City Guide
5.0M
Population
$117
Daily Budget
70
Walkability
MEDIUM
Safety

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Family-Friendly

Plan your arrival in Manila

Arriving

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport · 7 kmTaxi and Bus
  • Main stationsPhilippine National Railways

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G/5G · good
  • NetworksGlobe Telecom and Smart Communications
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1.5 GB a day
  • Weak signalSome areas in Tondo
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Useful apps

  • TransportGrab and City Metro App
  • Food deliveryFoodpanda and GrabFood
  • AttractionsKlook and Traveloka

Top Attractions

1
Intramuros
Historical walled city with Spanish colonial architecture.
2h $10
2
Rizal Park
Large urban park dedicated to the national hero of the Philippines.
1h Free

Best Areas to Stay

Makati
Business district with shopping and dining options.
BusinessNightlife
Intramuros
Historical area with cultural significance.
TouristsHistory

Typical Costs (USD)

$100
Hotel/Night
$15
Meal
$3
Transport
$4
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $52 Tourist: $117 Family: $364

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:7-9am, 5-8pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Respect for elders is important; greetings are often accompanied by a handshake.
Common Mistakes
  • Not bargaining at markets
  • Underestimating traffic time

Food & Drink

Must Try:Adobo, Sinigang, Lechon
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Unsafe
Binondo for Chinese cuisineMercato Centrale

Getting Around

Public Transport:Fair
Rideshare:Grab
Walkability:70/100
MetroBus

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: November, December, January

Warmest monthApr34°C average high
Coolest monthJan24°C average low
Wettest monthAug493 mm of rain
Driest monthJan19 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mmRainy days
Jan29.923.9193
Feb30.724.3222
Mar32.125.3223
Apr33.726.7233
May33.627.01599
Jun32.826.625314
Jul31.525.943219
Aug31.025.849319
Sep31.225.739618
Oct31.425.722114
Nov31.325.312010
Dec30.324.6998

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Port Area Manila, 3 km from Manila).

Manila travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Manila?

November, December and January are usually the best months to visit Manila. Average daytime highs range from about 30°C in January to 34°C in April.

How much does a day in Manila cost?

Plan from about US$52 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$117 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport. These are estimates and vary by season.

How do I get around Manila?

Public transport includes metro and bus and is rated fair. Ride-hailing is available through Grab. Walkability scores 70/100.

Which airport serves Manila?

The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport, about 7 km away. Transfer options include taxi and bus.

Is Manila safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated medium. Watch for overcharging taxi fares and fake tour guides. Areas generally considered safe include Makati and Bonifacio Global City. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Manila?

4G/5G coverage is provided by Globe Telecom and Smart Communications, rated good. Plan for about 1.5 GB a day for maps, messaging and social media. A Philippines travel eSIM lets you get online on arrival without buying a local SIM.

Is tap water safe to drink in Manila?

Tap water is generally considered unsafe. If in doubt, follow local advice or choose bottled water.

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Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.

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