Manila – Also known as the Pearl of Orient, is the capital city of the Philippines. This metropolis is a sight to behold with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks.
Tourism is a vital industry and major destinations include Rizal Park and the National Museum of the Filipino People. Manila is a popular shopping hub in the region and the city also has a thriving art and music scene.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)
Located between Pasay City and Parañaque City, this is one of the two airports serving the Metro Manila area. There are three (3) terminals in the airport and Terminal 3 is solely for domestic flights. The other airport that connects to Metro Manila is the Clark International Airport. This is where most of the low-cost carries land. For more information visit: www.manila-airport.net.
Getting Around
Rapid Transit
There are two rapid transit systems in Metro Manila, namely the Manila Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRTC). There are four (4) lines: Green, Blue, Yellow and Orange. These lines are connected to 32 stations.
Taxis
Taxis can be found easily in the city. The flagfall is 40 pesos, then 2.5 pesos per 300 metres when moving. To avoid paying extra, make sure the driver turns on the taxi meter when you enter. Bring coins and small denomination bills as most taxi drivers do not give change.
Jeepney
If you want an authentic experience, travel on the Jeepney. This Filipino icon is the cheapest way to travel in the city. The basic fare in Metro Manila is 8 pesos for the first four kilometres, then there’s an additional fee of 1.50 pesos for every extra kilometer or part thereof. But be warned, it is not air-conditioned.
Car Rentals
There are many trusted car rental services in the city. You can hire a car with a driver or self-drive. Roadsigns are prevalent and it’s easy to get to your destination especially if you use Waze or Google Maps.
Toyota Vios
4-5 Doors | Person x5 | Luggage x2 | Aircon | Automatic gear | Unlimited mileage | PHP822.00 per day
Honda Jazz
4-5 Doors | Person x7 | Luggage x2 | Aircon | Automatic gear | Unlimited mileage | PHP1,002.00 per day
Mitsubishi Lancer
4-5 Doors | Person x5 | Luggage x2 | Aircon | Automatic gear | Unlimited mileage | PHP1,029 per day
Honda CRV
4-5 Doors | Person x5 | Luggage x6 | Aircon | Automatic gear | Unlimited mileage | PHP1,430.00 per day
We are looking for car rental agency at Manila, interested to work something out together? contact daniel@pathfindercity.com
Getting Out of the City
By Ferry
Depart
Destination
Duration
Time
Cost
Cebu International Port
Cebu
22 hours
9:00am | 6:30pm | 7:00pm
PHP 1639.00
PPA Port
Zamboanga
17 hours
4:00pm
PHP 2180.00
Puerto Princesa Pier
Puerto Princesa
32 hours and 30 mins
1:30pm
PHP 1539.00
Things To Do In Manila
The bustling city of Manila is not only home to extensive commerce. It is rich in local culture and has many hidden gems that are a delight to discover.
Manila Bay
Wanting to soak up the beauty of the city? This harbour has the best view of Manila’s iconic sunset. At night, you can enjoy local cuisine at the al fresco cafes and be entertained by live performances, which are usually held on Friday and Saturday nights.
Manila Ocean Park
This oceanarium is the perfect venue for some family fun. Established in 2008, the park’s main feature is its 82 feet underwater acrylic tunnel. You can explore the various exhibits and partake in different activities such as going on a glass bottom boat ride, watching a sea lion show and enjoying the fish spa. The Manila Ocean Park is also home to the country’s tallest and largest musical fountain, which is 120 feet tall.
Star City
Adults and children alike will have a fun-filled time at Star City with its thrilling and adrenaline pumping rides. You can visit Peter Pan in Neverland, experience winter in the Snow World and enjoy a game of laser tag. Group packages are also available online.
Malacanang Palace
Malacanang Palace is the official residence and principal workplace of the President of the Philippines. The original structure was built in 1750 and since then, it has be occupied by eighteen Spanish Governors General, fourteen American Military and Civil Governors, and the Presidents.
San Agustin Church
Built in 1607, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is patterned after the magnificent temples built by the Augustinians in Mexico. It is steeped with history and has survived countless natural disasters. During World War II, this church was turned into a concentration camp for prisoners.
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago is one of the most important historical sites in Manila. Jose Rizal, a national hero, was imprisoned here before his execution in 1896. Several lives were lost at the Prisoner of War (POW) site during the Spanish Colonial Period and World War II. Within the fort are lovely manicured gardens, plazas and fountains leading to an arched gate and lily pond.
Read more: 20 Things to Do in Manila
Read More: NA
Nightlife
Live Music
Tia Maria’s
Tia Maria’s is the place to go for a refreshing glass of margarita or mojito. Specialising in authentic Tex-Mex food, the chicken or beef fajita is a crowd favourite. Customers will be entertained by a mariachi band, which is perfect for showing off your Latin dance moves!
Tel: +63 2 522 0429
Bedrock Bar & Grill
Every Wednesdays to Sundays, Bedrock features performances from two local acts. The bar has a Flintstone vibe to it, with a cave-like interior and giant dinosaur feet as pillars.
Tel: +63 2 522 7278
saGuijo Cafe + Bar
saGuijo is worth the visit if you want to hear some local independent music. The bar features a cocktail of music genres from rock bands to electronica acts and R&B artists. Signature drinks that are recommended include Insulin Shots and Isa Pa!
Tel: +63 2 897 8629
Karaoke Pubs
Centerstage Family KTC & Restobar
Sing your heart out to the latest tunes and classic songs at this popular karaoke joint. Centerstage also has a billiard table and poker table, plus darts and board games to keep you entertained.
Tel: +63 2 895 0005
Red Box Karaoke
Belt out to your favourite tunes while enjoying a delicious local and international fare from the buffet table. Red Box has outlets in Metro Manila: Eastwood Mall, Greenbelt 3 and Trinoma.
Tel: +63 2 757 6188
Watering Hole
Blind Pig
Blind Pig is a speakeasy bar located it Makati. It is a fun place to go to for after dinner cocktails, especially if you want some alone time with a special someone. It is quite hidden, but look out for a signage written in braille at the entrance.
Tel: +63 917 549 2264
Opus
If you are looking to drink in style, Opus is highly recommended. Their signature cocktails, innovative cuisine (from an award-winning chef) and lavish interior will guarantee to impressive you.
Tel: +63 917 809 4093
Draft Gastropub
Beer lovers will enjoy the great selection of international beer that are served here. Besides draft beer, they also have bottled and canned beer. To accompany your drink of choice, order the German sausages or Buffalo wings.
Tel: +63 2 846 9725
Dance Clubs
Socialista
This dance club in Malate is where all the young, hip and good-looking people party during the weekends. If you enjoy electronic dance music and DJ sets, this is the place to be!
Tel: +63 2 400 9980
Republiq Club
Located at Resorts World Manila, this is one of the biggest dance clubs in Asia. The venue has featured some of the best DJs in the international music scene such as Steve Aioki, Clavin Harris and Avicii. Be sure to dress to the nines as there is a strict dress code!
Tel: +63 917 550 8888
Foods / Restaurants
Must-Try Foods
Adobo
Unoficially dubed the national dish of the Phillippines, the most popular versions of Adobo are made with chicken, pork or seafood. The main ingredient is marinated with vinegar, soy sauce and garlic. The result is a delicious and comforting dish that is best eaten with steamed rice.
Sisig
Sisig is a popular dish that is made from pig liver and different parts of its head. The meat is marinated in lemon juice or vinegar, then seasoned with spices and cooked on a hot plate. Some places also serve beef, lamb, chicken or fish sisig.
Crispy Pata
A whole pig’s leg is simmered in water with different spices, and then rubbed with seasoning and deep-fried to cirspy perfection. This dish is usually served with pickled green papaya and a soy sauce and vinegar dip.
Halo Halo
Halo halo is a shaved ice dessert that has a combination of ingredients such as kidney beans, sugar palm fruit (kaong), coconut sport (macapuno), jackfruit (langkâ), tapioca, data de coco, sweet potato (kamote), cheese and pounded crushed young rice (pinipig). It is usually topped with evaporated milk, leche flan or ice cream.
Restaurants
La Cocina de Tita Moning
This restaurant is an icon in the Filipino F&B industry. From the decor to the Chinaware and the food, this eatery aims to give customers an authentic 19th Century experience. No walk-ins are allowed so be sure to reserve at least a day or a few hours ahead. Prices for a set meal is PHP1,000.00 and above.
Tel: +63 2 734 2147
Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant
Located in Intramuros, this restaurant is famous for its delicious buffet spread consisting Filipino favourites. During dinnertime, customers will also be entertained by a cultural show filled with music and dancing. Besides the lunch and dinner buffets, the restaurant also has an ala carte menu. Prices for a main course starts at PHP305.00.
Tel: +63 2 527 3893
Only in the Philippines
Balut
This popular streetfood might look like something that would be featured on Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, but if you have the guts, it’s definitely worth the try. Traditionally, the developing duck embryo is boiled and eaten with a sprinkle of salt, but nowadays, a lot of restaurants serve fancier versions.
Daing na Bangus
For this dish, a whole milkfish is marinated in vinegar, garlic and peppercorns then deep-fried until it is golden and crispy. It is usually served with rice and a raw tomato salad.
Read More: 30 Manila Foods You Must Try Before You Die
What To Buy?
Malls / Markets
Silahis Arts & Artifacts
This quaint antique and crafts shop was established in the late 1960s. It sells beautiful and unique arts and crafts that make perfect souvenirs for family and friends back home. Not only can you find native handicrafts, it also offers appraisal services for collectors wanting to evaluate artworks.
Divisoria Market
Located in the center of Chinatown, this is where locals and tourists go to get the best bargains of everything under the sun! Hundreds of small stalls sell items such as clothing, accessories and toys. Divisoria Market is also a great place to sample delicious local food.
SM Mall of Asia
Shopaholics will definitely want to visit this mall, which is the largest in the Philippines and the seventh largest in the world. It has more than 600 shops, an IMAX theatre, an Olympic-sized ice skating rink and oftens host a vatiety of concerts and theatrical performances.
Souvenirs
Barong Tagalog
This is the national dress of the Philippines. The embroidered formal shirt used to be only worn by men, but throughout the years it has been feminized and is now a popular fashion piece for women as well. Cheaper factory made versions are available aplenty, but you can also find delicate hand embroidered version at the fancier boutiques. The high end versions can range from PHP2,500.00 and above.
Lambanog
This is a Filipino version of coconut wine. It is a potent spirit that has a smooth texture and a hint of sweetness. It is a great mixer for cocktails, but traditionally the locals drink it neat or use it for cooking. It’s the perfect item to take home and enjoy while remembering the good times during your trip to Manila. You can find it in most supermarkets and duty free shops in the airport.
Goldilocks Polvoron
Goldilocks is a popular local brand that sells traditionally candies, cakes and other baked goods. The polvoron (powdered milk candies) are popular gifts for tourists to buy. It comes in a variety of flavours such as peanut, cookies and cream, coffee crumble and pinipig(rice crispies). A box with 30 pieces will cost about PHP190.00.
Golf Courses
<div class="wpb