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Manila Skyline from Harbour Square
Manila Skyline from Harbour Square - Photo by Aeron Oracion

Explore the Beauty and Culture of Manila, Philippines: An Essential Travel

About Manila, Philippines

Manila is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a unique blend of history and modernity. From the historic Intramuros district to the lively markets and shopping centers, there is something for every type of traveler. Experience the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of Manila on your next adventure to the Philippines.

Manila is a bustling city that offers visitors a unique blend of old and new. Located on the eastern coast of the Philippines, Manila is the country's capital and largest city.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Manila is Intramuros, a walled city that was built during the Spanish colonial period. Visitors can see many historical sites within Intramuros, such as Fort Santiago, which was once a military prison, and Casa Manila, a museum that showcases the lifestyle of the wealthy during the colonial period. For those interested in religion, the San Agustin Church, which is the oldest stone church in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also located within Intramuros.

Manila is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that cater to a variety of tastes, from live music to dancing. For those looking to experience the local food scene, street food is a must-try. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as balut (a fertilized duck egg) and isaw (grilled chicken or pig intestines).

For those interested in shopping, Manila has many malls that offer both local and international brands. Some of the most popular malls include SM Mall of Asia, Robinsons Place Manila, and Greenbelt. These malls offer a wide variety of products, from clothing to electronics, and are often air-conditioned, making them a great place to escape the heat.

Another must-visit attraction in Manila is Rizal Park, a large public park that offers visitors a place to relax and enjoy a picnic. The park is named after the country's national hero, Jose Rizal, and features a monument in his honor. There are also many other monuments and statues within the park, as well as a large fountain.

Overall, Manila is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nightlife, food, shopping, or simply relaxing in a park, Manila has it all.

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Popular Stays in Manila, Philippines

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Manila, Philippines

This 5 star hotel is located in the city centre of Manila and was established in 2004. It is a short drive away from the Old Spanish Walled City and the nearest station is Metro Rail Transit. The Hotel has 3 restaurants, a bar, a conference room, a coffee shop, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 258 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe, trouser press and air conditioning.
MNL - Ninoy Aquino International Airport - 3 Miles S . Makati Shangri-La Manila is just 30-45 min away from MNL - Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the upscale Makati business district. The hotel is walking distance from deluxe cinemas - premium shopping malls - trendy bars and restaurants making it a prime location for both business and family travelers.SMOKE FREE PROPERTY For more information on our health and hygiene precautionary measures cancellation fee waivers and Golden Circle - please visit shangri-la.com/cares Makati Shangri-La Manila is a renowned five-star luxury hotel located 20 minutes away from the airport and within walking distance from Makati most popular shopping malls parks and museums. It offers 696 luxurious rooms and suites- 8 food and beverage outlets- world-class health and recreational facilities. The hotel is also a melting pot for authentic cuisines created by international chefs. It is home to the largest ballroom in the area and flexible venues appropriate for every occasion.
Restaurant
Business hotelsHotels with charmOnly adultsSport hotelsFamily hotels

Somerset Millennium Makati

Stylish serviced residences in the heart of Makati City. Indulge in the security and privacy of these serviced apartments in Manila. Stroll at your leisure to the many restaurants historic monuments and spectacular towers that surround the residence. Taxis trains and jeepneys are available for destinations throughout Makati. The property is with close proximity Philippines Stock Exchange -Ayala Museum-Glorietta and Greenbelt Malls-Asian Institute of Management and Makati Medical Center. Towering 30 storeys over the vibrant business and commercial district of Makati City is the relaxing haven - Somerset Millennium Makati. Strategically located in the heart of Legaspi Village- it offers panoramic view of the bustling metropolis. With Legaspi park within walking distance and its welcome proximity to the luxurious Greenbelt malls where a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues are available- Somerset Millennium presents you with a wealth of lifestyle options. Somerset Millennium Makatis selection of spacious and comfortable serviced residences ranging from studios- one to two-bedroom units- presents the ideal home away from home in Manila. Stylish contemporary interiors- comprehensive kitchen amenities- cozy bedrooms- entertainment system and high-speed broadband internet connection are available to ensure your enriched and comfortable stay. Its residents lounge- fitness center and outdorr swimming pool and jacuzzi are among the recreational facilities available for your indoor leisure.
Luxury, heritage, and comfort combine gracefully at Dusit Thani Manila, a 5-star hotel in Makati. Situated in the heart of the financial capital, the hotel boasts easy access to all the business, entertainment, and recreational options Makati has to offer. A choice of 466 exquisite rooms and suites in our Makati city hotel embodies a delightful blend of Filipino geniality and gracious Thai hospitality, while world-class dining destinations and full-service facilities ensure business and leisure guests are completely at ease.
Seize the day and enjoy your stay at one of Manila's premier business hotels. Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is at the centre of Ortigas, a bustling business and commercial district that includes multinational firms, government agencies and major financial institutions. With our topnotch amenities and short distances to major shopping malls, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is the ideal work-play destination for connected travellers. Experience productivity and relaxation in our well-appointed guest rooms, with luxurious bedding, soft furnishings, technology and the finest amenities to refresh you upon arrival. As a club guest member, enjoy our exclusive Club Lounge on the top floor with quiet workspaces, complimentary snacks, beverages, and charming city views. Gastronomic journeys await our flagship all-day dining restaurant, Seven Corners, where you can enjoy an elevated dining experience inspired by the world's top cuisines. Or rediscover Chinese cuisine at the award-winning Xin Tian Di and savour the best culinary creations from the Orient. From small gatherings to major business conferences, let our dedicated Crown Meeting Director make your next event a reality. Our vast parking spaces for up to 1, 667 vehicles and flexible meeting, conference &event spaces, including our pillarless Grand Ballroom, offer as much as 34, 000 sq ft to accommodate up to 1, 500 guests.
This emblematic business hotel is ideally located close to the business district of Makati and just minutes from the historic Intramuros area. Attractions such as the Philippines International Convention Center, Cultural Center of the Philippines, SMX, World Trade Center, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex or the Mall of Asia are within easy reach. The international Ninoy Aquino Airport is only 7 km away. Parking is available at Php 15 per hour.
This top class hotel comprises all the best in elegance and state-of-the-art. Located on Manila's main boulevard with spectacular views, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport is just a 20-minute-drive away. The hotel features 24-hour reception, express check-in and check-out, concierge service, currency exchange, free WIFI, ATM on site, meeting rooms, business centre, 4 restaurants, 1 bar, spa and wellness, outdoor pool and medical assistance. Please be informed that The Manila Hotel swimming pools (Adult and Kiddie pool) will be closed on May 1-31, 2024.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaFamily hotelsDesign

Ascott Makati

Ascott Makati is situated within the Makati city business district and entertainment centres - making the propertys location ideal for both corporate and leisure travelers. Ayala Malls - the Ayala Museum - Greenbelt Park and the Mall of Asia are all within a 30 minute drive of the property. Ascott Makati is a 30 minute drive from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.Ascott Makati is situated within the Makati city business district and entertainment centres - making the propertys location ideal for both corporate and leisure travelers. Ayala Malls - the Ayala Museum - Greenbelt Park and the Mall of Asia are all within a 30 minute drive of the property. Ascott Makati is a 30 minute drive from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. . Facilities include meeting and conference rooms - a restaurant and bar - outdoor swimming pool and hot tub - fitness center with aerobics room - tennis courts - barbecue area plus a game room with billiards table and Wii console and games. Also available is complimentary wireless Internet access in public areas - complimentary parking and accessible facilities. Services available include room service - laundry and dry cleaning - 24-hour concierge services and 24-hour on-site security. All accommodations are fully serviced. . A selection of 362 fully serviced apartment-style accommodations feature stylish living areas - a modern kitchen - luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms - a dedicated work space and stunning views of the city. Designer furnishings and modern amenities in each apartment provides for a comfortable stay. All accommodations offer free high-speed Internet access for up to four devices - daily housekeeping - a fully-equipped kitchen with modern appliances - a microwave oven plus a full size refrigerator and dishwasher. Also included are a washing machine and dryer - an entertainment system with LCD television with satellite and cable channels - a DVD player and an iPod dock.

Things to do in Manila, Philippines

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Manila, Philippines

Intramuros, a district of Manila City, is also known as the Old Manila. Book this tour if you want a full-history tour about the story of Manila and the important events that shaped the Philippine history. This walking tour tell the story of the Manila - from the pre-colonial times, Spanish Colonization, American annexation, Japanese Occupation and the post-war Manila. If you have less than 4 hours but you want to hear more than 400 years of Philippine history, this is the tour for you and your group.
This is a half-day historical tour of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Our tour is in storytelling format that talks about the important events that shaped the Philippines. If you only have half-a-day to spend and wanted to hear story more than the fast-paced picture-taking city tours, this is the tour for you and your group. This is a history-and-culture-anchored tour that involves part walking, horse-back riding (when there are more than 4 tourists) and museum visits. We curated this tour to tell more than 400 years of history in less than 4 hours.
This is a half-day historical tour of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Our tour is in storytelling format that talks about the important events that shaped the Philippines. If you only have half-a-day to spend and wanted to hear story more than the fast-paced picture-taking city tours, this is the tour for you and your group. This is a history-and-culture-anchored tour that involves part walking, horse-back riding (when there are more than 4 tourists) and museum visits. We curated this tour to tell more than 400 years of history in less than 4 hours.
Intramuros was the heart of the archipelago for hundreds of years, here we begin a crash course in Philippine history. A glimpse at the Philippines' colonial past and how the events of history has shaped the current Philippines. Join us on this adventure through the old city of Manila as we take routes less traveled and discover wonderful corners and side streets very few get to see.
Join travelers from around the world in exploring Manila with an English-speaking tour guide. Visit the city's most popular attractions and experience a bit of local culture.
Explore the City of Manila and discovery what's with the City of the old time. Join travelers from around the world in exploring Manila with an English-speaking tour guide. Visit the city's most popular attractions and experience a bit of local culture.
See the main highlights of Manila on this half-day private city tour. Hotel pickup and guide services are included as you venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agustin Church and other famous city landmarks.
See the main highlights of Manila on this half-day private city tour. Venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agustin Church and other famous city landmarks.

Why People Love Manila, Philippines

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Manila, Philippines

X
X5920XEkena
5
Aug 2023
We picked this tour out of all the Manila tours and it did not disappoint. Andre was a very friendly and knowledgeable guide. Great tour and very educational. Being a US born Filipino, I still learned things I didn’t know as it makes more sense when you actually see the sites on this tour. My wif...
M
MalikA847
5
Jul 2023
Great tour Very knowledgeable tour guide, Andrea made an effort to make sure we were all comfortable, even bought us an umbrella when it rained
S
samimatani
5
Aug 2023
If you have up to 4 hours spare, and you want to learn Manila’s history in a concise and professional manner, this is for you Andre delivered the info with a gust of pride and love for his country. This does help gain better understanding for the history of this city I would recommend this tour...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Manila

What are some must-see attractions in Manila?

Manila has a lot of must-see attractions for travelers, including the historic walled city of Intramuros, the Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the San Agustin Church. For those interested in shopping and nightlife, there's the Bonifacio Global City and the Makati Central Business District. You can also experience the vibrant Filipino culture at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Philippine Arena, which is the world's largest indoor arena.

What are some popular activities to do in Manila?

There are a lot of great activities to do in Manila. You can take a walking tour of Intramuros to learn about the city's rich history, or take a food tour to sample some of the delicious local cuisine. For adventure seekers, there's the Masungi Georeserve, where you can go hiking and explore the amazing rock formations. You can also visit the Manila Ocean Park to see the marine life exhibits, or watch a live performance at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

What are some good places to stay in Manila?

Manila has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. For luxury travelers, there's the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila and the Conrad Manila. For those on a mid-range budget, there's the New World Manila Bay Hotel and the City Garden Grand Hotel. Budget travelers can find great deals at hotels like the Red Planet Manila Bay and the White Knight Hotel Intramuros.

What's the best time of year to visit Manila?

The best time to visit Manila is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The wet season, which runs from May to October, can be quite humid and rainy, and some attractions may be closed or inaccessible due to flooding.

What's the best way to get around Manila?

The best way to get around Manila is by taxi or ride-sharing service like Grab. There's also a metro system called the Manila Light Rail Transit System, which is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. If you prefer to travel by car, you can rent one from a local rental agency or use a car-sharing service like Zipcar.

What are some good restaurants to try in Manila?

Manila has a vibrant food scene, with a wide range of restaurants serving delicious Filipino cuisine and international dishes. Some popular restaurants to try include Manam Comfort Filipino, which serves modern takes on traditional Filipino dishes, and Blackbird at the Nielson Tower, which offers European-inspired cuisine in a beautiful Art Deco setting. For a more casual dining experience, check out the food stalls at the Mercato Centrale night market.

What are some good day trips from Manila?

There are a lot of great day trips you can take from Manila. One popular destination is Tagaytay, which is known for its scenic views of Taal Volcano and Lake. You can also visit the Pagsanjan Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall that you can reach by taking a scenic boat ride up the river. Another option is the town of Batangas, which is known for its beaches and dive sites.

What's the nightlife like in Manila?

Manila has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some popular nightlife destinations include the Bonifacio Global City, which has a number of trendy bars and clubs, and the Poblacion area, which is known for its lively street parties and night markets. For live music, check out venues like the 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub and the Black Market.

What's the currency in Manila?

The currency in Manila is the Philippine peso (PHP). It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and tips, but most major businesses and hotels accept credit cards. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange kiosks, and airports, but be sure to compare rates to get the best deal.

What are some safety tips for traveling in Manila?

Manila is generally a safe city for travelers, but it's important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling at night, and keep your valuables out of sight. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, as this can make you a target for theft. It's also a good idea to use a ride-sharing service or taxi to get around, especially at night.