Intramuros (Walled City)
Historic Spanish colonial fortress. Highlights: Fort Santiago (PHP 75 entrance), San Agustin Church (UNESCO), Casa Manila. Rent a bamboo bike or take a kalesa (horse‑drawn carriage). Allow 3–4 hours.
Last updated: April 2026
Top Attractions in Manila
Must‑see places for a 1–2 day stopover.
Rizal Park & National Museum
Rizal Park (free) – monument of national hero José Rizal. National Museum of Fine Arts (free) houses iconic paintings like Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium”. Closed Mondays. Walking distance from Intramuros.
SM Mall of Asia (MOA)
One of Asia’s largest malls. Ice skating rink, cinemas, restaurants, and Kultura Filipino for souvenirs. MOA Seaside promenade has a great sunset view of Manila Bay. Free entrance.
Binondo (Chinatown)
Oldest Chinatown in the world. Walk along Ongpin Street for hopia (mung bean pastry), dumplings, and Chinese‑Filipino fusion food. Visit Binondo Church. Best explored by foot or tricycle.
Getting Around Manila
Grab (App‑based Taxi)
Grab is the safest and most reliable option for tourists. Download the app before arrival. Pay by cash (PHP) or card. Avoid hailing street taxis (they often refuse to use meters). GrabCar from NAIA to Makati: PHP 300–500.
Airport Transfers (NAIA)
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) has 4 terminals. International flights mostly use Terminals 1 and 3. Grab pickup points are outside arrival areas. Airport shuttle buses and metered taxis (yellow) are available but less reliable. Allow 2 hours between terminals for connections.
Jeepneys & LRT/MRT
Jeepneys are cheap (PHP 13–20) but confusing for tourists. LRT (light rail) and MRT are efficient but crowded during rush hour. For simplicity, stick to Grab or book tours.
Safety & Best Areas to Stay
Safe Zones for Tourists
- Makati (Ayala Center, Greenbelt): Upscale, many hotels, restaurants, and malls. Very safe.
- BGC (Bonifacio Global City): Modern, clean, walkable, expat-friendly. Excellent for families.
- Ermita / Malate (near Intramuros): Budget hotels, backpacker area – safe during day, be cautious at night.
- Pasay (MOA area): Convenient for Mall of Asia and airport. Generally safe.
Safety Tips
- Use Grab – never flag street taxis after dark.
- Keep wallets and phones in front pockets or cross‑body bags.
- Don’t flash expensive jewellery or large amounts of cash.
- Avoid walking alone in dark alleys, especially in Ermita/Malate at night.
- Emergency number: 911 (police/ambulance/fire).
Where to Stay in Manila
Luxury
- Shangri-La The Fort (BGC) – PHP 12,000+
- New World Makati – PHP 10,000+
Mid‑Range
- Holiday Inn Express (Newport City, near NAIA) – PHP 4,500–6,000
- Citadines Salcedo Makati – PHP 5,000–7,000
- Hotel101 Manila (Malate) – PHP 3,500–5,000
Budget
- ZEN Rooms (Makati) – PHP 1,500–2,500
- Red Planet (Malate, BGC) – PHP 2,000–3,000
- Hostel/Capsule: The Wingman (Poblacion, Makati) – PHP 800–1,200 per bed
Tip: Book hotels near your main interest. For a quick layover, stay in Newport City (Resorts World Manila) – very close to NAIA Terminal 3.
Frequently Asked Questions – Manila Travel
1How do I get from NAIA airport to Makati?
Use Grab (PHP 300–500) or the airport yellow taxi (metered). Avoid touts. Travel time: 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
2Is Manila expensive for Indian tourists?
Manila is mid‑range. Budget traveler: PHP 1,500–2,500/day (₹2,200–3,700). Mid‑range: PHP 4,000–7,000/day (₹6,000–10,500).
3What should I eat in Manila?
Adobo, sinigang, sisig (in Pampanga but available in Manila), lechon, halo-halo, and fresh mangoes. Binondo for Chinese‑Filipino food.
4Can I visit Tagaytay as a day trip from Manila?
Yes – 2‑3 hours by car/bus. View Taal Volcano, enjoy bulalo (beef marrow soup). Book a private Grab or join a tour.
5Is English widely spoken in Manila?
Absolutely. All signs, menus, and most people speak fluent English. No language barrier.
6What is the best sim card for tourists in Manila?
Smart Traveler SIM (PHP 399 for 5GB, 7 days) or Globe Prepaid. Available at NAIA arrival areas. Also eSIM (Airalo) works.
Plan your full Philippines trip: Read the Complete Philippines Travel Guide for visa, costs, and island itineraries.
Also check: 7-Day Itinerary | Trip Cost | Food Guide
Get a Manila + Beach Package →Disclaimer: Grab prices, hotel rates, and entrance fees subject to change. Traffic in Manila can be severe; always allow extra travel time to catch flights.
