Flights to Manila
Discover the Pearl of the Orient - where Spanish heritage meets modern Southeast Asian energy
About Flights to Manila
Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, offers UK travellers an intoxicating blend of Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant street food culture, and warm Filipino hospitality. From the historic walls of Intramuros to the glittering skylines of Makati, this megacity pulses with an energy that captivates visitors from Hayes to Hong Kong.
The city serves as your gateway to over 7,000 Philippine islands, but Manila itself rewards those who stay to explore. Wander through Rizal Park at sunset, haggle for bargains at Divisoria Market, or sample authentic adobo and lumpia in the atmospheric lanes of Binondo - the world's oldest Chinatown.
With multiple daily connections from London Heathrow via Dubai, Doha, and Singapore, Manila has never been more accessible for British holidaymakers seeking tropical adventure, rich cultural experiences, and exceptional value for money.
Airlines Flying to Manila
Emirates
1 stop · Daily via Dubai
£459
return
Qatar Airways
1 stop · Daily via Doha
£485
return
Singapore Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Singapore
£529
return
Etihad Airways
1 stop · Daily via Abu Dhabi
£499
return
Turkish Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Istanbul
£515
return
Cathay Pacific
1 stop · Daily via Hong Kong
£549
return
Top Attractions in Manila
Intramuros
landmarkExplore the walled Spanish colonial city with Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and cobblestone streets telling 400 years of history.
Rizal Park
landmarkManila's premier green space featuring the Rizal Monument, Chinese Garden, and perfect sunset viewing spots near Manila Bay.
Binondo Chinatown
cultureThe world's oldest Chinatown offers authentic dim sum, traditional Chinese medicine shops, and architectural gems dating to 1594.
Manila Ocean Park
adventureSoutheast Asia's premier aquarium featuring sharks, jellies, and immersive underwater tunnels perfect for families.
National Museum Complex
cultureWorld-class collection of Filipino art, natural history, and the famous Spoliarium painting by Juan Luna.
Quiapo Church
religiousManila's most famous Catholic church housing the miraculous Black Nazarene statue, drawing millions of devotees annually.
SM Mall of Asia
shoppingOne of the world's largest shopping centres with 600 shops, an ice rink, IMAX cinema, and stunning Manila Bay views.
Manila Bay Sunset
natureWitness spectacular sunsets from Baywalk or Roxas Boulevard, consistently rated among the world's most beautiful.
Where to Stay in Manila
The Manila Hotel
Manila's most prestigious hotel where General MacArthur once lived, offering colonial elegance steps from major attractions.
Makati Shangri-La
Luxury tower in Manila's financial heart with direct access to Greenbelt shopping and Makati's restaurant scene.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
French luxury resort-style hotel with private beach, perfect for combining city exploration with relaxation.
New World Makati Hotel
Contemporary luxury in Makati's shopping district with excellent dining and prime location for business travellers.
Hotel H2O
Distinctive aquarium hotel offering underwater-themed experiences and direct access to Manila Ocean Park attractions.
Discovery Primea
Contemporary all-suite hotel in Makati's premium district, ideal for extended stays and business travel.
Local Tips for Manila
- Download Grab app for reliable, cashless transport - much safer than street taxis and shows GPS tracking to your family.
- Bring cash for street food and markets. Most vendors don't accept cards, and small denominations (20-100 peso notes) work best.
- Avoid tap water and ice in drinks. Stick to bottled water or drinks from sealed containers to prevent stomach issues.
- Learn basic Filipino phrases like 'Salamat' (thank you) and 'Kumusta' (how are you) - locals appreciate the effort enormously.
- Traffic is notorious, especially 7-9am and 5-8pm. Allow extra time for airport transfers and plan sightseeing around rush hours.
- Tipping isn't mandatory but 10% is appreciated in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff 20-50 pesos.
- Most signs are in English, and English is widely spoken - communication is rarely a problem for British visitors.
- Bring sun cream (SPF 30+) and an umbrella. Manila weather is hot and humid year-round with sudden downpours.
- Shopping malls are excellent for air conditioning breaks, clean toilets, and food courts with international options.
- Exchange money at malls or banks rather than airports for better rates. BDO and BPI offer competitive exchange rates.