Manila

On July 16, 2024, the Philippine government launched the ‘cruise visa waiver’, easing entry for visa-required foreigners holidaying on cruise ships. Eligible foreigners can apply through the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) e-services portal at

The cruise terminal is at pier 4, within walking distance of Old Manila near Rizal Park. A welcoming party is held on the pier for passengers and Filipino crew. If your cabin attendant is Filipino, giving him/her the day off is a kind gesture.

Solaire, a luxury cruise centre within an integrated resort, was originally due to open in August 2021. Once complete, its linear berth will take two mega-size ships at once: one up to 365mtr and one up to 345mtr. It was expected to be ready in 2024.

Pier 15 is used at times.

Take a printable map with you.

Until World War II, Manila was regarded as Asia’s most beautiful city, but the war left it in complete ruins. It was the second most destroyed city after Warsaw, Poland. Today this modern capital is Asia’s premier Christian city and among the world’s most cosmopolitan, with over 1.5 million people.

Historic, bustling and awe-inspiring, Manila blends cultures and flavours into an endless range of places, sights and memorable experiences.

Dating from 1571, Manila Cathedral is the sixth cathedral on this site and the only church rebuilt after the war. Dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, it is noted for its octagonal dome and impressive stained-glass windows.

The National Museum holds more than one million anthropology, art, botany, geology and zoology items. Because it is being relocated, only a limited part of the collection is displayed.

Spain held Manila as a colony from 1565 until 1898; the United States then occupied and controlled the Philippines as a territory until 1946. That history leaves the Philippines with many Western influences and ties.

Travel as the Manileños do on colourful, ubiquitous jeepneys. These "kings of the road" reach almost everywhere for a minimal fare, while offering insight into the Filipino psyche and a liberal glimpse of pop art.

Taxis operate in cities and many towns. Insist on the meter, as some drivers quote an exorbitant, arbitrary rate.

Popular shore excursions include city tours of either historic Old Manila or the more modern city sections, plus boat trips to Corregidor island-fortress right at the entrance to Manila Bay. Over the years, it has hosted many important battles in Philippine history and is now a popular tourist attraction.

About 55 km, or a 90-minute drive, from Manila, Tagaytay is a popular summer tourist destination for cooler high-elevation temperatures and fine views across Taal Lake and Taal Volcano.

About 21 km from Manila, Marikina is one of the Philippines’ cleanest, most urbanised and charming cities. Its well-known shoe industry gives it the name "Shoe Capital of the Philippines". The Shoe Museum houses many shoes; also visit SM City Marikina, a huge shopping mall by the Riverbanks Center in Marikina.

Malls, commercial complexes, bazaars and markets can be exhilarating as well as exhausting. Local products include arts and crafts, ready-to-wear apparel, knitwear, shoes, bags, fashion accessories and fine Philippine embroidery. Open markets and bazaars generally welcome bargaining.

SM Mall Of Asia is more than a mall: it is a tourist destination that has raised Philippine standards for shopping, leisure and entertainment.

At Malapagal’s Dampa Seafood Market, buy your own seafood then take it to one of the restaurants behind it to be cooked as you choose.

A free shuttle bus runs from the pier to Robinson’s Place shopping center.

The Philippine peso is the local currency.

Major establishments across the Philippines’ big cities widely accept American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa, and ATMs are available.

Regardless of education level, most Filipinos speak English well.