Book a trip from Toronto to Manila with Cathay Pacific , fares from CAD1,647

To get downtown, taxis are the most convenient option, taking approximately 30 to 60 minutes. The UBE Express shuttle also leaves from the airport terminal, stopping at major hotels on the way until it arrives in Makati in around an hour.

Explore Spanish colonial landmarks, vibrant art galleries, and lush city parks set against a year-round tropical climate in the Philippines' bayside capital of Manila.

Start your journey by delving into the rich historical attractions that adorn Manila. Begin by exploring notable landmarks such as Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and Manila Cathedral, with each offering captivating insights into the city's storied past. From there, venture into the walled city of Intramuros, which was established in 1571 and served as the exclusive domain of the Spanish government. This sprawling 64-hectare stone fortress was renowned as a protective stronghold, encompassing a myriad of structures, such as churches, monasteries, residences, and plazas, all of which bear witness to the city's enduring heritage.

Manila's thriving art scene encompasses a remarkable assortment of expansive museums, intimate galleries, and warehouse spaces, all dedicated to showcasing breathtaking artistic masterpieces. Among them, Manila Contemporary stands out as the international art hub in the capital, curating a diverse array of exhibitions that elevate the works of local artists. Be sure to also visit Silverlens and 1335 Mabini, both of which have become essential destinations within Manila's burgeoning arts landscape.

Manila is awash with architectural marvels, with one of the standouts being the Coconut Palace, an opulent edifice commissioned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos. This magnificent structure, built at an astounding cost of $37 million, was intended to impress Pope John Paul II during his visit to the Philippines. Constructed primarily using coconut shells, it maintains its reputation as one of the city's most distinctive and mesmerising architectural gems.

Those seeking a tranquil respite from the bustling city life should head to Rizal Park as it provides a serene setting where you can relax and unwind. Named in honour of the national hero José Rizal, this beloved oasis serves as the ideal destination for a picnic. Additionally, it boasts an open-air concert hall, delightful restaurants, and a collection of enchanting fountains that further enhance its allure.

Renowned for its exquisite natural splendor, the Philippines offers a plethora of breathtaking sights, with Manila serving as an excellent gateway to these wonders. Just an hour's drive away lies Taal Lake, an intriguing volcanic site that has erupted 33 times. We recommend exploring the surrounding mountains for panoramic vistas of the stunning Tagaytay Ridge, brimming with lush, verdant beauty.

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 Shangri-La at The Fort. 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 a culinary haven, offering a diverse array of flavours and cuisines that will delight even the most discerning palates. Indulge in the tantalising world of Filipino comfort food at the esteemed national chain, Aristocrat, a restaurant that has stood the test of time since its establishment in 1936. Here, you can savour the iconic chicken barbecue, a signature dish that has earned the praises of generations of diners. Served with fragrant java rice and accompanied with delicious java sauce, it is one of the restaurant’s culinary hallmarks. Barrio Fiesta is another eatery where authentic Filipino food takes centre stage. While here, be sure to sample the crispy ‘pata’, a mouthwatering deep-fried pork leg dish, or relish in the flavours of ‘kare-kare’, a savoury oxtail stew. To further enjoy Manila’s dining scene, we recommend tucking into local favourites such as Asado pork and ‘buko pie’, a 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