Things To Do
in Bel-Air
Bel-Air is an upscale residential enclave in Makati City, Manila, known for its leafy streets and secure, gated properties. It sits just west of the central business district, offering quick access to premier malls, fine dining, and cultural venues along Ayala Avenue and Greenbelt. The neighborhood blends quiet, family-friendly charm with modern high-rises and convenient amenities.
As a base for exploring Metro Manila, Bel-Air provides a calm, centrally located retreat with easy urban access.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying delicacies unique to the Philippines. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood to appreciate the lush landscapes and beautifully designed homes. Capture the essence of Bel-Air by soaking in the peaceful ambiance and vibrant community life.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Ayala Triangle Gardens for a relaxing picnic or a casual walk among towering trees and well-maintained gardens. Explore local art in the area at the Ayala Museum, which showcases Filipino history and heritage through engaging exhibits. Satisfy your lunch cravings at one of the trendy restaurants in Makati, where you can savor a mix of traditional and modern Filipino dishes.
As the sun sets, indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at one of Bel-Air's upscale restaurants, where culinary excellence meets gorgeous views. After dinner, unwind at a local bar with live music, mingling with friendly locals and tapping your feet to the rhythm of the night. Wrap up your evening by taking a quiet walk under the stars, enjoying the serene atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Wake up to a morning filled with Filipino culture by visiting the nearby Cultural Center of the Philippines, where you can admire traditional and contemporary art. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties that fuel your day. Engage with locals to learn about their customs and traditions, enhancing your understanding of the rich Filipino heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby markets for a unique shopping experience, where you can find handmade crafts, street food, and local delicacies. Take your time to interact with vendors, learning about their crafts and stories behind their products. After shopping, find a cozy spot in a nearby park to relax and people-watch, soaking in the local lifestyle.
As evening approaches, attend a cultural performance or an engaging dance show at the Cultural Center, immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene. For dinner, choose a local restaurant that offers traditional Filipino cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Manila skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly) | $80-180 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (5 km) | $5-7 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location with quick access to malls, dining, and nightlife
- Safe, tree-lined streets and upscale ambiance
- Excellent dining options from traditional Filipino to modern cuisine
- Easy day trips to nature and culture sites nearby
- Strong infrastructure and reputable healthcare facilities
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- High costs relative to some other areas in Metro Manila
- Limited cheap street food options within the immediate Bel-Air area
- Public transport outside the CBD can be crowded and congested
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello, how are you? (polite)
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Bel-Air
Visit one of these nice places.
A peaceful green oasis framed by glass towers, perfect for morning light, portraits, and urban skyline shots.
Vibrant street scenes and architectural details provide striking subject matter for urban photography.
Evening cityscapes from selective rooftops offer a mix of old-town charm and modern high-rises.
Early-morning light through trees with high-rise backdrops makes a strong contrast for composition.
Food in Bel-Air
Bel-Air Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Filipino stew of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves; widely available in Filipino restaurants and home-style eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy tamarind soup with pork, shrimp, or fish, often loaded with vegetables and served with rice.
Crispy-skinned roasted pork, a staple for celebrations and festive meals; find joints and Filipino restaurants offering a version of lechon or lechon belly.
A peanut-based oxtail or beef stew, typically served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side for dipping.
A refreshing shaved-ice dessert layered with sweet ingredients, perfect for cooling off in the heat.
Crispy, chopped pork dish seasoned with onions and chili; widely available in casual Filipino dining spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular weekend market in Salcedo Village offering local snacks, coffee, pastries, and prepared foods made with fresh ingredients.
A weekend market near Legazpi Village featuring crafts, fresh produce, and a variety of tasty street-style bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; addressing elders with 'po' and 'opo' shows respect. Avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces and observe queueing habits.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes when entering some homes or mosques; expect warm hospitality and general friendliness.
Offering seats to elders and using courteous language is appreciated; giving and receiving with both hands is a polite gesture in some settings.
Safety
Tipping in Bel-Air
Ensure a smooth experience
In most sit-down restaurants, a service charge may be included; if not, a tip around 10% is customary for good service. Small tips to bellhops or cleaners are appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in malls and many restaurants; cash is still common for smaller vendors. Mobile wallets (e.g., GCash, PayMaya) and contactless payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June to October brings frequent showers and occasional typhoons. Carry lightweight rain gear and plan indoor alternatives on rainy days.
November to February tends to be more comfortable with lower humidity; great for walking tours and rooftop dining.
Bel-Air at Night
Hiking in Bel-Air
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular limestone-formation reserve in Rizal Province offering guided hikes and rope experiences; typically a half- to full-day trip from Makati.
Urban nature reserve with trails and picnic areas close to the city; suitable for easy hikes and family outings.
Airports
How to reach Bel-Air by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Manila; located in Pasay and Parañaque; about 7-25 miles away depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents and visitors are young professionals drawn to the CBD’s job opportunities and social scene.
Tree-lined streets and gated communities attract families seeking safety and amenities.
A mix of expatriates working in multinational firms and embassies in the metro area.
Nearby universities and training centers attract students seeking urban access to culture and internships.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in urban Philippines; local courts and pickup games are common in and around residential areas and community centers.
A popular recreational activity in clubs and community centers.
Growing interest with local leagues and casual games in parks and open spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bel-Air.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for fresh vegetables, tofu or mushroom-based dishes; many places can adapt classics (like adobo or sinigang) to be vegetarian or offer veggie-centered bowls.