Flights from Singapore (SIN) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila

Why visit Manila?
Manila is a lively bayside capital where history, modern skylines, and a warm urban energy come together. You will find heritage quarters, gleaming malls, and a creative scene that makes the city a natural starting point for exploring the Philippines.

What to expect
Across the metropolis, you will experience a mix of preserved colonial streets, busy business districts, and waterfront views over Manila Bay. Traffic can be busy, but each neighbourhood offers its own rhythm, from cultural landmarks to contemporary lifestyle hubs.

Plan your trip
Many travellers use Manila as a convenient gateway to beach, diving, and nature destinations across the archipelago. With strong air and land connections, you can easily blend time in the capital with onward journeys to islands, mountain retreats, and regional cities.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets and stone walls of Manila's historic walled district, home to museums, plazas, and centuries-old architecture.

Rizal Park

Stroll through this expansive urban park by Manila Bay, known for its landscaped gardens, monuments, and open-air gathering spaces.

National Museum Complex

Discover art, natural history, and cultural exhibits spread across several impressive buildings near the historic centre.

Manila Ocean Park

Get close to marine life at this oceanarium and family attraction on the waterfront, with aquariums, shows, and interactive zones.

Binondo

Explore one of the world's oldest Chinatown districts, with narrow streets filled with shops, eateries, and traditional businesses.

Mall of Asia Bay Area

Combine shopping, dining, and seaside promenades at this large lifestyle district along Manila Bay, popular for sunsets and evening walks.

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Enjoy green space surrounded by offices and restaurants in Makati, a calm pocket in the heart of the financial district.

Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex

Visit this bayside cultural hub for performances, galleries, and views across open lawns towards Manila Bay.

Experience Manila's everyday rhythm

Getting around
In Manila, a mix of ride-hailing services, taxis, and the elevated rail system helps you move between key districts. For shorter distances, choose walking in compact neighbourhoods like Intramuros or Makati. Plan extra time for journeys, especially during rush hours.

Local life & culture
The city has a strong sense of neighbourhood, where plazas, cafés, and waterfront promenades serve as natural meeting places. You will notice a blend of contemporary Filipino design, live music, and family gatherings in malls and parks, reflecting Manila's social, community-focused lifestyle.

Where to unwind
When you need a break from the pace, head to urban parks, bayfront walkways, or hotel pools for a quieter moment. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for enjoying cooler temperatures, soft light, and relaxed people-watching by the water or in shaded gardens.

A taste of Manila

Street food & local specialties
Across Manila, you will find stalls and casual eateries serving grilled favourites, hearty stews, and flavourful snacks. Neighbourhoods such as Binondo and areas near university districts are known for long-standing family-run spots and busy food streets.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and lifestyle complexes house a wide mix of local and international restaurants, cafés, and dessert shops. Menus are often designed for sharing, so you can try several dishes with friends or family in one relaxed meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special setting, choose restaurants with views of Manila Bay, the city skyline, or leafy inner-city gardens. Rooftop venues and hotel restaurants provide calm surroundings, thoughtful service, and a memorable perspective over the city.

Retail therapy in Manila

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its large air-conditioned malls that combine international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining. Districts like Makati, Ortigas, and the bayfront area offer multi-level shopping centres that double as social and leisure spaces.

Markets & local crafts
If you are looking for smaller shops and local finds, explore neighbourhood streets and bazaars in areas such as Binondo, Escolta, and parts of Quezon City. Here you can discover independent designers, souvenirs, and craft-focused stalls alongside everyday essentials.

Evening retail scene
After dark, malls stay lively with late-opening stores, casual dining, and entertainment, while some neighbourhood streets add pop-up stalls and outdoor cafés. Key districts are easy to reach by taxi or ride-hailing services, so you can enjoy shopping well into the evening.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan (cool dry season, peak season)
From December to February, Manila experiences cooler, drier weather, with temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F). Clearer skies and lower humidity make this a popular time for sightseeing and outdoor walks along parks and waterfronts.

Tag-init (hot dry season, shoulder season)
From March to May, temperatures rise to about 26–34°C (79–93°F), bringing bright, sunny days and warm evenings. It is an energetic time in the city, ideal for air-conditioned attractions, mall visits, and sunset viewing by the bay.

Habagat (rainy season, low season)
From June to November, expect more frequent showers and occasional storms, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F). Rain is often intermittent, so you can still enjoy indoor attractions, museums, and shopping while experiencing a greener city landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions