Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international airport of the Philippines.
- Distance to downtown
- 11.4 km
- Typical drive time
- Approx. 9 min
- Terminals
- 4
Flights to Manila, National Capital Region (Metropolitan Manila)
Discover Manila, the capital of Philippines: A Gateway of Heritage and Local Culture
National Capital Region (Metropolitan Manila)Philippine Standard TimeMNL
- Best round-trip fare
- $316.00
- Nonstop from
- 83
- Best time to visit
- Mar, Apr
- Updated
- 2026-10-28
Manila travel overview
Manila is the capital of Philippines (country/territory code: PH), has an official capital/administrative population of 1,846,513 (2020, scope: City of Manila proper), operating in the Asia/Manila time zone. As the primary civic, administrative, and cultural gateway of Philippines, Manila brings together national museums, historic monuments, civic architecture, and vibrant local markets. Visitors can explore heritage neighborhoods, sample authentic regional cuisine, and connect conveniently to wider regional attractions.
- State
- National Capital Region (Metropolitan Manila)
- Population
- 1,846,513 (2020)
- Time zone
- Philippine Standard Time
- Average stay
- 2–3 days
- Nearest airport
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
- Straight-line distance
- 11.4 km
Popular flights to Manila
Find the most popular routes to Manila, with flight times, airlines and typical prices.
| From | Flight time | Airlines(main) | Weekly flights | From price | Route |
|---|
Airports serving Manila
Candidate airport code(s) associated with Manila include MNL; verify your ticket's IATA code and ground transport links to central Manila.
Best time to visit Manila
No data
Average temperature and rainfall
High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (in)
Recommended months
March – April
No data
Seasons
WinterNo data
No data
SpringNo data
No data
SummerNo data
No data
AutumnNo data
No data
Top things to do in Manila
Landmarks, outdoor escapes and local culture for your Manila itinerary.
Manila Central Historic Quarter and Civic Plaza
Explore the central civic plaza, local heritage buildings, and community museums of Manila in Philippines (PH-00).
Manila Historic Civic Center & Landmark Plaza
Explore the signature civic landmarks and historic core of Manila, experiencing the urban layout and heritage of Philippines's capital.
Manila Scenic Promenade & Heritage Quarter Walk
Stroll along Manila's parks, waterfront promenades, or heritage lanes in the late afternoon to enjoy skyline views and local life.
Manila city transport
Compare practical ways to travel from the airport and around the city.
| Transport | Best for | Time to downtown | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| MNL Airport to Central Manila Ground Transfer | Travelers arriving or departing Manila via MNL | 15–50 min | PHP 15–600 · estimated one-way airport-to-town; see cost notes · as of 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): 15–50 minutes one-way between MNL and central Manila; from PHP 15.0 per person by public transit up to PHP 600.0 per vehicle by taxi. Original charging basis: one-way MNL to central Manila: public bus per person vs taxi per car in PHP. |
| Airport to Manila Center Ground Transfer (MNL) | Arriving/departing passengers and travelers with luggage | 20–60 min | PHP 220–1570 · per adult; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated one-way fare in PHP; lower bound reflects public bus/rail and upper bound reflects official airport taxi/express. |
| Manila Urban Public Transit Network | Budget travelers and daily sightseeing commuters | 10–45 min | PHP 60–220 · per adult; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated single-ride urban transit fare in PHP; varies by zone distance or transit card discount. |
| Manila Official Taxis & Ride-Hailing | Families, small groups, and evening travelers | 10–35 min | PHP 280–1010 · per vehicle; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated 5–10 km urban ride fare in PHP; peak traffic or late-night surcharges may apply. |
Where to stay in Manila
When staying in Manila, consider central town districts or areas near main transport corridors and MNL airport connections.
Central Manila and Transport Hub Area
Centered around Manila's main commercial streets and transport links, offering convenient access to dining, services, and transfers to MNL.
Manila trip planning
Spend your first day exploring central Manila, local museums, and markets, and dedicate a second day to nearby nature trails or regional landmarks.
- Daily budget
- PHP 2800–6800 · estimated per person/day in PHP; local stay, meals & transit · 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): expect about PHP 2800–6800 per person/day for budget-to-midrange lodging, meals, and local transit in Manila (in local currency PHP, excluding flights).
- Local time
- No data
- Tipping
- In Philippines, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% for good restaurant service is a common courtesy; check bills for included service charges.
- Power outlets
- Carry a universal travel adapter and check voltage compatibility (typically 220–240 V or local standard) when visiting Manila, Philippines.
- Accessibility
- Main terminal facilities at MNL and modern buildings in Manila generally provide basic accessible access, while older streets or rural trails may have uneven surfaces.
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
Explore more destinations
Continue planning with cities near Manila.
Popular routes from Manila
Allow ample buffer time for ground transfers to MNL airport or intercity rail/bus terminals when departing Manila.
Frequently asked questions about Manila
Which airport codes and payment preparations should I note when visiting Manila, Philippines?
Manila is associated with candidate airport code(s) MNL; local transactions use PHP, so carry both a major payment card and some PHP cash for local transit and markets.
What is Manila's role in Philippines, and what special selection notes apply?
Manila serves as the capital of Philippines. Selected under the capital-first rule. Primary air access is via MNL in the Asia/Manila time zone.
What is the typical daily budget in Manila, and what currency and power outlets are used?
Local transactions in Manila use PHP, with an estimated daily budget of 3640–8680 PHP per person (budget to mid-range). Power standard: Type C, F, or G outlets, 220–240V/50Hz (a universal travel adapter is recommended).