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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.

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Business · 17–24 Jun · Average budget · Hotel

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Picture of Manila, Philippines

Itinerary for Manila · June 2025

Itinerary

Manila · June 2025

Viewing Day 1 · Wed 18 Jun. Numbered pins match today's itinerary stops; purple markers are recommended experiences. Click a pin for details.Pins match today's stops. Purple pins are experiences.

  1. 1
    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.
  2. 2
    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.
  3. 3
Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

4.8 (376 reviews)

Instant confirmation
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

From ₱6,655 PHP

per person

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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)

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

Learn More
Teaching English in the Philippines
teaching

Teaching English in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$370/week

Learn More
Kindergarten Teaching in the Philippines
teaching

Kindergarten Teaching in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$370/week

Learn More
Volunteer Construction in the Philippines
volunteering

Volunteer Construction in the Philippines

Minimum 1 week

Philippines

$430/week

Learn More

Attractions

5.0 (18 reviews)
Banaue-Hapao Rice Terraces (Car Rental W/ Manila Tourist Driver)

Banaue-Hapao Rice Terraces (Car Rental W/ Manila Tourist Driver)

Manual confirmation
Free cancellation

The tours are programmed for comfort & enjoyment in a short amount of days with the help of carefully selected drivers.

From ₱19,013 PHP

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5.0 (17 reviews)
Intramuros Walking Tour by Don't Skip Manila | Shore Excursion

Intramuros Walking Tour by Don't Skip Manila | Shore Excursion

Manual confirmation
Free cancellation

This is a half-day historical tour of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Our tour is in storytelling format that talks about the important events that shaped the Philippines. If you only have half-a-day to spend and wanted to hear story more than the fast-paced picture-taking city tours, this is the tour for you and your group. This is a history-and-culture-anchored tour that involves part walking, horse-back riding (when there are more than 4 tourists) and museum visits. We curated this tour to tell more than 400 years of history in less than 4 hours.

From ₱5,282 PHP

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5.0 (9 reviews)
Private Half-Day Shore Excursion in Manila

Private Half-Day Shore Excursion in Manila

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See the main highlights of Manila on this half-day private city tour. Venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agustin Church and other famous city landmarks.

From ₱7,963 PHP

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5.0 (6 reviews)
2 Days Private Bataan Tour with Corregidor

2 Days Private Bataan Tour with Corregidor

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A first day tour of Bataan Death March Memorials and then proceed to Corregidor on the 2nd day. This is for those who want to know the major events of the Second World War in the Philippines. This tour is geared for history buffs and for those who want to go and see Corregidor and Bataan. We will be on our private car with tour guide plus an extensive battlefield discussions once we are in Corregidor.

From ₱72,883 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Shared Old Manila Tour

Shared Old Manila Tour

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Free cancellation

Explore the City of Manila and discovery what's with the City of the old time. Join travelers from around the world in exploring Manila with an English-speaking tour guide. Visit the city's most popular attractions and experience a bit of local culture.

From ₱9,019 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Majestic Pagsanjan Falls & Lake Yambo or Scenic Taal Volcano 2in1

Majestic Pagsanjan Falls & Lake Yambo or Scenic Taal Volcano 2in1

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Embark on a scenic drive to Pagsanjan Falls, where ur thrilling river adventure begins. Board a traditional raft, guided by 2 expert paddlers, as u journey through lush jungle & dramatic cliffs. Feel the adrenaline as u navigate the fast-moving rapids, inching closer to the majestic falls. Once there, dive into the cool, refreshing waters & swim to a hidden cave tucked behind the waterfall—a truly magical experience. The return trip is equally thrilling, w/ your raft rushing down the rapids in a roller-coaster-like ride, guided by the experienced paddlers. The excitement is unmatched, offering both adventure & nature in perfect harmony. (Tipping to ur paddlers is optional but expected.) End the day w/ a tranquil lunch by Lake Yambo. Enjoy delicious local delicacies (at your own expense) while soaking in breathtaking views of the serene lake & surrounding nature. The peaceful spot is perfect for relaxation, a perfect blend of excitement & serenity that makes for an unforgettable day.

From ₱7,922 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Little Boracay Beach w/ Floating Bamboo Cottage & Picnic Lunch

Little Boracay Beach w/ Floating Bamboo Cottage & Picnic Lunch

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Free cancellation

Start your day with a hotel pickup and scenic drive to Tagaytay City, where you’ll visit Taal Volcano Ridge. Your guide will share insights on the 2020 eruption, which sent ash to Manila and forced 150,000 to evacuate. Learn about Taal's volcanic activity and capture stunning views of the active volcano and lake. Next, head to The Little Boracay near Manila, a peaceful beach sandbar. Explore the Starfish Sanctuary, swim with vibrant marine life, and snorkel with a free dry snorkeling mask offering 180° vision, anti-fog, and GoPro attachment. Discover the underwater world in crystal-clear waters. Afterward, relax in a floating bamboo house cottage in the sea. Your host will prepare a delicious local meal, fresh tropical fruits, and snacks. Savor the meal while taking in ocean views and enjoying the tranquility of this serene spot—a perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature.

From ₱11,091 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Manila Hidden Gem Fishing Village Excursion

Manila Hidden Gem Fishing Village Excursion

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Free cancellation

Our Fishing village tour is located 1.5-2 hours away from manila. it involves riding a local boat and exploring how the Filipino culture fish and utilizes the lake on their everyday life. We will also have the opportunity to fish on our own and try to catch Tilapia or Bangus which have been thriving in the lake for decades. you would also be able to swim in the area and enjoy the amazing ambiance that the place has to offer. along the way, you will also have magnificent views of the Taal volcano

From ₱8,873 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Private Combo Tour to Pagsanjan Falls and Taal Volcano

Private Combo Tour to Pagsanjan Falls and Taal Volcano

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

This is a PRIVATE & EXCLUSIVE TOUR with no joiners or mixed groups—reserved only for you and your companions. Enjoy a private hotel pick-up in Manila and a comfortable drive to the cool highlands of Tagaytay City. Take in the scenic views and witness the breathtaking sight of Taal Volcano, the world’s smallest active volcano, set in the middle of Taal Lake. Learn about its history, including the 2020 eruption, and enjoy panoramic viewpoints. An optional boat ride on Taal Lake is available for guests who want a closer experience. The adventure continues to Laguna for the famous Pagsanjan Falls. Experience an exciting canoe ride through lush jungle scenery, gentle rapids, and towering cliffs before reaching the majestic waterfall. You may also choose to enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine at a local restaurant. This 2-in-1 private tour offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure—personal, flexible, and unforgettable.

From ₱7,922 PHP

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Banaue Rice Terraces Escape: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Transfers

Banaue Rice Terraces Escape: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Transfers

Instant Then Manual

An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits! Embark on a 3-day/2-night Banaue journey that immerses you in the rich heritage of the Ifugao people and the world-renowned Banaue Rice Terraces! Perfect for those with limited time, this tour ensures you don’t miss the breathtaking 2,000-year-old rice terraces, carved by the ancestors of the Ifugao people into the majestic mountains of the Philippines. Beyond the terraces, you’ll explore stunning waterfalls and rejuvenate in a natural hot spring, making this adventure a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. Important Note: This tour requires above-average fitness. Participants must be able to trek through mountainous terrain for at least 2 hours.

From ₱31,688 PHP

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