Flights from Paris (CDG) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Manila, where old streets meet modern skylines

Manila is a city of contrasts, where gleaming towers rise beside centuries-old fortifications and bustling streets open onto Manila Bay. It is the energetic gateway to the Philippines, combining fast-paced urban life with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You will find creative neighbourhoods, lively music, and an ever-present love of good food and shared moments.

As you explore, you will encounter historic districts with Spanish-era architecture, colourful jeepneys weaving through traffic, and shopping centres that rival those of any global capital. Whether you are visiting for business, leisure, or connecting to the country’s islands, Manila offers a vivid introduction to the diversity and charm of the Philippines.

Beyond its busy avenues, Manila also reveals quieter corners, from waterfront promenades to leafy university enclaves. Spend time in its museums, galleries, and markets, and you will see how tradition and innovation sit side by side in this evolving metropolis.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled district, to explore colonial-era architecture, museums, and leafy plazas.

Rizal Park

Stroll through Rizal Park, a sprawling green space by Manila Bay with monuments, gardens, and open lawns ideal for a relaxing break from the city.

National Museum Complex

Discover art, natural history, and cultural treasures at the National Museum Complex, housed in grand neoclassical buildings near the historic core.

Manila Baywalk

Head to the Manila Baywalk for an evening promenade and panoramic sunset views over the bay’s calm waters and passing boats.

Binondo

Explore Binondo, often described as one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns, known for its busy streets, food stops, and traditional shopfronts.

Experience Manila’s culture and city life

Manila invites you to experience its culture in many ways, from guided walks through Intramuros to evenings spent listening to live bands. Join a heritage tour to learn how the city has evolved through different eras, or visit contemporary art spaces to see how local artists interpret modern Manila.

For a change of pace, spend time along Manila Bay or in one of the city’s large urban parks, where families gather for picnics and outdoor activities. You can also explore nearby districts such as Makati and Bonifacio Global City, where you will find public art, weekend markets, and well-designed pedestrian areas.

If you have more time, consider short excursions to nearby destinations such as Tagaytay or the coastal areas of Cavite and Batangas. These day trips let you experience cooler climates, scenic viewpoints, and quieter surroundings, all within reach of the capital.

A taste of Manila

Manila’s food scene reflects its layered history and its love of shared meals. You will find everything from humble eateries serving traditional Filipino dishes to contemporary restaurants that reinterpret local flavours with modern techniques. Dining here often revolves around generous portions and convivial tables.

Sample classics such as grilled meats, slow-cooked stews, and seafood dishes, often paired with rice and bright, tangy dips. In many neighbourhoods, you can follow your nose through streets lined with food stalls and casual spots, perfect for tasting snacks and desserts throughout the day.

For a different perspective, visit one of the city’s many cafés and dessert shops, where you can try iced treats, pastries, and locally inspired drinks. Whether you prefer a bustling food court, a rooftop bar, or a cosy restaurant, Manila offers a variety of places to enjoy a satisfying meal.

Retail therapy in the Philippine capital

Manila is known for its expansive shopping centres, where you can find international brands, local labels, and extensive dining options under one roof. These malls are popular meeting places, offering everything from fashion and electronics to homeware and lifestyle products.

If you are looking for something more local, explore neighbourhood markets and boutique-lined streets. Here, you can discover handicrafts, accessories, and design-led pieces created by Filipino artisans and entrepreneurs, often inspired by regional materials and motifs.

Duty-free and airport shopping provide additional opportunities to pick up last-minute gifts and travel essentials on your way in or out of the city. Whether you are browsing large-scale complexes or smaller independent shops, Manila offers a broad range of choices for every kind of shopper.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan season (cool dry season, November to February, shoulder season). Typical temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with less humidity and clearer skies. It is a pleasant time for city walks, outdoor sightseeing, and exploring Manila’s bayfront and parks.

Dry summer season (March to May, peak season). Expect warmer days between 26°C and 34°C (79°F to 93°F), with bright sunshine and vibrant city life. Many travellers use Manila as a starting point for beach escapes, while evenings in the city feel lively with late-night dining and events.

Habagat season (rainy season, June to October, low season). Temperatures remain around 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F), with more frequent showers and occasional heavy rain. This period offers greener landscapes, quieter attractions, and opportunities to enjoy Manila’s indoor highlights, from galleries to shopping centres.

Frequently Asked Questions