Makati Nightlife: VIP Access to Clubs, Rooftops & Go-Go Bars

Traveling to Manila and looking to explore its legendary nightlife? If you’re after an evening filled with stylish venues, energetic crowds, and exclusive experiences, then this Makati nightlife tour might just be your perfect ticket. While I’ve not personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a fantastic mix of fun, safety, and value.

What really makes this experience stand out? First, the VIP skip-the-line access means no long waits at popular spots like Octopus and Royal, saving you precious party time. Second, the stunning rooftop views and lively live music venues promise a vibrant atmosphere. And third, the tour’s affordable price of only $20 per person for a full night of entertainment makes it an excellent deal. The only potential consideration? The tour is a group activity, so if you prefer a private night out, it might feel a little crowded or guided.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to get a real taste of Makati’s nightlife, enjoy some guided socializing, and experience a variety of venues all in one night. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, it offers a safe and fun introduction to Manila’s evening scene.

Key Points

• VIP skip-the-line entry to top Makati clubs like Octopus and Royal
• Stunning rooftop views and lively open-air venues
• Guided experience with friendly, knowledgeable hosts
• Affordable cost that includes free entrance and welcome shots
• Diverse venues including go-go spots, live music bars, and retro diners
• Flexible meeting options for late arrivals with real-time updates

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Makati Nightlife Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour offers a well-structured yet flexible evening, designed to give you a taste of the city’s diverse nightlife. It begins early evening, around 8:00 PM, at the stylish IM Hotel Rooftop. Here, you’re greeted with panoramic city views and a trendy crowd, perfect for kicking off the night with creative cocktails. Many reviewers especially appreciated the upscale vibe, noting it’s a great way to set the tone for the evening ahead.

By 9:15 PM, guests move to The Fun Roof, an open-air venue that buzzes with live music and a lively crowd. The atmosphere here is described as energetic, with good drinks and a perfect backdrop of Manila’s glittering skyline. Travelers have shared that the friendly guides create a welcoming ambiance, making it easy for everyone to mingle and enjoy.

Next, there’s a quick stop at The Filling Station, a retro diner that’s become an iconic part of Makati’s nightlife. Think neon lights, milkshakes, and a dose of 50s nostalgia. It’s an ideal spot for a photo, and many reviewers enjoyed the short but memorable visit, emphasizing the fun vibe and vintage decor.

From there, the tour continues to Bourbon Bar, a cozy lounge with vintage decor and a rock ‘n’ roll vibe. Reviewers note that this is a chilled-out place to relax with good whiskey and cocktails before heading to the main event: Octopus or Royal clubs. The VIP entry here, valued at 1,000 PHP or more, is a big plus. Many guests loved the VIP treatment, with one reviewer mentioning the hilarious midget boxing show at Octopus as a highlight.

The night concludes at Royal, one of Makati’s hottest clubs, with LED lighting, pounding beats, and energetic dancing. With a free welcome shot included, travelers often describe this as the perfect finale for a wild night out.

What Makes the Venues Special?

Rooftop Bars: The opening at the IM Hotel Rooftop and The Fun Roof offers more than just drinks—they’re ideal for soaking in Manila’s skyline, especially as the city lights come alive. The views are truly spectacular, and many guests find these spots the perfect mix of elegance and fun.

Live Music & Entertainment: Throughout the night, venues like The Fun Roof feature live acts that add a vibrant, local flavor. This authentic touch helps you feel more connected to Manila’s nightlife scene.

Clubs: Octopus and Royal are the crown jewels of this tour. The VIP skip-the-line access means you avoid the hassle and jump straight into the action. The night may feature unique shows like midget boxing, which is a Manila legend, or fantastic DJs spinning tunes into the early hours.

Go-Go and Retro Spots: The inclusion of go-go bars in Burgos or vintage diners like The Filling Station offers a well-rounded experience beyond just clubbing—perfect for curious travelers wanting to see the city’s less-touristy, more authentic sides.

Group Size & Guide Experience

Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge. Guides like JJ, Moises, and Jeric are praised for their attentiveness, making sure everyone feels welcome, safe, and informed. The tour seems to cater to small groups, often less than ten, which enhances the personal vibe. You’ll get tailored suggestions based on your preferences, thanks to guides who genuinely care about providing a memorable experience.

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Price & Value

At just $20 per person, this tour offers serious value. The VIP entry alone, normally worth over 1,000 PHP (~$20), plus a welcome shot, makes the ticket almost a bargain. Add in the guided social aspect, curated venue choices, and safety assurances, and it’s clear why many reviewers call it “worth every penny.”

However, food and drinks are not included, so you’d want to budget for additional purchases. But with numerous venues offering good deals and local food options, this shouldn’t be an issue for most.

Duration & Logistics

The tour runs from 8:00 PM to roughly 1:30 AM, covering about five hours of lively entertainment. Meeting points are flexible—either late starters can join at The Fun Roof or guests can start from the IM Hotel Rooftop. The night is designed to flow smoothly, with real-time updates shared via WhatsApp, making late arrivals easy to coordinate.

Transportation costs are not included, so plan for taxis or ride-hailing apps to get between venues. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with a lively, group environment and the occasional noisy club setting.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially for their friendly attitudes and local insight. One traveler mentioned, “Moises took care of absolutely everything—from organizing venues to making sure I was comfortable and safe the entire night.” Others appreciated the diversity of venues, with one noting, “We visited some of the coolest spots in the city, ate, danced, and met some really cool people.”

Many call out the value of VIP entry, including a reviewer who said, “The free VIP access and welcome shot at Octopus and Royal alone paid for the ticket.” The inclusion of iconic venues, street food stops, and rooftop bars makes this experience both fun and practical.

Safety & Flexibility

Most reviews mention feeling safe throughout the night, thanks to guides who check in regularly and tailor the experience to the group’s vibe. The WhatsApp group for late arrivals is a thoughtful touch, ensuring no one gets left behind or lost in the busy Makati streets.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a guided introduction to Manila’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each venue. It’s ideal for solo travelers, small groups, or couples eager to socialize and explore in a safe, structured environment. Budget-conscious party-goers will find the cost-to-value ratio excellent, especially with VIP perks included.

It’s also suited for those interested in authentic local venues, from rooftop bars to go-go clubs, and who aren’t shy about lively environments. However, because the tour involves a group setting and several venues, it might not be suitable for travelers seeking quiet, private evenings or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled night in Makati, this VIP nightlife tour ticks a lot of boxes. With friendly guides, diverse venues, and exclusive access, it offers an authentic glimpse into Manila’s lively party scene. The value for money is hard to beat, especially considering the VIP perks and curated stops.

You’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll have stories, new friends, and a true taste of what makes Makati’s nightlife unique. Whether you’re visiting Manila for a short stay or looking to kick off an evening in style, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
You can choose to start at 8:00 PM from the IM Hotel Rooftop or join the tour later at 9:15 PM at The Fun Roof. The flexible options cater to late arrivals.

What is included in the tour price?
VIP skip-the-line access, free entrance to all venues, a welcome shot at Octopus or Royal, a bilingual guide, and a nightclub e-book are included.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you should budget for additional purchases at each venue.

Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes, you need to bring your ID card or a copy for age verification.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that guides make solo travelers feel welcome and help foster social interactions.

Can I join if I arrive late?
Yes, guides share live location updates via WhatsApp, so latecomers can meet up at the designated venues without trouble.

Is this tour appropriate for people over 65?
The activity is not recommended for people over 65, as it involves lively venues and active nightlife environments.

In summary, this Makati nightlife tour offers a practical, fun-packed way to experience Manila’s evening scene. With its focus on safety, authentic venues, and value, it’s perfect for those wanting to see the city’s vibrant nightlife without the stress of planning every detail. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a night out worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: