A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Manila vs. Anchorage for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Manila or Anchorage?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manila and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Manila or Anchorage?

Manila

A sprawling metropolis that is home to more than 12 million people, Manila is one huge, misunderstood concrete jungle, full of diverse cultures, traffic, pollution, restaurants, shopping malls, noise and nightlife. If you're looking to soak in culture and feel the vibe of a place rather than seeking a city that specifically caters to tourists, Manila is the place to be. Capital of the Philippines, Manila is also the center for education, business, and transportation.

Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, is in the south-central part of the state on the Cook Inlet. It's known for its cultural sites and also as a gateway to nearby wilderness areas and mountains. From the sparkling waters of Cook Inlet to the tallest peaks of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage encompasses incredible adventures and metropolitan appeals that are larger than life. With 1,500 moose, incredible national parks nearby and 60 glaciers a short drive away, it's a dream destination in Alaska.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Philippines, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Philippines, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Manila?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Manila is $93, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Manila and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Manila $54
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Manila $108
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Manila and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Manila or Anchorage? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Manila


Hotels in Anchorage


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Manila Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Manila $14
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manila

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Manila:

  • Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport Private Transfer: $9.80
  • Private Transfer from Manila Airport (MNL) to Manila Cruise Port: $22
  • Private Departure Airport Transfer in Manila Bay and Makati Area: $23
  • Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido Transfer: $25
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Manila APT-HTL (MNL) : $30
  • Round-trip Coron Airport Transfer + Town Tour (Shared): $31
  • Manila International Airport Private Transfer To & From City: $35
  • Manila Airport Transfer: $37
  • Private Arrival Airport Transfer: All Hotels in Ortigas: $41
  • Private Transfer from Clark Airport (CRK) to Subic Bay Port: $46
  • Manila Airport (MNL): One-way Private Transfers: $57
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Manila: $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Manila or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Manila change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Manila $18
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manila

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Manila.

  • Manila Night Market and food tour Experience: $58
  • ⭐ Manila Street Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink⭐: $64
  • Manila Food Tour: Explore World's Oldest Chinatown: $65
  • Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food: $65
  • Makati Street Food Tour Experience: $69
  • Food Tour at the World's Oldest Chinatown: $75
  • Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience with Mari: $82
  • Cultural Dance Show with Dinner in Manila: $120
  • Cultural Dinner and Show in Manila: $145

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $177

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Manila $19
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Manila

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Manila are as follows:

  • Guided Tour of the Historic San Sebastian Basilica (Manila): $6.42
  • Historical Bamboo Bike Tour in Intramuros: $18
  • Skip the Line: Hike Eat Swim at Mount Purro Nature Reserve Ticket: $22
  • ⭐ Makati Bar Hopping Tour with Venus ⭐: $27
  • Intramuros Historical Walk Tour: $27
  • Old Manila Intramuros Area Walking Tour: $33
  • Guided Sunset Bamboo Bike Tour in Intramuros: $35
  • Experience Intramuros with Bamboo Bicycle - Ecotours: $37
  • Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $43
  • ⭐ Intramuros The Walled City Walking Tour ⭐: $46
  • ⭐ Authentic Manila Chinatown Experience ⭐: $46
  • Manila One-on-One Walking Tour with Mobile Photography: $50

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Salmon Express Anchorage's Fish Hatchery Experience: $20
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Botanical Garden Walking Tour: $40
  • Guided Tour of the Alaska Botanical Garden: $45
  • Deluxe Trolley City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Manila $9.88
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Manila and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Manila much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Manila is in Asia and Anchorage is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Manila would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Manila and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage than you might in Manila.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Manila Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Manila or Anchorage?

Manila has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Manila and Anchorage, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Manila or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Manila experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Manila or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Manila are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Manila throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Manila is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manila in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Manila. In July, Manila usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Manila gets 408 mm (16.1 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Manila 27°C (80°F) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Manila or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Manila during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Manila because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In October, Manila is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Manila average around 26°C (79°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Manila. Manila usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Manila gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Manila 26°C (79°F) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Manila or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Manila and Anchorage. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Manila year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Manila is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Manila averages around 24°C (76°F) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In January, Manila usually receives less rain than Anchorage. Manila gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Manila 24°C (76°F) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Manila or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Manila as well as Anchorage. Manila attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In the spring, Manila is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manila in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Manila usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Anchorage. Manila gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Manila 29°C (84°F) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Manila

Manila Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 24°C (76°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 25°C (77°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 27°C (80°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 29°C (83°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 303 mm (11.9 in) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 408 mm (16.1 in) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 452 mm (17.8 in) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 27°C (80°F) 357 mm (14.1 in) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 240 mm (9.4 in) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 121 mm (4.8 in) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)