Why Go to Manila
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Manila is a vibrant, fast-moving megacity with centuries of history. The capital of the Philippines, once called the Pearl of the Orient, sits on the eastern shore of Manila Bay on the island of Luzon, and it blends Spanish colonial heritage, Asian influences and a warm, welcoming Filipino spirit.
Step back in time inside Intramuros, the old walled city, where you can visit Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, one of the oldest stone churches in Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander Binondo, considered the world's oldest Chinatown, for amazing street food. Then experience modern Manila in the gleaming towers, malls and restaurants of Bonifacio Global City and Makati. Watch the famous sunset over Manila Bay, and dig into Filipino favorites like adobo, lechon and halo-halo.
Nonstop flights connect Manila with Los Angeles, San Francisco and other U.S. cities. Manila is also the gateway to the Philippines' stunning islands. I'll plan your time in the city and connect it to Palawan, Boracay or Cebu.
BEST FOR
History buffs, foodies, shoppers and travelers heading to the Philippine islands
BEST MONTHS
December to April
EXPLORE
- Makati: Business district and nightlife.
- Bonifacio Global City: Modern shopping and dining.
- Intramuros: The historic walled city.
- Binondo: Chinatown.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Manila
Asia › Southeast Asia › Philippines › Metro Manila
A Spanish walled city, the world's oldest Chinatown and fiery Manila Bay sunsets.
Coastal & Harbor
History
Shopping
Culinary
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Take a food tour of Binondo; it's the best way to sample the world's oldest Chinatown's famous dumplings and street food.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Rent a bike to explore.
Intramuros
Manila's historic walled city, with Spanish colonial buildings.
Visit the museum.
San Agustin Church
A UNESCO-listed church and the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
Visit the Rizal Shrine.
Fort Santiago
A historic fort in Intramuros.
Visit in the morning.
Rizal Park
A large park honoring national hero José Rizal.
Join a food tour.
Binondo
The world's oldest Chinatown.
A legendary hotel with a grand lobby.
The Peninsula Manila
Makati
Hotel Tags
A modern luxury hotel with a pool.
Shangri-La The Fort
Bonifacio Global City
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel with suites and a spa.
Raffles Makati
Makati
Hotel Tags
A historic hotel overlooking Manila Bay.
The Manila Hotel
Rizal Park
Hotel Tags
A Japanese-inspired luxury hotel.
Hotel Okura Manila
Pasay
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Manila
High 87°F · Low 76°F · Rain 5.5 in
Drier weather returns, and All Saints' Day on November 1 brings family gatherings.
The best time to visit Manila is December through April, during the dry season. The rainy season from June to October brings typhoons.
Best Times to Visit Manila
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Filipino cuisine is a delicious blend of Malay, Chinese and Spanish influences.
- Adobo: The country's beloved dish of meat stewed in vinegar and soy sauce.
- Street food: Try lechon and halo-halo.
- Must-try: Adobo, sinigang, lechon, halo-halo and calamansi juice.
06
Walking
Intramuros and BGC are easy to explore on foot.
05
Pasig River Ferry
A ferry service along the Pasig River.
04
Jeepneys
Colorful jeepneys are cheap, but routes can be confusing.
03
MRT & LRT
Light rail lines connect key areas.
02
Grab
Grab is the most convenient way to get around.
01
Flying In
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is about 30 minutes to an hour from the city, depending on traffic.
Most travelers fly into Ninoy Aquino International. Once you're here, Grab is the easiest way to get around.
Getting Around Manila
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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