Whether exploring the nautical wonders of Marine Ocean Park or admiring the vibrant greenery of Ayala Triangle Gardens, the bayside city of Manila is a feast for the senses, blending historical buildings with edgy art galleries and towering skyscrapers. While making your way through the Philippines' capital, don’t miss Intramuros, The Walled City built by the Spanish in 1571 or Rizal Park, named after national hero José Rizal, to learn all about the city’s storied past.
Visit Manila: get started
See Manila’s top attractions with our tour packages or create your own Itinerary. Visit the National Museum Complex or step back in time to explore the 19th-century Casa Manila. Spend the day exploring Intramuros’ Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church and watch the city’s restaurants and clubs come alive at night in the Makati District.
Manila travel guide
Destination facts
Language
The two main languages in Manila are Filipino, the standardized form of Tagalog and English.
When to visit
With Manila’s tropical monsoon climate, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from January to April, when the weather is the most pleasant and temperate (typically between 27 ° C and 34 ° C).
What to bring back
Head to local markets to browse for handicrafts like Capiz shell decorations, plaited bamboo baskets, traditional attire like Barong Tagalong, tropical preserves, art prints, papaya soap and more.
What to eat
No trip to Manila would be completed without sampling some of its most iconic street foods, from adobo, a beloved tangy meat and rice dish, to kwek kwek (deep-fried quail eggs), to a savoury pancit palabok noodle dish.
Fun fact
If Manila feels like a bustling hub, it’s likely because this high-energy city happens to be the most densely populated in the world despite having a population of just 1.8 million people.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
