Why visit Manila?
Manila is a vibrant bayside capital where historic streets meet contemporary towers and lively waterfront promenades. You will find a fast-paced city softened by friendly hospitality, colourful neighbourhoods, and a creative spirit that shows in everything from design to music.
What to expect
The city stretches around Manila Bay, with districts like Intramuros, Makati, and Bonifacio Global City offering very different moods. Expect busy roads, modern malls, and leafy pockets of calm, with a mix of Spanish-era architecture, heritage houses, and sleek commercial centres in between.
Plan your trip
Manila works well as both a city break and a gateway to the islands of the Philippines. You can use it as a base for regional travel, with flights, ferries, and road links connecting you to beaches, mountain escapes, and smaller cities across the archipelago.