filipino cuisine featuring playful takes on traditional dishes. Savor adobo flakes on truffled rice and ube crème brûlée while enjoying a curated wine list. After dinner, grab a riverfront seat at Moonleaf Tea for a tea-based nightcap and watch the lights twinkle.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨One-night stay in budget hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚌Local transportation (per day) | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-connected to southern provinces via major expressways and efficient mall districts
- Abundant shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
- Higher costs in upscale areas like Alabang Town Center
- Limited nightlife within Alabang itself; broader city options require travel
- "Kamusta" - Hello / How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano?" - How much?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nasaan ang tren?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Alabang
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural courtyards, fountains, and glass atriums provide clean lines and reflections, especially appealing during the golden hour.
Lakeside paths, modern landscaping, and skyline views offer contemporary urban photography opportunities, especially at sunset.
Open-air spaces with planted corners and seasonal installations ideal for lifestyle and candid photography.
Food in Alabang
Alabang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, savory pork or chicken dish simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaf; widely available in Filipino restaurants across malls in Alabang.
Must-Try!
A sour tamarind-based soup often cooked with pork, shrimp, or fish; a staple local comfort dish found in many casual Filipino dining spots.
Crispy fried pork belly served with a dipping sauce; commonly offered in Filipino menus and food courts.
A refreshing mixed shaved-ice dessert with milk, sweetened fruits, jellies, and ice cream; perfect in hot Alabang days at dessert shops and malls.
A peanut-based oxtail or tripes stew served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste); available in many Filipino restaurants in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large food court with a mix of Filipino staples, grilled items, and international dishes; great for casual, budget-friendly meals.
A sprawling food court offering a broad range of local snacks, quick meals, and familiar international options; ideal for group dining.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a courteous
Use courteous language, address elders formally, and avoid raising your voice in public spaces.
Public spaces are generally lively but maintain a respectful, moderate tone in crowded areas and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Alabang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Restaurants may add a service charge; otherwise, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is common in nicer places. Baggage handling and hotel staff typically receive small tips.
Cash is widely accepted, with credit/debit cards and mobile wallets (e.g., GCash, PayMaya, GrabPay) increasingly common in malls and larger restaurants. Always carry some cash for smaller vendors and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers possible; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take advantage of malls and indoor attractions during peak heat.
Expect heavier rainfall and occasional storms; plan indoor activities and allow extra travel time; roads can become slick during downpours.
Alabang at Night
Hiking in Alabang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Limestone formations and forested trails offering dramatic scenery; advance booking for guided treks is required.
Popular day hike with rolling hills and views; a longer drive from Alabang but doable for a weekend trip.
Coastal-to-mountain hike with rewarding viewpoints; best done as a day trip with a clear weather window.
Airports
How to reach Alabang by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway for Metro Manila; traffic can significantly affect travel times.
Major alternative airport located in Pampanga; about 1.5–2 hours away by car depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents often include professionals, expatriates, and families seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to malls, schools, and healthcare.
People traveling for work or study in Metro Manila and nearby business districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the Philippines; courts are common in malls and country clubs.
Several courses in and around the area offer scenic layouts and club facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alabang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Filipino dishes often use fish sauce or meat stock; look for veggie-friendly options and ask for dishes prepared without meat or fish sauce. Many malls have vegetarian-friendly menus, and you can request substitutions (tofu, vegetables, and rice) at most restaurants.