Manila(Philippines) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, boasts a diverse culinary scene blending indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Adobo, the national dish, features meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices for a rich flavor. Sisig, a sizzling plate dish made from pig’s head, liver, and vinegar, offers a crispy texture perfect with beer. For dessert, Halo-Halo is a must-try, combining shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, and ube ice cream. Street food like Turon (fried banana rolls) and Lechon (roast pig) further highlight Manila’s vibrant and bold food culture.

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, boasts a rich blend of historical culture and modern urban life. Transportation options are diverse, including Jeepneys, taxis, MRT/LRT, and Grab. Jeepneys are the most iconic local transport, affordable but with complex routes—research or ask the driver beforehand. Taxis are convenient, but beware of drivers not using meters; using the Grab app is recommended. The metro system covers major business districts, ideal for quick travel.

Travel tips: Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) for public transport to escape crowds. Carry small change, as some transport modes don’t accept large bills. Keep valuables secure to prevent pickpocketing.

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a vibrant city rich in history. The best time to visit is from December to February, when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for outdoor activities. Temperatures during this period range between 22°C to 30°C, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the humidity of the rainy season.

This period also coincides with Manila’s festive season, including Christmas and New Year, when the city is alive with celebrations, offering a unique glimpse into Filipino culture. Additionally, tourist crowds are thinner compared to the peak season from March to May, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of landmarks like Intramuros and Rizal Park.

History and culture enthusiasts will appreciate Manila’s museums and colonial architecture, while food lovers must try local street food such as Lechon (roast pig) and Halo-Halo (a popular dessert).

1. Safety Alert: Avoid walking alone at night in areas like Pasay and Tondo. Keep valuables secure and use GRAB for safer rides. ATMs inside malls are preferable.

2. Transport Tips: Heavy traffic makes LRT/MRT trains ideal. Taxi drivers may refuse short trips - insist on by meter. Jeepneys require exact change.

3. Cash Essentials: Carry small peso bills as many vendors reject 500/1000 notes. SM Malls offer better exchange rates than airports.

4. Food Precautions: Try street food like Balut cautiously; chain restaurants like Jollibee are safer for beginners. Drink only boiled/bottled water.

5. Religious Etiquette: Cover shoulders/knees in San Agustin Church. Silence phones during Sunday mass. Avoid criticizing Catholic traditions publicly.

6. Weather Prep: Pack foldable umbrellas (May-Nov monsoon) and light jackets for extreme mall AC. Monitor PAGASA typhoon alerts.

7. Shopping Notes: Bargain starts at 30% of tagged price in Greenhills, but SM Stores are fixed-price. Request gemstone certification when purchasing jewelry.

8. Emergency Contacts: Save tourist police hotline 117 and Chinese Embassy at RCBC Plaza Tower (+63-2-8844-3148).

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is located in the National Capital Region (NCR) and serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural hub. This city blends rich history with modern urban life, offering numerous attractions and experiences for visitors.

Language

The primary languages spoken are Filipino (Tagalog) and English, with English widely understood in tourist areas, making communication relatively easy.

Internet & Communication

Manila has good internet coverage, with many free Wi-Fi hotspots available in the city. For more reliable connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card (e.g., Globe or Smart).

Currency & Payments

The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in major malls and hotels, but cash is still king in smaller shops and markets. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash or use ATMs for withdrawals.

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergencies, dial:

• Police: 117
• Ambulance: 166
• Fire: 160

Traffic in Manila can be heavy, so using Grab (a ride-hailing app) or allowing extra travel time is recommended. Additionally, keep valuables secure and avoid displaying them in crowded areas.