Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Manila (MNL)

About Manila

Discover Manila

Why visit Manila?
Manila blends modern energy with layered history, where glass towers rise beside centuries-old walls and lively bayside promenades. You will find a fast-moving capital that is also warm and welcoming, with neighbourhoods that reward unhurried walks and time spent people-watching.

What to expect
The city stretches around Manila Bay and along the Pasig River, with districts that each have a distinct character, from the old-world charm of Intramuros to the retail districts of Makati and Bonifacio Global City. Expect busy roads, bustling malls, and a skyline that glows well into the night.

Plan your trip
Manila is a practical starting point for exploring the Philippines, thanks to its international airport and extensive domestic connections. Use it as a base to experience city life before flying onward to beaches, mountain retreats, and island escapes across the archipelago.

Top sights in Manila

Intramuros

Walk the cobbled streets of this historic walled district, where old stone buildings and ramparts tell the story of Manila’s past.

Rizal Park

Stroll through expansive lawns, fountains, and monuments in this central park overlooking Manila Bay.

Manila Ocean Park

Explore marine life up close with walk-through tunnels, themed exhibits, and family-friendly shows by the waterfront.

National Museum Complex

Discover art, archaeology, and natural history in a cluster of museums housed in stately heritage buildings.

Binondo

Wander through one of the world’s oldest Chinatown districts, known for its narrow streets, traditional shops, and lively eateries.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Enjoy wide pavements, outdoor art, dining, and shopping in this modern, walkable business and lifestyle district.

Baywalk along Manila Bay

Head to the waterfront promenade in the late afternoon for sea views and colourful sunsets over Manila Bay.

Experience Manila’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and app-based rides are the most practical way to link major districts such as Makati, BGC, and Ermita. For a local touch on shorter journeys, you can ride a jeepney or tricycle, especially in inner neighbourhoods. Many newer areas are compact and easy to explore on foot.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Manila centres on malls, cafés, and neighbourhood parks, where friends and families gather well into the evening. Street corners fill with music and conversation, while cultural venues host performances, exhibitions, and events that reflect both local traditions and global influences.

Where to unwind
For fresh air, visit the open spaces around Manila Bay, riverside parks, or pocket gardens in central business districts. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to enjoy tree-lined avenues and promenades, with cooler air and softer light over the city.

A taste of Manila

Street food & local specialties
You will find local flavours at small eateries and casual stalls across districts like Binondo and Malate, where grilled treats, savoury snacks, and comforting stews are widely available. These relaxed spots are ideal for trying homestyle dishes in an unhurried setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Makati, BGC, and Ortigas feature malls and lifestyle complexes packed with cafés, fast-casual outlets, and contemporary restaurants. Menus often mix local and international influences, with portions that make it easy to share several dishes with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, look for rooftop establishments in Makati and BGC or restaurants overlooking Manila Bay. Elevated venues often pair city or sunset panoramas with carefully presented menus, creating a relaxed setting for special occasions or business dinners.

Retail therapy in Manila

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its large shopping centres, where you can find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof. Areas such as Makati and Ortigas offer clusters of malls that double as convenient places to meet, dine, and escape the midday heat.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller boutiques, lifestyle stores, and local crafts, explore districts like Makati, Quezon City, and parts of Manila’s old downtown. Here you will discover fashion by home-grown designers, handmade souvenirs, and speciality shops in more intimate settings.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many malls and shopping streets stay lively, with illuminated façades and extended opening hours in key districts. Outdoor areas around BGC and central Makati feel especially vibrant in the evening, and public transport, taxis, and app-based rides make these hubs straightforward to reach.

Best time to visit Manila

Amihan (cool dry season, peak season)
From December to February, Manila enjoys its coolest, driest months, with average temperatures around 24–29°C (75–84°F). Clear skies and lower humidity make it a popular time for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and exploring the city’s waterfront areas.

Tag-init (hot dry season, shoulder season)
From March to May, temperatures rise to about 26–33°C (79–91°F), with bright sunshine and warm evenings. This is a good period for indoor attractions, air-conditioned malls, and early-morning or late-afternoon strolls when the heat is less intense.

Habagat (rainy season, low season)
From June to November, Manila experiences regular showers and occasional heavier rainfall, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F). Downpours are often followed by clear spells, allowing you to enjoy museums, dining, and shopping between bursts of tropical rain.

Frequently Asked Questions