Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila

Why visit Manila?
Manila is a dynamic bay-side metropolis where glass towers rise beside historic districts, and where everyday life moves to the rhythm of music, conversation, and jeepneys. You will find lively neighbourhoods, welcoming locals, and easy access to islands and beaches beyond the city.

What to expect
Expect a fast-paced urban experience with distinct areas such as Intramuros for heritage, Makati and Bonifacio Global City for modern skylines, and Manila Bay for sunsets. Shopping centres, coffee shops, and entertainment venues offer places to cool down and unwind between exploring streets, museums, and waterfront promenades.

Plan your trip
Many travellers use Manila as both a city break and a starting point for wider adventures in the Philippines. From here, you can connect onwards to well-known islands, mountain regions, and diving spots, or stay to explore the capital’s museums and galleries, giving you a flexible base for your journey.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets and old walls of Manila’s historic walled district, home to centuries-old architecture and leafy courtyards.

Rizal Park

Stroll through this expansive city park with lawns, monuments, and fountains, popular for evening walks and family outings.

Manila Ocean Park

Visit this large oceanarium to see marine life up close, including walk-through tunnels and interactive exhibits for all ages.

National Museum Complex

Explore several museums in one area, showcasing art, archaeology, and natural history that tell the story of the Philippines.

Manila Baywalk

Enjoy views along the bayfront promenade, known for colourful sunsets, street performers, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Discover a modern district filled with public art, open-air dining, and contemporary shopping streets that stay lively after dark.

Binondo

Experience one of the world’s oldest Chinatown districts, with narrow streets lined with eateries, shops, and traditional businesses.

Cultural Center of the Philippines area

Head to this bayside arts district for theatres, galleries, and open spaces, often hosting performances and cultural events.

Experience Manila’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are often the most convenient way to move between districts such as Makati, BGC, and Intramuros. Jeepneys and elevated rail lines offer a local perspective on shorter hops. For the last mile, walking between nearby sights is pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon.

Local life & culture
In Manila, shopping centres double as social spaces where friends meet for meals, films, and coffee. Street corners come alive with music, games, and small stalls, especially at weekends. Distinct neighbourhoods offer different atmospheres, from business-focused Makati to creative pockets with independent galleries and cafés.

Where to unwind
Parks such as Rizal Park and smaller neighbourhood green spaces provide room to relax away from traffic. Bayfront promenades offer cooling breezes and long views, best enjoyed around sunset when the sky over the water shifts colour. Many hotels also feature pools and quiet lounges where you can slow down between excursions.

A taste of Manila

Street food & local specialties
You will find local dishes at casual eateries and food courts, from flavourful grilled meats to hearty stews and noodle dishes. Areas around Binondo and smaller neighbourhood streets are known for hole-in-the-wall spots where you can sample comforting plates and quick snacks.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres in Makati, Ortigas, and BGC gather a wide range of restaurants under one roof, offering local and international flavours. Menus often feature sharing plates and modest portions, making it easy to try several dishes in one meal while taking a break from the heat.

Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, rooftop venues and hotel restaurants offer city or bay views alongside carefully prepared menus. Dining near Manila Bay can combine a relaxed meal with sunset vistas, while modern towers in business districts feature venues that look out over the skyline at night.

Retail therapy in Manila

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for large shopping centres that bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family attractions. Districts such as Makati, Ortigas, and BGC offer interconnected malls where you can shop, dine, and spend time indoors in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and local products, explore streets in Binondo, parts of Old Manila, and selected weekend markets. Here you may find clothing, accessories, and decorative items from independent makers, allowing you to pick up distinctive mementoes that reflect the city’s creative side.

Evening retail scene
Many malls stay open into the evening, when cooler temperatures and illuminated façades make shopping more relaxed. Some neighbourhoods feature pop-up stalls and small night markets with clothes and everyday goods. Well-used public transport and taxis make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your hotel afterwards.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan cool dry season (November to February, shoulder season)
During the cool dry months, Manila enjoys average temperatures of around 24–30°C (75–86°F) with lower humidity. Clearer skies make it a pleasant time for walking tours in Intramuros and evenings by the bay, and many visitors choose this period for city breaks.

Hot dry season (March to May, peak season)
The hot dry season brings warmer days, with temperatures typically between 26–34°C (79–93°F). Bright sunshine and longer dry spells suit pool days, indoor attractions, and short city explorations. It is a popular time for combining a stay in Manila with trips to beaches and island destinations.

Habagat rainy season (June to October, low season)
The rainy season sees regular showers, often in the afternoon or evening, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F). Downpours are usually followed by clearer intervals, and indoor activities such as museums and shopping are especially appealing. Quieter attractions and greener parks reward travellers who visit during this time.

Frequently Asked Questions