Flights from Hanoi (HAN) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila

Why visit Manila?
Manila is a dynamic bayside capital where historic districts, creative neighbourhoods, and glittering skylines sit side by side. You will find a mix of heritage streets, contemporary culture, and easy access to islands and beaches beyond the city.

What to expect
The city is spread across distinct areas, from the old-world charm of Intramuros to business hubs like Makati and Bonifacio Global City. Traffic is busy but energetic, and you will notice vibrant street life, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere almost everywhere you go.

Plan your trip
Manila works well as both a standalone urban break and a starting point for exploring wider Luzon and the country’s many islands. With a major international airport and strong domestic connections, it is an ideal gateway to beach escapes, mountain getaways, and smaller regional cities.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets of Manila’s historic walled district, with its preserved architecture and leafy plazas.

Rizal Park

Stroll through this expansive urban park by the bay, popular for evening walks, open lawns, and city views.

National Museum Complex

Explore Philippine art, natural history, and cultural heritage across several museums in one central area.

Manila Bay

Head to the waterfront in late afternoon to enjoy one of the city’s famed sunsets over the bay.

Makati and Bonifacio Global City

Discover modern business districts filled with dining, cafés, public art, and well-planned walkable streets.

Binondo

Visit one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns for busy streets, traditional shops, and characterful alleyways.

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Relax in this landscaped green space in Makati, surrounded by offices, restaurants, and public artworks.

Manila Ocean Park

Spend a family-friendly day at this marine-themed attraction with aquariums and waterfront views.

Experience Manila’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
For longer journeys, use app-based car services or taxis, especially when travelling between districts like the airport, Makati, and Bonifacio Global City. Within neighbourhoods, walking is often the most pleasant way to explore, with short rides on jeeps or tricycles helping you cover the last stretch.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Manila revolves around lively streets, shopping centres, and small neighbourhood parks. You will notice people gathering in plazas after work, families spending time in mall atriums, and a strong love for music and performances in public spaces and venues.

Where to unwind
Green pockets across the city provide a welcome contrast to its busy roads. Visit waterfront paths by Manila Bay or quiet gardens in business districts to unwind in the early morning or after sunset, when the air is cooler and the city lights create a relaxed atmosphere.

A taste of Manila

Street food & local specialties
Manila’s food scene begins on the street, where you can try grilled snacks, noodle dishes, and local favourites from stalls and modest eateries. Neighbourhoods such as Binondo and areas around university districts are especially known for casual, flavourful meals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In districts like Makati, Ortigas, and Bonifacio Global City, you will find many cafés, food halls, and mid-range restaurants. Menus often feature local flavours alongside Asian and Western options, with sharing plates and moderate portions that make it easy to sample several dishes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant overlooking Manila Bay, a rooftop venue in Makati, or a dining room set in a restored heritage building. These settings pair carefully prepared cuisine with city or waterfront views, turning a simple dinner into a relaxed and lingering evening.

Retail therapy in Manila

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its large shopping centres, many of which feel like complete lifestyle destinations. In areas such as Makati and Ortigas, you can browse international brands and local labels, then pause for a meal, a film, or a casual coffee under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and neighbourhood streets offer a more local shopping experience, with stalls selling crafts, everyday goods, and independent designs. Districts around Binondo, parts of old Manila, and side streets off major roads are good places to look for souvenirs with a sense of place.

Evening retail scene
After dark, certain shopping streets and open-air sections of malls come alive with lights and music. Outdoor cafés, late-opening stores, and occasional pop-up stalls create a social, relaxed atmosphere, and you can usually reach these areas easily using taxis or app-based transport.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan (cool dry season, peak season)
From December to February, Manila enjoys its cooler, drier months, with temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F). Skies are often clear, humidity is more comfortable, and this period is popular for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and day trips around the bay.

Main dry season (shoulder season)
From March to May, temperatures rise to about 26–34°C (79–93°F), with plenty of sunshine and warm evenings. It can feel hot in the middle of the day, but early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for exploring the city and enjoying longer daylight hours.

Habagat (wet season, low season)
From June to November, Manila experiences its wetter months, with temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F) and frequent showers. Rain often comes in bursts, leaving cooler air behind, and this season offers lush greenery and a calmer atmosphere at many urban attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions