Flights from Brussels (BRU) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Manila, a vibrant gateway to the Philippines

Manila is a dynamic metropolis where historic streets, glittering bayside promenades, and lively neighbourhoods sit side by side. You will find a city that moves quickly yet still makes space for leisurely sunsets along the waterfront and quiet corners in leafy parks. It is both the political and cultural heart of the Philippines, and a natural starting point for exploring the country’s many islands and regions.

In the centre, Manila Bay and the preserved walls of Intramuros offer a sense of the city’s layered past, while nearby business districts invite you into a world of shopping centres, dining, and nightlife. The city is known for its welcoming locals, bustling markets, and a transport network that connects you to beaches, mountain towns, and other major hubs across the archipelago.

Whether you are visiting friends and family, travelling on business, or beginning a longer journey around the Philippines, Manila welcomes you with a mix of familiar comforts and new experiences to discover at every turn.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk through the historic walled district of Intramuros to see cobbled streets, stone ramparts, and landmarks that tell the story of old Manila.

Rizal Park

Stroll through Rizal Park, a spacious green area with ponds, monuments, and open lawns along Manila Bay.

Manila Baywalk

Head to the Baywalk at sunset for wide views over Manila Bay, sea breezes, and a relaxed atmosphere along the promenade.

National Museum Complex

Explore the National Museum complex to discover Philippine art, natural history, and cultural heritage under one cluster of grand buildings.

Binondo

Visit Binondo, often called the world’s oldest Chinatown, for narrow streets filled with eateries, shops, and traditional businesses.

Experience Manila’s energy and culture

Manila rewards unhurried exploration. Start with a guided walking or cycling tour around Intramuros to appreciate colonial-era architecture, leafy plazas, and vantage points over the Pasig River. You can then continue to nearby districts to see how the city’s old and new areas blend, from restored buildings to modern riverfront developments.

For a glimpse into local culture, spend time in neighbourhood markets and food streets, where vendors sell fresh produce, snacks, and regional specialities. Modern art galleries, theatres, and performance venues around the city showcase a growing creative scene, while live music bars and lounges ensure there is always somewhere to unwind in the evening.

Manila is also a practical base for short trips beyond the city. Day tours can take you to lakes, coastal areas, or cooler upland towns, where you can enjoy boat rides, viewpoints, or nature trails before returning to the capital’s comforts at night.

A taste of Manila

In Manila, dining ranges from casual eateries and street food stalls to refined restaurants in sleek high-rises and hotels. You will find classic Filipino dishes that highlight savoury, sour, and sweet flavours, often served family-style and meant to be shared around the table.

Look out for dishes such as crispy pork, sizzling grilled meats, richly stewed meats and vegetables, and seafood prepared with tangy sauces. Noodle dishes, rice meals, and hearty soups are popular at any time of day, while local bakeries offer bread and pastries that pair well with coffee or chocolate drinks.

International cuisine is also easy to find. Major business districts offer Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Mediterranean, and contemporary fusion menus, often in settings with city views. Cafés and dessert shops stay open late, giving you plenty of opportunities to linger over sweet treats or a final drink after a day out.

Retail therapy in Manila

Manila is known for its large shopping centres, where you can spend hours exploring fashion, technology, homeware, and lifestyle brands in air-conditioned comfort. These malls often feature cinemas, food courts, and activity zones, turning shopping into a full-day outing.

If you prefer a more local feel, visit neighbourhood markets and smaller commercial districts where independent shops sell clothing, accessories, and everyday essentials. You can often find stalls offering handmade items, locally produced snacks, and simple souvenirs to take home.

For something more curated, explore speciality stores focused on Philippine-made products, from textiles and crafts to design-led home décor. These spaces are ideal when you want to bring back a reminder of Manila that reflects local creativity and materials.

Best time to visit Manila

Cool dry season (December to February, shoulder season). Average temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with relatively lower humidity and clearer skies. It is a pleasant time for walking tours, outdoor dining, and evening strolls along Manila Bay.

Hot dry season (March to May, peak season). Temperatures often sit between 26°C and 34°C (79°F to 93°F), with strong sunshine and warm evenings. Many travellers enjoy the bright conditions for city sightseeing before heading on to beach destinations around the Philippines.

Rainy season (June to November, low season). Expect temperatures of around 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F), with frequent showers and occasional heavier rainfall. The city is quieter, and indoor attractions, museums, malls, and dining venues provide plenty of comfortable ways to enjoy Manila.

Frequently Asked Questions