Flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila

Why visit Manila?
Manila is a vibrant bayside capital where historic districts, contemporary skylines, and lively streets sit side by side. You will find a dynamic blend of heritage architecture, creative neighbourhoods, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the wider spirit of the Philippines.

What to expect
The city spreads along Manila Bay, with the walled enclave of Intramuros, the busy districts of Ermita and Malate, and the modern business hubs of Makati and Bonifacio Global City each offering a different feel. Expect energetic traffic, colourful jeepneys, and a rhythm that is fast-paced yet relaxed at heart.

Plan your trip
Manila works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to the country’s islands, mountains, and beaches. Many travellers spend a few days exploring its museums and waterfront before heading onward to destinations such as Palawan, Cebu, or the northern highlands.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Explore the historic walled city, with cobbled streets, colonial-era buildings, and key landmarks set within old stone fortifications.

Rizal Park

Stroll through this expansive urban park by Manila Bay, known for its gardens, monuments, and evening atmosphere.

Fort Santiago

Visit this riverside fortress within Intramuros to see well-preserved ramparts, leafy courtyards, and small museums on local history.

National Museum Complex

Discover art, natural history, and cultural exhibits across several museum buildings near Rizal Park.

Manila Ocean Park

Enjoy family-friendly marine displays, underwater tunnels, and interactive exhibits close to the waterfront.

Binondo

Walk through one of the world’s oldest Chinatown districts, filled with traditional shops, eateries, and narrow side streets.

Baywalk along Manila Bay

Take an evening walk along the bayfront promenade, where you can enjoy sea views and colourful sunsets over the water.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Experience a modern district with public art, open plazas, and a wide choice of dining and lifestyle options.

Experience Manila’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis, ride-hailing services, and the elevated rail lines are the most practical ways to move between Manila’s key districts. Traditional jeepneys offer a distinctly local ride for shorter hops. For the final stretch, walking where pavements allow is often the quickest way to navigate busy areas.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Manila plays out in bustling side streets, community basketball courts, and lively neighbourhood plazas. You will notice a strong sense of community, with music, street games, and informal gatherings shaping the city’s social fabric across old districts and new developments alike.

Where to unwind
For a break from the pace, head to green spaces such as Rizal Park or the landscaped parks in Makati and Bonifacio Global City. The bayfront is especially pleasant around sunset, while air-conditioned malls offer cool, quiet corners during the warmest hours of the afternoon.

A taste of Manila

Street food & local specialties
You can sample local favourites at modest eateries and street-side stalls around Binondo, Malate, and neighbourhood markets. From grilled snacks to hearty stews and noodle dishes, these areas give you an accessible introduction to everyday flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Manila’s large malls and mixed-use districts host a wide range of casual restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. Portions are often ideal for sharing, so you can try several dishes with friends or family in one sitting, from local comfort food to international options.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider dining spots with views of Manila Bay or the city skyline in Makati and Bonifacio Global City. Rooftop venues and higher-floor restaurants pair carefully prepared menus with expansive vistas, creating a memorable setting for your meal.

Retail therapy in Manila

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its large shopping centres, which bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and leisure facilities. Areas like Makati and Bonifacio Global City feature lifestyle malls that double as social spaces, with shaded walkways and outdoor seating.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and more local character, explore districts such as Binondo, Quiapo, and parts of Manila’s old downtown. Here you will find stalls and independent stores offering clothing, accessories, and everyday goods, alongside a handful of outlets specialising in crafts and souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many malls extend their hours and shopping streets light up with signs and window displays. Some districts feature outdoor kiosks and seasonal pop-up markets, especially on weekends, and you can rely on taxis or app-based transport to return to your hotel comfortably after shopping.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan (cool dry season, November to February, shoulder season)
During the amihan season, temperatures in Manila generally range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with less humidity and fewer showers. Cooler evenings make it a pleasant time for walking tours, waterfront strolls, and exploring the city’s outdoor spaces.

Main dry months (March to May, peak season)
From March to May, daytime temperatures often sit between 26°C and 34°C (79°F to 93°F), with plenty of sunshine and warm conditions. This is a popular time for combining a stay in Manila with trips to beaches and islands, while planning indoor breaks during the hottest hours.

Habagat (rainy season, June to October, low season)
The habagat months bring higher humidity, temperatures around 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F), and more frequent showers, often in the afternoon or evening. It is a good period for museum visits and indoor attractions, with quieter tourist spots and lush greenery after the rains.

Frequently Asked Questions