Manila – where East meets West
Fly to Manila and visit one of the oldest cities in the world.
The Philippines’ capital is a hive of towers and temples, cathedrals and churches. Its history means it’s a city that is as influenced by Spain and the United States as it is by its Asian neighbours.
One of the most densely populated cities on the planet, the capital acts as the gateway to the archipelago nation of the Philippines, made up of more than 7,000 islands.
Head to the former walled Spanish city of Intramuros, home to the city’s museums and rich colonial architecture.
Wander through Quinta Market in downtown Manila and soak up the sights and sounds of this beating heart of daily life in the capital.
Afterwards, explore the grounds of the Mabini Shrine and discover the story of the fight for Filipino independence. Book your flights to Manila with Etihad Airways today.
Reasons to visit Manila
Filipino flavours
For a real taste of Manila, head to the city’s vibrant markets. There may be glitzy new shopping malls popping up across the city, but this is the best way to experience local retail.
The Soderno Night Food Market is for you if you want to indulge in the best Filipino street food around. You can also pick up novelty items and fashion products at this dynamic night spot. Fresh fruit, seafood, seared lechon and hearty stews are to be found amidst the bustling stalls and market vendors.
Beautiful Spanish architecture
As soon as your plane tickets to Manila are in hand, it’s time to start planning an itinerary to take you through all the historic monuments. Dating back to the era of Spanish rule, Fort Santiago is one of Manila’s star attractions. Step through the iconic gate to see the saints staring down from ornately carved walls. Inside you can learn about Filipino heroes and tour the former dungeons.
The ornate green interiors of San Agustin Church house great cultural exhibits, while Rizal Park is leafy and relaxing. Visit all the basilicas for a true taste of this city’s unique story.
Compelling museums
The National Museum of the Philippines oversees several great collections spread through the capital, including the Museum of the Filipino People, and the National Art Gallery. Bahay Tsinoy celebrates the history of Chinese people in the Philippines – Manila became home to the world’s first Chinatown in 1594.
Science fans can get involved with over 250 interactive exhibits at the Mind Museum, the science museum in the central business district. Sweet-toothed travellers will adore the Dessert Museum, which has eight delicious exhibitions that are popping with candy cane colours.
Flying to Manila: FAQs
Where is the best place to stay in Manila?
Manila has many vibrant neighbourhoods – Intramuros is the best for families, where you can stay within the city walls and explore on foot. Makati also offers choice for all budgets and is close by to good food and things to do.
How long should I stay in Manila?
Manila has plenty to see and do for up to a week. Stay longer, and plan in some day trips to the surrounding rice terraces and mountains. There are volcanic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs all within reach of Manila.
What are the best things to do in Manila?
There are plenty of historic sites, museums and monuments to see in Manila. Head to Fort Santiago for classic Spanish architecture, or Rizal Park, where events are held throughout the year. Chinatown is a great place to spend an afternoon, enjoying the colour and smells, and tucking into street food.
How far is Manila airport to the city centre?
All flights to Manila land at Ninoy Aquino Airport (MNL). It’s about eight miles away from the Manila city centre and transfers typically take 30 minutes to an hour.
Arrange a transfer with Etihad before you fly and when you land, a car will be waiting for you at your terminal. Alternatively, grab a taxi from outside the airport or take the airport bus.
Why fly to Manila with Etihad?
Book your Manila flights with Etihad and enjoy a relaxing journey to the capital city of the Philippines. Choose your cabin, your baggage allowance and how you want to check in – making your journey what you need it to be.
There are a range of ways to upgrade your inflight experience. Guests in Economy can bid for an Economy Neighbour-Free Seat or purchase extra legroom with Economy Space. Sample the flavours of this island nation with a complimentary inflight meal, made from fresh, seasonal produce.
Benefit from our incredible entertainment, including the latest Hollywood, Bollywood and international releases. There are thousands of hours of the latest blockbusters, TV hits, games, music and more to enjoy on E-BOX.
You’ll touch down in the Philippines feeling refreshed thanks to our comfortable reclining seats, complete with blankets and pillows on long-haul flights. Indulge even further by upgrading your plane tickets to Business or First. In Business, seats become fully-flat beds and you can Dine Anytime from our a la carte menu.
*Aircraft, cabins and services may vary by route and flight. You can check this when you search for your flight. This page was last updated Sept 2019.