Cheap flights from San Francisco (SJC) to Manila (MNL)

When arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila, you will find it contrasts starkly with the placid atmosphere at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). MNL is colorful and chaotic, much like the rest of Metro Manila. The Spanish influence lives on in the Walled City of Intramuros, Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church and nearby Museum.

Rizal Park in the heart of the older business district is an oasis amid the traffic and noise. Head further into old Manila to explore the sprawling Chinatown for authentic Chinese fare in Binondo. Makati City, the financial district, includes posh enclaves of the privileged such as Forbes Park.

Key Facts

Taxi service is easily available at MNL or from most of the major business centers. The Light Rail Transit spans the north-south length of Manila, from Baclaran Church near the airport, all the way to Monumento in the north.

A car rental can make getting around the city easier, but be aware of the local traffic laws before venturing out. Indoor spectator sports are big in Manila and so are the stadiums that double as performance venues, including the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the Mall of Asia Arena.

Hints and Tips

Nonstop flights between SFO and MNL last about 14 hours. Flights with layovers in Hawaii, Tokyo or Hong Kong can last 19 to 20 hours. MNL is the gateway to the rest of the islands, including Cebu and the beach getaways of Boracay and Palawan, which are accessible through domestic flights.