Manila

Make Manila your first stop and experience the jovial and laid-back nature of Filipino hospitality. Manila, the capital of The Philippines, is a city that triggers fascination with a heady mix of tradition, culture, food, and entertainment.

Go back in time and explore within the walls of the medieval city, Intramuros, or immerse yourself in modern day entertainments at the majestic malls of Makati, Ortigas and Quezon City. Hop on a colourful jeepney and discover every exciting corner of the city at your own pace. Wind down with a sunset dinner cruise on Manila Bay and serenaded by live bands or take in cultural shows in a city that never sleeps.  Manila is an ideal gateway to the stunning beaches, mountains and landscapes of The Philippines that eagerly await you.

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Things to do

• Visit Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church and Casa Manila in ancient walled city of Intramuros.

• Visit the National Museum to see Juan Luna’s painting Spoliarium, which is considered a national treasure.

• Enjoy a day shopping at Manila’s local market, Greenhills Shopping Centre, where you’ll find unbeatable bargains.

• Go bar hopping in Malate, Ayala Centre, Rockwell, or Fort Bonifacio.

• Take a calesa (horse-drawn carriage) tour of Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown.

• Visit Marikina, the country’s shoe capital, which is home to more than 600 registered shoemakers.

• Take a day trip to scenic Tagaytay or Pagsanjan Falls, or to historic Corregidor Island or Villa Escudero.

 

How to get there

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Qantas fly directly to NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) in Manila. It is 7.5 to 9 hours away from Australia’s capital cities.