Manila
The Philippines' chaotic, colorful capital is a melting pot of Spanish colonial history, shopping malls, incredible street food, and warm Filipino hospitality — and a gateway to 7,000+ islands.
Tours & Experiences
Browse bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Manila
📍 Points of Interest
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📋The Rundown
Metro Manila is one of the most densely populated urban areas on Earth with over 14 million people packed into a sprawling megacity — the energy, chaos, and warmth are overwhelming in the best way
The Philippines was colonized by Spain for 333 years and then the United States for nearly 50 — Manila's architecture, food, and culture reflect this unique East-meets-West heritage
Filipinos are widely regarded as among the friendliest, most hospitable people in the world — expect genuine smiles, helpful strangers, and a level of warmth that catches visitors off guard
Intramuros, the old Walled City, was built by the Spanish in 1571 and remains one of the best-preserved colonial districts in Southeast Asia despite devastating WWII damage
Manila's food scene is booming — from sizzling sisig and lechon to modern Filipino fine dining led by chefs putting Philippine cuisine on the global map
The jeepney, Manila's iconic mode of transport, evolved from surplus US military jeeps after WWII — each one is uniquely decorated and they form the backbone of the city's public transit
🏛️Must-See Spots
Intramuros (Walled City)
🏘️The historic heart of Manila built by the Spanish in 1571. Explore Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church (UNESCO), the Casa Manila museum, and cobblestone streets best seen by bamboo bicycle or walking tour.
San Agustin Church
📌The oldest stone church in the Philippines (1607) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stunning example of Baroque architecture with trompe-l'oeil ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and a peaceful cloister garden.
National Museum Complex
🏛️Three world-class museums (Fine Arts, Natural History, Anthropology) surrounding Rizal Park, all with free admission. The National Museum of Fine Arts houses Juan Luna's enormous "Spoliarium" — a masterpiece of Philippine art.
Rizal Park (Luneta)
🗼A 58-hectare urban park dedicated to national hero Jose Rizal. The site of his execution in 1896 which sparked the Philippine Revolution. Includes gardens, fountains, a planetarium, and the Rizal Monument.
Binondo (Chinatown)
🏘️The oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594. A sensory overload of Chinese-Filipino food stalls, traditional apothecaries, gold shops, Buddhist temples, and the iconic Binondo Church. A must for food lovers.
Fort Santiago
📌A 16th-century citadel and defense fortress at the entrance of the Pasig River. The site where Jose Rizal was imprisoned before his execution. Now a museum and park with well-preserved walls and gardens.
Manila Ocean Park
📌A marine theme park on the Manila Bay waterfront with an oceanarium, jellyfish exhibit, sea lion shows, and the Manila Bay sunset views. A good family-friendly stop near Rizal Park.
Poblacion, Makati
🏘️Manila's trendiest neighborhood with rooftop bars, craft cocktail lounges, street art, co-working spaces, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The creative heart of modern Manila, walkable and full of surprises.
🗺️Where to Next
Tagaytay
A cool highland town on the rim of Taal Volcano with views of the world's smallest volcano in a lake within a volcano. Famous for its cooler climate, bulalo (beef bone marrow soup), and weekend getaway atmosphere.
Corregidor Island
A historic island fortress at the mouth of Manila Bay, the site of fierce WWII battles between American/Filipino and Japanese forces. The Malinta Tunnel, Pacific War Memorial, and ruined barracks are deeply moving.
Batangas Beaches
The closest quality beaches to Manila with excellent diving and snorkeling at Anilao, Laiya, and Nasugbu. The gateway to dive sites rivaling the Visayas without the flights.
Baguio
The "Summer Capital of the Philippines" in the Cordillera Mountains at 1,500 m elevation. Cool pine-scented air, Burnham Park, strawberry farms, the Baguio Market, and a thriving arts scene.
Singapore
The immaculate city-state with world-class food, futuristic Gardens by the Bay, colonial heritage, and some of Asia's best shopping and dining.
Taipei
Taiwan's vibrant capital with legendary night markets, hot springs, temples, and one of Asia's most exciting food scenes. Modern, safe, and incredibly welcoming.
📍Hidden Gems
Binondo Food Walk
A self-guided eating tour through the world's oldest Chinatown, sampling lumpia from Dong Bei, dumplings from Tasty Dumplings, hopia (flaky pastry) from Eng Bee Tin, and beef noodle soup from Lan Zhou La Mien.
Tour groups hit the main restaurants, but the real treasures are the tiny unmarked stalls and bakeries in the back alleys. The Chinese-Filipino fusion cuisine here is unique to Manila and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Escolta Street
Manila's original commercial thoroughfare from the Spanish and American colonial eras, now experiencing a creative revival. The First United Building hosts art studios, design shops, and HUB: Make Lab, a maker space and cafe.
While most tourists never venture here, Escolta represents Manila's creative renaissance — young artists, designers, and entrepreneurs are breathing new life into the city's grandest pre-war architecture.
Quiapo Church & Market
The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene surrounded by one of Manila's most chaotic and fascinating street markets selling everything from herbal remedies and amulets to vintage cameras and religious icons.
This is raw, unfiltered Manila at its most intense. The market is a photographer's paradise and the devotion of Filipinos to the Black Nazarene (drawing millions for the January 9 procession) is extraordinary.
Salcedo Saturday Market
A weekend farmers and food market in the Salcedo Village park in Makati, bringing together organic produce, artisan foods, and prepared Filipino dishes from across the archipelago.
This is where Manila's food-obsessed middle class comes to eat — the best lechon (roast pig), bibingka (rice cake), and regional Filipino specialties from Bicol, Pampanga, and the Visayas, all in one park.
☀️Weather
Manila has a tropical monsoon climate — hot and humid year-round with a pronounced wet season (June-November) and dry season (December-May). Temperatures rarely drop below 24°C. The wet season brings heavy afternoon downpours and occasional typhoons. The dry months of January through April are the most comfortable for visiting.
Cool Dry Season
December - February75-88°F
24-31°C
The most comfortable months with lower humidity and minimal rain. "Cool" is relative — it's still warm but noticeably more pleasant than the rest of the year. The best time to visit Manila.
Hot Dry Season
March - May79-95°F
26-35°C
The hottest months with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C in April-May. Very humid. Holy Week (March/April) is a major holiday when many locals leave the city. Air conditioning is essential.
Wet Season
June - November77-90°F
25-32°C
Heavy monsoon rains, especially in July-September. Afternoon downpours can flood streets within minutes. Typhoon season peaks August-October. Travel is still possible but plan for weather disruptions.
🛡️Safety
Exercise Caution
out of 100
Manila requires street smarts typical of large developing-world megacities. Petty crime (pickpocketing, phone snatching) is the primary concern, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The business districts of Makati and BGC are noticeably safer and more orderly. Filipino hospitality is genuine — most people you encounter will be helpful and friendly.
Things to Know
- •Keep smartphones and valuables out of sight in crowded areas — phone snatching by motorbike riders is common
- •Use Grab (ride-hailing app) instead of flagging taxis to avoid meter scams and ensure transparent pricing
- •Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially around Ermita and Malate
- •Makati and BGC (Bonifacio Global City) are significantly safer and more walkable than central Manila
- •Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours — common scam setups
- •Keep copies of your passport separate from the original. Carry a photocopy for daily use
- •Traffic is extreme — budget 2-3x the expected travel time, especially during rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM)
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
National Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance)
911
Philippine National Police
117
Red Cross
143
Tourist Assistance
(02) 8524-1660
Bureau of Fire Protection
(02) 8426-0219
🚕Transit & Transport
Manila's traffic is legendary — among the worst in the world. The city has three elevated rail lines (LRT-1, LRT-2, MRT-3) that are useful but overcrowded. Ride-hailing via Grab is the most practical option for tourists. Jeepneys are an iconic experience but challenging for first-time visitors. Budget extra time for every journey.
Grab
PHP 100-400 (~$1.80-7.20) for most trips within Metro ManilaThe dominant ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia. Essential in Manila for safe, metered, air-conditioned rides. Prices are transparent and drivers are generally reliable. Cash and card payments accepted.
Best for: All travel within Manila — the recommended option for tourists, especially at night
LRT / MRT (Light Rail)
PHP 15-30 (~$0.27-0.54) per rideThree elevated rail lines: LRT-1 (north-south through Manila), LRT-2 (east-west), and MRT-3 (along EDSA). Cheap and fast but extremely crowded during rush hours. Single-journey tickets or Beep cards.
Best for: Avoiding traffic on major corridors — LRT-1 connects Intramuros to Makati area, MRT-3 runs along EDSA
Jeepneys
PHP 13-15 (~$0.23-0.27) base fareManila's iconic converted military jeeps running fixed routes. Each jeepney is uniquely decorated. Very cheap but routes are unmarked and confusing for visitors. Say "para" to stop.
Best for: Cultural experience — try at least one ride on a major route during non-rush hours
Metered Taxis
PHP 80-250 (~$1.45-4.50) for most city tripsWhite metered taxis are abundant. The meter starts at PHP 40. Some drivers refuse meters or quote fixed prices — insist on the meter or use Grab instead. Yellow airport taxis are more expensive but regulated.
Best for: Short trips when Grab surge pricing is high or when you need a ride immediately
🚶 Walkability
Manila is generally challenging for walking — broken sidewalks, intense heat, heavy traffic, and poor pedestrian infrastructure make extended walks difficult. Exceptions are Intramuros (walkable historic district), Makati CBD and Ayala Triangle area, BGC (purpose-built walkable streets), and Rizal Park. Use the LRT or Grab to get between walkable zones.
✈️Getting In & Out
✈️ Airports
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)(MNL)
7 km south of Manila; 10 km from MakatiGrab is the best option (PHP 200-500, ~$3.60-9, 30-90 min depending on traffic). Yellow airport taxis (PHP 300-600). Airport bus/UBE Express to various points (PHP 150-300). Allow extra time — NAIA traffic is notoriously bad. The airport has 4 terminals (check your terminal before arriving).
✈️ Search flights to MNL🚆 Rail Stations
Manila (PNR) Tutuban Station
The Philippine National Railways station in Tondo with limited commuter rail services south toward Laguna and Alabang. PNR is being redeveloped. Not currently useful for most tourist trips.
🚌 Bus Terminals
Cubao Bus Terminals (Quezon City)
Multiple bus company terminals along EDSA and Aurora Blvd in Cubao. Victory Liner, Genesis, and others run buses to Baguio (5-6h, PHP 450-750), Clark/Angeles (2h, PHP 200-350), and northern Luzon destinations.
Buendia / EDSA Bus Terminals (Pasay)
Terminals near EDSA-Taft for southbound buses to Batangas (2-3h, PHP 170-250), Tagaytay (2h, PHP 150-200), Lucena, and Bicol. DLTB, JAM, and Ceres buses operate from here.
🛍️Shopping
Manila is a shopping city — Filipinos love malls, and Manila has some of the largest in Asia. From mega-malls to traditional markets, bargain street stalls to luxury boutiques, shopping is a major activity. The prices are extremely affordable compared to Western countries.
SM Mall of Asia
mega-mallOne of the largest malls in Asia with over 600 shops, an IMAX theater, ice skating rink, and Manila Bay sunset views from the seaside promenade. A self-contained entertainment destination.
Known for: International and Filipino brands, electronics, dining, entertainment, Manila Bay sunsets
Greenbelt & Glorietta (Makati)
upscale mall complexInterconnected malls in the Makati CBD with luxury brands, excellent restaurants, a chapel garden, and a more refined shopping experience. Greenbelt is the upscale choice; Glorietta is mid-range.
Known for: Luxury brands, Filipino designer fashion, fine dining, art galleries
Divisoria Market
street marketManila's largest and most chaotic wholesale market. Rock-bottom prices on everything from textiles and clothing to household goods and accessories. Not for the faint-hearted but unbeatable for bargains.
Known for: Bargain clothing, textiles, accessories, Christmas decorations, wholesale goods
Salcedo & Legazpi Weekend Markets
farmers & artisan marketsSaturday (Salcedo) and Sunday (Legazpi) morning markets in Makati with organic produce, artisan foods, prepared Filipino dishes, and handmade crafts. The best food markets in Manila.
Known for: Artisan food, organic produce, prepared Filipino dishes, handmade crafts, coffee
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Dried mangoes — Philippine dried mangoes (especially Cebu brand) are considered the best in the world
- •Capiz shell products — lamps, coasters, and decorative items made from translucent capiz shells
- •Barong Tagalog — the traditional embroidered formal shirt made from pineapple fiber (pina) or jusi fabric
- •Filipino coffee — Kapeng Barako (Liberica coffee) from Batangas, unique to the Philippines
- •Woven baskets and textiles — handwoven products from Cordillera, Mindanao, and Visayas communities
- •Calamansi and coconut beauty products — natural skincare using local Philippine ingredients
- •Wooden santos (religious figures) — hand-carved Catholic saints reflecting the Spanish colonial heritage
💵Money & Tipping
Philippine Peso
Code: PHP
1 USD is approximately 55-56 PHP. ATMs are widely available in malls and commercial areas. Most ATMs dispense a maximum of PHP 10,000-20,000 per transaction with a PHP 200-250 fee for foreign cards. Credit cards are accepted at malls, hotels, and restaurants but cash is essential for markets, jeepneys, and small establishments.
Payment Methods
Cash is still king for everyday transactions — markets, jeepneys, small eateries, and street food are cash-only. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at malls, hotels, and chain restaurants. GCash and Maya (mobile payment apps) are increasingly popular but require a Philippine phone number. ATMs are in all malls.
Tipping Guide
10% is standard if no service charge is added. Many restaurants include a 10% service charge — check the bill before adding more.
Not expected but rounding up by PHP 20-50 is appreciated, especially for helpful drivers.
PHP 50-100 for porters per bag. PHP 50-100 per day for housekeeping.
PHP 300-500 per person per day for guides. PHP 200-300 for drivers.
PHP 50-100 tip for massage therapists is customary and greatly appreciated.
💰Budget
budget
$25-50
Hostel dorm, street food and carinderia meals, jeepneys and LRT, free museums and walking
mid-range
$60-120
Mid-range hotel, restaurant meals, Grab rides, museum entries, Intramuros tour
luxury
$150+
Luxury hotel in Makati/BGC, fine dining, private tours, spa, premium experiences
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | PHP 400-800 | $7-14 |
| AccommodationMid-range hotel | PHP 2,500-5,000 | $45-90 |
| AccommodationLuxury hotel (Makati/BGC) | PHP 8,000+ | $145+ |
| FoodStreet food meal (BBQ, rice) | PHP 50-100 | $0.90-1.80 |
| FoodCarinderia (local eatery) meal | PHP 80-150 | $1.45-2.70 |
| FoodRestaurant main course | PHP 250-500 | $4.50-9 |
| FoodFine dining dinner | PHP 1,500-3,000 | $27-54 |
| FoodSan Miguel beer | PHP 50-80 | $0.90-1.45 |
| TransportGrab across Manila | PHP 150-400 | $2.70-7.20 |
| TransportJeepney ride | PHP 13-15 | $0.23-0.27 |
| AttractionsNational Museum (all 3) | Free | Free |
| AttractionsFort Santiago entry | PHP 75 | $1.36 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •The National Museum complex (Fine Arts, Natural History, Anthropology) is completely free — world-class museums at no cost
- •Eat at carinderias (local eateries) — point at what looks good and get a filling rice-and-viand meal for PHP 80-150
- •Take the LRT/MRT for long distances to avoid Manila's gridlock traffic and expensive Grab surge pricing
- •Street food in Binondo (Chinatown) and Quiapo is incredible and costs almost nothing
- •Visit malls for free air conditioning during the heat of the day — Filipinos do this too
- •Weekend markets (Salcedo Saturday, Legazpi Sunday) offer great food at reasonable prices in a pleasant setting
- •Buy a Beep card for LRT/MRT rides — saves time queuing for single-journey tickets at every station
🗓️When to Visit
Best Time to Visit
January through April is the dry season and the most comfortable time to visit. December through February offers the coolest temperatures. Avoid June through October if possible due to heavy monsoon rains, flooding, and typhoon risk. The Christmas season (September through January in the Philippines) is culturally fascinating.
Cool Dry Season (December - February)
Crowds: High during Christmas/New Year; moderate otherwiseThe most comfortable weather with slightly lower humidity and cooler evenings. Christmas celebrations extend through January (Filipinos celebrate the world's longest Christmas season). Festivals and parades abound.
Pros
- + Most comfortable temperatures
- + Filipino Christmas celebrations are spectacular
- + Sinulog and Ati-Atihan festivals in January
- + Minimal rain
Cons
- − Christmas/New Year is peak domestic travel — flights and hotels fill up
- − Prices rise in December
- − Holy Week (March/April) closes many businesses
Hot Dry Season (March - May)
Crowds: Moderate — Holy Week is a major travel period, but Manila itself quiets downThe hottest months with temperatures above 35°C. April and May can be sweltering. Holy Week in March/April is a major holiday when Manila empties as locals travel to provinces and beaches.
Pros
- + Dry weather for sightseeing
- + Holy Week cultural experiences
- + Beach trips easily combined
- + Summer festivals
Cons
- − Extreme heat in April-May
- − Holy Week closures affect dining and shopping
- − Air conditioning essential
- − Humidity is intense
Wet Season (June - November)
Crowds: Low — best hotel dealsHeavy monsoon rains with daily afternoon downpours. Typhoon season peaks August-October. Flooding is common. Travel is still possible but expect weather disruptions. Significant flight delays possible.
Pros
- + Lowest prices
- + Fewest tourists
- + Lush green landscapes
- + Cooler rain breaks from the heat
Cons
- − Heavy rain and flooding
- − Typhoon risk
- − Flight delays and cancellations
- − Some roads become impassable
🎉 Festivals & Events
Feast of the Black Nazarene
January 9Millions of devotees join a massive barefoot procession through Quiapo carrying the 400-year-old Black Nazarene statue. One of the largest Catholic gatherings in the world — intense, emotional, and extraordinary.
Chinese New Year in Binondo
January/FebruaryThe world's oldest Chinatown comes alive with dragon dances, firecrackers, food festivals, and vibrant decorations. Binondo is the center of celebrations.
Holy Week (Semana Santa)
March/AprilThe most important religious period with processions, passion plays, and the dramatic Moriones Festival in Marinduque. Many businesses close from Holy Thursday through Easter Sunday.
Christmas Season
September - JanuaryFilipinos celebrate the world's longest Christmas season starting in September ("-ber months"). Giant lantern festivals, Simbang Gabi (dawn masses), and the joyous Noche Buena feast on Christmas Eve.
💬Speak the Language
Filipino (based on Tagalog) is the national language, written in the Latin alphabet. English is an official language and very widely spoken — the Philippines has one of the highest English proficiency rates in Asia. Most Filipinos code-switch between Filipino and English (called "Taglish"). You can get by entirely in English, but Filipino phrases earn big smiles.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Kumusta | koo-moo-STAH |
| Thank you | Salamat | sah-LAH-maht |
| Thank you very much | Maraming salamat | mah-RAH-ming sah-LAH-maht |
| Yes / No | Oo / Hindi | oh-OH / hin-DEE |
| Please (asking for something) | Paki- (prefix) | PAH-kee |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Pasensya na | pah-SEHN-shah nah |
| How much is this? | Magkano ito? | mahg-KAH-noh ee-TOH? |
| Delicious! | Masarap! | mah-SAH-rahp! |
| Stop here (for jeepney) | Para! | PAH-rah! |
| Where is...? | Nasaan ang...? | nah-SAH-ahn ahng...? |
| I don't understand | Hindi ko maintindihan | hin-DEE koh mah-in-tin-dee-HAHN |
| Let's eat! | Kain tayo! | KAH-in tah-YOH! |
🛂Visa & Entry
The Philippines offers visa-free entry for many nationalities for stays of 30 days, with relatively easy extensions available. The immigration process at NAIA is straightforward but can involve long queues. You may be asked to show proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to a third country).
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (extendable to 3 years) | No visa required. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Proof of onward/return travel required. Extensions available at Bureau of Immigration offices. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (extendable) | No visa required with same conditions — valid passport, onward travel proof, 6-month passport validity. |
| EU Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (extendable) | Visa-free for most EU nationalities. Standard entry requirements apply. |
| Australian Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (extendable) | Visa-free entry. Same requirements as other Western nationalities. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Visa required — apply at Philippine embassy. However, holders of valid US, Japan, Australia, Canada, UK, or Schengen visas may enter visa-free for 14 days. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- •Register with eTravel (etravel.gov.ph) before your flight — it is required for all arriving passengers
- •Have proof of onward travel ready (return ticket or ticket to a third country) — immigration may ask for it
- •Visa extensions (30-day increments) are available at Bureau of Immigration offices in Manila and other cities
- •Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
- •Immigration queues at NAIA can be very long — fill out arrival cards on the plane to save time
- •There is a travel tax of PHP 1,620 for departing tourists, usually included in the airfare