Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Manila, a vibrant gateway to the Philippines

Manila is a dynamic city where modern towers rise beside centuries-old walls, and bustling roads lead to peaceful bayside promenades. As the capital of the Philippines, it is often your first glimpse of the country, with its mix of historic districts, lively shopping areas, and thriving food scene.

The city stretches along Manila Bay, offering sunsets that residents proudly claim as some of the finest in the region. Within its diverse neighbourhoods, you will discover leafy university quarters, creative hubs, and elegant business districts, all connected by a growing network of transport options. Manila is also a natural base for onward journeys to tropical islands and mountain retreats across the archipelago.

Whether you are visiting family, travelling for business, or beginning a wider adventure in the Philippines, Manila rewards you with energy, resilience, and moments of genuine warmth at every turn.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled district, and explore its centuries-old fortifications and colonial-era architecture.

Rizal Park

Stroll through Rizal Park, a vast green space in the heart of the city, ideal for relaxed walks, picnics, and enjoying views towards Manila Bay.

Manila Ocean Park

Visit Manila Ocean Park to see marine life up close in walk-through tunnels and interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.

National Museum Complex

Discover art, natural history, and cultural heritage at the National Museum complex, housed in grand buildings near Rizal Park.

Baywalk along Manila Bay

Head to the Baywalk promenade along Manila Bay in the late afternoon for cooling breezes, street snacks, and glowing sunset views.

Experience the spirit of Manila

Exploring Manila often begins on foot, wandering through neighbourhoods that reveal layers of the city’s past and present. In Intramuros, guided walking or cycling tours bring old ramparts, plazas, and heritage buildings to life, while nearby districts offer contemporary galleries, performance spaces, and creative studios showcasing local talent.

For time outdoors, you can jog or join group classes in one of the city’s many parks, or take an evening stroll along Manila Bay to enjoy the sea breeze. Shopping streets and markets in central Manila and nearby Makati or Bonifacio Global City are also popular places to explore, people-watch, and soak in the urban atmosphere.

If you have extra days, Manila is a convenient starting point for day trips and weekends away. You can travel to nearby highland towns for cooler air and scenic viewpoints, or continue onwards to islands known for white-sand beaches and clear water, using the capital as your logistics and cultural base.

A taste of Manila

Manila’s dining scene is diverse and welcoming, from humble roadside eateries to sleek, chef-led restaurants. You can start with comforting classics such as slow-cooked stews, grilled meats, and savoury noodle dishes, often served family-style and best enjoyed shared around a large table.

Across the city, you will find lively food courts and night-time dining streets, where vendors serve skewers from charcoal grills, freshly baked pastries, and refreshing local desserts. Cafés and bakeries are an important part of daily life, offering everything from sweet bread rolls to modern takes on traditional flavours.

For a more refined evening out, head to the business districts around Makati or Bonifacio Global City, where restaurants showcase regional Filipino recipes alongside international menus. Many venues offer skyline or bay views, letting you pair Manila’s colourful sunsets with a memorable meal.

Retail therapy in Manila

Manila is known for its large shopping centres, where you can find international brands, cinemas, supermarkets, and spacious food halls under one roof. These malls provide a comfortable escape from the heat and are popular meeting places for families and friends.

If you are looking for local products, smaller boutiques and weekend markets around the city sell handicrafts, home décor, accessories, and clothing designed by Filipino creatives. These areas are ideal for picking up thoughtful mementoes, from woven items to contemporary design pieces.

For a different pace, explore traditional markets and older commercial streets, where you can browse textiles, everyday goods, and household items. While these areas can be busy, they offer a vivid glimpse into local life and the daily routines of Manila residents.

Best time to visit Manila

Cool and dry season (December to February, peak season). Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with lower humidity and clearer skies. This period is popular for city sightseeing, outdoor walks, and exploring Manila Bay, with generally comfortable conditions throughout the day.

Warm and dry season (March to May, shoulder season). Expect hotter days, with temperatures around 26°C to 34°C (79°F to 93°F). This is a great time to combine Manila with excursions to nearby beaches and highland retreats, planning city sightseeing for mornings and evenings when it feels cooler.

Rainy season (June to November, low season). Average temperatures stay warm at 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F), with more frequent showers, often in the afternoon or evening. The rain brings lush greenery to parks and surrounding landscapes, and there are usually many dry intervals for museums, shopping, and dining.

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