Top reasons to visit Manila
- Cultural Richness: Discover Manila's vibrant culture through historical sites like the Manila Cathedral and various art museums.
- Exciting Shopping: Indulge in retail therapy at numerous malls and local markets, offering diverse products and souvenirs.
- Beautiful Urban Parks: Enjoy leisurely strolls in urban parks that provide a serene escape from the bustling city.
- Resorts World Manila: Experience top-notch entertainment and leisure activities at this premier resort and casino complex.
- Friendly Locals: Engage with the warm and welcoming Filipino locals, enhancing your travel experience.
Find great hotels in Manila
Discover a diverse selection of hotels in Manila, designed to meet the needs of every traveller. Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat, a family-friendly guesthouse, or convenient accommodations for business trips, Manila offers an array of options. Enjoy top-notch amenities and services while exploring the vibrant culture and shopping experiences the city has to offer. With numerous reviews and recommendations available, finding the perfect hotel for your stay has never been easier.
- City Garden GRAND Hotel: This prestigious 5-star hotel offers an exceptional blend of luxury and convenience, ideal for those visiting Manila for business or leisure. With a commendable guest rating of 9.2, City Garden GRAND Hotel boasts a chic modern design in the heart of the shopping district. Guests can unwind with a range of amenities including a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and a hot tub, providing an oasis of relaxation amidst the bustling city. The hotel caters to the needs of business travellers while ensuring a lavish experience, making it a premier choice for discerning guests.
- The Heritage Hotel Manila: Rated 4 stars with a guest rating of 8.8, The Heritage Hotel Manila is a family-friendly establishment that combines comfort with a touch of elegance. Located conveniently in Manila, the hotel features amenities designed to cater to younger guests, such as a dedicated children's pool and breakfast options for children. Its full-service spa and accessible massage options ensure that adults can indulge in relaxation while the little ones are entertained. The Heritage Hotel offers a welcoming environment for families seeking a memorable stay in Manila.
- Dusit Thani Manila: With a guest rating of 9.0, Dusit Thani Manila stands as a hallmark of luxury and family-oriented hospitality. This 5-star hotel presents a unique blend of Thai-inspired design and modern comforts, making it a perfect retreat for families. The hotel provides an array of amenities for children, such as a children's pool, free cribs, and babysitting services, ensuring a hassle-free experience for parents. Situated in a vibrant area, Dusit Thani Manila delivers a delightful experience for guests looking to explore the rich culture of Manila.
Where to stay in Manila
Manila, a vibrant metropolis, offers an eclectic mix of culture and modernity, making it perfect for family, business, or city-themed vacations. Explore downtown Manila's bustling streets, admire stunning city views, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture. Nearby regions provide a charming atmosphere, ideal for romantic escapes or family-friendly outings. Experience the warmth of friendly locals and the diverse attractions that Greater Manila has to offer, ensuring a memorable stay in this fascinating city.
- Makati: As the financial hub of the Philippines, Makati boasts a vibrant atmosphere filled with skyscrapers, bustling streets, and a plethora of shopping malls. Located a short distance from central Manila, this city is not only popular for its business opportunities but also for its family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy the Ayala Centre, which offers a variety of shops and dining options, or explore cultural landmarks such as the Ayala Museum. The city’s strategic location near Manila Bay provides a pleasant backdrop for leisurely strolls, making it a perfect blend of urban excitement and relaxation.
- Pasay: Known for its proximity to the bustling Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Pasay is a gateway city that offers a lively mix of entertainment and business. With a range of shopping centres and resorts, Pasay caters to both leisure and corporate travellers. The city is home to the iconic Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia, where you can experience dining, shopping, and entertainment all in one place. Additionally, the nearby Manila Bay provides stunning sunset views, while the SM Mall of Asia concert grounds frequently host events, adding to the city's vibrant nightlife.
- Parañaque: This city is a melting pot of residential areas, commercial establishments, and leisure spots. Located adjacent to Manila Bay, Parañaque is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping experiences, particularly at the popular S Maison and City of Dreams resorts. Families can enjoy the nearby parks and recreational areas, while business travellers appreciate the city’s connectivity to other parts of Metro Manila. The historical landmarks and embassies situated within Parañaque’s borders make it an intriguing destination for those looking to explore the cultural aspects of the region.
Things to do in Manila
Shopping
Experience shopping in Manila at SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in the world, featuring a wide range of shops and dining options. For a more local vibe, visit Greenhills Shopping Centre, known for its affordable souvenirs and unique finds in a bustling market atmosphere.
Recreation
Spa at The Peninsula Manila offers a serene atmosphere with luxurious treatments, including massages and facials. Guests can unwind in elegant surroundings, enjoying the tranquil gardens and soothing sounds of water features, making it an ideal retreat from the bustling city.
The Mindfulness Centre provides a variety of yoga and meditation classes designed to enhance relaxation and mental clarity. Participants can engage in guided sessions that promote well-being, surrounded by a peaceful environment that encourages self-discovery and inner peace.
Greenfield Weekend Market is a vibrant space where visitors can explore organic produce, artisanal goods, and wellness products. The lively atmosphere, coupled with fresh air and local delicacies, offers a delightful experience for those seeking to connect with healthy living.
Adventure
In Manila, explore the thrilling Sky Experience Adventure at the Crown Regency Hotel, where you can try the Edge Coaster and Urban Zipline for breathtaking views. Nearby, visit the Manila Ocean Park to engage with marine life through interactive exhibits and thrilling shows.
Nightlife
The vibrant nightlife in Manila offers a mix of lively bars and clubs. Visit The Palace for an energetic clubbing experience or unwind at The Curator for crafted cocktails. For a laid-back vibe, head to Poblacion, known for its eclectic selection of pubs and eateries.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Manila
Manila provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. You can enjoy free attractions such as Rizal Park, the University of the Philippines-Diliman, and the Manila Cathedral. For transport, consider using Jeepneys, which are an economical option. Visit during May or from August to September for lower accommodation rates, and aim for a Sunday stay, as it's the cheapest day. Use Expedia to find affordable hotels by sorting prices and filtering for eco-friendly options. Bundling your hotel with flights and activities can also lead to additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Manila are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Manila is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Manila is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Manila with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Manila
Manila offers an exciting blend of city-themed, family, and business vacations, featuring popular attractions such as the Manila Cathedral, Manila Bay, and various art museums and urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and outdoor experiences while exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings. Don't miss the chance to visit Resorts World Manila for entertainment and leisure, making your trip both enjoyable and memorable.
- Rizal Park: This expansive urban park in the heart of Manila offers a serene escape amidst the bustling city. With lush gardens and historical monuments, it is a family-friendly space where visitors can stroll, picnic, or learn about Philippine history, particularly the legacy of national hero José Rizal.
- Manila Cathedral: Nestled in the historic Intramuros district, Manila Cathedral showcases stunning Romanesque architecture and rich cultural heritage. Its grandeur and intricate details provide a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of the Philippines' religious history.
- Star City: An exciting amusement park that caters to families seeking adventure, Star City features a variety of thrilling rides and attractions. With its vibrant atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for enjoying fun-filled activities and creating lasting memories.
Best time to go to Manila
The best time to visit Manila is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Manila
Arriving in Manila is convenient with its major airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), situated 10km from the city centre. Recommended hotels nearby include the luxurious Dusit Thani Manila and New World Makati Hotel, both located 5km away, offering airport shuttle services. City Garden GRAND Hotel is another excellent option, 6km from the airport. Alternatively, for those considering Clark International Airport (CRK), located 79km away, the Clark Marriott Hotel and Swissotel Clark Philippines are 5-star accommodations just 3km from the airport. For Olongapo, Subic Bay Airport (SFS) also lies 79km away, with options like Court Meridian Hotel and Moonbay Marina The Villas, both 3km from the airport.