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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

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)

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.

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 (309 reviews)

From $95 USD

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Attractions

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Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

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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

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Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food

Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food

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When you find yourself in the cities of Metro Manila for a day or two. Going out to explore this vibrant city might be a daunting and scary thought for many a traveler. For those looking for an authentic food experience but with the confidence of being accompanied by a local, this experience is right up your alley. Join us for a crash course in Philippine street food. Bring an open mind and an empty stomach as you experience a true culinary adventure!

From $65 USD

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5.0 (130 reviews)
Manila Food Tour: Explore World's Oldest Chinatown

Manila Food Tour: Explore World's Oldest Chinatown

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Step into the vibrant tapestry of flavors in Binondo, where every corner tells a tale of culinary richness. Dim sum, a term originating from southern China that translates to "snack," takes on new life as we delve into classic snacks meticulously curated from this historic district. Our culinary journey transcends the ordinary, as we explore not only dim sum but also an array of beloved local snacks. Immerse yourself in a diverse selection of both sweet and savory dishes, a harmonious fusion of Chinese and Filipino flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This experience is a culinary odyssey tailored just for you! Our destination is none other than CNN Travel's acclaimed "oldest Chinatown in the world" – Binondo Chinatown in Manila City. Brace yourself for an exploration of the labyrinthine side streets and enchanting alleyways, where hidden gems and hole-in-the-wall restaurants await, serving up cherished local delights that have stood the test of time.

From $65 USD

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4.8 (66 reviews)
Experience Manila's Heritage: Intramuros & More in Half a Day!

Experience Manila's Heritage: Intramuros & More in Half a Day!

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

this tour offers multiple sightseeing spots of manila. We also include some hidden gems that you wont see on your typical tour of manila. on this tour you will have a personal local guide which will also share to you the culture that the philippines. this tour is definitely a good introductory tour of the philippines.

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Manila Historical Highlights Private Half Day Tour

Manila Historical Highlights Private Half Day Tour

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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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4.1 (75 reviews)
Manila Super Saver: Manila Sightseeing plus Tagaytay Tour with Taal Volcano

Manila Super Saver: Manila Sightseeing plus Tagaytay Tour with Taal Volcano

INSTANT
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Begin the day with a drive to the picturesque city of Tagaytay, a popular tourist destination because of its cool climate and picturesque scenery. It is located on a ridge 2,250 feet above sea level, which offers a panoramic view of Taal Lake and Volcano, known for being the smallest active volcano in the world. The tour includes a stop for a brief lunch in one of the local restaurants where you can enjoy sumptuous Philippine cuisine and delicacies popular to the region. After that, prepare for the trip back to Metro Manila. Our sightseeing tour of Manila starts with a visit to the American Cemetery and Memorial. The cemetery site or the resting place of our soldiers who lost their lives during the WWII, covers 152 acres. This contains the largest number of graves of any cemetery for U.S. personnel killed during World War II, a total of 17,191 and 36,286 missing in action who are recorded upon the walls of the memorial.

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

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

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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

View Details

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