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Exploring Manila’s Cultural and Urban Treasures Made Easy with Air India’s Direct Flights

Exploring Manila’s Cultural and Urban Treasures Made Easy with Air India’s Direct Flights

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
por 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
5 minutos de lectura
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Noviembre 21, 2025

Manila: More Than Just a Stopover

Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is beginning to shine as a fascinating destination in its own right, especially with Air India’s newly launched non-stop flights from Delhi. This Southeast Asian city isn’t just a gateway to the famous Philippine islands; it offers its own vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern charm that first-time visitors will love to discover.

Boost in Connectivity and Travel Ease

For many years, Indian travellers found it tricky to reach the Philippines directly. With Air India now operating direct routes between Delhi and Manila, coupled with the Philippines’ visa-free entry for Indian citizens, the trip has become smoother than ever. These developments are expected to open doors for increased tourism, inviting travellers to explore Manila beyond the usual layover stop.

A Glimpse of Manila’s Heritage: The Intramuros Experience

Intramuros, the historic walled city dating back to the 16th century, is a magnet for history lovers. This area allows visitors to step back in time, wandering cobblestone streets lined with Spanish colonial buildings. Significant landmarks such as Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and the San Agustin Church paint a vivid picture of the city’s colonial past. Unique ways to explore include bamboo bike tours with knowledgeable guides who bring history to life.

Shopping and Local Crafts

Inside Intramuros, delightful local cafés and boutiques offer handicrafts like pearl jewellery, woven bags, and decorative Capiz shell items—a perfect take-home souvenir to remember your Manila adventure.

Modern Manila by the Waterfront

Manila’s waterfront has undergone a remarkable transformation, making it a hub for leisure and scenic views. Dolomite Beach, a manmade stretch along Manila Bay, is a favourite spot to catch breathtaking sunsets. The Manila Baywalk, a 3.5-km promenade lined with palms, invites both tourists and locals for strolls accompanied by ocean breezes.

Waterfront HighlightsCaracterísticas
Dolomite BeachManmade beach ideal for sunset watching
Manila BaywalkPalm-lined walkways beside the bay
Pasig River EsplanadeRevitalized riverside path with bike lanes, food stalls offering local street snacks

Discover Local Flavours Along the Bay

En Pasig River Esplanade is another gem featuring landscaped paths and lively food stalls where visitors can savour street eats like spring rolls, grilled skewers, fish balls, and refreshing calamansi lemonade, a citrus drink distinctive to the Philippines.

Immerse Yourself in Manila’s Local Life

Encountering Manila’s iconic jeepneys offers a colorful, open-air ride through the city streets. These vintage vehicles, originally repurposed World War II jeeps, are decorated with vibrant art and slogans, providing more than just transport—they’re a moving cultural experience that connects passengers with the city’s spirited everyday life.

Green Spaces and Museums for a Relaxing Day

Rizal Park, sprawling over 60 hectares in the heart of Manila, combines natural beauty with cultural heritage. Visitors can admire the Rizal Monument, relax in the Chinese and Japanese gardens, and enjoy local treats like the delightful “Dirty Ice Cream,” a sanitized version of a popular traditional ice cream made from coconut milk and flavored with mango, avocado, cheese, and ube (purple yam).

The city’s museum scene is rich and welcoming. The National Museum Complex showcases Filipino masterpieces in fine arts and natural history, including the stunning ‘Tree of Life’ exhibit illustrating the archipelago’s biodiversity.

Planning Your Journey to Manila

Air India stands out as the sole carrier offering direct flights between Delhi and Manila, with five weekly services aboard modern Airbus A321neo aircraft. These flights provide business, premium economy, and economy options, ensuring travellers find a seat to match their preference and budget.

Why Choose LocalsRide for Your Manila Transfers?

Once on the ground, pre-booking transfers through platforms like LocalsRide.com offers peace of mind. Unlike traditional booking aggregators, LocalsRide lets travellers pick exact vehicle models, see ratings, and choose providers transparently, which is a real time-saver after a long flight. Whether you prefer a private taxi, limousine, or a comfortable seater vehicle, LocalsRide ensures prompt service at competitive fares, helping you kickstart your Manila experience smoothly.

Key Highlights of Exploring Manila

  • Intramuros delivers a dive into colonial history with charming architecture and cultural treasures.
  • Newly developed waterfront areas offer scenic views and vibrant street food culture.
  • Local transport options like jeepneys provide authentic, colorful urban rides.
  • Green spaces and museums enrich the understanding of Filipino heritage.
  • Direct Air India flights make travel easy, while LocalsRide helps with reliable and customized transfers.

Even with all the glowing reviews and expert recommendations, nothing beats experiencing a city firsthand. On LocalsRide, travellers can hire cars with drivers from verified providers at fair prices, ensuring no surprises in fare or service quality. This convenience, paired with extensive vehicle options and additional services, makes getting around Manila both affordable and hassle-free. Book now for your next Manila visit and enjoy a seamless transfer from the airport and beyond with LocalsRide.com.

Looking Ahead: Manila’s Place on the Travel Map

While Manila is still emerging as a top tourist destination globally, its improving connectivity and wealth of authentic experiences make it an attractive stopover or city break option. LocalsRide stays updated with travel trends worldwide to offer dependable transfer options regardless of evolving landscapes. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide.

Conclusión

Manila is a city of contrasts and character, weaving together rich colonial history, dynamic urban life, and welcoming local culture. With Air India’s non-stop flights now linking Delhi directly to this vibrant city, Indian travellers have an excellent opportunity to explore beyond the islands to the heart of the capital. Exploring Intramuros, relaxing by the waterfront, riding vibrant jeepneys, and immersing in the city’s parks and museums define a well-rounded Manila visit. LocalsRide.com complements this journey perfectly by offering clear, convenient booking options for transfers, taxis, and private cars anywhere in Manila and beyond, ensuring smooth, exact, and affordable rides every time. Whether you value speed, comfort, or local flair, LocalsRide helps you get there with confidence and ease.