Things to Do in Manila: Combine Travel and Work in This Thriving City

Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, has quickly become a top destination for remote workers, business travelers, and digital nomads. Whether you’re in town for business meetings, collaborating with global teams, or simply looking for a place to combine work and leisure, Manila is the perfect spot. With an affordable cost of living, a dynamic business environment, and a deep cultural alignment with Western countries, the city offers an ideal setting to balance productivity and relaxation. This guide highlights the top things to do in Manila—where business and pleasure meet effortlessly.

Why Manila Is a Great Place for Work and Travel

Manila is more than just the political and economic center of the Philippines—it’s quickly becoming a prime location for remote work and global business. According to McKinsey, the IT-BPM sector alone is on track to generate 38 billion dollars in revenue in 2024. This makes Manila a hotspot for business meetings, networking opportunities, and tapping into high-quality offshore talent.

One of the standout features of Manila for Western visitors is the widespread use of English. Filipinos are fluent in English, ensuring smooth and efficient communication for business travelers from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Additionally, the city boasts modern infrastructure, co-working spaces, and affordable accommodations, catering to the needs of professionals seeking a cost-effective base for remote work.

Discover the Cultural Richness of Manila

Manila is a city where history and modernity coexist. While you’re here for work, take the opportunity to explore its cultural landmarks and deepen your understanding of the Philippines.

Intramuros: A Journey Through History

One of the top things to do in Manila is to explore Intramuros, the historic walled city at the heart of Manila. Built during the Spanish colonial era, Intramuros features cobblestone streets, Spanish architecture, and significant landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge between business meetings or to spark some creative inspiration.

National Museum of the Philippines

For those keen to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, the National Museum of the Philippines is a must-see. Home to an extensive collection of Filipino art, history, and anthropology, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s past. According to the museum’s 2023 report, it continues to attract over 1.5 million visitors annually, underscoring its significance in the local cultural landscape.

Cultural Compatibility with Western Countries

The Philippines shares many cultural similarities with Western nations, making it an easy destination for international business travelers. Manila’s urban landscape is highly Westernized, with international brands such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, and H&M widely available. The Filipino value of “bayanihan” (community spirit) is also central to the culture, making interactions with locals warm and collaborative—ideal for fostering business relationships.

Top Things to Do in Manila: Blend Leisure with Business

Manila offers a wide variety of leisure activities, making it easy to balance your work schedule with downtime. From lush parks to shopping malls and vibrant nightlife, the city offers plenty of options to relax and enjoy yourself after a busy day. Get to know the places you can go during your stay in this underrated city.

Rizal Park: A Tranquil Escape

Nestled in the heart of Manila, Rizal Park (also called Luneta Park) is an idyllic green space perfect for unwinding after a day of work. Named after national hero Dr. José Rizal, the park offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic gardens. It’s an excellent spot for a stroll or even a casual meeting in a relaxed environment.

Manila Bay: Sunset Views

Another great place to enjoy after-hours is Manila Bay, a scenic promenade along Roxas Boulevard. The area offers beautiful sunset views, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Whether you’re taking a walk, enjoying a coffee at one of the many outdoor cafés, or simply soaking in the view, the Baywalk provides a serene setting for relaxation.

Mall of Asia: Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

For those who love shopping and entertainment, Mall of Asia (MOA) is a must-visit. Located in Pasay, MOA is one of the largest malls in the world, with over 600 stores, restaurants, and attractions such as an ice skating rink and IMAX theater. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a long day of meetings—perfect for dining, shopping, or even catching a movie.

Affordable and Convenient Transportation

Manila’s well-connected transportation system is one of the reasons it’s a great destination for combining business and leisure. Public transport options such as the LRT/MRT trains, jeepneys, and ride-hailing services like Grab make it easy to navigate the city affordably.

The city’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) provides easy access to both domestic and international flights. Whether you’re heading to a meeting in Makati or embarking on a weekend getaway, the city’s transportation system allows you to move quickly and affordably.

Experience Manila’s Modern Lifestyle

Manila’s modern lifestyle offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for visitors.

Dining in Manila: A Global Culinary Scene

Manila’s food scene is diverse, with options ranging from local Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang to international cuisines. The cost of dining is significantly more affordable compared to Western countries, making it an excellent place to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Street food, like taho (sweet tofu with syrup) or fish balls, offers a taste of local flavors at very low prices.

Here are some “crowd favorite” food spots you can check out when you visit Manila:

• Pamana 
• Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant
• Manam

If you’re looking for a meal that’s underrated and truly Filipino, head over to these:

• Toyo Eatery 
• Cafe Juanita 
• Lampara

Nightlife in Manila: Unwind After Hours

When the workday is over, Manila’s nightlife offers plenty of opportunities to relax and network. Whether visiting a rooftop bar in Makati or enjoying a more laid-back pub in Quezon City, there’s a venue for every preference. For something more interactive, karaoke is a popular local pastime, with spots like Rockstar KTV offering private rooms for group singing.

If you’re the type of person who wants to go to a mainstream party place, you may consider:

• Rockstar KTV
• Mansion
• Distillery

For those who want a chill night over drinks, visit these:

• Tap Station
• Dr. Wine
• The Whisky Library

Co-Working Spaces and Business Amenities in Manila

Manila is home to several high-quality co-working spaces designed to cater to local and international businesses. These spaces are equipped with fast internet, modern amenities, and networking opportunities, making them ideal for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and corporate teams.

Popular co-working spaces in Manila include:

• Penbrothers: Located in Makati and Ortigas, this very accessible co-working space offers affordable options. Whether you have a solo desk, a small meeting room or a whole floor for an event, you can check this out.
  
• WeWork Manila: Located in Makati’s central business district, WeWork offers flexible office spaces, private offices, and meeting rooms.
  
• The Working Capitol: Known for its creative, collaborative environment, this space is great for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
  
• Kittelson & Carpo Consulting: Providing cost-effective office space solutions for businesses looking for a professional but affordable workspace.

As co-working spaces are in high demand, with more businesses embracing flexible office models due to the rise in remote work.

Weekend Getaways Near Manila

When it’s time to take a break from work, Manila’s location makes it easy to explore nearby destinations.

Tagaytay: Scenic Views and Fresh Air

Just a 1-2 hour drive from Manila, Tagaytay offers refreshing weather and stunning views of Taal Volcano. It’s a perfect spot for a weekend getaway, whether you’re enjoying a peaceful café overlooking the lake or embarking on a scenic hike.

Batangas: Beaches and Adventure

For those looking for a beach escape, Batangas is an excellent choice. Known for its pristine beaches and world-class diving spots, it’s a great place to unwind and recharge before returning to work.

Experience the Best of Both Worlds: Work and Play in Manila

Manila is a dynamic city that offers the perfect balance of work and play. Whether you’re attending meetings, networking with local professionals, or exploring cultural and natural attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in Manila. With its modern infrastructure, affordable living, and strong cultural ties to Western countries, Manila is the ideal destination for those seeking to combine productivity with leisure.

Ready to experience all that Manila has to offer? Start planning your trip today and make the most of your time in this exciting city! Just in case you’re looking for opportunities to grow your Philippine team, reach out to us, too.