Flights from Hanoi (HAN) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila, gateway to the Philippines

Manila is a vibrant bayside capital where historic districts sit alongside glass towers and lively neighbourhoods. Along its busy streets you will find Spanish-era architecture, leafy plazas, and colourful jeepneys weaving past bustling markets and modern malls. It is a city that combines heritage and energy in every corner.

For many travellers, Manila is both a destination and a jumping-off point for exploring the islands beyond. Stay to uncover its creative food scene, waterfront promenades, and friendly local hospitality, or use the city as a convenient hub before heading to beaches, mountain retreats, and cultural towns across the Philippines.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets of this historic walled district, known for its preserved colonial-era architecture and museums.

Rizal Park

Stroll through expansive lawns, monuments, and ornamental gardens at this landmark urban park by Manila Bay.

Manila Ocean Park

Get close to marine life in interactive exhibits and underwater tunnels beside the city waterfront.

Binondo

Explore one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns, filled with narrow streets, eateries, and traditional shops.

Mall of Asia Bay Area

Enjoy shopping, dining, and sunset views along the wide promenade overlooking Manila Bay.

Experience Manila’s culture and city life

Manila offers many ways to immerse yourself in urban life and local traditions. Join a guided walk around Intramuros to learn about the city’s past, from stone fortifications to grand old houses. Along the way, small galleries and cultural centres introduce you to contemporary art and performing arts.

Outdoors, the city’s waterfronts and parks come alive in the late afternoon. Walk or cycle along the bay to catch the sunset, or watch locals gather for exercise and street snacks. Day trips take you beyond the capital to lakeside towns, volcanic landscapes, and coastal areas, giving you a sense of the Philippines’ varied scenery while still returning to the comfort of the city at night.

A taste of Manila

Manila’s dining scene ranges from casual eateries serving home-style favourites to sleek restaurants in the city’s business districts. You can try slow-cooked meat stews, grilled specialities, and noodle dishes that reflect the country’s diverse influences. Many neighbourhoods are known for their own snacks and desserts, often enjoyed in simple, welcoming spaces.

Modern food halls and cafés sit alongside long-established bakeries and street stalls, making it easy to sample both traditional flavours and new interpretations. In the evenings, many areas transform into lively dining hubs, with open-air spaces where you can share plates with friends, listen to live music, and enjoy the warm night air.

Retail therapy in Manila

Manila is known for its large shopping centres, where you will find international brands, local boutiques, cinemas, and dining under one roof. These malls provide a comfortable environment to browse fashion, electronics, homeware, and lifestyle items in air-conditioned comfort.

Beyond the major complexes, smaller markets and craft stores offer locally made products, from woven textiles to decorative pieces ideal as keepsakes. Creative districts feature independent shops and concept stores where designers showcase clothing, accessories, and home goods with a distinct local touch. Whether you prefer organised malls or exploring side streets, you will find plenty of options to bring a piece of Manila home.

Best time to visit Manila

Cool dry season (Taglamig), December to February, typically sees temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F) and lower humidity, making city walks and bayfront evenings comfortable. This is considered peak season, with lively events, outdoor activities, and clear days ideal for exploring both Manila and nearby destinations.

Hot dry season (Tag-init), March to May, brings warmer days of about 26–34°C (79–93°F). As a shoulder season, it is well suited to enjoying air-conditioned museums, malls, and indoor attractions, then heading out for early morning or late-afternoon sightseeing and coastal day trips when the light is at its softest.

Rainy season (Tag-ulan), June to November, typically has temperatures of 25–31°C (77–88°F) with showers that often come in bursts. This low season offers a greener cityscape and a relaxed pace, and many visitors plan their days around indoor cultural stops, cafés, and covered markets between sunny breaks in the weather.

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