Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis where the country’s rich history and modern culture converge.
From centuries-old churches and colonial-era walls to skyscrapers, luxury malls, and bustling food streets, Manila City offers a multifaceted experience for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re in the city for a cultural immersion, a food trip, a relaxing break, or just passing through on a quick stopover, there are plenty of layover tours in Manila that let you experience the highlights of the capital even with limited time.
Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended stay. This is a standard rule regardless of your country of origin.
Tourists and short-term visitors must show proof of a return or onward travel ticket upon arrival. Immigration officers may deny entry if this is not provided.
Foreign travelers may be asked to show proof of accommodation for the duration of their stay in the Philippines. This helps immigration verify that you have a clear travel plan and sufficient arrangements. Accepted proof includes:
Nationals from countries listed below who are traveling to the Philippines for business and tourism purposes are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports valid for at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay.
Nationals from the following countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a period of stay of thirty (30) days or less: https://dfa.gov.ph/list-of-countries-for-21-day-visa Brazilian and Israeli nationals are given a fifty-nine (59) day stay based on existing agreements. The following are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay not exceeding fourteen (14) days: Holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) passports. Holders of Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) passports. The following are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay not exceeding seven (7) days: Holders of Macau-Portuguese passports Holders of Hong Kong British passports.
Nationals who are subjects of deportation/blacklist orders of the Department and the Bureau of Immigration shall not be admitted to the Philippines. Further inquiries may be addressed to the Visa Division (Telephone numbers:556-0000 and ask the operator to connect you to Visa Division), Department of Foreign Affairs, 2330 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, or to any Philippine Embassy or Consulate abroad.
While not mandatory for all, travel health insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required for unvaccinated travelers and strongly recommended for everyone.
Upon your arrival in the Philippine airport, expect the following steps:
Philippine customs have strict rules about what you can bring into the country. Key points:
PHT (Philippine Time) is one of the well-known names of the UTC+8 time zone, which is 8h. ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). The time offset from UTC can be written as +08:00. It's used as the standard time.
The Philippines has two official languages, FILIPINO (or PILIPINO) and ENGLISH. Filipino has eight major dialects, in order of use:
TThe national currency is issued by the Central Bank of the Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas).
For the daily currency exchange rate, you visit the Central Bank of the Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) website: https://www.bsp.gov.ph/sitepages/statistics/exchangerate.aspx
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA Airport) consists of four passenger terminals:
Find below the available means of transportation in Manila International Airport:
● UBE EXPRESS — A convenient shuttle service between NAIA Airport and Metro Manila Hotels. https://www.ubeexpress.com/
● MIAA SHUTTLE BUS — A free service offered to those who have connections at the airport. It links Terminal 1, 2, and 3. https://mnlairport.ph/guides/move-between-terminals
At Manila Airport, there are three types of taxis: Coupon Taxis, Regular Taxis, and Yellow-metered Airport Taxis. Details and fare information: https://www.manila-airport.net/taxi.php
Approach the dispatch station available at any of the airport terminals. State your destination and you will be given a coupon with the fixed fare. These are good for groups or large luggage.
50% more expensive than regular taxis but the only ones allowed inside airport premises. If the driver refuses to turn on the meter, board another one.
Normal city taxis around Metro Manila. Average fare: Php 180–240.
The safest private car option with upfront fares. Suitable for up to 4 passengers with check-in luggage. https://www.grab.com/global/airport-rides/ninoy-aquino-international-airport/