Manila

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Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of Asia's best-kept secrets. As the capital of the only predominantly Catholic country in the Orient, it presents a unique blend that feels slightly out of place, yet vibrantly infused with Latin American and Caribbean influences. Music and dancing are ubiquitous, and the city's warmth and enthusiasm can easily rival that of Bangkok. Manila's rich history, shaped by centuries under Spanish religious influence and decades of American consumerism, has led to the saying that the city spent "400 years in a convent and 50 in Hollywood".

The City

Metro Manila is an urban sprawl that has swallowed up 11 cities and five towns in the past two centuries. It’s a place of opposites: old and new wealth and poverty, grandiosity and decay. Smog, traffic jams and a general air of decay make a less than favourable first impression, but just beneath the surface lies a fascinating and pulsating place to enjoy. The Filipinos call it ‘The City of Our Affections’ where the people’s love affairs with fashion, music, entertainment and sheer fun are on bright and beautiful display. By day, the original, medieval walled city of Intramuros delights with its history and elegant Latin architecture. By night — and it can be a very long night — the bright lights of Ermita and Makati beckon with jazz pubs, clubs, karaoke lounges, 24-hour diners and trendy bars. The Filipino people’s zest for life, natural friendliness and ease with the English language make them the perfect hosts, always ready to invite you to their daily party. This is a fun city where your shoulders loosen in relaxation and only the muscles you use to smile are seriously stressed.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Manila’s colourful history has created an interesting range of attractions to keep the energetic sightseer busy for several days. There are plenty of historical sites to admire and museums where you can learn more about the city and its culture. Take a stroll along Roxas Boulevard and witness the famous Manila sunset after exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church and one of the oldest churches in Manila — the Manila Cathedral. And don’t forget the stunning nature the city has on offer like the beautiful Taal Volcano with a breathtaking view, or take a guided tour to the small rocky island of Corregidor. For sure, there are plenty to explore including shiny gems in a city with a bustling, sprawling and unique atmosphere. The cosmopolitan city of Manila is Asia’s best-kept secret and it is just waiting to be explored.

Roxas Boulevard

The 10 km long Roxas Boulevard is a popular waterfront promenade on Manila Bay and famous for its beautiful sunsets and its well-lined stretch of coconut trees. The area is not only a good place to take walk, but also where to find restaurants, parks, and government buildings including a huge shopping …

Fort Santiago

This Spanish fortress, with cannons trained on the sea to deter pirates and invaders, is more than striking medieval architecture. It is also the “Shrine of Freedom,” to Filipinos tortured and killed here during the Spanish and Japanese eras. It is now a park with a resident theatre company for traditional and modern …

Club Intramuros Golf Course

Club Intramuros Golf Course is an amazing, but somewhat short, 18-hole course in the heart of the city and surrounding Fort Santiago. You can completed the course in less than two hours. Enjoy a good game while admiring the excellent scenery and if the hunger kicks in, there is a restaurant in the …

Rizal Park

Located along the famous Roxas Boulevard, this oasis of green features the 19th-century national hero, Jose Rizal. Rizal Park is a great place to relax and here you will find beautiful gardens, historical markers, an open-air concert hall, playgrounds and …

Manila Cathedral

The sixth cathedral on Intramuros site since 1571, was completed in the 1950s. Outstanding sculpture and artwork from Europe and Asia including coloured windows. It is a beautiful church and one of the oldest in Manila and it truly has a peaceful …

San Agustin Church

The oldest surviving church in the Philippines completed in 1604 was the only building intact in Intramuros after the battles of World War II. San Agustin Church, originally known as "inglesia de San Pablo" is a Roman Catholic Church. Check out the large collection of historic artefacts presented here and don´t forget this is …

The Manila Hotel

One of Asia’s greatest hotels and a Philippine landmark built in 1909. The Manila Hotel is a five star hotel that has played a pivotal role in the nation’s history, and was US General MacArthur’s headquarters in World War II. The hotel is located along the Manila …

National Museum of Fine Arts

Explore the cultural and historical treasures of the Filipino people from the 17th century onwards at this museum. With its vast collection of paintings and Filipino artefacts, you can easily spend hours delving into the country's rich culture and history. Be sure not to miss 'The Story of the Filipino People' film and the …

Corregidor Island

Corregidor is a small rocky island located about 48 kilometres west of Manila. Because of its strategic position, the island historically defended the entrance to Manila. Today, it serves as a memorial to those who fought against the Japanese invasion during World War …

Taal Volcano

For a breath-taking view, head over to this beautiful volcano. The volcano is located about 70 kilometers south of Manila on the "volcano island" and surrounded by a lake called Taal Lake, or Lake Taal. Called as the smallest active volcano, but in fact, this is one of the largest volcanoes in the world. …

Bahay Tsinoy

Bahay Tsinoy, or 'Chinese-Filipino House', showcases a comprehensive collection of pictures and artefacts that illustrate the history and cultural heritage of the Chinese community in the Philippines. This museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of the Filipino-Chinese community, tracing its evolution from the first migrants, through the colonial period, up to the present …

Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a marine life adventure, whether you're visiting alone, with a partner, in a group, or with family. You can explore the penguin park, admire over 5,000 marine creatures, or get up close to sharks from the safety of a metal cage. Don't miss the …

City Tour With A Segway

Take a fun and an exciting tour around the city on the electric chariot (Chinese copy of a segway). The tour starts with an introduction on how to ride the chariot. This is a great way to explore Manila and to learn about its …

Manila Luxury Spa

Pamper yourself with a spa treatment at this beautiful spa. It offers a tranquil retreat where you can relax and escape from the daily stress. This modern spa provides treatments such as sea salt body scrub, warm stone massage, golden caviar facial and much …

Dining

While Philippine cuisine may not be universally acclaimed as among Asia's best, Filipinos have a deep love for food, particularly enjoying a leisurely long lunch traditionally eaten with their hands from a banana leaf. Manila stands out as one of the most affordable cities for enjoying a diverse array of international cuisines — including Thai, Chinese, Japanese, French, and Italian — each meeting global standards. Coupled with excellent service and beautiful dining settings, Manila offers a delightful experience for those looking to wine and dine.

Via Mare

Via Mare has great views and even better fresh seafood, including an oyster bar. This is a must for oyster lovers! There are 13 locations across the city, the first outlet opened in 1982. Over the years, Via Mare has become one of Manila’s most celebrated seafood …

Sala

Enjoy sumptuous modern Italian / European cuisine and excellent wine list at Sala. This intimate restaurant with a modern and sophisticated ambiance serves some of the finest European food dishes in the city and the essence lies on the quality and freshness of every …

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante

If you're in the mood for Spanish cuisine in Manila, book your reservation online to explore a fascinating array of Spain's regional dishes. The menu offers a diverse selection, including their signature dish — Paella …

Trellis

Trellis offers the best service when it comes to authentic Filipino cuisine for affordable prices. Food that is prepared according to family recipes that have been passed down through several generations. With its high popularity among locals, Trellis provides local signature cuisines, like ‘sisig’ and ‘burong hipon’ for you to enjoy in a joyful …

Harbor View Restaurant

This restaurant has been in the business for more than 18 years and due to its location on Manila Bay, it offers an amazing harbour view. The menu has a very wide variety of Filipino favourites. House specialties are seafood cooked in chili and deep fried …

G Point Smörgåsbord & Bar

At this restaurant, you can enjoy a large 'all you can eat' buffet (called smörgåsbord in Swedish) with various Swedish, European and Filipino food. You should come here with an empty stomach and be ready to dig into the yummy food. Also serving pizza, steaks and vegetarian …

Cabel Filipino Heritage Cuisine

At this hidden gem, you can eat Filipino and Spanish cuisine in a sophisticated yet casual ambience. Cabel is a stylish restaurant and best described as 'classic-meets-contemporary'. On the menu, you will find fish, pasta and meat …

Banana Leaf

Banana Leaf is a multi-awarded international restaurant chain serving delights of modern Malaysian, Singaporean, Thai, Indian, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cuisine. At this restaurant, they present the food on a banana leaf, hence its name. The highly skilled master chefs ensure that every dish is made with perfection and high …

Nobu Manila

Nobu is a well-known restaurant chain with location across the world and one is at the Nobu Hotel Manila. From the menu, you can pick innovative Japanese cuisine cooked to perfection by the expert chefs. It attracts a hip crowd and celebrities. Signature dishes includes black cod miso and lobster with wasabi pepper sauce …

The Aristocrat

Another chain of restaurants, Aristocrat is famous for its chicken barbecue with Java rice among other Filipino comfort food like kare-kare (Filipino stew) and crispy pata (crispy deep-fried pork leg). This Filipino-owned family corporation has a reputation as “The Philippines’ Most Popular Restaurant” and has become a landmark that inspired the development of the …

Bistro Remedios

Experience great country cooking in a chic bistro setting at Bistro Remedios. It is the best dining experience foreign guests should try if they are looking for local home cooking. The restaurant also has a trio who serenades clients with Tagalog and regional songs. For those who prefer private dining, Bistro Remedios has function …

Cafes

Manila's coffee culture is flourishing, with countless local cafes and major international chains to choose from. The city's baristas are passionate about their craft, ensuring that whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced, strong or mild, black or flavoured, you'll find the perfect brew to satisfy your taste. And when you're in the mood for something sweet, Manila's cafes offer an enticing selection of desserts and pastries to complement your coffee or tea.

Hizon's Cakes & Pastries

This place is a Filipino classic, and it will provide you with all the little pastries and sweets your heart may desire. Here, you can have breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a cup of coffee, all served by the friendly staff. Try out the Ensaymadas, a sweet and tasty bread that is just to …

Cupcakes By Sonja

This is the perfect spot for anyone with a sweet tooth or in search of a light dessert. Enjoy lovely cupcakes at a great price, including must-try flavours like delicious red velvet and …

Mary Grace

With numerous branches across Manila, Mary Grace is another coffee shop with a successful story. A place where family and friends gather over hearty meals or just relax with a cup of coffee, or Mary Grace Hot chocolate (with Belgian chocolate) paired with their signature Ensaymada and Cheese …

Pancake House

Pancake House has been around since the 1970s, and they currently have many stores across the country and even overseas. And as the name reveals, they specialise in pancakes, often paired with deep-fried chicken. From the complete menu, pick your favourites in the morning, noon, and evening to satisfy your sweet …

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

One of the largest privately-owned, family-run coffee and tea companies in the world, The Coffee Bean truly knows the model for a successful coffee house. This American coffee chain has seven locations in Manila and one is on Adriatico Street — a favourite hang out for coffee …

J. CO Donuts & Coffee

If doughnuts are your thing, then for sure you should pay a visit to J. CO Donuts & Coffee. Everything you ever wish in doughnuts you will find it here, unique flavours that will slowly melt in your mouth. Alcapone, a doughnut covered with Belgian white chocolate and Californian almonds is one of the …

Habitual Coffee

For aeropress-brewed coffee and great espresso, Habitual Coffee is the place to head for. The coffee is served by young and passionate baristas who really know what they are doing. This sleek coffee shop also serves limited but very delightful light meals including …

The Washery Laundromat & Café

At this quirky and modern venue, you can do your laundry while having a cup of coffee and a small bite on the side. They have two branches where they offer various laundry services, and each houses a cosy cafe area where to hang out. If craving for something sweet, they serve cookies, cakes, …

Bars & Nightlife

Filipinos take fun seriously and Manila’s bars are among Asia’s liveliest. Happy hour is everyone’s favourite time of day — and lasts long into the night at certain hangouts. Great service, ice-cold drinks, and music nearly everywhere. Manila is party central. Venues stay open until 5am at weekends and 3am midweek. The nightlife centres are on JM Nakpil Street, Makati Avenue or Pasay Road in Makati and throughout the Malate and Ermita districts. The palace, Manilas biggest destination is also a great place to head for when in the party mood.

Newport World Resorts Casino & Bars

This is the Philippines' first and largest integrated resort and casino. Newport World Resorts is an entertainment complex and has the country's largest casino, complemented by a range of bars and restaurants. Enjoy events, shows and tournaments all under one …

The Tap Room

At this old English inspired pub with dark timber ceiling and plush armchairs, you can have a relaxing time in a unique, soulful and friendly ambiance. From the extensive drink menu, you can pick alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to complement some delights from the sumptuous bar …

Bar Rouge

Sit down and unwind at the intimate Bar Rouge with a refreshing cocktail, while cool music plays in the background. The bar focuses on cigars and single malts, and the experienced bartender excels at catering to the most demanding tastes with stylish, fresh, and innovative drink …

Revel at The Palace

Revel is a luxurious nightclub and lounge known for attracting Manila's most beautiful and fashionable crowds, including discerning international travelers. The venue offers an upscale, intimate ambiance with quality drinks and sought-after DJs, making it the perfect place to enjoy a classy and stylish night …

XYLO at The Palace

Located at The Palace, XYLO is reputed to be Manila's largest nightclub, with a capacity for over 2,000 people. It's one of the hottest clubs in the city and is consistently packed. The venue has hosted many famous DJs who energize the crowd, with more exciting performances scheduled for the …

Sky Deck View Bar

Unwind with a fresh cocktail at the Sky Deck View Bar at The Bayleaf Hotel, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city and stunning sunsets. The bar features an extensive wine list, local beers, and cocktails, alongside a food menu. On weekends, Sky Deck offers live entertainment, enhancing the vibrant …

12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub

12 Monkeys is one of the top live entertainment venues in Manila, offering a diverse array of music genres. Alongside excellent cocktails, the venue also serves authentic Filipino cuisine and pizzas. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed. Be sure to check the gig guide on their website before stopping …

Shopping

Manila one of the most exciting shopping destinations in Southeast Asia thanks to the giant malls so-called 'megamalls' where you basically will find everything your heart might desire. The malls are open seven days a week and generally the doors opens at 10 or 11. These air-conditioned malls are also a welcome escape from the tropical heat and many families and friends are regularly spending the entire days to stroll around the stores or to have a bite to eat. Many of these malls are not just for shopping, but also boasts with theatres, spas, ice-skating rinks and cinemas, making them to a huge entertainment complex. When you get tired of the malls, head over to one of the bazaars (called tiangge) or the markets that overflows with the hottest trends and some amazing bargains to bring back home. You can easily stock up on clothes, shoes and accessories without breaking your wallet but make sure to bargain and try to aim to pay about 30 to 40 percent lower than the original price. Clothes, shoes and accessories are the best deals but be aware the size of the clothes tends to be smaller in Asia.