In the heart of Makati, where gleaming skyscrapers pierce the skyline and the rhythm of the city never slows, lies Ayala Avenue—the Philippines' own answer to Wall Street. More than just a major thoroughfare, Ayala Avenue is the pulse of Metro Manila’s financial district, home to some of the country’s most powerful companies, upscale residences, cultural spaces, and green escapes.
Whether you're a business traveler, curious tourist, or city resident, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Ayala Avenue.
Where is Ayala Avenue?
Ayala Avenue runs diagonally through Makati Central Business District (CBD), stretching from Gil Puyat Avenue (Buendia) to EDSA. It’s one of the most well-maintained and organized areas in Metro Manila, with wide sidewalks, underpasses, pocket parks, and clean streets.
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| Ayala Avenue |
Quick Facts About Ayala Avenue
Namesake: Zóbel de Ayala family
Location: Makati City
Maintained by: Makati Central Estate Association & Ayala Land
Length: 2.3 km (1.4 mi)
Construction Completion: 1950s
North End: Metropolitan Avenue
South End: AH 26 (N1) / EDSA
Major Junctions: Gil Puyat Avenue (N190), Makati Ave, Paseo de Roxas, V.A. Rufino St.
Restrictions: Trucks, pedicabs, and tricycles not allowed from Gil Puyat to EDSA
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Why It’s Iconic
Business Hub: Ayala Avenue is lined with headquarters of top banks, insurance firms, and multinational corporations such as BPI, RCBC, and SGV.
Historical Significance: The area was developed by Ayala Corporation on what used to be part of Hacienda Makati, turning it into the country's premier business district in the post-war years.
Cultural and Civic Centers: Art installations, the Ayala Triangle Gardens, and monuments such as the Ninoy Aquino Monument line the street.
Landmark Buildings on Ayala Avenue
Ayala Avenue is home to an impressive roster of corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and iconic towers. Notable buildings include:
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| G.T. International Tower |
Ayala Tower One – Headquarters of Ayala Corporation and former Philippine Stock Exchange trading floor
RCBC Plaza – Headquarters of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation
The Enterprise Center – Twin-towered neoclassical landmark
PLDT Tower – Headquarters of PLDT, Inc.
Security Bank Center – HQ of Security Bank Corporation
Smart Tower – HQ of Smart Communications
Sycip, Gorres, Velayo & Co. (SGV) Building
G.T. International Tower
Alphaland Makati Place
Ayala North Exchange
LKG Tower
NEX Tower
Makati Sky Plaza
PeopleSupport Center
Robinsons Summit Center
STI Holdings Center
L.V. Locsin Building
Insular Life Building
SSS Makati Building
PNB Makati Center (formerly Allied Bank Center)
What to See and Do on Ayala Avenue
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| Ayala Triangle Gardens |
✔ Visit Ayala Triangle Gardens
- A rare patch of green in the city center, this urban park offers a refreshing escape. Enjoy casual strolls, dine at open-air restaurants, or watch the Festival of Lights every December.
✔ Explore the Ayala Museum
- Just off Ayala Avenue, the newly renovated Ayala Museum houses pre-colonial gold, dioramas of Philippine history, and rotating exhibitions of contemporary Filipino art.
✔ Marvel at the Architecture
- Buildings like The Enterprise Center, RCBC Plaza, and Ayala Tower One are not only business centers—they're also architectural landmarks.
✔ Shopping and Dining
Transportation and Accessibility
MRT Access: The Ayala Station (MRT-3) is located near EDSA and connects easily to buses, jeepneys, and P2P shuttles.
Walkability: Ayala Avenue is one of the most pedestrian-friendly roads in the Philippines, with underground walkways and elevated footbridges.
Ride Hailing: Grab and taxis are readily available, though traffic can build up during rush hours.
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| PUJs at Ayala Avenue |
Pedestrian-Friendly Features
Pedestrian Underpasses: Found at Parkway Drive, Legazpi Street, Paseo de Roxas, V.A. Rufino, and Salcedo/H.V. Dela Costa intersections
Buendia Freedom Park
The monuments of Benigno Aquino Jr. and Gabriela Silang
Ayala Triangle Gardens: A lush green oasis amid corporate high-rises, perfect for relaxing, jogging, or dining
Car-Free Sundays
Since September 2023, a section of Ayala Avenue—from Salcedo and H.V. Dela Costa Streets to West and Fonda Streets, including parts of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue near Ayala Triangle Gardens—is closed to traffic every Sunday from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Branded as “Car-Free Sundays,” the initiative by Ayala Land and Makati City Government promotes:
- Cycling
- Jogging
- Skating
- Pet walkin
- Outdoor group fitness
This is part of a growing push toward a greener, more pedestrian-friendly Makati CBD.
Where to Stay
Makati Shangri-La – Classic luxury with views of the avenue.
Fairmont Makati – Modern, elegant, and centrally located.
Holiday Inn & Suites Makati – Directly connected to Glorietta Mall.
Insider Tips
Business Rush: Avoid peak hours (7–10 AM, 5–8 PM) if you're just exploring.
Best Photo Spots: Try rooftops at the Ayala North Exchange or rooftop bars like Mistral at Raffles for sweeping views.
Holiday Lights: Visit in December for the annual Ayala Triangle light and sound show, a festive treat for locals and tourists alike.
Nearby Attractions
Legazpi Sunday Market – A weekend organic market just a short walk away.
Washington SyCip Park – A serene pocket park ideal for quiet reading or meditation.
Salcedo Village – Home to boutique restaurants and art galleries.
Final Thoughts
Ayala Avenue is more than just a business road—it’s a living, breathing symbol of modern Manila. It blends the energy of commerce with culture, greenery, and elegance. Whether you’re here to close a deal, enjoy an exhibit, or simply soak in the city vibes, Ayala Avenue delivers the perfect balance of work, leisure, and sophistication.
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