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Picture of Manila, Philippines

Travel Guide for
Manila

Philippines

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

Introduction

Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, sits on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and is the nation’s commercial and cultural heart. With a rich Spanish colonial history and a blend of old-world charm and modern energy, the city offers unique landmarks like Intramuros and bustling business districts such as Makati.

From June 17 to June 24, expect humid weather with frequent rain showers, so pack light business attire and a compact umbrella. Manila’s lively café scene and co-working spaces provide inspiring work environments, while affordable business hotels make it easy to network and relax. After meetings, unwind by exploring local markets, savoring Filipino cuisine, or catching live music in the evening.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleBusiness

Dates17-24 June 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyarts and culture

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Picture of Manila, Philippines

Itinerary

Ease into Filipino culture and cuisine by exploring local gastronomy, gaining a first taste of Manila’s vibrant culinary scene.

Breakfast at Legazpi Sunday Market

Jumpstart your culinary journey with a hearty breakfast at Legazpi Sunday Market, famous for its diverse Filipino street food stalls and artisanal products. It’s a delicious introduction to local favorites and a hub for foodies and locals alike.

Old Manila Food Walk in Binondo

Stroll through Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, sampling culinary delights such as lumpia, dumplings, and hopia. A guided food walk is perfect for discovering the fusion of Filipino and Chinese cuisines, plus fascinating local history.

Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

this tour is all you need to see the colorful city of Manila and the nature city of tagaytay. this sight seeing-focused trip will cover a lot of ground perfect for people who has only a short stay in manila but still want to see what it has to offer. on a good day in tagaytay you will also see the taal volcano * free pick up/drop off from your hotel in Makati, Taguig, Ermita (Manila), Malate(Manila), and Pasay. additional charges will incur outside these areas

4.8 (370 reviews)

From $105 USD

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Key Facts

Location

National Capital Region (NCR)

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

13,923,452

Language

Filipino, English

Electricity

220V, 60Hz, Type A/B/C

Time zone

UTCPST (UTC+8)

Country code

+63

Internet access

Widely available, 4G/5G, moderate cost

Climate

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

See More Philippines Facts

Language:

Tagalog

  • hello

    Kumusta (koo-moos-tah)
  • goodbye

    Paalam (pah-ah-lahm)
  • yes

    Oo (oh-oh)
  • no

    Hindi (hin-dee)
  • how much

    Magkano ito? (mag-kah-no ee-toh)
  • please

    Pakiusap (pah-kee-oo-sahp)
  • thank you

    Salamat (sah-lah-maht)
  • excuse me

    Paumanhin (pah-oo-man-hin)

Map

Logistics

The main gateway to Manila is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which is easily accessed by direct international and domestic flights from major Asian cities and beyond, making air travel the most practical choice for business travelers on a moderate budget. Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and airport shuttle buses are available for comfortable transfers to the city center.

Boat services connect Manila to some nearby islands, but these are less common for business trips. Long-distance trains are not widely used, though provincial buses run to and from cities on Luzon island. In June, Manila’s weather can be rainy due to the wet season, so allow extra travel time in case of delays and possible flight disruptions.

Weather

Manila has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round averaging 26–34°C (79–93°F). The year is divided into two main seasons: the dry season from December to May and the wet or rainy season from June to November, with rainfall peaking between July and September. Humidity is generally high, especially during the rainy season.

From June 17 to June 24, expect frequent rain showers, high humidity, and possible thunderstorms, as the rainy season begins in earnest. Typhoons, while more common between July and October, are possible but less likely during this week. When exploring Manila’s vibrant gastronomy, arts, and cultural sites, it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella and plan for sudden downpours.

Food & Drink

Manila’s cuisine blends Filipino favorites such as adobo (braised meat), sinigang (tamarind soup), and lechon (roast pork), alongside street eats like halo-halo (shaved ice dessert) and lumpia (spring rolls). Popular drinks include calamansi juice and San Miguel beer. For dietary needs, vegetarian and halal options are available but more limited.

For business travelers, try local staples at Manam (Filipino comfort food), Ilustrado (heritage cuisine), or Mesa (modern Filipino). Café Adriatico in Malate is great for meetings over coffee, while rooftop bars like The Bayleaf or The Penthouse 8747 offer stunning skyline views. Tipping is customary—about 10% if a service charge isn’t included. Dress codes are usually smart-casual in upscale places.

A picture of Adobo

Adobo

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish made with meat (often pork or chicken) that is marinated in vinegar,...

A picture of Sinigang

Sinigang

Sinigang is a sour soup characterized by its distinct tangy flavor, often coming from tamarind, tomatoes, or calamansi,...

A picture of Lechon

Lechon

Lechon is a popular Filipino dish consisting of a whole roasted pig, known for its crispy skin and...

A picture of Pancit

Pancit

Pancit refers to a variety of Filipino noodle dishes, such as Pancit Canton and Pancit Palabok, which are...

A picture of Halo-Halo

Halo-Halo

Halo-Halo is a popular Filipino dessert that features a mix of sweetened fruits, beans, jellies, and shaved ice,...

Accommodation

For business travelers on an average budget, Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are top hotel districts in Manila. Both areas offer modern hotels like Holiday Inn & Suites Makati, Seda BGC, and Somerset Millennium. These neighborhoods are safe, centrally located, and near business centers, shopping, and dining.

Mid-range hotels such as City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati or The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences provide excellent amenities, reliable Wi-Fi, and comfortable workspaces. Ortigas Center, with hotels like Discovery Suites, is also popular for business trips, given its proximity to corporate offices and malls.

Booking sites like Agoda, Booking.com, and Hotels.com are handy for price comparison. June can be busy due to rainy season conferences, so book at least a month ahead for the best rates and availability.

Experiences

Culture Week in the Philippines
learning

Culture Week in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$550/week

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Teaching English in the Philippines
teaching

Teaching English in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$370/week

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Kindergarten Teaching in the Philippines
teaching

Kindergarten Teaching in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$370/week

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Volunteer Construction in the Philippines
volunteering

Volunteer Construction in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$430/week

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Attractions

4.5 (39 reviews)
Manila Historical Highlights Private Half Day Tour

Manila Historical Highlights Private Half Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Manila in just half a day! Our expertly guided Manila Half-Day Tour takes you through the city's most iconic landmarks, blending Spanish colonial heritage, wartime history, and modern Filipino charm into an unforgettable adventure. Perfect for travelers with limited time – See Manila’s top attractions in just a few hours! Expert Local Guide – Gain fascinating insights into Manila’s history, culture, and hidden gems. Comfort & Convenience – Private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off (optional). Great for History & Culture Lovers – A must-do tour for those who want to experience the soul of the city.

From $90 USD

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4.8 (43 reviews)
Manila's Culinary Expedition: The Ultimate Food and Market Tour

Manila's Culinary Expedition: The Ultimate Food and Market Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This food experience showcases the best of the filipino cuisine. we start off in the oldest chinatown in the world and we also get to explore the streets of quiapo where you will see the local produce that the area has to offer, we will sample various foods along the way and try about 10 dishes that makes this place a food heaven. there is no specific menu as the items change from time to time depending on the season. there is a bit of walking involve as the streets of Manila are small and has a huge traffic problem *** Please note that there will be a bit of walking involve on this experience SOLO TRAVELERS ARE ALSO WELCOME *** Free pick up/drop off from your hotel in Makati, Taguig, Ermita (Manila), Malate(Manila),, Muntinlupa and Pasay. additional charges will incur outside these areas

From $115 USD

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5.0 (63 reviews)
Immerse in Culture: Villa Escudero Coconut Plantation Experience

Immerse in Culture: Villa Escudero Coconut Plantation Experience

INSTANT

Spend the day at Villa Escudero Resort, and a historic plantation tucked away amid breathtaking natural surroundings. Ride a buffalo cart to the human-made Labasin Falls for lunch, set at bamboo tables at the foot of the waterfall while the water laps your feet. Enjoy a post-meal rinse and visit an on-site family museum of artifacts and antique collections. Travel round-trip by air-conditioned vehicle *** This area is for self-exploration. *** Free pick up/drop off from your hotel in Makati, Taguig, Ermita (Manila), Malate(Manila), Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, and Pasay. additional charges will incur outside these areas

From $170 USD

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4.9 (18 reviews)
A private Historical Intramuros & highlights in Manila

A private Historical Intramuros & highlights in Manila

INSTANT

Discover Manila’s rich history on a private city tour featuring iconic landmarks such as Rizal Park, Fort Santiago, and the historic walled city of Intramuros. Enjoy a full-day cultural journey as you explore UNESCO World Heritage Site San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, American Memorial and selected museums showcasing the city’s heritage and colonial past. This fully customizable private tour allows you to personalize your experience for up to 8 hours based on your interests. Flexible arrangements are available, including early pickup, late pickup, or early drop-off. Simply book your tour and send us your preferred schedule and requests. NOTE: Complimentary pickup is available from any hotel, seaport, or airport within Metro Manila. For cruiseship passengers: meeting point is just outside the docking port terminal at gate 1: 14.58341° N, 120.97237° E https://maps.apple/p/zHaydDVV8QTwp~ Address: 25th Street Ermita, Manila 1007 Metro Manila Philippines

From $190 USD

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4.9 (75 reviews)
Manila: Intramuros, Chinatown, and Old Manila Half-Day Tour

Manila: Intramuros, Chinatown, and Old Manila Half-Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our 3-hour tour explores the historic walls of Intramuros, where you will see Spanish-era architecture and learn about colonial history. You will walk through cobblestone streets, visit famous landmarks, and hear stories from our knowledgeable guides. Next, we head to Binondo, known as the oldest Chinatown in the world, rich in culture and flavor. Here you can discover hidden temples, heritage buildings, and authentic local food spots. The tour continues to Tondo, one of the oldest districts with deep historical roots and vibrant community life. You will see traditional neighborhoods and learn about the real stories of Old Manila. Throughout the experience, our guides share insights about history, culture, and daily life in Manila. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore heritage, culture, and local life all in one unforgettable journey.

From $75 USD

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4.5 (399 reviews)
Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago

Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Immerse yourself in Manila’s past and present as you travel by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle through the City of Makati and on to Old Manila. Step back in time as you stroll through ancient ruins in historic Intramuros, where you’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. From your expert and friendly local guide, hear about the Philippines’ interesting Spanish colonial period, as well as its modern-day culture.

From $80 USD

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