Advertisement
Manila
Manila
Hotels
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental CarsMore

Plan Your Trip to Manila: Best of Manila Tourism

Manila, Philippines

Metropolitan Manila encompasses six cities and 12 towns. Located on Manila Bay in the South China Sea, and bisected by the Pasig River, the capital of the Philippines is historic and modern, rich and poor. A popular sight is the walled area called Intramuros. The capital during Spanish colonization, Intramuros has retained old dungeons and gunpowder rooms but added art galleries and theaters. The city is filled with museums, shops, parks and churches, plus enough nightlife to last until dawn.

Essential Manila

Pick a category to filter your recs

Manila Is Great For

Must-do side trips and city tours

Explore more from our sponsors

Manila travel advice

Powered by AI
These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Transfer Between Terminals

At Manila Airport, travelers can use a shuttle bus to transfer between terminals. The bus frequency is approximately every 30 minutes during the day and hourly at night. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes to travel between terminals, depending on traffic conditions. Some travelers have experienced waiting times of up to an hour for the shuttle.

Alternative Transfer Options

Alternatively, taxis are available for inter-terminal transfers. While the bus is generally recommended, taxis might be preferable during tight connections or less busy times. Travelers are advised to be cautious and ensure they use official taxi services to avoid scams.

Transfer Time Recommendations

For a safe transfer, many travelers recommend allowing at least four hours between flights when changing terminals. This accounts for potential delays in arrival, immigration processing, and the transfer itself.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Hotel Recommendations Near Manila Airport

Some travelers have recommended the Belmont Hotel and Savoy Hotel Manila as top choices for accommodations near Manila Airport, particularly for their proximity to Terminal 3. The Belmont Hotel is highlighted for its direct access via an air-conditioned skybridge to Terminal 3, making it extremely convenient for travelers.

Facilities and Services

According to forum posts, both hotels offer comfortable and modern amenities. The Belmont Hotel is praised for its rooftop pool and bar, which provide relaxation and a pleasant stay. The Savoy Hotel, while slightly farther from the airport compared to the Belmont, also offers quality service and facilities, making it a good option for those looking for comfortable accommodation near the airport.

Alternative Accommodation

For budget-conscious travelers, posts indicate that there are numerous Airbnb options near the Belmont, which offer a more affordable alternative to traditional hotels. These are located approximately 100 meters from the Belmont, providing easy access to the airport as well.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Shuttle Services

According to forum posts, NAIA offers shuttle services connecting its terminals. However, these shuttles are not as reliable as those in more developed countries, and queues can be long. Travelers have suggested alternatives like taking a Grab taxi for convenience.

Taxi Services

Some travelers said that taxis and Grab cars are readily available at NAIA, even during early morning hours. The cost of a Grab taxi to nearby locations like Terminal 1 is less than 200 pesos, excluding expressway tolls. Travelers have noted that taxis are a safe and efficient way to navigate to and from the airport.

Public Transport

For those preferring public transport, options include buses and jeepneys connecting to various city locations like Binondo and Makati. Travelers have mentioned specific routes such as taking a bus to LRT Taft Avenue and then transferring to a jeepney for further destinations. However, first-time visitors are advised to opt for taxis or Grab for easier navigation.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Layover Activities

Some travelers suggested exploring local sights or engaging in activities such as mall hopping during a long layover in Manila. Another idea is to contact a local driver from the travel forum to customize a short tour based on your interests.

Accommodation Options

For a 15-hour layover, the Belmont Hotel offers day-use rooms costing around $40 for a 12-hour stay, requiring prior booking. Another option mentioned by travelers is short-term hotels like those listed on www.hotelsogo.com, which are budget-friendly, though rooms are small and windowless.

Luggage Storage

If you prefer to venture out without your luggage, it's advisable to check if your airline offers through-checking of bags to your final destination, or consider storing your bags at airport facilities like the left luggage service mentioned for Terminal 3.

Travel Precautions

Travelers have noted concerns about Manila's traffic, advising that if you choose to leave the airport, manage your time wisely to ensure you return well before your onward flight.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Entertainment Venues

According to forum posts, Manila offers a variety of entertainment options. Some travelers mentioned that the historical Intramuros area features attractions like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and Rizal Park. BGC (Bonifacio Global City) is described as a vibrant area that hosts street markets and concerts, especially on weekends, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors.

Nightlife and Music

For those interested in nightlife and music from past decades, travelers have called out specific venues that cater to fans of 70s and 80s music. Places like Pardon My French (formerly Strumms) in Makati are noted for their live bands playing disco music, adding a nostalgic touch to Manila's nightlife. Additionally, the Poblacion area is known for its bars that blast 80s hits, creating an engaging environment for nightlife enthusiasts.

Shopping and Markets

Travelers also recommend visiting various markets for shopping and leisure. The Greenhills Market and Legazpi Sunday Market in Makati are popular for weekend shopping, offering a mix of local crafts and food items. For a more integrated experience with shopping and food, the Greenbelt and Glorietta Mall area in Makati is highly recommended.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Historical Sites

According to forum posts, Intramuros is highly recommended for those interested in historic sites, featuring key landmarks like Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago. Corregidor Island is also suggested for its significant WWII history.

Modern Attractions

For modern attractions, travelers have called out Bonifacio Global City (BGC) for its vibrant nightlife and array of dining options. Greenbelt and the Mall of Asia are also popular for shopping and entertainment.

Natural and Public Spaces

Rizal Park is noted for its beautiful gardens, including Chinese and Japanese themed areas, offering a peaceful retreat in the city. The Salcedo Saturday Market in Makati is highlighted for those wanting to experience local food and crafts.

Unique Experiences

For unique experiences, some travelers said the North and Chinese Cemeteries offer fascinating insights into local life and history, with guided tours available at the Chinese Cemetery.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Luggage Storage Options

According to forum posts, Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 offers luggage storage services through a facility called Luggage and More. This service is located across from Jollibee at the arrival area and operates 24 hours a day.

Pricing and Locations

Travelers have mentioned that the prices for luggage storage at Terminal 3 start at Php 200 for 4 hours and go up to Php 6,500 for 30 days. There is no luggage storage available at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, so passengers arriving or departing from these terminals would need to travel to Terminal 3 if they require this service.

Additional Considerations

Some users have expressed concerns about the reliability and safety of luggage storage facilities. However, several travelers have used the Terminal 3 facility without any issues, noting it as safe and convenient. It’s advised to check the luggage carefully upon retrieval and verify prices and locations upon arrival.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.
Frequently Asked Questions about Manila


Manila is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:


If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Manila between March and May, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between September and November.