Things to Do in Manila

Manila pulses with an energy that's both chaotic and captivating, where Spanish colonial churches stand alongside gleaming shopping malls and street vendors serve some of the best food you'll ever taste. The Philippine capital might not win any beauty contests - traffic is legendary, humidity is relentless, and the urban sprawl can feel overwhelming - but there's something genuinely magnetic about this sprawling metropolis of 13 million people. You'll find layers of history everywhere, from the cobblestone streets of Intramuros where Spanish conquistadors once walked, to the vibrant street art of Poblacion where Manila's creative scene thrives. The city rewards those who dig beneath the surface, revealing pockets of surprising beauty, world-class museums, and a food culture that's arguably Southeast Asia's most underrated.

Manila's food scene might be Southeast Asia's best-kept secret, blending indigenous Filipino flavors with Spanish, Chinese, and American influences in ways that create entirely unique dishes. You'll find everything from high-end restaurants helmed by internationally trained chefs in Makati and BGC to incredible street food in places like Binondo and Quiapo. Don't miss trying sisig (sizzling pork), adobo (the unofficial national dish), or halo-halo (the ultimate Filipino dessert) from both fancy establishments and humble carenderias (local eateries). The city's growing craft beer scene pairs surprisingly well with Filipino flavors, while traditional coffee shops serve barako, a strong local coffee variety that predates the international chains.

Manila's tropical climate means it's warm year-round, but timing your visit can make a huge difference in your experience. The dry season from December to May offers the most predictable weather, though March through May can be brutally hot with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F). The rainy season from June to November brings cooler temperatures and lush greenery, but also the possibility of typhoons and flooding that can disrupt travel plans. December through February offers the sweet spot - lower humidity, comfortable temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F), and minimal rainfall, though this is also peak tourist season so expect higher prices and crowds.