Book a trip from Beijing to Manila with Cathay Pacific , fares from CNY2,413

To get to the city centre from the airport, we recommend taking a taxi as it is the most convenient option and takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, you can board the UBE Express shuttle, which leaves from the airport terminal and stops at major hotels until it arrives in Makati in around an hour.

A captivating blend of Spanish colonial landmarks, vibrant art galleries, and lush city parks await those who visit Manila, the bustling bayside capital of the Philippines.

Start your trip with a visit to the wealth of historical attractions that can be found throughout Manila. Explore iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago and Casa Manila as each offers an intriguing insight into the city’s rich past. The walled city of Intramuros, established in 1571 as an exclusive domain of the Spanish government, is also a must visit destination. An expansive 64-hectare stone fortress that served as a formidable stronghold, it houses a compelling collection of structures including churches, monasteries, residences, and plazas.

Manila is also renowned for its majestic Catholic cathedrals, with San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral being among the most notable religious monuments. Afterwards, head to Binondo, famously known as Manila's Chinatown, where you can shop at Divisoria Market or immerse yourself in rich historical heritage by visiting sacred sites like the Kuang Kong Temple.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of galleries the capital of the Philippines has to offer. We recommend visiting the National Museum of Fine Arts, Ysobel Art Gallery, and Ateneo Art Gallery as these esteemed venues showcase a captivating assortment of artistic styles and genres, representing both the local and international art scenes.

Those yearning for a peaceful escape from the bustling city life should pay a visit to Rizal Park as its tranquil ambience offers a serene haven to relax and rejuvenate. Named in tribute to the revered national hero, José Rizal, this cherished oasis presents an idyllic setting for a delightful picnic. Additionally, the park features charming restaurants serving delicious cuisine, a captivating ensemble of enchanting fountains, and an open-air concert hall where lively performances take place.

For a day of family fun, head to Manila Ocean Park in the heart of the city. This remarkable oceanarium presents an extraordinary opportunity to explore an awe-inspiring aquarium, which is home to an impressive array of over 14,000 marine animals, the majority of which are indigenous to the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

Renowned for its breathtaking natural splendour, the Philippines unveils a myriad of wonders waiting to be explored, and Manila serves as an ideal gateway to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Just an hour away from the capital, you will discover the magnificent Taal Lake, a volcanic marvel that has erupted 33 times. While here, be sure to traverse the surrounding mountain for unrivalled panoramic vistas of Tagaytay Ridge.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. Enjoy your stay in Manila with our accommodation recommendations such as The Peninsula Manila, The Henry Hotel, and The Farm at San Benito. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Manila is renowned for being a culinary paradise, captivating the taste buds with its diverse combination of flavours and cuisines that will satisfy even the most cultivated connoisseurs. Start your gastronomic adventure by delving into the tantalising realm of Filipino comfort food at the esteemed national chain, Aristocrat, an iconic restaurant that has withstood the test of time since its establishment in 1936. While here, you can indulge in the iconic chicken barbecue, a signature dish that has garnered praise from generations of diners and is served alongside fragrant java rice and accompanied by mouth-watering java sauce. Another must-visit culinary destination is Barrio Fiesta, where authentic Filipino cuisine takes centre stage. Be sure to savour the irresistible crispy 'pata', a succulent deep-fried pork leg dish, or relish in the richness of 'kare-kare', a toothsome oxtail stew. To fully immerse yourself in Manila's vibrant dining scene, we recommend sampling some of the city’s local delicacies like Asado pork and 'buko pie', a scrumptious custard pie with condensed milk.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Manila.

• Currency: Philippine Peso (₱, PHP). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V, Types A, B, and C
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Languages: Filipino and English